UK Franchise Body Holds Talks with Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister

The BFA (British Franchise Association) has been praised for its role in strengthening UK–Malaysia franchise relations following a recent high-level meeting in London with the Deputy Prime Minister, Honourable Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Bin Hamidi and the Malaysian Franchise Association (MFA).

About the BFA

Established in 1977, the BFA (British Franchise Association) is the UK’s leading authority on franchising, committed to upholding ethical business practices and high standards.

Experienced guidance

The UK was represented at the meeting by Simon Bartholomew, a part-time project consultant for the BFA, who has a 40-year history of working in the UK franchise industry. Simon served for 12 years on the board of the BFA and four years as its chairman.

‘Valuable insights’

In a full statement following the meeting, the MFA’s Mr. Kairul Azman Mohd Yusoh said: “Mr. Simon, representing the British Franchise Association, shared valuable insights on the UK franchise market and its opportunities with the Malaysian business delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister, Honourable Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Bin Hamidi. His session highlighted key strategies for Malaysian franchise brands to expand into the UK, and he extended his full support to all delegates exploring this promising market.”

Opportunities for foreign investment

In response, Simon said: “It was an honour to meet the Deputy Prime Minister and the Secretary General of the MFA. I presented on the scale and opportunity of the UK franchise sector and the key adaptations Malaysian brands may need to consider for success in this market.”

£19.1 billion annual franchising contribution

He continued: “It has been the BFA’s pleasure to work with the MFA for several years now, advising them on franchising in the UK and introducing them to potential overseas investors. The Malaysians are fortunate that their government recognises the benefit of the franchise market to the growth of their economy and is fully supportive of the sector. The BFA is keen to help countries from abroad successfully join the UK franchise sector, which, according to our most recent survey, contributes £19.1 billion annually to the UK economy with a commercial failure rate of less than 1%.”

Several Malaysian brands are due to open franchises in the UK soon.