Top UK franchisees announced

Nine high-flying UK franchisees have been shortlisted for this year's prestigious bfa awards

Nine high-flying UK franchisees have been shortlisted for this year’s prestigious British Franchise Association Franchisee of the Year Awards.

The national finalists, who had to demonstrate how they have managed change in their business, are now hoping to scoop the top title and a cheque for £5,000, courtesy of HSBC, which co-sponsors the awards with Express Newspapers.

Battling it out to be named ‘Franchisee of the Year’ at a black-tie gala dinner at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre on October 2 are:

• Autosmart - Aberdeen

• Domino’s Pizza - Kilmarnock, Ayr, Clydebank and Govan

• Dream Doors - Nottingham

• Fastsigns - Chelmsford

• McDonald’s - A14 corridor

• Oscar Pet Foods - Honiton

• Pirtek UK - Stoke

• Venture UK - York & Hull

• Western Provident Association - Hampshire

“These prestigious awards are the highlight of National Franchise Week and celebrate the UK’s best franchisees,” says Brian Smart, director general of the bfa. “This year it was harder than ever choosing nine national finalists. They are great examples of how focus and drive, when supplemented by the support of a franchisor, results in the growth of a sustainable and profitable business.”

Says Cathryn Hayes, HSBC’s head of franchising: “The 2008 national finalists are excellent examples of how the go-getting attitude of the franchisee, combined with the franchisor’s collaborative approach, generates success at both individual and network levels.”