Franchise World | Autumn 2025

The Yorkshire born Mexican food brand that has been spicing up high streets with tasty tacos and good vibes since 2021, has announced it is now offering franchise opportunities.

Public relations

‘Credibility

Pacifica Local powers up its franchise plans

The domestic and commercial appliance repair service has launched a new franchise model. With its refreshed identity in place, it has set its sights firmly on growth as demand has never been greater – 26 million UK households average four appliances and 176 million appliances are out of warranty

Denny’s seeks UK master for its ‘iconic’ diner

Denny’s has appointed FRP Corporate Finance to assess potential partners for the UK master franchise of its U S restaurant brand, which boasts almost 1,500 stores globally

KFC franchisee set to double its restaurant count by 2030

Gastronomy, a long term KFC franchisee, has signed a deal to more than double the number of KFC restaurants in its portfolio Backed by HSBC, it aims to grow to over 100 KFC’s across the UK

Strava Group expands Domino’s portfolio with NatWest funding

Strava Group is to increase its presence in Scotland by acquiring 14 Domino’s stores with a funding package from NatWest. This brings the total number of Domino’s operated by the group to more than 40 stores

An autumn invitation to join a world-class baker y café

With Britain’s love of bakery cafés showing no signs of slowing, and a growing appetite for high-quality, French-inspired experiences, Paris Baguette is perfectly placed to grow

Mexi Bean Express launches its ‘built to be scalable’ model

The Yorkshire-born Mexican food brand that has been ‘spicing up’ high streets with tasty tacos and good vibes since 2021, has announced the launch of its franchise model 14

Lemon and Lime’s launch of its home staging opportunity

A national award-winning property home staging company, Lemon and Lime Interiors, has announced the launch of its franchise network, setting its sights on ambitious growth across the UK 17

thexton armstrong UK: A new standard in business mentoring franchises

thexton armstrong, a respected European brand in business mentoring to SMEs, is launching in the UK and is seeking early franchisees who are looking to build a scalable advisory firm Prime territories are available at a reduced launch price to the founding cohort

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Zambrero kick-starts its UK franchisee recruitment drive

The Mexican-inspired quick-service restaurant brand is seeking ambitious franchisees and area developers to accelerate expansion across the UK 21

Razzamataz new programme in response to client feedback

Razzamataz has launched Minis, a six-week programme designed to support franchisees and meet the needs of families who want their children to experience joy, connection, and confidence while developing core life skills

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FranchiseWorld magazine

Britain’s longest-established franchise magazine, founded in 1978, covers franchising from the perspective of the two parties – franchisees and franchisors, both prospective and existing

Infor mation in the magazine is provided in the main by franchisors/advisors and

My Property Pros ‘wave' of network achievements

My Property Pros is celebrating a wave of achievements as franchisees across its UK network continue to hit new heights in growth, performance and recognition 27

The National Franchise Exhibition: Visit to start your franchise success stor y

For anyone looking to tap into the potential of franchising, The National Franchise Exhibition is the ideal starting point. This industry-leading event, exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association, opens the door to this proven and lucrative business model

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Auntie Anne’s expansion plans for the UK and Ireland

The hand-rolled freshly baked soft pretzel brand is ‘on track’ to reach 50 stores across the UK and Ireland, to become a leading player in the fast-growing grab-and-go food sector 37

Editor Nick Riding nick@franchiseworld co uk

Advertising and accounts manager Jane Eyles info@franchiseworld co uk

Franchise World Highlands House, 165 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1NE info@franchiseworld co uk www franchiseworld co uk

From ‘passing ships’ to a growing franchise family

Franchisee Stuart Harley joined ComputerXplorers for a better work-life balance Six years later he is at the helm of a global franchise family, XplorerGroup. Now with his wife working alongside him, the couple are committed to sharing the flexibility that franchise businesses can offer 41

Manual Magic AI app ‘moves franchisors from confusion to clarity’

Manual Writers International has launched its Manual Magic AI app A searchable, knowledge-sharing and mobile-friendly hub for franchisors to create an engaging, smarter option to the traditional static franchise manual 43

Basking Babies franchisee celebrates year one with charity initiatives

Lucy Tilley has celebrated her first anniversary as a franchisee with a series of charity initiatives and teaming up with Ickle Pickles, to offer support to new parents and families

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The Sushi Co launches its ‘live sushi kitchen’ franchise model

The Sushi Co, with QSR experienced founders, has launched its ‘live sushi kitchen’ model as the brand aims to open 30 stores by the end of the year 56

ADVISORY ARTICLES

Wellbeing: The next driver of franchise success

The British Franchise Association is actively behind efforts to ensure franchisors, franchisees and employees are well-supported in all aspects of their mental health

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Franchising vs starting from scratch – which is the right path for you?

When it comes to launching a business, do you start from scratch, or should you look at investing in a franchise? The pros and cons of each route – and why franchising is ultimately a smart, purpose-driven choice for aspiring entrepreneurs

By Frank Milner, President, Tutor Doctor 26

Trust me, I’m a franchise brand: Why credibility is your biggest asset

In the world of franchising, trust isn’t just a nice-to-have It’s the deal-clincher The make-or-break The thing that determines whether a franchisee feels that all-important connection and selects one brand as their future... or walks away and finds it in the brand next door

By Lucy Archer, Co-founder, Rev PR 39

Why

‘guidance’ is no match for a real

Franchise Law

At present, anyone can sell a franchise in the UK regardless of whether the concept is viable The lack of entry barriers enables ‘unproven business opportunities’ to weaken the franchise sector and its reputation

By Rik Hellewell, Founder, Ovenu 42

High Court implies a term of good faith into UK franchise agreements

In a significant decision for the UK franchising sector, the High Court ruled that a franchise agreement contained implied terms of good faith and fair dealing The judgment confirms that the franchisor’s breaches of these terms were repudiatory, entitling the claimants to lawfully terminate their agreements

By Gordon Drakes, Co-head of Franchising and Distribution, Fieldfisher 45

The Tik Tok test: Would Gen Z employees use your SOPs?

Dusty manuals don’t train anyone Short, clear, captioned videos do This isn’t a trend – it’s the new baseline for operational excellence. Safer outlets, faster onboarding, and fewer mistakes start with rethinking your standard operating procedures for a mobile-first world

By Penny Hopkinson, Founder, Manual Writers Inter national 49

The blind spot: leaving property selection to chance

Specialist property advisers, who understand the franchise model and data-led location analysis to find the best property, may prevent site failure

By Harrison Sharp, Senior Sales Manager, GRO Retail

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How

to appeal to job searchers as a franchise

Your franchise marketing should emphasise that you’re offering a readymade business opportunity which job seekers can jump into to break away from their negative cycle

By Rob MacFarlane, Content Writer, Mayfly Inter net Marketing

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APPLIANCE REPAIR

Pacifica Local powers up its franchise plans

“

much more than just fixing appliances – we want franchise partners to create a business that matters.

Pmestic and commercial appliance repair service, has launched a new franchise model designed to aid franchisees build a thriving business with the backing of a national brand

With its refreshed identity now in place, the business has set its sights firmly on growth as demand for reliable local engineers has never been greater – 26 million UK households average four appliances each and 176 million appliances are out of warranty

Backed by the strength of Pacifica, franchisees deliver services spanning repair, inspection, replacement, and installation From washing machines to fridges, appliances are the everyday essentials that keep households and workplaces running smoothly But when they break down, the disruption, stress, and cost highlight the scale of opportunity.

With over 20 years of national expertise, Pacifica Local franchisees benefit from guaranteed work from day one through nationally managed warranty work, while also having the freedom to build their own loyal customer base within their community.

This allows franchisees to focus on providing a reliable, people-first service while knowing they are part of a trusted national network

Franchisees receive full training, marketing support, and access to partnerships with some of the UK’s biggest appliance names, including Electrolux and LG, and the retailer Argos

Lee Garland, head of Pacifica Local, said: “We are about so much more than just fixing appliances – we want to empower our franchise partners to create a business that matters.

“The benefits are twofold, for both our franchise partners and the clients they serve – they help families and workplaces keep moving while also building a substantial business for themselves ”

Pacifica Local adds that while franchise partners operate within their own territory, they remain part of a wider network that shares knowledge, resources, and best practice

Smart technology streamlines day-to-day operations, and the head office team provides marketing campaigns and business development expertise to help each franchise reach its full potential

With rising household costs and environmental awareness more people are choosing repair over replacement Pacifica Local said it’s positioned at the forefront of this shift, offering a sustainable service that reduces waste, saves customers money, and keeps essential appliances in action for longer

Garland added: “As we enter this new chapter, we’re inviting driven individuals to join our growing network With guaranteed work and proven systems, franchise partners are well placed to seize the opportunity in a market where the need for reliable local engineers has never been greater ” n

www.pacificalocal.co.uk

g interest from ambitious operators looking ny’s experience to more UK consumers.

seeks UK master for its ‘iconic’ diner

Denny’s, the American diner, is set for significant expansion in the UK, with offers being considered for its master franchise for the territory

FRP Corporate Finance (FRP), a specialist business advisory firm, has been appointed to assess potential partners to acquire the master franchise, which boasts almost 1,500 restaurants globally

As part of the sale process, FRP is also marketing Denny’s proof of concept store, which opened at Parc Tawe in Swansea in 2017

The Swansea store provides a full omnichannel model, with a loyal local dine-in customer base, bespoke loyalty app and a range of delivery services, including Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat. The store is co-located with complementary retailers and experiences such as Odeon Cinema, Ninja Warrior and Ten Pin Bowling

Denny’s said the Parc Tawe site supports more than 13,500 dine-in orders each year, generating strong margins and provides the basis for franchise investors to bring the Denny’s brand to city centres, airports, service stations and drive-thru sites across the UK

Alex Patey, director at FRP, said:

“Denny’s is one of the most iconic names in global casual dining, with a proven model that combines strong consumer appeal, affordable family dining and scalable unit economics

“The Swansea diner has already demonstrated the household brand’s potential in the UK With various models across sites – as well as the introduction of new models including self-service –we expect strong interest from ambitious operators looking to bring the Denny’s experience to more UK consumers.”

l Established in 1953, Denny’s operates in 15 countries – including in Australasia, South East Asia, the Middle East, South America and North America – with over 95 per cent of its operations franchised n

www.frpadvisor y.com

BFA milestone for it’s franchisee membership

THE British Franchise Association (BFA) has welcomed its 2,000th franchisee member, Gaynor Gallant (below) of Theatretrain, marking a major milestone in growing engagement with UK franchisees

BFA franchisee membership was introduced, free of charge, in 2020 built around four core foundations:

collaboration, networking, education and trade

Members are given access to:

l Quarterly online forums to discuss life at the front-line of franchising, common challenges and share best practice

l Monthly masterclasses

l Opportunities to work with other franchise brands

Gallant said: “ I’m a new franchisee and, as a newbie, feel I have lots to learn The more support I can get from others, who are more experienced than me, the better.”

‘Franchisee Champions’

In 2022, following the growth of franchisee membership, the association introduced ‘Franchisee Champions’ Individual franchisees, chosen for their experience and active involvement in their franchise network, to act as a bridge between the franchisee community and the BFA – sharing insights, challenges and successes

Pip Wilkins, chief executive of the BFA, said: “Opening membership to franchisees was uncharted territory for us but it has been very successful

“Franchisees value the support that comes from us and their peers, and our ‘Champions’, of which there are over 100, give us a direct line into their needs, helping us shape the right events, education and resources ” n

FRANCHISEE GROWTH

and it’s the perfect moment to lean in. That’s why we’re d to be strengthening our partnership with KFC and growing oss the UK. – Acky Khan

KFC franchisee set to double its restaurant count by 2030

Long term KFC franchisee, Gastronomy, has signed a deal to more than double the number of KFC restaurants over the next five years, adding more than 50 to its portfolio

Backed by HSBC, Gastronomy will grow to over 100 KFC’s across the UK by 2030 The new openings will focus on the North West, East and West Midlands, Shropshire and Wales where the brand sees the greatest growth potential The outlets will be a mix of drive-thru sites and restaurants

Gastronomy opened its first KFC restaurant in Aberystwyth in 2007 and has since grown its portfolio to 44 restaurants across Wales, the Midlands, the North West and Shropshire. It was recently recognised by The Sunday Times in its Best Places to Work list

This follows the recent announcement by KFC that it was doubling down on its commitment to the UK and Ireland with a £1 5bn growth plan, which will see the brand open a further 500 restaurants in the market over the next decade

KFC said it will focus on building flagship sites and drive-thru’s, upgrade

existing restaurants with fresh new designs and the latest digital capabilities, and create over 7,000 new jobs over the next five years. KFC adds that it is strengthening its long-standing relationships with both British and Irish suppliers

The growth comes as the nation’s appetite for fried chicken continues to grow at pace Research from KFC estimates that the UK fried chicken market is worth £3 1bn, and the market is expected to grow further, with consumer demand outstripping other quick service restaurant categories.

Acky Khan, chief executive of Gastronomy, said: “In all my 30 years with the brand, I’ve never been more excited to grow and invest in KFC

There’s a boldness in the marketing calendar, with new products that are driving real relevance with consumers and getting us noticed.

“The ambition within KFC is electric, and backed by a hugely supportive leadership team, we see lots of potential to unlock the next phase of our growth story This investment is testament to the hard work of our people and will provide incredible opportunities for our team members to grow and develop long term careers with us ”

Rob Swain, UK general manager of KFC, added: “We’re hungry to grow our footprint across the UK and Ireland, and strong partnerships with our franchisees are our secret recipe. We’re proud to be continuing to grow our partnership with Gastronomy

“This is just one example of the momentum powering KFC right now –from our restaurant teams to our franchisees and leadership – we’re all fired up to grow the business, connect with the next generation of consumers, and bring our unbeatable chicken to even more people ” n

www.kfc.co.uk/about-kfc

Turn over a new leaf with Paris Baguette

An autumn invitation to join a world-class baker y café franchise

As autumn settles in and the streets turn to gold, there’s a quiet pleasure in stepping in from the crisp air to the warmth of a bakery café The aroma of

pumpkin spice, buttery croissants fresh from the oven, and smooth, barista-made coffee is an irresistible invitation to pause and savour the moment

This season, Paris Baguette invites you to be part of a brand where French-inspired artistry meets the warmth of a neighbourhood favourite

A place where every pastry is a little reward, every coffee is served with care, and every guest feels welcome to linger

A season of growth in the UK

From our first UK openings at Battersea Power Station and High Street Kensington, to the successful launch of our first UK franchise in Canary Wharf in October 2024, Paris Baguette has been winning hearts, and appetites across London This autumn, we’re continuing that momentum with our latest bakery café opening in Notting Hill Gate, as part of our wider UK growth strategy

With Britain’s love of bakery cafés showing no signs of slowing, and a growing appetite for high-quality, French-inspired experiences, Paris Baguette is perfectly placed to grow and we’re looking for partners to grow with us

Why choose Paris Baguette?

l A trusted global brand

Since 1988, Paris Baguette has been crafting fresh, beautiful food and creating welcoming spaces across 10 countries. With over 4,000 locations worldwide, our UK market is a core focus and an exciting opportunity

l A growing UK market

The bakery café sector is thriving, with customers seeking not just great food, but a place to relax, meet, and treat

Whether you’re an experienced operator or taking your first step into franchising, we’re here to help you create something truly special in your local area.

themselves Our combination of artisan products, seasonal menus, and stylish interiors makes us stand out

l Unmatched franchise support

From site selection and store design to staff training, marketing strategy, and daily operations, our team is by your side every step of the way We give you the tools to succeed and the freedom to flourish

l Committed, collaborative leadership

Our UK team is hands-on, dedicated, and always ready to help franchisees grow their business with confidence

A menu made for autumn days

Step inside a Paris Baguette café on a chilly afternoon and you’ll be met with the comforting scent of freshly baked croissants, pumpkin spiced lattes, rich cream cakes, and golden artisan breads Pair one with a cinnamon pistachio bun or a warming hot chocolate, and you’ve found your perfect autumn ritual

Our menu blends classic French techniques with seasonal inspiration, offering everything from elegant celebration cakes to light lunches Each item is crafted to surprise, delight, and keep guests coming back, whether it’s for a special occasion or a quiet moment of indulgence

Rooted

in values, ready for growth

At Paris Baguette, our CAKE values –Craftmanship, Authenticity, Kindness, Excellence, guide everything we do. We believe in building not just cafés, but community spaces that feel like a natural part of the neighbourhood

When you join Paris Baguette, you’re

not simply opening a store, you’re creating a place where guests feel at home, where quality is never compromised, and where every day brings an opportunity to connect with your community

Let’s build something beautiful this season

Autumn is a season of change, of beginnings, and of opportunities waiting to be embraced With Paris Baguette, that opportunity comes with the backing of a globally trusted brand, a proven model, and a team dedicated to your success

Whether you’re an experienced operator or taking your first step into franchising, we’re here to help you create something truly special in your local area

Ready to take the first step?

Contact Belinda Remarczyk: belinda@parisbaguette.co.uk

Let’s bring warmth, flavour, and a touch of Parisian elegance to your neighbourhood – this autumn and beyond n

F i t n e s s , R e f o r m e r P i l a t e s b r a n d l e a d e r a n d a c k n o w l e d g e d s e c t o r

e x p e r t , i t ’ s a n u n m i s s a b l e o p p o r t u n i t y f o r a m b i t i o u s e n t r e p r e n e u r s .

Single and master license options available from £25,000.

F u l l p a y b a c k a p p ro x 2 6 m o n t h s , 5 - 7 t i m e s e s t R O I .

F u n d i n g a v a i l a b l e t h ro u g h H S B C , B l u e s t o n e l e a s i n g a n d

t h e G ro w t h G u a r a n t e e S c h e m e .

No fitness sector experience necessar y. We provide all the s u p p o r t n e e d e d t o g ro w & s c a l e y o u r b u s i n e s s .

I n t e r e s t e d ? L e t ’ s t a l k .

SEVEN-FIGURE FUNDING

uisition of these stores I’m able to give ple a start in their career. – Rickey Sharma

roup expands

Domino’s Pizza portfolio

Strava Group is set to increase its Domino’s franchise presence in Scotland with the acquisition of 14 additional stores, thanks to a sevenfigure funding package from NatWest

The acquisition brings the total number of Domino’s operated by Strava Group to more than 40, spanning both England and Scotland This strategic move is part of the company’s growth strategy to operate 75 Domino’s stores.

Rickey Sharma, managing director of Strava Group, started his journey as a Domino’s franchisee in 2012 after progressing through the ranks since 2007 This extensive experience and deep understanding of the business have been instrumental in his success.

The acquisition is expected to enhance the operational efficiency and market reach of Strava Group as it continues to focus on expanding its Domino’s portfolio The company adds that it is committed to maintaining the high standards of service and quality that have become synonymous with the pizza brand

Sharma said: “This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Strava Group

NatWest, and its expertise in investments and understanding of our industry, made this latest acquisition possible and we are excited for what this means for the expansion of the business moving forward ”

Andy Croasdell, relationship manager at NatWest, commented: “Strava Group has demonstrated remarkable growth and a strong commitment to the Domino’s Pizza brand

“Following our support for the acquisition of four stores in 2024, we are delighted to support these further expansion plans with this funding package Rickey’s leadership and vision for the future align perfectly with our values, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in the franchise sector ” n

The ‘black sheep’ nine-site deal

BLACK SHEEP COFFEE has completed a nine-site franchise agreement to develop its stores across Tyne & Wear, marking a significant expansion into Northern regions of the UK

The agreement with Mindy Kaur and Bal Singh, operating through Dhesi Food & Beverages Ltd , will lead to the rollout of Black Sheep Coffee across the North East, bringing the brand’s bold energy and disruptive coffee ethos from Newcastle to Sunderland

Black Sheep Coffee said the latest signing reinforces its position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing independent coffee brands, powered by a franchising model designed to champion entrepreneurial operators and local community-led growth.

Eirik Holth, co-founder of Black Sheep Coffee, said: “These new stores will be places for everyone to enjoy our speciality Robusta blend, signature Norwegian Waffles, 100 per cent ceremonial grade Matcha and much more. We can't wait to welcome the local community ”

l Black Sheep Coffee is renowned for ‘unapologetically’ bold flavours and an unrivalled commitment to quality, sourcing the first speciality-grade 100 per cent Robusta coffee, and going against market trends to become the ‘black sheep’ of the coffee world n

Mexi Bean Express launches

its ‘built to be scalable’ model

Mexi Bean Express, the Yorkshireborn Mexican food brand that has been ‘spicing up’ high streets with tasty tacos and good vibes since 2021, has

announced the launch of its franchise model

Bean Express, opened the original dine-in Mexi Bean in 2020 after falling in love with big, punchy Mexican flavours on her travels

Danielle Best (right), founder of Mexi

mers to feel like they’re part of something fun, little bit cheeky – and I want our franchisees to name above the door.

gap in the market – people wanting the same great taste, but quicker, closer to home and in more places Mexi Bean Express was born; serving up big flavours, fast, for the everyday grab-and-go crowd

Mexi Bean Express has grown to five locations across West Yorkshire in Bradford, Brighouse, Halifax, Huddersfield and Sowerby Bridge

With the brand experiencing increasing customer demand, Best teamed up with Platinum Wave Franchising, a franchise consultancy firm, to build a solid franchise model

Best said: “I’ve always believed that if you’re going to do something, do it properly and think big while you’re at it! From day one, I knew Mexi Bean

Express had the potential to be huge, not just in Yorkshire but anywhere people love good food

“I want our customers to feel like they’re part of something fun, fresh and just a little bit cheeky – and I want our franchisees to be proud to have their name above the door

“It’s been built to be scalable – the look, the vibe, the recipes – so that you can pick it up and run with it

“If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own place, love good food and good people, and want to build something that means something to your town –‘Sit down, let’s tacobout it’ ”

Mexi Bean Express added that the franchise model is suitable for a dine-in restaurant, grab-and-go or food truck concept n

www.mexibeanexpress.com/franchise

Townhouse’s further UK growth

TOWNHOUSE, the luxury nail salon brand has signed another major franchise agreement, this time with ACCA Group to launch over 20 salons across the Midlands and East Anglia – expanding the award-winning nail concept into more UK regions.

ACCA Group, an experienced multibrand operator, will roll out the salons in cities including Birmingham, Cambridge and Norwich, backed by a multi-million pound investment

The deal forms part of Townhouse’s national franchise strategy and follows a similar agreement already signed for Scotland with The Explorer Group

‘Another key milestone’ Townhouse said this new agreement marks another key milestone in its plan to build a category-defining national brand With strong unit economics across company-owned sites and multiple franchise territories secured, it is primed for rapid, sustainable growth across the UK

Lacky Sohal, franchise partner at ACCA Group, commented: “Townhouse is redefining what a nail salon experience can be – elegant, professional and techenabled It’s exactly what consumers in our region have been waiting for, and we’re thrilled to be leading the charge to bring it here at scale.”

Founded in 2018, Townhouse explains it has transformed the nail salon experience through stunning interiors, a refined treatment menu, clinical-grade hygiene and technology-driven operations The company adds that franchise expansion continues to attract top-tier operators, with major regional deals already secured and further partnerships set to be announced soon n

www.townhouse.co.uk/franchise

For over 65 years, we’ve been Germany ’ s leading maker of exceptional kitchens

Now, thanks to our global success, we’re bringing our awardwinning brand of premium design and German proficiency to the UK.

With a number of successful stores already open, and plans for many more, the time to be a Nolte Küchen franchise par tner is now.

So if you ’ re an experienced entrepreneur or kitchen designer looking to be your own boss, get in touch and let ’ s cook up something special together B E A N O L T E K Ü C H E N ane

FRANCHISE LAUNCH

Lemon and Lime’s launch of its home staging opportunity

Lemon and Lime Interiors, a national award-winning property home staging company, has announced the launch of its franchise network, setting its sights on ambitious growth across the UK

The Derbyshire-based business, which recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary, has secured its first franchisees for Canterbury, Cardiff and Exeter

Founded in 2015 by an experienced home stager, Elaine Penhaul (below), Lemon and Lime present homes to make a memorable first impression to potential property buyers

The company works on improving the appeal of a property by working on anything necessary to get it onto the market looking its best, whether that be decorating and repair work, de-cluttering or changing the furniture

Penhaul said: “Having been in the position of setting up and growing a profitable business ourselves, we know how difficult it can be for ambitious and entrepreneurial home stagers to establish themselves in the UK property market

“Ten years in, and having staged more than 1,500 properties, I am incredibly proud to be in a position to use our expertise to back others at the start of their journey.

“Above all, the franchise model offers business owners a community to share ideas and expertise between like-minded

“professionals and lift one another up, in what can be quite an isolating industry

“By establishing a group of ambitious home stagers, the home staging industry has the power to become a far more dominant marketing service that will become essential for estate agents to rely on ”

Franchisees will gain exclusive access to Lemon and Lime’s unique FLOW system. Rooted in practicality, this system aims to give business owners the know-how, processes and support across finance, lead generation, operations and workflow, enabling them to focus on growing a profitable home staging business

Lemon and Lime added that franchisees will benefit from an existing network of connections including agents and suppliers, with enquiries already coming through for their services

‘Joining Lemon and Lime...’

Rebecca Channon and Luke Harris, the Canterbury franchisees, said they were proud to be part of Lemon and Lime’s next chapter: “Joining the company felt like a natural fit and we’re thrilled to be leading its exciting expansion into Canterbury and South East Kent

“The brand’s data-led approach to home staging clearly shows how great presentation drives strong, faster sales, and we look forward to working with local estate agents and homeowners to maximise property potential ”

Ten years in, and having staged more than 1,500 properties, I am incredibly proud to be in a position to use our expertise to back others at the start of their jour ney.

“

The brand’s data-led approach to home staging clearly shows how great presentation drives strong, faster sales, and we look forward to working with local estate agents and homeowners to maximise property potential

Kate Jones, the Cardiff franchisee, said: “Joining the team at Lemon and Lime, for me, was an easy decision Its brand speaks for itself and its reputation in the staging industry is second to none The process of becoming one of its first franchisees was informative, collaborative and truly enjoyable

“The team provided everything I needed to make an informed decision. I feel a great sense of pride at having been selected from the initial applicants and looking forward to seeing where the journey takes us all.”

Rhona Jarvis, the Exeter franchisee, commented: “I’m proud to represent a brand that consistently sets the standard in property presentation

“I’m passionate about making a real difference in this industry and seeing the growth in a new region. I’m excited to connect with estate agents, developers and homeowners in this area to showcase the impact of professional home staging ”

Lemon and Lime said that the occupied properties it home staged in 2023 sold on average four times faster after staging, and homes that are professionally presented sell on average for eight per cent more than comparable properties n

www.lemonandlimeinteriors.co.uk

thexton armstrong UK: A new standard in business mentoring franchises

In today’s uncertain economic climate, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain the backbone of the UK economy

They represent over 99% of all businesses within the UK and employ millions, yet too many find themselves stuck: too many priorities, cash flow challenges, ineffective structures, or founders struggling to shift from hands-on operator to strategic leader

The need for credible, experienced business mentoring has never been greater Yet until now, the SME advisory market in the UK has been fragmented –dominated by lone consultants without scale, proven systems, or sustained methodologies.

Enter thexton armstrong Founded in the Netherlands in 2011, thexton armstrong has grown into a respected European brand in business mentoring, with a tested methodology, based on the Entrepreneur ’s Journey, that consistently transforms the fortunes of SMEs

Now, under the leadership of Donald Stuart (above) – a globally experienced CEO and transformation strategist – the franchise has launched in the UK. For ambitious professionals, this presents a rare chance: to build your own advisory firm, backed by a powerful brand, proven tools, and an exclusive territory.

Why business mentoring and why now?

The SME market is vast – 5 5m firms across the UK – but it is the mid-sized B2B businesses (typically £1m-£25m turnover with 5-100 staff) that represent the most attractive, underserved

Our goal is not to make clients reliant on us We actively transfer our knowledge, tools, and frameworks so businesses can thrive independently

segment. Our own research, conducted with a leading UK market specialist, identifies hundreds of thousands of businesses in this band

These companies are sophisticated enough to recognise they need outside support, but too small to justify hiring full-time consulting teams.

SME owners face familiar hurdles:

l Growth without profitability

l Stressed operations without structure

l Communication breakdowns within teams

l A founder over worked, unable to step back into true leadership

For these businesses, the right mentoring intervention can be transformational –and highly valued

Business consulting is already a recognised and mature franchise sector in the UK, but few providers offer what thexton armstrong does: a proven, industry-independent methodology, deep client conversion processes, and

long-term mentoring programmes aligned to the Entrepreneur ’s Journey

In short: the market is primed, the need is urgent, and the opportunity is substantial

What sets thexton armstrong apart

At thexton armstrong, we do not just give advice. We embed measurable, lasting change Three qualities define our approach:

1. Personal motivation at the core True transformation happens when business and personal ambitions align We uncover the owner ’s real drivers, build clarity around what success means for them, and then construct a roadmap to achieve it

2. Partnership, not dependency

Our goal is not to make clients reliant on us We actively transfer our knowledge, tools, and frameworks so businesses can thrive independently –strengthening both the company and the confidence of its owner

3. Proven methodologies that deliver From our Business Acceleration Plan to our Profit Leakage Application, from our Business Mentoring Plan to our Business Exit Readiness Programme, we provide structured, replicable solutions that work across industries. On average, client relationships last over five years

SME MENTORING FRANCHISE LAUNCH

This

testament to the enduring value delivered

The franchise model: Independent, yet fully supported

Running your own consultancy practice can be lonely Without brand credibility, structured processes, and peer support, many independents burn out or struggle to scale

That’s why thexton armstrong is different As a Franchise Partner, you benefit from:

l Exclusive territor y Your own defined region, protected from internal competition

l Proven client conversion system

Three complimentary sessions (Discovery, Profit Leakage, Proposal) that help you win clients confidently

l Comprehensive training and coaching

From day one, you will master our methodology and receive over 12 months of one-to-one coaching

l Ongoing peer community

You are never a lone wolf; knowledge is shared and successes replicated

l Brand recognition

A respected European name now launching in the UK with national marketing support

You remain the business owner, building a saleable asset But you do it with a framework that dramatically increases your chance of success.

The right partner profile

thexton armstrong will not suit everyone. This is not a “buy yourself a job” opportunity We are seeking professionals who bring credibility, gravitas, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Our ideal partners range from:

l Senior leaders with multi-functional experience

l Established consultants/advisors ready to scale

l Entrepreneurs seeking their next significant venture

You must be passionate about SMEs, comfortable engaging Managing Directors as peers, able to turn strategy into execution, and motivated by longterm, relationship-driven results.

If that sounds like you, the opportunity is powerful: independence with the support of a proven system.

Earnings, investment and the value of equity

Unlike many franchises, thexton armstrong is structured to build longterm equity You’re not simply buying a role – you are developing an asset

l Licence investment

£19,000 launch price (standard £24,250)

l Training and coaching fee

£18,500 (including 12 plus months coaching)

l Royalty

Gradually reducing as you grow your annual revenue from 20% down to just 5% – meaning you retain more profit as you grow

l Marketing contribution

3%, invested in national/regional campaigns to fuel your pipeline

With recurring client relationships and scalable delivery, your earnings are limited only by your ambition For many, the trajectory compares favourably with senior consulting and executive remuneration – with the added benefit that you own the business outright

Why join now?

thexton armstrong is launching in the UK – meaning early partners can secure prime territories at a special launch price

You will be part of the founding cohort, working closely with Donald Stuart and the leadership team to shape the UK practice This is a chance not only to build your own business but to be part of establishing a brand that is set to redefine SME mentoring across Britain

As Stuart puts it: “Our mission is to empower franchise business owners and

SME owners alike to think bigger, act strategically, and take control of their futures – driving not just growth, but being the bedrock of the UK economy.”

Client success stories: Proof in action

Our results speak for themselves

l A family-owned manufacturing business professionalised its operations, creating a clear succession plan and positioning for long-term value

l A specialist in precision materials shifted from reactive firefighting to structured growth – reducing stress for the founder and strengthening team accountability

l A kitchen and bathroom design company sharpened its strategy, improved communication, and unlocked new levels of profitability

In every case, the mentor became not just an advisor but a trusted partner –helping owners grow their businesses and themselves.

Your next step

If you’re a senior professional ready to leverage your expertise, build a scalable advisory firm, and create lasting impact with SME leaders, then thexton armstrong is your platform.

This is your chance to:

l Secure an exclusive UK territory.

l Build recurring revenues with proven client programmes.

l Join a respected European brand at the ground floor of its UK expansion

l Create a business that delivers both financial return and personal fulfilment

The next step is simple: request our latest information flipbook Full details of the model, support, fees, and available territories will be made available at our online Information Sessions – find out how to attend in our flipbook

If you have ever wanted to shape your own future, make a genuine difference, and be rewarded at the level your experience deserves – this is the moment to act. n

www.thextonarmstrong.co.uk

Zambrero kick-starts its UK franchisee recruitment drive

Zambrero, the Mexican-inspired quick-service restaurant, is kickstarting its franchisee recruitment programme in the UK to open 100 restaurants by 2030

Zambrero serves Mexican-inspired food with a focus on fresh ingr specially crafted marinades an packed sauces. The restaurants array of burritos, bowls, nacho and quesadillas, along with veg and vegan menu options

Since launching in 2021, it now 13 restaurants across England, in Birmingham, Essex, London Manchester and Reading

The company reports it has alr recruited its first three franchisees who will open new sites within the next 12 months, including its first restaurant in Scotland

“of interest in the brand during the last and now is the right time for us to expand.

u become ke a h us to bring an incredible experience to our customers every day

Zambrero UK is headed by chief executive Emily Teh (below), who has been with Zambrero Group for over eight years. The company said she is a passionate leader who believes in the soul and heart of Zambrero and its ‘Feel Good Mex’ ethos

Teh said: “We’re very excited to launch our franchise recruitment programme in the UK We’ve had a lot of interest in the brand during the last couple of years and now is the right time for us to expand

“We’re looking for passionate franchise partners who can open multiple restaurants. We’ve had great success through multi-site ownership in other markets, including Australia and Ireland, with more than half of our partners wanting to open more restaurants.

“We love this energy and enthusiasm for the brand and hope to find like-minded franchise partners here in the UK.”

Flexible format model

Zambrero explained that with its simplified operating model and flexible format, restaurants can be opened in a range of locations and sizes, from traditional restaurants to bespoke builds, small kiosks and drive-thru outlets

No previous hospitality experience is required to own and operate its franchise, due to the streamlined processes and easy-to-manage systems, comprehensive training and ongoing support

Humanitarian initiative

At the core of Zambrero is ‘Plate 4 Plate’, its humanitarian initiative to tackle world hunger The company said that every time a burrito or bowl is purchased at any of its restaurants, it donates a nutritious meal to someone in need in the developing world via Rise Against Hunger.

l Zambrero was founded in 2005 in Canberra, Australia by a then medical student, Dr. Sam Prince. It is now a global brand, with more than 300 restaurants spanning Australia, New Zealand, the U S , Ireland and the UK n

www.zambrero.co.uk/franchise

The BFA Annual Conference

OWNING IT!

Step up, Stand out, Shape your Future

We’re excited to announce that the BFA Annual Conference is back for 2025, promising another day of inspiration, education and celebration within the UK franchising community.

Expect thought-provoking keynotes including investor, co-founder of Implement AI, and former Dragon on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den, Piers Linney, as well as entrepreneur, mentor, television personality, and founder and Creative Director of Crafter’s Companion, Sara Davies MBE

Don’t miss out! Book your tickets today and experience a franchise conference like no other!

6th November 2025

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

BFA OPINION PIECE: IMPORTANCE OF WELLBEING

Wellbeing: The next driver of franchise success

The UK franchise sector is doing well; our latest survey shows impressive growth (53% in Personal Services) and a forced failure rate that hasn’t risen above 6% for over 20 years The franchising sector should be very proud of their achievements

However, did you know that wellbeing is almost certainly the next driver of success in the sector, and that the BFA is actively behind efforts to ensure franchisors, franchisees and employees are well-supported in all aspects of their mental health?

National Franchise Week – devoted to wellbeing

This year we devoted our first National Franchise Week to the subject, basing each day on the five foundations of wellbeing: Move, Learn, Connect, Be Present and Give Back

During the week over 100 companies, from franchise brands to franchise suppliers logged 2,230 miles of movement, attended 14 online wellbeing classes and raised almost £2,000 for charity

It gave the franchising community an opportunity to press pause and spend time on themselves.

Our chief executive, Pip Wilkins (above), said: “We recognised a while ago that whilst the franchising sector is extremely successful that post pandemic, the UK workforce’s mental health is still fragile, and we wanted to address the issue.”

“Mental health data

Latest figures show that in 2022, mental health cost UK employers £51bn per year, with ‘presenteeism’ (turning up for work but not performing well because of mental health issues) being the most significant component of that, costing £24bn

In a recent article in The Guardian (August, 2025), Mark Price, the former head of Waitrose and now head of consultancy WorkL, said: “British employees are on average the unhappiest workers in the G20 group of nations ” and: “If people are happy in their jobs they don’t leave, you retain knowledge and have lower levels of sickness, which leads to more profitable and more effective organisations ”

All the more reason why the UK franchise sector must act now, to lead differently and make a positive change

Tackling the issue in 2025

Wilkins said: “Although the majority of the franchise sector is made up of self-employed people running their own businesses rather than employees in traditional ‘jobs’, it would be fair to assume these results include us

“This is why we took a stand early with our wellbeing activities during National Franchise Week and will continue to keep it high on our agenda for 2025/26 ”

Inaugural National Franchise Wellbeing Sur vey results

According to mental health training company Cinder, a BFA Supplier Member, who carried out their inaugural National Franchise Wellbeing Survey this year, 97% of franchisors said poor mental health impacted their business

As an association we will continue to make mental health and wellness a priority, both through our existing online meetings, events and by educating our members, with specific takeaways, that they can implement in their own businesses. – Pip Wilkins

For franchisees we have the wellbeing guide, this helps them to assess their position on a wellbeing scale and identify any areas that need support – Imogen Clarke

and more than 60% of franchisees reported feeling stressed, overwhelmed or low in mood,

An encouraging tatistic was that 73% of franchisees and 89% of franchisors reported hat being a part of the franchise industry had maintained, or improved, their mental health and wellbeing Whilst the mountain might seem high, we have started the climb and for many, being part of the franchise sector is helpful

So, what are BFA members doing to support the mental health and wellness of their networks?

l Home Instead network

Imogen Clarke (below), head of franchise development at domiciliary care franchise Home Instead, explained the measures they have put in place to tackle the problems: “We do an annual survey of our franchisees to check the sentiment of the network, to find how we can better support wellbeing. This year we also launched regional meetings with franchisees and the directors, to discuss any concerns they may have.

“We also have weekly meetings, giving the front-line team the opportunity to feedback where wellbeing support and coaching is needed We have external

BFA OPINION PIECE: IMPORTANCE OF WELLBEING

approved coaches, who we know understand the Home Instead model and the challenges our franchisees may face

“There is an Employee Assistance Programme for all employees within Home Instead, which gives them access to counselling should they need it.

“For franchisees we have the wellbeing guide, this helps them to assess their position on a wellbeing scale and identify any areas that need support Just like a business assessment, you look at yourself and determine what support you need as an individual. We believe it’s important everyone has access to this kind of much needed support ”

l Kidslingo network

Anna Neville (below), founder of children’s language classes franchise Kidslingo, has not only provided mental health training for her franchise but also attended a two-day course, to become a qualified Mental Health First Aider (MHFA)

Coincidentally, the same qualification held by most of the senior leadership team at the BFA

Neville explained the rationale behind her decision: “Offering mental health training to our network and becoming qualified just felt like the right thing to do Self-employment is a lonely place and often it is just them, doing everything to keep their business on track, which can be hard.

“On top of that, some may have family responsibilities or elderly parents to care for, and that’s a heavy weight on anyone’s shoulders and can be really draining

“As a franchisor people initially call you for business advice, but we often

“end up talking about personal issues, maybe surrounding confidence, illness, anxiety or family problems

“Equally, some people are very good at masking or find it hard to articulate their problems, clamming up completely, which can obviously have a huge impact on their mental health and ultimately the ability to run their business effectively

“Having done my MHFA training I am now able to recognise these signs, pick up the phone and offer support or signpost them to a more appropriate place ”

So, how should franchisors tackle the mental health agenda with their staff and network? Neville said quite simply: “Just put it on the agenda Make it an open conversation and acknowledge that discussing mental health issues is not a taboo subject; let your network know that you are ready and willing to listen and to help ”

Next steps – Empowering franchisees to help themselves

Jen Chapman Boffin, (left) founder of Cinder, said UK franchisors should be empowering their franchisees to make looking after their own wellbeing a business priority, not something they should do ‘when they have time’, but something they do ‘so they have time’

“It’s not about franchisors adding another job to their list or doing it for people, it’s about them giving their franchisees the skills of self-awareness and the tools to do it for themselves

“Paying attention to mental health should be part of a normal business function, just like accounts and marketing, because if you don’t look

Offering mental health training to our network and becoming qualified just felt like the right thing to do Self-employment is a lonely place and often it is just them, doing everything to keep their business on track, which can be hard. – Anna Neville

after it, you aren’t going to be able to do the other stuff, like run their business ”

She added: “Franchisors should also be equipping those in their teams who support franchisees with the appropriate knowledge It’s all well and good asking a franchisee ‘how are you’, but if they say, ‘I’m really struggling’, it’s not fair to put a franchise support team in that position of support, if they don’t know how to handle it.”

BFA education on wellness and mental health

Wilkins said: “Although we wholeheartedly recognise that there are issues, the good news is that as a sector we have now recognised them and with everyone actively putting measures in place, I’d like to think the next franchise wellbeing survey will shift the needle in a much more positive direction

“As an association we will continue to make mental health and wellness a priority, both through our existing online meetings, events and by educating our members, with specific takeaways, that they can implement in their own businesses ”

UK Franchising leading the way in workplace wellbeing

Wilkins concluded: “I often liken being in the franchise sector to being part of a family, and I’d like to think that this ‘franchising family’ can lead the way in improving workplace wellbeing in our industry

“Wellness isn’t a tick box exercise I’d encourage all BFA members to do everything they can to improve the mental health and wellness of their teams, and help make the franchise sector a happy, supportive place to work and to live up to our hashtag #FranchisingStrongerTogether.” n

l In partnership with Cinder, the BFA has developed a Franchisor Foundations to Wellbeing course that will provide an understanding of the impact of mental health in business Providing tools and mechanisms to build confidence, a structure that can be easily implemented, with an action plan to make an instant difference to your network Learn more

Razzamataz new programme in response to client feedback

Razzamataz Theatre Schools has launched a fully planned six-week Minis curriculum, which has been designed to support franchisees while offering families a blend of fun, skill building and personal growth for their children.

Developed in direct response to parent and guardian feedback, the programme has been crafted to meet the needs of today’s families who want their children to experience joy, connection, and confidence while developing core life skills.

Denise Gosney, managing director and founder of Razzamataz, said: “This carefully thought-out journey supports franchisees with an easy-to-follow roadmap while delivering the outcomes parents value most

“Families have told us that they want to see a clearer progression and most importantly, to see their child having fun, so we created this programme in order that our teams across our 80 schools can best deliver this ”

Razzamataz explained that the Minis programme ensures franchisees can deliver high-quality classes parents are looking for, therefore retaining students and providing clear pathways for children’s development

This carefully thought-out jour ney supports franchisees with an easy-to-follow roadmap while delivering the outcomes parents value most

The structured roadmap makes lesson planning seamless, saving time while ensuring every child receives the highest standard of teaching

Importantly, added Razzamataz, the programme also includes tools to engage parents and guardians, such as email resources, a watch-week, and a recognition framework, making communication easier and more impactful – ensuring parents stay informed of their child’s progress. There are also simple at-home activities to reinforce the skills learned in class

Commenting on the new programme, Hollie the Lower School Lead at Razzamataz Carlisle, said: “I absolutely love the focus on joy and skill-building, and the way each week has a distinct theme that builds towards both performing and personal growth

“I also think the introduction of the recognition framework is a fantastic addition, it’s such a positive way to help every child feel seen and celebrated ” n

www.razzamataz.co.uk/franchise

Chopstix latest store opening

CHOPSTIX, the pan-Asian inspired quick service restaurant (QSR) has launched its first store in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, which follows several site openings this year including Brighton, Leeds and Wolverhampton

The new store, right in the heart of Huddersfield’s busy town centre on King Street, reflects Chopstix’s ongoing growth plans to expand its footprint in high traffic areas where it performs particularly well.

Sam Elia, co-founder and director of Chopstix, said: “We’re excited to be opening in Huddersfield and introducing our unique brand proposition to another great UK high street

“We’ve seen huge momentum behind the business this year, and this is a testament to the strength of the Chopstix brand and our unwavering focus on quality, speed, and customer experience ”

Refreshed visual identity

The new store opens with Chopstix refreshed visual identity, offering customers a bold and vibrant dining experience, with modernised interiors and enhanced operational features

Chopstix said the new look reinforces its commitment to delivering bold Chinese flavours to customers across the UK, offering a unique proposition to other high street staples

Following investment from Quick Service Restaurant Platform in 2024, Chopstix has accelerated expansion and is focused on becoming the largest Asian QSR brand on the continent

l The Chopstix Group comprises Chopstix Noodle Bar, Yangtze and Chozen n

Franchising vs starting from scratch – which is the right path for you?

By Frank Milner, President, Tutor Doctor

More people than ever are exploring self-employment – whether it’s about finding purpose, improving worklife balance or simply taking control of their future But when it comes to launching a business, do you start from scratch, or should you look at alternative options – such as investing in a franchise?

It’s a big choice and there’s no one-sizefits-all answer Both paths come with their own rewards – and risks That’s why it’s so important to think carefully about what kind of support, structure and flexibility you really want

Here I share my thoughts on the pros and cons of each route – and why franchising is ultimately a smart, purpose-driven choice for aspiring entrepreneurs

The case for starting from scratch Starting your own business is undeniably empowering. You have complete creative freedom – from brand identity and pricing strategy to how you deliver your services For entrepreneurs with strong personal vision, a blank canvas can be exhilarating

However, that freedom comes with significant responsibility. Without the backing of an established brand or operational support, everything rests on your shoulders – marketing, logistics, recruitment compliance – the lot. There’s also the risk that your idea may not resonate in the market or that reaching profitability takes far longer than expected.

For experienced business minds or innovators with a truly unique offering, the rewards can be worth it. But it’s a high-stakes game, especially in sectors

with tight regulations or high upfront demands

The franchise route

In contrast, franchising offers a blend of entrepreneurship and structure. You still own and run your business, but you’re doing so under the umbrella of a triedand-tested model That means you’re not figuring everything out on your own

From day one, you benefit from brand recognition, operational systems, marketing tools and ongoing training These elements significantly reduce the risk of common startup pitfalls and often allow franchisees to achieve profitability faster

It’s particularly advantageous for those entering complex or tightly regulated industries Rather than worrying about compliance or reinventing operational workflows, franchisees can focus on customer relationships, growth and impact

Why expertise matters

Take education, for example – a sector

Whether you build from scratch or step into a franchise, the most important thing is that your business aligns with your values, lifestyle and long-term vision

where regulations, safeguarding and accountability are non-negotiable Going it alone would mean mastering these responsibilities from scratch, which can be overwhelming

With Tutor Doctor, franchisees have access to a network of experts who guide them through essential areas like safeguarding and inspections, safer recruitment practices and child protection That kind of specialist support reduces stress alongside building a stronger, safer business from the ground up.

Purpose-driven business, built your way

Franchising has evolved beyond the traditional, uniform model Today, many modern franchises, like Tutor Doctor, offer a framework that allows franchisees to build meaningful,

● Tutor Doctor provides tutoring ser vices to students of all ages, levels and subjects.

community-focused businesses with a clear sense of purpose

At Tutor Doctor, franchisees are empowered to shape their operations around their goals – whether that means partnering with local authorities, designing educational programmes that reflect their values, or addressing specific needs in their communities This isn’t about fitting work around your life; it’s about building a business that reflects what you stand for and the change you want to create

Investment vs independence

One of the main deterrents to franchising is the upfront cost. It’s true that starting solo can seem cheaper at the beginning – no franchise fees, fewer commitments and complete control over how you spend. But those initial savings can be quickly outweighed by the hidden costs of trial and error, missed opportunities and the slower pace of building everything from scratch.

Without an established network, solo founders often find themselves investing large portions of time and money into developing basic systems – from marketing and recruitment to compliance and customer service – before they can even think about scaling The journey can be isolating, uncertain and expensive

Franchise fees, on the other hand, don’t just buy you a name – they provide access to refined systems, hands-on support and proven strategies that would take years to develop independently

You’re not paying for a shortcut, but for a head start – and for the confidence you’re not navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship alone

Choose what’s right for you

Whether you build from scratch or step into a franchise, the most important thing is that your business journey aligns with your values, lifestyle and long-term vision

If you’re looking to combine autonomy with external support and make a meaningful difference in your community without sacrificing income or structure, franchising could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for n

My Property Pros ‘wave of achievements’

My Property Pros (MPP) is celebrating a wave of achievements as franchisees across its UK network continue to hit new heights in growth, performance and recognition

In South Belfast and Lisburn, Northern Ireland, Aidan Davis – MPP’s youngest franchisee, aged 24 – has taken a major step forward by hiring his first full-time employee, less than six months after launching his exterior cleaning business

Meanwhile, in Kingswinford and Stourbridge in the West Midlands, franchisee Ashley Stevens has also grown his team as demand continues to surge following a record-breaking month.

Regional award winners

MPP said both Davis and Stevens are among several franchisees to have been honoured in the Corporate LiveWire Regional Awards, a testament to the exceptional customer service, rapid growth, and professionalism that defines its network

Davis was recognised as Exterior Cleaning Company of the Year in Antrim and Stevens taking the title of Roof Cleaning Company of the Year for the West Midlands. Additionally, MPP’s franchisees for Newquay and Truro were

named Exterior Cleaning Company of the Year in Cornwall

Davis, who launched his franchise territory in February this year, said: “Bringing in a full-time employee is a key milestone for me and a sign of the demand we’re seeing in the world of exterior cleaning

“It’s a great opportunity to build capacity and take on more work, all while maintaining the quality of service MPP is known for. It’s a great feeling and I’m excited to keep pushing forward ”

Stevens commented: “We’ve hit four record-breaking weeks back-to-back It’s clear this growth is becoming the new norm and the team is focused on building on this momentum. It’s an exciting time to be part of the MPP network as we continue to raise the bar across the brand ”

Karen Prewer, founder and chief executive of MPP, commented: “Our franchisees continue to impress with their dedication, drive, and outstanding results We’re proud to support their growth every step of the way as they raise the standard for exterior cleaning across the UK ” n

www.mypropertypros.co.uk/franchise

● Ashley Stevens (left) with Aidan Davis

The National Franchise Exhibition: Visit to start your franchise success stor y

Franchising is a powerful driver of the UK economy, contributing an impressive £19 1bn each year With more than 50,000 franchise units nationwide and an average turnover of £400,000 per unit, the model c to demonstrate both resilience broad appeal

Even more striking, 89 per cen franchised businesses report p highlighting the sector ’s excep strength in today’s economic c

For anyone looking to tap into potential of franchising, The N Franchise Exhibition is the ide point This industry-leading ev exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA) – opens the door to this proven and lucrative business model

“Running for over 30 years, the event brings together a wide range of top brands, spanning sectors from food and beverage, to care, education, and fitness

Attendees will have the chance to explore opportunities with over 100 franchises including McDonald’s, Anytime Fitness, Black Sheep Coffee, Home Instead, OVO Solar & Heating, Emma Sleep, and many more with investment levels starting under £10,000

A rich seminar programme of over 50 free talks will help visitors gain an in-depth understanding of the business model, learn more about the latest industry trends and get practical tips on everything it takes to become a franchise owner

The unparalleled line-up includes representatives from many established brands, franchise experts and successful franchisees, alongside a series of educational seminars from the BFA

k, ask loads of questions, and don’t be afraid to follow w. It can feel overwhelming on the day, but if something Jed Wortmann, More Than Loft Ladders franchisee

r first-hand ucceed

during the Real Franchise Stories Q&A sessions Panellists representing brands including Auditel, Mathnasium and Chaiiwala, will share why they chose to invest, what they have learnt along the way and what they might do differently next time

Multi-unit Franchise Conference

Thinking big? Established multi-unit and multi-brand operators will take to the stage during the Multi-unit Franchise Conference to shine a light on the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of building a franchise empire

Existing franchisees ready to scale-up, or ambitious entrepreneurs looking to invest in multiple units from the outset, will not want to miss the opportunity to learn from, and connect with, industry icons.

Pioneering serial entrepreneur Jo Fairley, best known for co-founding the world’s first organic chocolate brand Green & Black’s, will share ‘7 secrets for every successful business’ during her unmissable keynote

Fairley comments: “I’m delighted to be

speaking at The National Franchise Exhibition this year. Whether you’re starting from scratch or investing in a proven franchise, mastering the skills that drive success is the key to lasting growth and business resilience ”

Advice from industr y experts

A standout feature of the exhibition is the free, one-to-one advice served up by a cross-section of industry experts New for 2025, The Finance Zone will showcase the full range of funding options available to potential investors, from major banks such as NatWest, Lloyds and Barclays, alongside specialist franchise funding providers

The BFA, specialist lawyers and consultants will also be on hand throughout the event to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision about your future in franchising.

The UK’s leading franchise exhibition has helped visitors find their perfect franchise match, realise their entrepreneurial ambitions and become their own boss This year promises to be the same Read on to hear how a visit to The Franchise Exhibition changed the life of a previous attendee

THE NATIONAL FRANCHISE EXHIBITION

From engineer to entrepreneur with More Than Loft Ladders

Jed Wortmann’s journey into franchising began nearly a decade before he took the leap Back in 2015, while running a roofing business, Jed attended The National Franchise Exhibition for the first time He was drawn to the idea of franchising as a more secure alternative to starting a business entirely from scratch “The success rate is just so much higher when there’s a brand and support structure behind you ”

At the time, Jed explored opportunities in estate agency franchises but decided to wait – ultimately taking up an apprenticeship with OpenReach Over the next nine years he progressed to become an advanced engineer. “I enjoyed it for a while But I’d hit a bit of a ceiling and didn’t want to move into management When they offered a severance package it gave me the push I needed to look for something new ”

That decision proved to be a turning point. With several months to plan his next move, Jed returned to The National Franchise Exhibition in 2024 – this time with real intent Initially, he was drawn to a window shutter business but a conversation with the team from More Than Loft Ladders changed everything

By January 2025, Jed officially launched his More Than Loft Ladders franchise while also welcoming a newborn into the family “It was a whirlwind new baby, new business, but an incredibly exciting time ”

Like many successful franchisees, Jed credits his progress to a combination of hard work and the right fit “This

isn’t something where you buy the licence and success just happens You’ve got to be prepared to put the work in –especially in that first year But if you choose something you’re passionate about and you’ve got the right support, it’s absolutely worth it ”

For those considering a franchise, Jed’s advice is clear: “Do your research Look for something that fits your background or interests If you’re going to spend every day working on it, you want to enjoy it ”

He also encourages anyone attending The National Franchise Exhibition to go in prepared: “Take a notebook, ask loads of questions, and don’t be afraid to follow up after the show It can feel overwhelming on the day, but if something stands out explore it ”

The success story of Jed is a great example of the life-changing opportunities offered by The Franchise Exhibitions Interested in following in his footsteps and becoming the next franchise success story?

l To find out more and book your free tickets to The National Franchise Exhibition on 3 & 4 October at the NEC, Birmingham, visit FranchiseInfo co uk n

Which franchise should I buy?

This is the big question only you can answer It’s rather like asking what house or car should you buy? As with them, it depends on your personal situation, preferences and available finance

l What can you afford?

l What are your personal aptitudes and working background?

l What would you really like to do for the rest of your career?

l Would the franchise be profitable enough to support your current lifestyle and meet your work/lifestyle balance aspirations?

Before looking at these questions in-depth, you need to ask yourself whether you are, in fact, suited for self-employment, and whether you would be prepared to run the business according to the franchisor’s rules

You will at the end of the day run your own business, but you must accept the fact that you are not entirely your own boss as you must run it according to the franchisor’s system

This is necessary to maintain the quality and integrity of the whole network. After all, you are buying into the system not just to benefit from the brand but also its proven business system – so why try to change it?

Also, see our FAQ page to understand the fundamental issues of franchising for the beginner

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tenreformer

tenreformer offers franchisees everything they need to launch, operate and scale a profitable Pilates studio with continued support at every stage More

● Steph McGovern, journalist and television presenter, addressing seminar attendees at last year’s National Franchise Exhibition.

Lawn care franchise thriving under Cher yl Harper’s tenure

When Cheryl Harper (below) stepped into a part-time reception role at Greensleeves Lawn Care in 2014, she wasn’t looking for a long-term career

But fast-forward 11 years – and now two years into her role as managing director – she has helped transform the business from the ground up, shaping not only the future of the brand but also its growing presence in the world of franchising

Since taking the reins of the company in 2023, she has led the 100-territory network through one of the most dynamic and ambitious chapters in its 25-year history

Her approach to leadership has blended operational expertise with a clear and confident vision said Greensleeves –from managing a major brand refresh to introducing new supplier partnerships and driving improvements to internal systems, she has brought clarity and momentum to a business ready to grow

“Harper said: “Becoming managing director wasn’t a sudden leap It was the result of years spent getting to know the business from the inside – understanding what made it tick and where we could make things better

“When I first joined, lawn care wasn’t something I knew anything about But I could see the potential in the brand, the people and the service we offered – and I knew I wanted to be part of something that had real opportunity to go further ”

That ambition has taken her through roles in operations, finance and systems development, and leading key upgrades to the company’s customer relation management system, laying the foundations for what is now the Greensleeves app Under her leadership, the company has enhanced its support for franchisees and introduced new processes to future-proof the business as part of the wider Neighbourly UK family of brands

Among the most significant milestones of Harper ’s tenure, said Greensleeves, is a new national partnership with Origin

It started with a part-time job and tur ned into something much bigger I hope that shows others it’s never too late to find the thing you’re really meant to be doing.

Amenity Solutions – a move that reflects her long-term thinking and commitment to quality. Beyond the day-to-day of running the brand, her influence is also being recognised more broadly – with Greensleeves being named a Rising Star in the 2025 Elite Franchise Top 100.

‘It’s not just about ticking boxes...’ “I’ve always believed that growth should be meaningful,” explained Harper “It’s not just about ticking boxes or chasing numbers – it’s about making sure the people in our network have what they need to run successful, sustainable businesses That’s what drives me Seeing franchisees confident in their operations – that’s when you know the system is working ”

Now supporting 77 franchisees across the UK network, Greensleeves said her leadership is rooted in collaboration and smart innovation She’s also determined to challenge preconceptions – not just about what a successful business leader looks like, but about what’s possible in industries that have traditionally been male-dominated.

Her story is a reminder that the path to leadership doesn’t have to be linear, added Greensleeves. n

www.greensleeves/franchise.co.uk

● Greensleeves Lawn Care is one of the UK’s oldest and largest lawn treatment providers

Ovenu - The UK's original oven valeting franchise.

No experience necessaryin depth oven valeting and business operation training

Recession proof business

Enquiries from day one

Exclusive territory

Bespoke, unique cleaning

products generating spectacular results

Van based = low overheads

Get involved from

£7,400 + VAT

Family run since 1994

Continuous specialist support

Ovenu: The enduring legacy of a caustic-free pioneer

In the world of franchising, where opportunities may ebb and flow with market trends, some businesses stand as enduring pillars of innovation and quality Ovenu is one such enterprise

Since its inception in 1994, this brand has not only dominated the professional oven cleaning sector but has done so by creating an entirely new, safer and more effective way of working

At the heart of this success story is Rik Hellewell, the founder and managing director, whose vision and unwavering commitment to a caustic-free cleaning system have shaped the company from a single-van pilot into a thriving international franchise network

This is more than just a business; it’s a blueprint for sustainable success, built on a foundation of unique products, low overheads, and a powerful, supportive franchise model

The Ovenu journey began with a simple but profound observation by Hellewell: the methods available for cleaning household ovens were deeply flawed They were often messy, inefficient and relied on harsh, caustic chemicals that posed a risk to both the cleaner and the homeowner

Recognising a significant gap in the market for a professional, safe, and truly effective alternative, Hellewell embarked on a mission to build a better solution from the ground up He spent the first five years not in a boardroom, but on the front line, personally cleaning and valeting thousands of appliances.

This intensive, hands-on pilot scheme was the crucible in which the Ovenu brand was forged. It allowed him to meticulously refine every aspect of the process – from the ergonomic design of the van-mounted equipment to the precise application of his unique cleaning solutions

This direct, practical experience has provided the bedrock of Ovenu’s success, ensuring that every element of the franchise model is grounded in real-world efficiency and customer satisfaction. It is this rare, founder-led expertise that sets Ovenu apart, creating a business model that is not just theoretical but demonstrably effective

The Ovenu difference: unique products and specialised ser vice

At the core of the Ovenu franchise is a commitment to specialisation and a suite of proprietary products that are truly unique to the brand Ovenu is not just another cleaning company; it is a specialist service provider dedicated exclusively to professional oven cleaning.

The true secret to their success lies in the cleaning solutions themselves – a range of totally unique, own-brand products that are completely caustic-free

Manufactured exclusively for Ovenu, these solutions are the result of years of research and development They are highly effective at breaking down grease and carbon deposits without the noxious fumes, skin irritation, and environmental concerns associated with traditional caustic cleaners

This commitment to safety and efficacy is a powerful selling point for franchisees It not only protects them from the hazards of handling corrosive chemicals but also gives them a clear, ethical advantage in the market

Customers actively seek out Ovenu’s service precisely because they know it is a safe, non-toxic, and environmentally responsible choice for their homes

This product specialisation is not a mere marketing gimmick; it is a fundamental aspect of the Ovenu brand identity and a key driver of its continued growth and success. The brand doesn’t just clean ovens; it offers a premium, healthconscious alternative that customers value and trust, leading to an extremely high rate of repeat business.

The business model: A blueprint for profitability

One of the most attractive features of the Ovenu franchise is its extremely realistic start-up and running costs. The business model is deliberately lean, designed to maximise profitability from day one As a van-based operation, it eliminates the need for expensive commercial premises, dramatically reducing overheads

Franchisees operate from the comfort of their own homes, managing their schedules and accounts with the flexibility of a modern business owner And, an enterprise class customer relationship management system keeps everything meticulously organised

The initial investment is transparent and comprehensive, covering everything a new franchisee needs to hit the ground running: a professionally fitted and liveried van (supplied by the franchisee), a full suite of Ovenu’s proprietary

● Rik Hellewell, engaging with the Ovenu’s network of franchisees, at conference.

BECOmE aN EXPLORER

✓ Fully Flexible, work from home

✓ Part of the largest independent travel agency in the UK

✓

Low overheads, high profits

✓ Star t from just £4 ,995*

✓ ABTA/ATOL Protected

✓ No experience needed, full suppor t and training

cleaning products, a complete range of specialist tools and equipment, and a robust, multi-stage training programme

The low-overhead nature of the business translates directly into high-profit margins. A franchisee can complete multiple jobs per day and with each job generating a healthy profit, the potential for a substantial income is clear This model is also supported by a robust, centralised support system that handles much of the administrative burden, allowing franchisees to focus on what they do best: providing an exceptional service

Ovenu’s business model is not just about cleaning ovens; it’s about providing a clear, proven pathway to business ownership that is both financially rewarding and professionally satisfying

Comprehensive training and ongoing support

Joining the Ovenu network means becoming part of a community with a vested interest in your success. The franchise package includes an immersive, multi-stage training programme that covers every aspect of the business.

New franchisees receive hands-on training from experienced professionals, mastering the unique cleaning process, understanding the use of all tools and products, and learning the nuances of providing five-star customer service.

But the training doesn’t stop there Franchisees also receive comprehensive instruction on business management, covering everything from scheduling and finance to local marketing and customer communication.

Once a franchisee is up and running, the support continues The Ovenu head office acts as a constant resource, offering technical assistance, business advice, and marketing guidance. A strong network of fellow franchisees provides a powerful peer support system, where knowledge and best practices are shared.

This continuous support, combined with the proven business model, significantly reduces risks during the entrepreneurial

journey, giving franchisees the confidence and resources they need to thrive

The power of digital media: Your marketing engine

In the digital age, a powerful online presence is non-negotiable and Ovenu has invested heavily in creating a full suite of digital media tools to attract customers and drive business.

The company’s central marketing strategy is a powerful engine that works tirelessly to generate leads Through expertly managed search engine optimisation, targeted social media campaigns, and a professional national website, Ovenu attracts thousands of inquiries throughout the year This topdown marketing effort builds powerful brand recognition and trust.

Franchisees are provided with a dedicated, localised digital presence that seamlessly integrates with the national brand This includes a micro-site on the main Ovenu website, an online enquiry system that funnels contacts directly to them and guidance on how to manage their local social media and digital reputation

This powerful combination of central and local marketing ensures that franchisees are never left to fend for themselves. They are provided with a steady stream of high-quality, prequalified leads, allowing them to focus on running their business and delivering excellent service, rather than spending all their time and resources on customer acquisition

Scalability and growth: From one van to many

The Ovenu franchise is not just a viable business; it’s a scalable one. The initial model of a single-van operator is designed to be highly profitable and manageable However, the system is built with a clear path for expansion.

As a franchisee establishes their territory, builds a strong reputation and develops a consistent customer base, they have the opportunity to expand into a multi-van business This allows them to significantly increase their revenue, service a wider client base in the area

and, if they choose, build a team and delegate tasks

Ovenu provides the guidance and support needed to navigate this expansion, from hiring and training new technicians to managing a larger operation. Many of the most successful franchisees within the network have grown their businesses this way, turning a successful local venture into a small but thriving multi-van enterprise.

Unique opportunities: Resales and master franchises

For those who may be hesitant about starting a business from scratch, Ovenu offers some highly sought-after ‘once in a lifetime’ resale opportunities. These are existing, established territories where a franchisee is retiring or moving on

Buying a resale means stepping into a business with a proven track record, an existing customer base and a ready-made income stream It’s an ideal way to get into franchising with a reduced initial risk The brand’s reputation and the existing customer relationships are already in place, allowing the new owner to hit the ground running

Furthermore, Ovenu is actively seeking partners for master franchise opportunities in the UK and overseas This is for a visionary entrepreneur with the capital and drive to introduce the Ovenu brand and its proven model to a new market

A master franchise agreement grants the right to develop and sell sub-franchises in an entire country or region It’s a significant undertaking with the potential for immense growth, allowing a partner to leverage Ovenu’s brand recognition and expertise to build a powerful network from the ground up.

In conclusion

The Ovenu franchise represents a unique blend of heritage, innovation, and profitability From Hellewell’s foundational work to the brand’s commitment to unique products, low overheads, and a powerful support system, it offers a compelling proposition for aspiring business owners. n

www.stockcheck.co.uk

Our franchisees have experience of the F&B market and are looking for an opportunity to earn more while enjoying better working hours and a better work-life balance.

Benefits of the Stocktake UK Franchise include:-

Our top Franchise partners earn over £125,000pa Work regular hours Monday to Friday Be your own boss, build your own business Low initial investment (from £11,999 + VAT) all training and equipment included Regular flow of leads from our Head Office to help you grow

Work in the hospitality industry without long shift and unsociable hours

We have over 20 years experience in the industry, with many franchisees operating their business for over 10 years. Follow the QR code here to find out more.

Auntie Anne’s expansion plans for the UK and Ireland

Auntie Anne’s, the hand-rolled freshly baked soft pretzel brand, reports that it has delivered impressive growth in the UK and Ireland and is ‘on track’ to reach 50 stores by the end of the year

The chain opened eight new stores last year, growing the network to 41 locations, and achieved over 10 per cent year-on-year sales growth It also opened its first outlet in a railway hub at Brighton Station

Auntie Anne’s said momentum has continued this year with 44 stores trading and new locations in progress

Max Burton, managing director of Auntie Anne’s UK and Ireland, commented: “In a challenging retail climate, we’re entering a transformational chapter for the brand Whether it’s new formats, exciting

partnerships or franchisee success, every part of the business is focused on growth We’re proud to be building something special, and the market response continues to exceed expectations ”

Auntie Anne’s explained that a mix of smart strategy and innovation is driving growth Recent launches have included its first shipping container store (a new format designed for flexibility and high-footfall environments) at Cheshire

We’re proud to be building something special, and the market response continues to exceed expectations.

Backed by master franchisor Freshly Baked Ltd , and global parent GoTo Foods, Auntie Anne’s aims to double its UK footprint, with a target of 100 stores by 2030, in the UK’s fast-growing grab-and-go food sector

l Founded at a Pennsylvania farmer ’s market in the U S , Auntie Anne’s has grown worldwide to over 1,900 stores in more than 25 countries n

www.auntieannesfranchising.co.uk

Oaks Designer Outlet, and new stores in Swindon Designer Outlet and Crawley County Mall

Franchisorsarefindingitharderandhardertomeet goodpeopletojointheirnetwork.OurPRservicesraise awareness,buildtrustandhelpfillupthepipeline.

Trust me, I’m a franchise brand: Why credibility is your biggest asset

By Lucy Archer, Co-founder, Rev PR

We know what you’re thinking. “Trust? Really? That’s the big PR theme?” But hear us out

In the world of franchising, trust isn’t just a nice-to-have It’s the deal-clincher The make-or-break The thing that determines whether a franchisee feels that all-important connection and selects one brand as their future or walks away and finds it in the brand next door

Whether you’re a budding franchisor preparing to launch your network, an established name in the industry or a prospective franchisee scoping out your options, one thing underpins it all Trust and credibility

At Rev PR, we talk a lot about trust, and for good reason It sits at the very heart of every successful PR strategy And spoiler alert: if you’re not prioritising it, you’re doing it wrong.

The trust deficit: A modern challenge

In today’s hyperconnected, AIgenerated, fake-news-fuelled world, trust is harder to come by than ever People don’t believe what brands say about themselves – they believe what others say about them Reviews Testimonials News stories Social media chatter Independent voices carry the weight.

So, if your marketing strategy is mainly fuelled by “look how brilliant we are” with little to no “here’s what others are

One of the most valuable aspects of PR is what we call third-party validation It’s when someone else – ideally someone with authority – says you’re great.

saying about us”, then you’ve got a credibility problem And your prospects – be they franchisees or customers – can smell it a mile off

Franchisors: Trust builds your network

For emerging franchisors, your brand might be a little-known name outside your hometown You’ve got a great model, some slick branding, and a solid plan But will that be enough to convince someone to invest their hard-earned money, potentially their life savings, and build their future with you?

Maybe But probably not without proof

Here’s what credibility looks like when you’re trying to grow a network:

l Your franchisees are featured in the media, sharing their personal journeys

l Your brand wins or is shortlisted for credible industry awards

l You’re publishing expert advice articles that position you as the go-to voice in your sector

l Journalists are quoting you in features, showing others that your opinion matters

Each of these things tells a prospect: this brand knows what it’s doing It builds the confidence needed to start a conversation and, crucially, to then keep them moving through your recruitment process

If you’re an established franchisor, trust is what keeps your pipeline full Many brands have already built a successful network That’s impressive, so well done. But here’s the thing. When you’ve got 20, 50 or even 100 plus franchisees

on board, trust doesn’t suddenly become less important In fact, it becomes even more so Why? Because the stakes are higher

You’ve likely moved from start-up survival to growth mode which means your recruitment process needs to run like a well-oiled machine That also means that your prospects are more discerning than ever They’re comparing you to other major players, watching your every move, and digging deep into your online footprint That’s where consistent, high-quality PR really earns its keep:

l Media coverage reinforces your authority as a market leader

l Thought leadership keeps your name in the press for all the right reasons

l Awards and accolades prove that you’re not resting on your laurels.

l Regular, varied franchisee stories demonstrate that success isn’t limited to a lucky few

At this stage, trust in your brand is no longer limited to attracting prospects, it’s intertwined with reassuring everyone –prospects, suppliers, and your existing franchisees that your network is stable, supportive, and forward-thinking.

Franchisees: Trust builds your business

Franchisees face a different but equally important trust challenge You’re the face of the brand in your local area You might be part of a brilliant national network, but if people in your community don’t know you exist – or worse, don’t rate you – you’re going to struggle. That’s where local PR comes in Think:

PUBLIC RELATIONS: ADVISORY ARTICLE NEWS

l Coverage in your local newspaper or business magazine

l A story on the radio about your charity or community-based work

l Positive reviews and case studies from happy clients

l Social media content that’s entertaining, engaging, and valuable –not ‘salesy’

You might not see yourself as a ‘PR person’, but here’s the truth: every interaction you have, online or off, shapes public perception. PR simply makes sure it’s consistent, intentional, and positive

The power of third-party validation

One of the most valuable aspects of PR is what we call third-party validation It’s when someone else – ideally someone with authority – says you’re great That might be a journalist writing about your latest milestone, a blogger reviewing your services, or a customer sharing their story.

Here’s why it matters:

l It’s believable You didn’t say it, someone else did That automatically makes it more credible

l It’s lasting Media coverage lives online long after the moment has passed. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

l It’s powerful When prospects do their due diligence, and they will, these stories tip the scales in your favour

Trust is also internal (yes, really)

Let’s not forget that trust also plays a major role inside every franchise network Franchisors who actively promote their franchisees’ successes, support local marketing efforts, and invest in professional PR don’t just attract better prospects – they keep them It’s also crucial that existing franchisees continue to feel the same connection to the brand that they once did. And that they continue to trust you, as their leader, to take them confidently and ethically into the future

How do you build trust?

We’re glad you asked Here’s the Rev-approved, and road-tested, recipe:

1. Tell real stories People relate to

people, not businesses Showcase your franchisees, your customers, your team The good, the gritty, the game changing

2. Be visible Silence is suspicious Whether it’s a blog, a traditional media article, a social post, or a podcast appearance keep talking and stay present

3. Use expert voices. Leverage the skills and knowledge within your team From compliance to operations to product development, “there’s gold in them ‘thar ’ brains!”.

4. Be consistent Mixed messages erode trust Make sure your tone, visuals, and stories align across all channels – from your website to your social media to your marketing literature

5. Show and tell Don’t say you’re award-winning – show us the badge Don’t claim your support is “exceptional” – give us a case study that proves it Every claim should have a story

Trust isn’t optional. It’s ever ything. There’s no getting away from the fact that, in life in general, we are overwhelmed with options. When selecting a franchise in which to invest, most franchisees are going to choose the one which feels most believable to them. The one that backs up its claims with evidence The one that feels human, relatable, and proven The one that they trust

Franchising is built on relationships And relationships are built on trust That’s why PR isn’t just part of the strategy, it is the strategy.

What are you doing to make your brand the most trusted choice? If the answer is “not enough”, don’t worry. That’s what we’re here for We absolutely LOVE discussing this kind of thing

If you wish to have a chat with us at Rev call 07921 572554, or email lucy@revpr co uk If you suggest meeting for cake, we’ll pay

l Here at Rev, we regularly share articles about hot topics and offer advice to help you maximise your PR activities Follow us on social media to stay updated: LinkedIn, Facebook or Instag ram n

● Ian Christelow and Julie Wagstaff receiving their award.

ActionCOACH UK top global awards

ACTIONCOACH UK has won four of the top six accolades at the ActionCOACH 2025 global conference – including its 17th consecutive Master Licensee of the Year title

The event held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, brought together franchisees and teams from across the globe to honour outstanding achievements in business coaching

Julie Wagstaff, managing director of ActionCOACH UK, said: “The UK network continues to stand out because we never stop learning, growing and taking action To win again is an amazing achievement – but it’s really down to our people The franchise partners, support teams and clients who all show up with purpose ”

The UK also won Practice Premium of the Year (Peter Boolkah), Firm of the Year (Ian Christelow and Julie Wagstaff, 6 Keys) and Biggest Community Impact (Julie Wagstaff)

Christelow, co-founder of ActionCOACH UK, commented: “It’s great to see the UK continue to lead on the global stage, and it’s a real testament to the strength of our network ”

ActionCOACH UK also confirmed a major new partnership with Santander UK following a successful pilot scheme. The franchisor said the partnership has already created more than £20m in client opportunities for franchise partners

The company added that its recent success is fuelling its ambition of ensuring that 100 per cent of UK business owners know about ActionCOACH UK by 2029 n

From ‘passing ships’ to a growing franchise family

When Stuart Harley (above) became a ComputerXplorers franchisee in 2019, he was looking for a business that would be flexible, fulfilling, and financially fruitful

Having had a 15-year career in sales and business development consistently working long hours, and his wife Gemma (below) working shifts in a public service role, the couple found there wasn’t much work-life balance

“If I’m honest, we were like ‘passing ships’ I was going out the door as Stuart was coming in something had to give,” said Gemma

As a father to two young boys, Stuart also found himself drawn to doing something with greater purpose and that’s when he discovered ComputerXplorers.

Six years on, with a third son added to their family, Stuart is now at the helm of a global franchise family XplorerGroup, with the couple working side-by-side Together, they are committed to sharing the flexibility of franchising and delivering the vital tech education they know is essential for children’s futures

‘Steering towards success’ When Stuart joined ComputerXplorers

as a franchisee for Southampton, he took a hands on approach He led classes, forged strong partnerships with schools, and recruited a dedicated team By 2019, despite the disruption of the Covid pandemic, his franchise had grown to the largest in the network.

Franchisee to franchisor

In 2021, he seized the opportunity to buy the ComputerXplorers brand from The Bardon Group – swapping his franchisee role for franchisor and chief executive

“The franchise model meant I started quickly and learned from others I soon understood the mechanisms and impetus of the business and recognised just how far it could go When the chance to buy ComputerXplorers came up, I knew we had to take it,” Stuart said.

Gemma with a central support role in the business, commented: “I always knew if anyone could make it work, it would be Stuart and watching him grow the business has completely changed my perspective on employment I’d never thought entrepreneurially before.

“Stuart had big ideas and I’ve been the one who helps make them happen It’s completely changed our family life too, now I don’t have to ask for time off to go to a sports day We can plan work around the kids ”

ComputerXplorers adds that in just three

“

The franchise model meant I started quickly I soon understood the mechanisms and impetus of the business and recognised just how far it could go

years it has achieved remarkable growth: franchise numbers doubled, revenues are up 300 per cent, and the business now reaches 35,000 students each week across more than 1,500 partner sites

‘Growing

the franchise family’

Following the success of ComputerXplorers and mirroring its education franchise model, Stuart developed a sister brand ActiveXplorers, a multi-sports brand for 3-11 year olds Both brands are now part of XplorerGroup

The Group last year also acquired Kall Kwik, the long-standing print and design franchise Marking a new chapter for the Kall Kwik brand, the inaugural annual franchise conference under the XplorerGroup has just been held

Momentum continues at XplorerGroup by expanding its international footprint ComputerXplorers launched earlier this year in Australia at holiday camps and after-school settings; and following the completion of the U S Franchise Disclosure Document, a rollout across the ‘pond’ is also in progress n

www.xplorergroup.org

OPINION PIECE: FRANCHISE REGULATION

Why ‘guidance’ is no match for a real Franchise Law

By Rik Hellewell, Founder and Managing Director, Ovenu

Franchising has long been hailed as a safer path to entrepreneurship

With a recognised brand, proven systems, and support, it offers opportunities that independent startups often lack

The impact of franchising in the UK is considerable, the 2024 National Franchise Survey reporting:

l £19.1bn contributed annually to the economy

l 770,000 employed

l Out of the 50,421 franchised units 90 per cent are profitable after just two years

Yet recent headlines expose a less favourable reality. The ongoing dispute involving Vodafone and former franchisees, and the Post Office Horizon scandal are not misplaced: both involve systemic failures where individuals bore the brunt of institutional neglect

The core premise of franchising –mutual benefit between franchisor and franchisee – can easily be corroded With no binding legal framework, franchisees can be left exposed Many sector veterans argue that reliance on voluntary self-regulation has left the UK sector on ‘tenuous’ ground, and that a comprehensive UK Franchise Act is overdue

The BFA: The UK’s voluntar y self-regulator

The British Franchise Association (BFA) promotes itself as the UK’s self-regulator of ethical franchise standards through its ‘Code of Ethics’ Accreditation is presented as a hallmark of credibility, but the BFA’s influence is narrower than it appears

Out of the 1,009 franchise systems operating in the UK, the BFA has

circa 350 in membership This means the majority of systems sit entirely outside of its reach.

As a self-funding membership body the BFA is not an independent regulator A member facing sanction can simply resign, for non-members, the code is irrelevant

Fundamentals of a Franchise Law

Regulation should not stifle entrepreneurship but create trust and transparency A UK Franchise Law should rest on four pillars

1. Mandator y pre-sale disclosure

With no franchise-specific law in the UK, franchisors can sell opportunities using exaggerated claims and selective data Prospective franchisees may be misled by inflated earnings projections or omissions of failure rates.

A statutory Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), already standard in the U.S. and Australia, would provide essential safeguards It should include:

l Audited financial statements

l Records of litigation involving the franchisor.

l Lists of current and former franchisees.

l Full disclosure of fees and how they are used

l A clear outline of obligations for both parties

Disclosure of litigation history and franchisee contact details would create strong incentives for franchisors to treat their networks fairly, since reputational harm could undermine future sales Transparency becomes the norm rather than the exception.

2. A uniform and enforceable code of good faith

A statutory Code of Conduct, binding on all franchisors, would impose a legal duty to act in good faith.

For example, it would:

l Prevent arbitrary contract changes.

l Require transparency in how marketing funds are used.

l Establish fair dealing as a baseline expectation

By applying universally, such a code would level the playing field and protect genuine partnership

3. A dedicated, low-cost dispute resolution mechanism

Too many disputes are resolved through the courts They’re often expensive, slow, and stacked in favour of corporations with ‘deep pockets’.

A franchise ombudsman, or sectorspecific arbitration service, would provide an affordable alternative.

Funded by a small sector levy, as with the Financial Ombudsman Service, it would ensure independence. This body could mediate disputes early, allowing franchisors and franchisees to resolve their conflicts without huge costs

4. A registration system for quality control

At present, anyone can sell a franchise in the UK regardless of whether the concept is viable This lack of entry barriers enables ‘unproven business opportunities’ to weaken the sector and its reputation.

A registration system would require franchisors to meet minimum criteria before selling. Chief among them, running at least one successful pilot operation This would block the ‘unproven’ while encouraging sustainable franchise models.

Lessons from abroad

The UK is unusual among advanced economies in lacking franchise legislation or pre-contractual disclosure For example:

l The U S enforces the Federal Trade Commission’s Franchise Rule, centred on mandatory disclosure via the FDD Though criticised for cost and complexity, it has created a transparent market.

l Australia offers another strong model: its Franchising Code of Conduct, enforced by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), includes mandatory disclosure, good faith obligations, penalties for non-compliance, and a cooling-off period The ACCC has actively pursued breaches by major brands, demonstrating real enforcement power

The UK need not copy these frameworks wholesale. It can design a pragmatic system – mandatory disclosure, enforceable good faith, and low-cost dispute resolution – without importing the U.S.’s litigious culture.

Conclusion: A call for leadership

The UK franchise sector remains an important economic force But reliance on a voluntary body has created a two-tier system: one with superficial oversight for members, and another where the majority operate with no scrutiny at all

This is not about bureaucracy. It’s about common sense: ensuring that entrepreneurs investing time and savings in a franchise can rely on fairness, transparency, and accountability

The government, in collaboration with the BFA, has a rare chance to establish the UK as a global leader in ethical franchising The opportunity should not be squandered n

l The debate as to whether franchising in the UK should remain self-regulated divides opinion If you would like to share your thoughts for a future ar ticle on the merits/demerits, please email me Nick Riding, editor, Franchise World: nick@franchiseworld co uk

Manual Magic AI app ‘moves franchisors from confusion to clarity’

Penny Hopkinson (below), systems and operations manual specialist, has built a software as a service (SaaS) platform based on her simple three-step ‘Manual Magic’ method

Hopkinson said franchisors battling to create or update their manuals now have a smarter option with her SaaS platform – Manual Magic AI, the ‘Done with You, Done by You’ AI-assisted app with the human touch, launching in limited release

She explained that Manual Magic AI tackles the headaches that heads of operations, learning and development directors, and franchise directors face – version chaos, slow reviews, and low franchisee engagement. It creates a searchable, mobile-friendly hub that updates in minutes and proves who read what

Features of the AI-assisted app

l Uploading and sorting docs, spreadsheets, video, audio, and notes to create detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) in five scorecard categories

l Dictation through the built-in microphone

l Project Management Board to assign SOPs to one or more subject-matter experts to track progress from uploading to approval.

l Generating infographics and images

l Creating storyboards for microlearning videos

l Exporting/linking to the cloud, portal/intranet, learning management

“system or dynamic knowledge-sharing platform

Hopkinson reports early trials have drawn strong, favourable reactions Wesley Williams, global franchise manager at Heavenly Desserts, commented: “The content is great, the language is simple, the visuals work and flow nicely The SOP content is so good. For the prototype stage, simply put, this is awesome ”

‘Users will actually use and love’

Hopkinson said: “Manual Magic AI is the fastest route to a live, accurate manual that creators and users will actually use and love.

“Startups, SMEs, and global brands can turn know-how into a clear knowledgesharing environment while the franchisor retains final sign-off

“It’s built to cut costs and production time by up to 75 per cent. But, however good AI may be, the culture, the franchisor ’s DNA, must be reflected by the human touch ”

Availability

and waitlist benefits

Hopkinson is inviting franchisors and consultants to join the waitlist for priority onboarding, founder pricing, pilot access, and a complimentary digital copy of her book, Manual Magic: Create the Operations Manual Your Franchisees Need to Succeed A short survey tailors access by team size and feature needs n

l Read page 00, where Hopkinson offers advice on how to create engaging manual content for Gen Z employees.

The content is great, the language is simple, the visuals work and flow nicely The SOP content is so good For the prototype stage, simply put, this is awesome. – Wesley Williams

High Court implies a term of good faith into UK franchise agreements

By Gordon Drakes, Co-head of Franchising and Distribution, Fieldfisher

In a significant decision for the franchising sector in the UK, the High Court has ruled that franchise agreements between John Benson Ltd , (JBL), a driving school franchisor, and 20 former franchisees contained implied terms of good faith and fair dealing

● Gordon Drakes

The judgment, handed down by Freedman J in Ellis v John Benson Ltd (2025), confirms that the franchisor ’s breaches of these terms were repudiatory, entitling the claimants to lawfully terminate their agreements

Case background

The claimants entered into franchise agreements with JBL to operate as driving instructors In late 2020, they terminated their agreements, alleging JBL had breached implied duties of good faith Notably, the franchisees:

l Could not delegate or subcontract their work.

l Were required to devote substantially the whole of their time and attention to the franchise, and could not carry out any other business activities without JBL’s permission

l Were restricted from marketing themselves independently

“l Had no control over tuition fees or customer allocation

l Were subject to fixed weekly fees regardless of income

JBL was also accused of being verbally abusive, intimidating and punishing franchisees by withholding new enquiries whom he had accused of not following the rules

JBL denied the existence of such implied terms and counterclaimed for damages

Key findings

The Court found that the franchise agreements did contain implied terms of good faith and fair dealing.

However, the facts of this case were peculiar, and whilst the judgment does not set a new legal precedent, it is noteworthy, as it contains a thorough analysis of recent case law regarding the implication of terms of good faith into English law franchise agreements.

Key point notes include:

l Just as the judgments in Yam Seng Pte Ltd v International Trade Corp Ltd (2013) and Bates v Post Office (2019) have advanced the concept of “relational contacts”, into which terms of good faith can be implied, this judgment aligns with Dwyer (UK Franchising) Ltd v Fredbar Ltd and another (2022) by identifying a sub-set of franchise agreements/relationships which are

This judgment lands at an interesting time for franchising in the UK. A recent parliamentary debate discussed whether franchising should be regulated in the UK, and we expect to see the High Court case involving Vodafone later this year, or in early 2026, which will revive some of the issues raised in this case.

more akin to employment contracts/ relationships, and which therefore require a term of good faith and fair dealing for commercial and practical coherence.

l In this case, the Court reached its decision on implied terms as to fact and did not make a finding, one way or the other, about an implied term in law either as regards franchise agreements generally or about a sub-set of franchise agreements which are akin to employment agreements or are called relational contracts

l As an aside, it is interesting to note that counsel for the claimants referred to various other common law jurisdictions where good faith is implied by law into franchise agreements and referred to the British Franchise Association’s (BFA) Code of Ethics, which requires its members to adhere to the principles of good faith and fair dealing

On this latter point, given that:

l the franchisor was not a member of the BFA,

l it was not suggested that these terms had become customs of the industry, and l there was no evidence that most of the driving instructing schools were members of the BFA, there is no reason to imply compliance with the Code of Ethics into the franchise agreements

l On the facts of this case, it was held that this relationship was akin to an employment relationship, and an implied term of good faith and fair dealing was required for commercial and practical coherence

l A franchise relationship is likely to be deemed to be akin to an employment relationship if it includes the following hallmarks:

NEWS LEGAL ADVICE

l the long term of the contract,

l the need for constant cooperation and collaboration,

l features which make it akin to an employment contract (such as contracting with an individual/requiring a specific individual to perform the contract, including terms which limit their decisions to take time off),

l a high degree of control (such as no ability to market their business independently of the franchisor),

l an inequality of bargaining power (such as no legal representation, or ability to negotiate the franchise agreement) and the lack of balance, which would make the franchisee vulnerable to the conduct of the franchisor in the absence of an implied term of good faith and fair dealing

Conclusion

Franchisors should take note of the Court’s guidance and ensure that:

l Franchisees are encouraged to take and have access to independent legal advice.

l Franchisees are given ample time to review the franchise agreement

l Franchise agreements avoid overly restrictive or one-sided terms

l Terms of the franchise agreement are not unilaterally varied without the consent of the franchisee

l The business model itself is suitable for franchising and is closer to a lease of goodwill as opposed to an employment contract

This judgment lands at an interesting time for franchising in the UK. A recent parliamentary debate discussed whether franchising should be regulated in the UK, and we expect to see the muchanticipated High Court case involving Vodafone later this year, or in early 2026, which will revive some of the issues raised in this case

Franchisors should therefore take the opportunity to review their business practices and franchise agreements to mitigate the risk of similar claims arising within their networks

l If you have any particular questions on the above case, or would like assistance in reviewing your franchise agreements, please contact me n

The TaxAssist Group acquires three practices from its network

The TaxAssist Group has completed three acquisitions by purchasing practices from its franchisees in Norwich, Cambridge, and Kingswinford/Wolverhampton.

Daren Moore (below), group chief executive said: “The Group’s strategic plan sets out our ambitions to build scale and profitability through three critical objectives – the further development of our franchise networks, the building of complementary businesses to support these networks and the creation of a direct provisioning model

“In a boost to our direct provisioning plans, I am pleased to announce the acquisition of three exceptionally wellrun practices from Jeremy Gilks, Richard and Yvonne Brookes, and Lloyd and Sue Evans

“All three practices met our key acquisition criteria and will immediately boost The TaxAssist Group’s

profitability, as well as providing access to high-performing, efficient operations and experienced staff

“The Group now operates eleven franchise territories across the UK We are selective in what we acquire, and these opportunities offer strong potential for continued growth as well as supporting the wider development of our networks in a live practice environment ”

The TaxAssist Group explains it has a unique ownership structure among the franchise sector, being part owned by franchisees. New franchisees operate their own local business as part of the TaxAssist network, and if they choose, have the opportunity to become a shareholder in The TaxAssist Group.

l TaxAssist provides accountancy and business advisory services specifically for small and medium sized businesses. The network comprises 250 territories operating over 400 locations across the UK and Ireland n

www.taxassistfranchise.co.uk

Co-op and EG On The Move open ‘state-of-the-art’ site

Co-op and EG On The Move, the petrol forecourt retailer, have launched a new to market site in Stowmarket, Suffolk, followin opening of a number of trial lo

The franchise partnership alig ‘state-of-the-art’ EG On The M Co-op quality and value The service station and convenien will enable motorists and loca to ‘re-fuel’ conveniently.

Co-op’s onsite store offers a s Starbucks coffee on-the-go; b products and hot food, alongs on quality fresh, chilled and healthy produce; meal deals; freshly prepared sandwiches; ready meals and pizzas; car care products and everyday essentials

d to be working with EG On The Move on our oping a compelling forecourt and convenience rtnership looks to expand.

The EG forecourt has four ultra rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging points and eight fuel pumps

‘Exploring locations for growth’

Martin Rogers, director of partnership development at Co-op, said: “We are delighted to be working with EG On The Move on our latest site, developing a compelling forecourt and convenience

p looks to

“We are focused on scaling our franchise business, this is the first site to open together following our successful trial, and we are exploring more locations for joint growth.

“By combining our membership, convenience knowledge, tailored product ranges, and automated supply, with EG On The Move’s fuel and franchise expertise, we will bring the benefits of Co-op to more communities together ”

Zuber Issa, chief executive of EG On

The Move, said: “As an acknowledged petrol forecourt and convenience retail destination operator, we are delighted to collaborate on our latest site, and we look forward to growing our relationship with Co-op in the future

“Our work with Co-op enhances our convenience store offer, ensuring our customers have access to exceptional fuel retail services including EV charging, a wide choice of premium grocery products and essentials, along with an enjoyable foodservice experience ” n

www.coop.co.uk/franchise

ADVICE FOR FRANCHISORS

The Tik Tok test: Would Gen Z employees use your SOPs?

By Penny Hopkinson, Founder, Manual Writers International

Imagine the scene – a 21-year-old new employee scrolling TikTok for coffee art tips as you hand them a 70-page health and safety manual Watch the eyes glaze over That’s the TikTok test: would your standard operating procedures (SOPs) engage a Gen Z team member like a viral video?

Gen Zs dominate frontline service roles and learn through short, visual bursts –not dense text The UK 16 to 24-yearolds spend more time on TikTok than any other platform Static PDFs and lever-arch files don’t stand a chance.

The problem isn’t attention span – it’s choice. TikTok trains users to decide in seconds what deserves their focus If your content doesn’t grab attention fast, it will be ignored

What the TikTok test involves Run these five checks on every procedure:

1. Say why it matters in one line or striking frame.

2. Focus on a single objective per clip

3. Show what ‘good’ looks like

4. Stay short: 60-120 seconds

5. End with a prompt to ‘share’ practice

From a static manual to a 60-second video classroom

Start with high-risk or high-value tasks and script each one as a micro-story:

l Hook: A real mishap to grab attention

l Fix: The correct method at real speed, then slow-motion with captions

l Payoff: A clean workstation, happy guests and no wastage

Captions matter as most staff watch on mute They also make content searchable and accessible for second-language learners through auto-transcript feeds

Keep it simple on technology

You don’t need film-school equipment

A smartphone, clip-on microphone, and small ring light work perfectly Film vertically for mobile appearance, edit in CapCut or TikTok, and host videos in your ‘Knowledge-Sharing Hub’

This replaces static PDFs with a dynamic, searchable system where one update refreshes the entire network

The outcome when you do it right

l A burger chain turned an allergen SOP into a 45-second video and allergen incidents fell by 40% in three months.

l A boutique gym posted peer-led induction routines to new coaches and reduced staff turnover

l A home-care provider created ‘10second lifting tips’, lowering injury claims and improving care

Why it pays?

Filming a short video usually takes under three hours – less than a writer may spend drafting an SOP page. Updating key procedures adds up to fewer queues, calmer teams and a better service Compare that to the cost of one injury claim or chargeback, and the return on investment speaks for itself

Culture and morale

One of the largest professional services firm reports that 86% of Gen Zs say purpose matters to job satisfaction and well-being. Involve them: invite ideas, credit creators, and let peers demonstrate processes This turns the manual from a top-down directive into a living knowledge hub, saving supervisors from repeating the same instructions

The problem isn’t attention span – it’s choice T ikTok trains users to decide in seconds what deserves focus If content doesn’t grab attention fast, it will be ignored

Run a simple four-week pilot

1. Pick three error-prone tasks and write micro-scripts

2. Film clips with captions; generate QR codes and place at the point of need

3. Publish in your hub and brief managers

4. Check key performance indicators, gather feedback and, if necessary, refine

Gamify engagement

Reward team contributions to your knowledge hub to encourage Gen Zs engagement.

l A monthly prize for the best improvement idea

l A digital leaderboard to display achievements and innovation scores

l An annual prize for the the top-impact implementation across the network

l Add an annual training prize for the team that drives the most impactful implementation

These incentives don’t just drive engagement with your manual – they create a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing that benefits an entire network

The TikTok test: Your new yardstick

Would a Gen Z employee choose to watch a short captioned video or read a static PDF – and then do the task right?

This isn’t a trend – it’s the new baseline for operational excellence Safer outlets, faster onboarding and fewer mistakes start with rethinking your SOPs for a mobile-first world n

Penny Hopkinson

The blind spot: leaving property selection to chance

By Harrison Sharp, Senior Sales Manager, GRO Retail

In franchising, the spotlight is often on brand strength, marketing support and operational training But for all the emphasis on systems and processes, one of the biggest make-or-break factors is too often left to chance: property

A franchisee can follow the manual, deliver the customer experience and invest heavily in marketing but if they open in the wrong location, or on the wrong terms, they’re fighting a losing battle

Industry experts consistently identify poor location as one of the top contributors to franchise failure, particularly in retail and foodservice sectors where footfall is critical.

Sharp

Lease terms can also create significant financial pressure – from unsustainable rent levels to restrictive clauses Despite this, onboarding for new franchisees still tends to focus more on operations and brand systems, with property issues often receiving less formal attention

This can lead franchisees to stumble at the first hurdle Many overpay for unsuitable space because they don’t know how to benchmark rents or negotiate incentives. Others choose the wrong location due to poor footfall analysis or misunderstanding local demographics Some sign punitive leases without considering break clauses or rent reviews

‘Victim to landlord-first deals’

Franchisees are entrepreneurs but they’re not necessarily property professionals Many may have never negotiated a commercial lease or dealt with agents, landlords and planning regulations

They’re also under immense time pressure to secure a site, fit it out and open for business

Without guidance, franchisees can fall victim to landlord-first deals, misleading footfall data and underestimating hidden costs like service charges, business rates and utilities

Some franchisors provide site selection support but for many, property is left to the franchisee This is partly due to resourcing – property is a specialist skillset – but the consequences can be devastating for both the franchisee and the brand's network A failed site damages territory potential, brand perception and morale Worse still, it can create costly legal disputes over performance clauses

Franchisees don’t need to become property experts – but they do need access to property expertise This can include dedicated property consultants to work with them from site search to lease signing, franchisor-led training on spotting ‘red flags’ and asking the right questions, partnerships with commercial agents who understand the franchise model, and data-led location analysis to ensure decisions are evidence-based not ‘gut feel’

Specialist

retail property events

Attending specialist retail property events can also help franchisees and franchisors meet credible landlords and agents, learn from market analysts and build relationships that improve the odds of securing the right site

Events, such as GRO Franchise, bring together a broad mix of retail property professionals, from landlords and developers to leasing agents and market researchers. It offers attendees the opportunity to hear the latest market

intelligence, join discussions on lease negotiations and footfall trends, and make useful contacts before a site search even begins

For a franchisee, those insights and introductions can be the difference between a thriving outlet and a costly mistake In franchising, you can fix marketing, improve training and tweak operations – but you can’t move a bad site

Property pitfalls for franchisees and how to avoid them

l Overpaying for rent

Failing to benchmark against comparable sites can mean committing to unsustainable overheads Use a property professional to negotiate rent and secure incentives

l The wrong location for the brand

High footfall doesn’t mean the right footfall Analyse customer demographics and competitor presence before committing

l Ignoring hidden costs

Service charges, business rates and utilities can turn a ‘good deal’ into a financial drain Request a full breakdown before signing

l Signing a rigid lease

No break clauses or unfavourable rent review clauses can trap you in a failing site Push for flexible terms and exit options

l Relying on ‘gut feel’

Choosing a site because it ‘feels right’ is a gamble Back every decision with hard numbers and expert insight from location data providers

GRO Franchise will be held on 30th September to 1st October 2025 at Old Billingsgate Market, London n

Harrison

How to appeal to job searchers as a franchise

By Rob MacFarlane, Content Writer, Mayfly Internet Marketing

One of the biggest challenges in digital marketing is putting the right content in front of the right audience If your franchisee content isn’t being seen by people who are ready or willing to consider joining a franchise, then it’s essentially worthless.

Even if someone isn’t ready to commit to your franchise right away, you can put yourself on their radar for the future. They might not have considered joining a franchise as an option at all

This article has been inspired by work we did earlier in the year for one of our franchise clients, targeting people looking for a career change Let’s dive into who your future franchisees are, including how to find them and how to grab their attention

Who is your ideal franchisee?

The main driving force behind this marketing approach comes from considering which people are likely to join a franchise, along with their circumstances.

Something shared by all franchisees is some aspect of entrepreneurialism After all, they want to pursue working for themselves Many potential franchisees will also be looking to move away from the 9-5 life and provide services to their local communities.

As a franchisor looking to recruit, it might be tempting to just go after people in the territory you’d like to expand into. However, for Top of Funnel (ToF) marketing like this, you should try and broaden your net as much as possible

Joining a franchise is exciting

It’s no secret that the 2025 job market in the UK, and around the world, has been tough Many job seekers feel stuck in the monotonous cycle of applying to mundane 9-5 opportunities through job

boards and LinkedIn Others feel they have to stay within the same industry because they don’t have the time or financial flexibility to retrain

Whatever the reason, joining a franchise serves as an exciting option where job seekers get to build something for themselves and set their own schedule Your franchise marketing should emphasise that you’re offering a readymade business opportunity which job seekers can jump into to break away from their negative cycle This is just one aspect of job searching that franchise brands can focus on when trying to get through to people

Why do people switch careers?

In our careers, we’re largely taught that we should specialise in a particular discipline to become more knowledgeable and earn more However, even if you’re someone who has spent over a decade in your industry, holds a senior position, you’re comfortable with the work and you earn well, you can be pulled towards making a change. People may want to switch careers when:

l There’s a lack of job satisfaction, either from work that’s dull and repetitive, or a role that isn’t fulfilling anymore.

l There aren’t any opportunities to progress further or learn more

l Work-life balance is poor

l The workplace is toxic and stressful

l They have concerns around job security

Although it’s not always the case, potential franchisees looking to change careers are typically older This means your marketing should lean towards an older demographic where possible That being said, for ToF content, it’s still important to ensure your brand appeals to as many people as possible

ToF content to help recruit new franchisees

When it comes to creating digital content to help bring in new members on the franchise side, it can be difficult to settle on an approach that will work for your niche. You need to find people who are looking to work for themselves, happy to provide your services, and live locally to the area you need to cover Finding people who tick all these boxes can be tricky, which is why it’s important to broaden your targeting

Your website should contain all the information visitors will need about your franchise opportunity, such as the cost, joining process, and any training and equipment provided Any new content you create for your franchise cluster should be designed to move them down the funnel, towards the more targeted information

What keywords should I be using?

Even if you’re only just exploring digital marketing for your franchise, you’ve probably heard of elements like keywords, meta titles, etc On-page search engine optimisation like this is essential to ensuring your franchise content appears in front of the relevant people However, it’s not as simple as including ‘top franchise opportunity’ across the franchise section of your website

At the time of writing, the keyword ‘franchise opportunities’ has a keyword difficulty (how easy or difficult it is to rank a website organically within the top 10 results on Google) of 53 per cent and a search volume of 2,900. While the latter is great, this keyword will probably be too difficult to rank for without significant investment

Instead, it’s more feasible to target longer franchise keywords such as ‘food franchise opportunities’ or ‘commercial

Get seen, get engagement, get ahead.

SEO

Develop a successful SEO strategy rooted in your business’s unique goals.

PPC

A cost-effective method of driving relevant traffic to your site, fast.

Web Design

Make an impression, add value and entice your audience to cross your digital threshold.

Businesses in the franchise sector we’ve worked with:

ADVISORY ARTICLE

cleaning franchise opportunities’ While these have a lower volume by appearing in more niche search engine results pages (SERP), your business is more likely to achieve a higher ranking

For this strategy focused on job seekers, we recommend trying to get your site ranking for long tail keywords and phrases that job seekers are likely to be searching For example, ‘Jobs that can pay over £50,000 without a degree’ After all, your franchise site should already rank reasonably well for terms related to your services and possibly other generic keywords related to franchises

Building brand authority in franchisee marketing

Having strong brand authority is necessary to compete with other businesses on a local and national level. To this end, it’s also a good idea to create content associated with products and services By increasing brand awareness, your franchise is more likely to be the first one people think of when they need your products and services

Long tail keywords can also allow you to gradually develop the brand by publishing EEAT-approved content (Google judges content on Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) This can support marketing efforts further down the line by making it easier to go after lucrative, hard-to-rank keywords in your niche

Find answers in the SERP

By looking at the search engine results pages, you can see what kind of pages appear for queries relating to switching careers You can do this by simply Google searching in an incognito tab. This goes a long way to revealing the search intent behind key queries, which is important to ensure your content is targeting the right audience effectively.

We found that a majority of job seekers are looking for informational content, whereas those looking for products and services are more interested in content that educates and informs. Potential franchisees tend to have an entrepreneurial mindset, which leads them to researching how to start their own business and topics adjacent to it. n

Franchisee giving back to her local community

Lhas celebrated her first anniversary as a franchisee of Basking Babies massage and yoga classes by supporting a series of charity initiatives and teaming up with Ickle Pickles, the premature baby charity.

The occasion felt like the right time for Tilley to give back to the community, as she explains: “This initiative reflects what Basking Babies is all about: creating meaningful connections and offering real support beyond the class environment

“Partnering with Ickle Pickles and visiting the NICU at Lewisham Hospital has been a powerful reminder of why I started this journey – to support parents during some of their most vulnerable moments. It’s been an incredibly fulfilling way to mark this milestone in my franchise journey ”

The franchisor said Tilley brought a wealth of business know-how to Basking Babies, having previously owned businesses with her husband Taking on the franchise, she combines her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for supporting other parents

Tilley had originally attended Basking Babies with her eight-week-old baby daughter: “We absolutely loved it At the time, I was running a soft play and bouncy castle business and supporting the previous franchisee at coffee

“

It’s incredibly rewarding to see our network grow with franchisees like Lucy, who not only deliver high-quality classes but truly embody our mission to support and uplift families

mornings, and I’d already been thinking about starting my own Basking Babies franchise ”

‘The opportunity felt like fate’ Tilley added: “When the opportunity came up to take over the Dulwich, Forest Hill and Sydenham area, it honestly felt like fate I loved the idea of helping other mums build a community, and the flexibility worked perfectly around my daughter ’s nursery schedule – something my other businesses just couldn’t offer ”

With multiple classes held every week across venues in South London and running regular coffee mornings to help new parents connect, Tilley has built a supportive community where parents can unwind and enjoy precious bonding time with their babies

Carla Davison, founder of Basking Babies, commented: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see our network grow with franchisees like Lucy, who not only deliver high-quality classes but truly embody our mission to support and uplift families ” n

www.baskingbabies.co.uk/franchise

ucy Tilley (above)

NEW TO FRANCHISING?

Q&A to put you on the right track to buying a franchise

By Nick Riding, Editor, Franchise World magazine

ThisQ&A seeks to address the fundamental issues of businessformat franchising for the beginner.

Q What is business-format franchising?

It is simply a system for marketing goods/services that is not unlike licences, dealerships or concessions

The franchisor sells you, the franchisee, the rights to set-up your own local outlet, or cluster of outlets, to market the company’s goods/services

Q Would the company not be better off owning its own outlets?

Yes, in terms of operating profits, but it would have to find the money to set them up, whereas it is the franchisee who funds the outlets, usually through bank loans

The other big advantage to the franchisor is that it can expect that, as you have invested your own money, you will be more motivated and committed over the long-term to make the business successful than an employee

Q What is it going to cost me?

This, of course, depends on the franchise A business that you can run from home, for example, will obviously cost a lot less to set-up than one that needs premises, particularly in the high street

You pay an initial fee to cover your training, and the rights to use the brand and the business system for the period of the franchise contract

Also you will pay regular ongoing fees, a fixed fee, or based on a percentage of your turnover, or a mark-up on the goods that you are obliged to buy from your franchisor. There may also be an advertising/marketing levy, again based on a fixed fee or turnover

Q Will the initial fee be higher for the larger, ‘better known’ franchises?

Not necessarily The franchisor shouldn’t be setting out to make a profit from the initial fee, but from the ongoing fees

This is one of the important principles of the franchise system because it creates the incentive for the franchisor to help you build your business and continue to develop it Putting it simply, in order for the franchisor to succeed, you must first succeed

Q What is likely to be the scale of my profits?

This will depend on the franchise you choose, the territory or location you buy, and particularly how hard you are willing to work

The latter is critical Franchising is not about investing money, sitting back and spending the profits Launching and developing a new business, even with the back-up of a competent franchisor, is hard work

Franchisors are seldom looking for what are known as ‘absentee investors’ They need hard-working, fully-committed franchisees

The question can best be answered by looking at the franchisor ’s projections for the business and asking current franchisees whether they found them to be realistic.

If the figures are impressive and you are prepared to work equally as hard as the franchisees you have met, you should be able to look forward to similar profits. After all, you will have had the same training and help that they did so on that basis, given your location offers similar potential to theirs, whether you succeed or not at the end of the day is down to you

Q Would it be better for me to go it alone and start a business without having regular fees to pay?

You would miss the many benefits of being a franchisee, such as training, the use of the franchisor ’s proven business system and branded, marketing and ongoing development

You would also face much less risk than you would if you were starting out on your own, particularly in a type of business in which you had no knowledge or experience.

With a franchise you have all the help you need to set-up your own outlet of a business in which success has been demonstrated by its existing franchisees

Speak to them, and ask their opinion of aspects such as the standard of their initial training, the accuracy of the franchisor ’s financial forecasts (income, outgoings, etc ) and the level of ongoing support they receive

Q Which franchise should I buy?

This is the big question only you can answer It’s rather like asking what house or car should you buy? As with them, it depends on your personal situation, preferences and available finance

What can you afford? What are your personal aptitudes and working background? What would you really like to do for the rest of your career? Would the business need the support and participation of your family? Would the franchise be profitable enough to support your lifestyle? Would it meet your work/lifestyle balance aspirations?

Before looking at these questions in-depth, you need to ask yourself whether you are, in fact, suited for self-employment, and whether you

would be prepared to run the business according to the franchisor ’s ‘rules’

You will at the end of the day own your own business, but you must accept the fact that you are not entirely your own boss as you must run it according to the franchisor ’s system

This is necessary to maintain the quality and integrity of the whole network. After all, you are buying into the system not just to benefit from the brand but also its proven business system so why try to change it?

Q I often see franchisees described as franchise owners. Is this true? No, it’s misleading It is the franchisor who is the franchise owner

Cer tainly, the franchisee owns his business, but it is only able to trade in a par ticular franchise under a contract with the franchisor for a stipulated period, usually with the option to renew for a fur ther ter m

It is only by owning the business that the franchisor can be in the position to police the network and ensure that each franchisee maintains the brand’s standards and reputation

This issue was made clear by one of the UK’s earliest and successful franchisors who prefer red to call the system ‘business leasing’, as it is a process in which the franchisee ‘leases’ the franchisor’s brand and businessfor mat for a contracted period

Q Might the necessity to strictly follow the franchisor’s formula make the business insufficiently challenging? This question is often overlooked Some franchisees are, of course, more ambitious than others There are those who are looking mainly for a comfortable work/life balance, rather than making large profits

However, franchising does offer the ambitious the opportunity to become a multi-unit franchisee with a significant regional chain of outlets

If you are highly ambitious, negotiate with your prospective franchisor at the

buying stage to include in the agreement an option on extra territories/sites Some franchisors particularly welcome franchisees who have aspirations to open a number of outlets and are particularly looking for candidates with the ambition to become multi-unit franchisees.

The benefits for the franchisor is that it doesn’t have to face the costs of recruiting and training the ambitious franchisee and, most importantly, knows that he is successful in the business You suit them, and they suit you Also financing extra units is easier as it can come from the profits of the earlier outlets

True entrepreneurs are, however, unlikely to be fulfilled in conforming to what they increasingly see as restraints imposed by the franchisor and they may, in fact, be better suited to starting their own business from scratch and go on to develop it as a franchise system

Q What does the phrase, comfort zone mean in the context of franchising?

It describes the stage at which the franchisee’s business has become so profitable that he chooses not to develop it further He has reached his ambition and is happy with his work/life balance

This causes two problems for the franchisor Firstly, it puts a cap on the future royalties it receives from taking a percentage of the franchisee’s turnover Secondly, it gives competitors the opportunity to capture a greater share of the market

This situation is not easy for the franchisor to overcome It can offer incentives, such as a reducing sliding scale of royalties for higher turnovers and persuading the franchisee to sell back part of his area to create an extra territory for a new franchisee

Ultimately, however, the franchisor may have to try and entice the franchisee to sell by offering to buy him out at an inflated price

Q What are master and regional franchises?

A master franchise covers the whole of a country and a regional franchise,

an individual region of the country Such franchisees act similarly to a franchisor in respect to recruitment and control

In return, they pay a percentage of their income from initial and ongoing service fees from their franchisees to the parent franchisor The latter usually imposes a development target on the number of franchisees recruited over specific periods to ensure the holder develops the system

Franchisors sell such franchises, rather than franchising directly, to avoid the cost and risk of piloting and developing their system in a country in which they have no experience of the market or culture

They usually hedge their bet by including in the agreement a buy-back option that they can exercise after a period of time if the franchise proves successful

It is not unknown for a wealthy U S franchisee to take a master franchise for a foreign country in the system in which he has made his wealth. This is an example of the more unusual entrepreneurial opportunities within franchising

Q Are there any franchise laws to protect franchisees?

No, there are no laws in the UK specifically addressed to franchising, as there are in many countries, but the system is, of course, subject to commercial law

The relatively few cases that have reached the courts have usually been brought by franchisees for misrepresentation. Has the franchisor misrepresented the profits the franchisee could expect? Has the forecast for the sales figures been exaggerated or the setting-up costs reduced?

Q If there are things in the franchise contract I don’t like, can I change them?

No, not in a well-run franchise The contract sets out the rules under which the business has to be operated and, like the rules of a game, they must be followed to the letter

NEW TO FRANCHISING?

The quality and reputation of the system will depend on its standardised business formula which is spelt out in the contract and the operating manuals you must follow

If franchisees were allowed to their own changes, standards differ from outlet to outlet; th franchisor would lose control; customers would not get the s service across the network.

As a result, the quality of the and its brand would decline, a with them the resale value of business, when it comes to the want to sell and make a substa capital gain

QSR FRANCHISE LAUNCH

The franchisor ’s refusal to make changes is an indication of the strength of its system Conversely, if it allows changes to its formula it is a sign of weakness and often its desperation to recruit franchisees One of the most essential ‘jobs’ of the franchisor is to police its network effectively.

Q If I can’t change the contract, do I need a solicitor?

Yes, the contract is complex and you need a solicitor specialising in franchising to explain it to you It should set out in detail what the franchisor is going to do for you and what you will have to do in return All this needs to be spelt out in the contract and, as it will govern how you run your business, you will need to understand it to the letter.

As the franchisor has to protect its interests and those of the network even beyond the point at which you may have left the franchise, the contract can still control the options available to you after the two of you have parted A franchisee just can’t take the sign down and continue trading as before but under a different name

After all, it provided your training and its business system It wouldn’t like you to become a competitor and will, therefore, want to resell your territory to a new franchisee. n

If you have a question, email info@franchiseworld.co.uk

stand what franchisees need from a we have invested in a business model owth.

The Sushi Co launches its QSR franchise model

The Sushi Co has celebrated two new store launches in London at Hampstead and Harringay, bringing the total number of UK sites to 21

Founded in 2022 by Raheel and Hadia Choudhary, and Sama Varanand Reddy, who together have over 50 years of quick service restaurant (QSR) experience, they aim to open 30 stores by the end of the year

Raheel Choudhary said: “All of our management team have worked in the industry or have previously been franchisees in the food industry for many years We really understand what franchisees need from a franchisor, and we have invested in a business model designed to support growth

“We are now delighted to offer this established, profitable franchise opportunity to the market, enabling new franchisees to share in our success for the first time ”

Haran Thushiharan, head of operations at The Sushi Co with over 30 years’ experience in food and beverage environments, commented: “We have expanded rapidly since start-up, sharing our love of sushi with the introduction of our live sushi kitchens throughout London and beyond

“Over the past few years, we have

perfected our fresh, flavoursome sushi made in minutes for customers to enjoy in one of our sit-down restaurants, on the go or delivered at home

“And, over this time, we have also developed a tried and tested business model Key performance indicators closely guide processes while we have invested in industry leading technology to streamline operations

“As a result, our most recent restaurant openings have met with unprecedented success, and we are now inviting applications from business professionals looking to invest in a proven QSR franchised brand.”

l The Sushi Co serves box-fresh made to order authentic sushi in open, live kitchens. The menu also includes East Asian favourites such as Katsu Curry and Bao Buns n

www.thesushico.co.uk/franchise

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