Finalists announced for UK franchisor awards

A shortlist of 15 franchisors has been drawn up for the prestigious BFA HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards 2010, supported by Express Newspapers. The judging panel sifted through many inspirational stories of achievement for three national awards recognising overall excellence, franchisee support and brand building.

The 15 finalists will now meet the panel face-to-face to compete for accolades which crown them both as best in the industry and which will provide welcome opportunities to motivate staff and franchisees. The awards will recognise their hard work at a time when British businesses have had to be more innovative than ever before to compete in today’s economic climate. 

Franchisors shortlisted are:
Franchisor of the Year Award

• Auditel
• Autosmart
• Bluebird Care
• Domino’s Pizza
• Driver Hire
• McDonald’s
• TaxAssist Accountants
• Wiltshire Farm Food

Franchisee Support Award

• Countrywide Grounds Maintenance
• Monkey Music
• Revive!
• X-Press Legal Services

Brand Builder

• Cook
• LighterLife
• Smallprint

The winners will then be announced at the 21st British Franchisor Awards gala dinner on 2 June.
 
Cathryn Hayes, pictured, Head of Franchising, HSBC, said: “We know from working with many companies over the past year that all areas of business have been affected by the recent downturn, requiring tailored support and advice. However, it’s extremely heartwarming to see so many innovative management tactics amongst franchisors which made choosing the finalists extremely challenging.
 
“We’re looking forward to the next stage of hearing from the people behind the businesses to learn more about how they’ve succeeded and in many cases, grown. The HSBC Franchisee Support Award celebrates the franchisors that have put solid structures in place to ensure their franchisees have the best possible chance of success.”
 
Kieron Summerhayes, Deputy Group Advertising Controller, Express Newspapers, said: “The calibre of franchisors in the UK who have successfully maintained and built their brand is evidently outstanding as it was tough to conclude the shortlist. We’re looking forward to going one step further by awarding the most innovative and inspiring franchisors at the gala dinner in June.”
 
Brian Smart, BFA Director General, said: “The number of outstanding nominations we’ve received has been very impressive, especially given the economic backdrop in which they have been operating. Gaining the right support through these tough times is essential however it is also important for businesses to demonstrate the great work they are doing through awards such as the BFA HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award. It can provide the platform for businesses to truly shine and demonstrate that they are leading the way in franchising best practice and are the industry’s widest recognised.

“Now that Britain is gaining a strong footing once again, it’s important to inspire the next generation of franchisors and franchisees, and our finalists are doing just that.”

For further information, visit www.thebfa.org or call the BFA on 01865 379 892.