Shining a Spotlight on the UK’s Best Franchisees

The search for the UK’s best franchisees is on with news that the British Franchise Association (bfa) has launched the 2015 bfa HSBC Franchisee of the Year Awards, supported by Express Newspapers.  

The top award of bfa HSBC Franchisee of the Year is given to the UK’s most outstanding franchisee, selected as one of the winners of the following six categories, designed to show off the sector’s diversity:The awards, the foremost accolades for individuals in franchising, celebrate and showcase the inspirational stories found throughout the sector by focusing on the people making things happen. Pioneering franchisees of all sectors and sizes are encouraged to showcase their successes and what’s possible when their business drive, dedication and standards are paired with the support and systems of an ethical franchise.

Franchisee Customer Service of the Year Award

Identifies franchisees that have gone the extra mile – and then some – in relentlessly delivering superlative service levels to their clients and customers.

Young Franchisee of the Year Award 

Open to franchisees under the age of 30, this category showcases the impressive feats, enterprising determination and boundless passion of the sector’s young talent.

Microbusiness of the Year Award 

For businesses with less than £100,000 turnover that are achieving remarkable things, standing tall against the competition. Last year proved that good things really do come in small packages.

Female Franchisee of the Year Award 

Showcases women across the UK who are using their commitment, skills and dedication to do something special within their franchise network and set standards for others to follow.

Olderpreneur Franchisee of the Year 

Champions the value of experience. For franchisees aged 55 or older, this award celebrates how expertise and career skills can combine with a franchise model to elevate a business to new levels.

B2B Franchisee of the Year 

Commends professionals delivering exceptional services and/or products to clients, perhaps producing savings or using innovative methods to reach new heights in their business.

Tina Young of Barking Mad was named Franchisee of the Year 2014, after winning Microbusiness Franchisee of the Year. She described her award as a “truly life-changing event”, adding: “The recognition and team spirit it created was immeasurable and continues to pay dividends.”

Entries are now open until 29 May, with finalists invited for interviews with a judging panel of prominent industry experts in July. Winners will be announced at a black-tie dinner at Birmingham Town Hall on 1 October 2015, hosted by Steph McGovern. Each category winner will receive £1,000 and a personalised trophy, with the overall winner also taking home £10,000, courtesy of HSBC.

Andy Brattesani, head of UK franchising, HSBC said: After the exceptional standard of finalists in 2014, we’re eagerly anticipating vibrant stories that highlight the extraordinary achievements of franchisees up and down the country. With remarkable dynamism and determination, these are people building hugely impressive businesses and at HSBC we couldn’t be more proud to recognise and celebrate their success.

These are the top accolades in franchising and the standard is set higher each year, as franchisees continue to drive their businesses to new and impressive levels. As long-term supporters of the sector, we’re looking forward to hearing from exceptional franchisees and highlighting their excellence and best-in-class performance” Sean Hammond, Express Newspapers