Kickstart your journey into business ownership at the UK's flagship Franchise Exhibition
With 85% of the workforce aspiring to work for themselves*, the UK is a fertile ground for emerging entrepreneurs. Nevertheless, transforming this aspiration into a tangible reality can be an intimidating challenge.
Fast-track your journey to business ownership at the UK’s flagship franchise event – The National Franchise Exhibition – held on 6 & 7 of October at the NEC, Birmingham. Attendees will meet the teams behind more than 100 prominent franchise brands to suit all budgets, interests and ambitions including Anytime Fitness, Black Sheep Coffee, Dyno-Rod, easyStorage, Subway, Home Instead, and many more. The International Franchise Pavilion will showcase overseas brands looking to expand into the UK, including Crayola Imagine Arts Academy, Duck Donuts, Funk Coffee + Food and more.
The two-day exhibition is exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA), who will deliver a series of independent seminars including ‘An introduction to franchising’, and ‘How to evaluate franchise opportunities’.
Keynote speakers include Steph Hedger, Director of Development & Leasing at global sandwich franchise Subway. During her session, Steph will share real-life examples of how the team are 'Transforming a sleeping giant’.
On Friday 6 October, Paul Dobson, Franchise & Wholesale Director at Morrisons Daily, who has a wealth of experience at leading retailers will give an insight into how the entrepreneurial spirit of its franchisees is driving them forward at a rapid pace.
Saturday’s visitors will hear from Dan Archer, the UK CEO of Visiting Angels, whose keynote presentation promises to be an event highlight. Dan’s 20-year background in franchising, most recently launching the home care brand in the UK and overseeing its rapid expansion to over 50 locations in less than 5 years, ensures he is well placed to offer a unique perspective on the industry.
These invaluable presentations sit within an extensive programme of over 50 free educational talks covering all aspects of franchising.
During the Real Franchise Stories Q&A sessions, franchise owners from multiple successful brands will share what they have learned along the way. Plus, McDonald’s Insight Sessions running throughout the event will give curious investors the chance to find out what it is like to be a franchisee with the iconic brand.
Visitors who want to enhance their skills can attend several free Business Masterclasses, addressing topics such understanding sales fundamentals and cultivating influence in both your organisation and the local community.
The British Franchise Association, finance providers, specialist lawyers and consultants will offer complimentary one-to-one advice throughout the event. Experts from HSBC’s dedicated franchise team, and NGI Franchise Funding will offer funding advice; Beyond Corporate and Hamilton Pratt provide legal expertise; and the BFA will be on-hand for impartial guidance on all aspects of franchising.
Existing franchisees looking to expand can attend the Multi-unit Franchise Conference & Networking Lunch, running at the exhibition on Friday 6 October. Sponsored by Summa Franchise Consulting, Akerman and ProfitKeeper, this an unmissable opportunity to hear from established franchisees and leading franchise brands as they discuss the dos and don’ts of building a multi-unit portfolio.
“We’re looking forward to bringing together entrepreneurs and prominent franchise brands once again at The National Franchise Exhibition, held on 6 & 7 October. The exhibition will house everything a prospective business owner needs to initiate their journey into entrepreneurship – an array of franchise brands and expert guidance, under one roof”.
Tracy Shah, Managing Director, Venture Marketing Group