British Franchise Association (BFA)
The search is on for the best in franchising: BFA launches 37th annual awards
The BFA (British Franchise Association) has today launched the 37th BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards. The awards, which have been running since 1989, celebrate the very best franchisors and franchisees in Britain, from amongst the association’s 2,300+ members.
About the BFA
The BFA has been the self-regulatory body for franchising in the UK since its inception in 1977. After a strict entry process, members pledge to abide by the association’s Code of Ethics for Franchising. The association provides education and support to members to ensure they run their franchises in line with their ethical and professional standards.
Enviable statistics
Franchising is extremely successful in the UK. According to the most recent British Franchise Survey in 2024 sponsored by NIC Local, franchising contributes £19.1 billion to the UK economy and has had a less than 6% failure rate for over 20 years. The BFA is a member of the WFC (World Franchise Council) and the EFF (European Franchising Federation).
Time to reflect
Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA said: “It is with true excitement that we launch the awards today. Anecdotally we know what a fantastic job many of our members are doing, innovating and investing in their networks and businesses and now it’s time for them to reflect on their achievements over the past 12 months, share their success stories with our judges and hopefully, take their place on stage amongst the best of the best in franchising at our awards ceremony in November. We cannot wait to read their entries and wish them the very best of luck.”
The categories in the 2026 awards are:
Franchisor Award Categories
- Franchisor of the Year – Emerging
- Franchisor of the Year – Expanding
- Franchisor of the Year – Established
- Leadership & Culture
- Franchise Support
- Marketing
- Research & Development
Franchisee Award Categories
- HSBC UK Multi-Unit
- HSBC UK Multi-Brand
- Young Guns
- Community Impact
- BFA Star Performer
- Dynamic Duo
- Customer Focus
‘Major milestone’
Reflecting on what the recognition meant to their business, last year’s winner David Glover, MD of 2025 Franchisor of the Year Award – Gold (Established) said:
An honour to judge
Gillian Morris, UK Head of Franchise, Commercial Banking, at sponsors HSBC UK said: “Judging the British Franchise Awards is a genuine honour. As HSBC UK continues its long-standing sponsorship, we’re proud to support an event that shines a spotlight on the strategic choices and operational excellence of the UK’s outstanding franchisors and franchisees. I’m looking forward to reviewing the entries and hearing the stories of hard work, resilience, entrepreneurial drive and optimism that are powering the industry forward.”
The deadline for entries is 5 June 2026. The BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards will be held on 12 November 2026 in Telford, Shropshire. More information can be found on the BFA website.
Good luck!
