The British Franchise Association

The British Franchise Association (BFA) is a self-regulating body that aims to protect those within franchising and promote ethical practices across the UK. The organisation was founded in 1977, and has since developed numerous resources to support franchisors, franchisees, and other franchise experts.

The BFA’s code of ethics are at the centre of organisation and its accreditation and memberships are closely linked to these principles. (In fact, some people prefer to invest in businesses who are BFA members for added reassurance).

Beyond this, the BFA runs a full calendar of franchise-focused events, including training sessions, support panels, and networking opportunities – some of which are also open to non-members.

Its two most well-known events are the annual BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards, which takes place in November, and the annual BFA conference known as The National Franchise Exhibition, which takes place in October.

The British Franchise Association Code of Ethics

The BFA’s code of ethics were developed by the European Franchise Federation. They aim to protect the interests of both franchisees and franchisees, and BFA members must subscribe to these principles.

Broadly speaking, ethics promote good faith, fair dealings, transparency, and loyalty by encouraging actions such as disclosure, compliance, and conflict resolution. However, they are comprehensive, and cover the entire franchising process. (You can find these ethics listed on the BFA’s website).

British Franchise Association Members

The BFA has multiple membership packages which you can apply for, with costs varying. As a member, you will have access to exclusive events and support, and will also be required to abide by the BFA’s code of ethics.

Membership packages are available for franchisors, franchisees, advisors, and suppliers. These packages are tiered into four levels: BFA emerging, BFA expanding, BFA established, and BFA international. What Franchise is a media partner of the BFA.

Some people prefer to invest in a BFA member business because they know the franchise has paid to subscribe to its fair practice principles.

How is the British Franchise Association funded?

The BFA is predominantly funded via its membership packages and ticketed events.

Who is the British Franchise Association CEO?

Pip Wilkins is the CEO at the British Franchise Association. She celebrated her 25-year work anniversary with the organisation in 2024, stepping into the CEO position in 2016.

Wilkins is a key representative of franchising while lobbying on issues important to the industry. Appearances include interviews with the BBC, starring as a judge on The Apprentice, and judging numerous industry awards including The Global Franchise Awards.

What is the British Franchise Association annual conference?

One of the BFA’s most popular events is its two-day annual conference in Birmingham, known as The National Franchise Exhibition. The event takes place on 4th and 5th October.

This is an opportunity to meet franchisors who are actively recruiting franchisees as well as attend specialist seminars to learn how to get your business off to the best start. All the franchisors in attendance are members of the British Franchise Association.

What are the British Franchise Awards?

The BFA’s annual awards take place in November every year. They are free for BFA members to enter and aim to recognise achievements from across the industry. Awards are divided into numerous categories and honour both franchisors and franchisees.

Contact information

British Franchise Association contact number: 01235 820470

British Franchise Association email: mailroom@thebfa.org