Future outlook

Future outlook

"The latest study on the franchise industry reported 1.4 per cent growth for 2010*, many times greater than government projections for the UK economy. It is very encouraging to see that another source is positive about franchising in advance of the 2010 bfa/Natwest survey. Many of us have been saying franchising is robust and resilient, and the figures in this report support all that has been said during the last 18 months.

"The recession has challenged all industries across the UK, so to emerge from it with clear indications of steady growth is something all in the franchise industry should be proud of and be excited by the opportunities it will create. Importantly, now everyone involved in the sector must take responsibility to promote ethical business format franchising to the maximum.

"With each VMG/bfa franchise exhibition that took place last year, we sensed the slow return of positivity that had been hard to find while franchisors assessed the impact of the recession. Many exhibitors commented that The National Franchise Exhibition in October had an overwhelming buzz, with visitors more determined than ever to take control of their careers. Arguably, the recession has stirred the self-driven instinct in many - a huge positive that can be born only from a difficult period and which, if managed correctly, the industry will thrive upon.

"The forthcoming British & International Franchise Exhibition at Olympia on 19 & 20 March will, therefore, have thousands of prospective franchisees determined to take control of their lives and future careers. If you are exhibiting at the show, ensure your business makes the most of meeting these individuals.

"At VMG we're committed to developing our products and services to support franchisors throughout 2010. As most of you will be aware the Manchester exhibition will be taking place on 11 & 12 June. It is now strategically placed to harness the increasing confidence in the UK economy and exhibitors will benefit from an enhanced marketing campaign.

"The winners of the Franchise Marketing Awards will be announced at The British & International Franchise Exhibition - these key industry awards recognise the achievements of the many excellent examples of ethical and successful franchisors in the fields of marketing."