marketing advise

End On A High

There was no such thing as winter blues for exhibitors at the National Franchise exhibition last October

"It's been fantastic. We've been very busy from the moment the doors on Friday opened to closing time on Saturday. There's been a terrific buzz about the place and, overall, we are delighted with the last two days here."

Speaking as the last of the visitors left the NEC, Birmingham, Terry Mullen, recruitment director of Revive! captured the atmosphere of this year's National Franchise Exhibition and the thoughts of many who were there.

There was plenty to listen to and see. The five presentation theatres covered every aspect of franchising while there were more than 150 UK and international companies exhibiting, including several from Australia, Russia and Sweden, with franchises to suit every interest or budget.

Phil Seymour from Uxbridge, a sales director in the construction industry, said: "I came here with some specific ideas in mind and companies to research, but I'm leaving with some completely new unexpected strong prospects. The exhibition gives a completely new perspective of what the industry has to offer. There are plenty of new ideas here."

Steve Frost, financial services industry manager, from Swindon, found that visiting the exhibition has advantages over other ways of researching. "Coming here is a great way to meet a lot of potential franchisors in one day. Walking around the show, I've notice stands that have given me ideas to follow up."

Many exhibitors new to the National Franchise Exhibition, were pleased. MOT2U Managing Director Nick Pye said: "We've got far more terrific quality leads than we dared to expect before the show, so we're going to have to increase our sales effort to follow them all up in good time. The response to our concept has been superb. The organisers of the event have been excellent and very efficient."

For McDonald's, Derek Rogers, head of franchising, commented: "It's fantastic to see so many people who have travelled from all parts of the country."

Mike Seaman, Franchise Portfolio Manager of the Venture Marketing Group, organisers of The National Franchise Exhibition, believes all the signs are evident that new entrepreneurs are increasingly choosing franchising as a preferred business model.

"The presence and support of three high street banks and the host of new and exciting franchise businesses launched at the event are evidence of how this market continues to defy the current economic climate.

"Visitors are learning more about franchising and gaining confidence in the business model through the expertise they were able to receive at the event. The National Franchise Exhibition produced fantastic results for exhibitors, visitors speakers and the franchising industry - and that's what makes these events so worthwhile."

What the exhibitors said...

"As first time exhibitors, we have found the quality and quantity of potential franchisees absolutely outstanding. It's been an impressive, worthwhile experience."
Rod Davies, Managing Director, Business Doctors Franchising Ltd.

"The exhibition has been great in enabling us to tell the McDonald's story. We've spoken to a whole range of people from different backgrounds."
Derek Rogers, Head of Franchising, McDonald's

"The stand has been bombarded all the time with serious enquiries. We've been impressed by the number of professional people from a broad range of backgrounds who we have met. Without doubt, we will turn several of these positive enquiries into franchise partners."
Andy Lawrence, Director of Sales & Training, Hometyre

"The show has been very good on both days and exceeded all our expectations. The quality of visitors has been exceptionally high and we've had a lot of genuine interest."
Stuart Law, Marketing Director, Blazes

"We've been extremely busy and there has been a terrific atmosphere at the show. While last year's NFE was very good, we have 50 per cent more top quality leads this year. Many visitors had prepared in advance and are close to making a decision to buy."
Steve Sykes, Director, dietcare