Emerging Franchises Look Forward to Positive Network Growth Following Free Franchisor Workshop

Emerging franchises can now work positively towards achieving network growth following a free Franchisor Academy organised by chartered accountants and business advisors, d&t.

Presentations were integrated with the opportunity to interact and share best practice, at the event which was held at d&t’s Swindon base this month. It was the latest in a series of free Franchisor Academies, specifically designed to arm franchisors with the tools needed to grow their networks.

The agenda for the day included talks from: Maria Hartnell from the British Franchise Association (bfa) who spoke about ‘what makes a good franchisor’; Lesley Cobb from Mac Tools on the franchisor lifecycle: growing pains and gains, and Paul Stafford from Chantry Group, who looked at the sizable advantages of being small and agile compared with established, bigger brands.

Maria Hartnell from the bfa confirmed: “This event is a good example of how the bfa supports both well-established franchise networks and those who are new to the sector who are needing that extra support and guidance to launch their franchise the right way. We looked at ethical franchising in the UK and how to make sure that business protects both the franchisee and the originator of the concept as well as common pitfalls and areas where franchise businesses have failed to ensure the longevity of the business.”

James Thomas, QFP, commercial manager, d&t confirmed: “The whole event offered the chance to gain real-word, practical advice and tips, along with activities to help franchisors think differently in relation to their company’s strategy for growth. There was no sales patter and no nonsense! Simply great information to help franchisors develop their businesses, delivered in a supportive and friendly environment.

“We would like to thank all those who were able to attend the event. I can honestly say that this was our best yet, which has been further echoed by the feedback that we have received since. We always encourage sharing of best practice within the Academy, which is only made possible by the willingness of those in attendance; to discuss not only their business successes, but also their hurdles too. We look forward to building on the success of this workshop with our future events to help franchisors maximise their business potential.”

Nehal Pattani, Thai Express commented: “Very useful tips and experience from within the industry.”

The next free Franchisor Academy will be held at DC Thomson’s offices in London, during the first quarter of 2020. The theme will be Established Franchisors and will include presentations about franchise structure from a financial perspective, funding applications and asset finance, plus how to stand out from the crowd using media, online, print and exhibitions, as well as expert led panels, with all the presenters on the day.

To learn more about D&T, and how we could help your franchise, please visit our profile on here.