Now, with the launch of a new qualification for the franchising industry, that knowledge and experience can be formally recognised.

Developed by the British Franchise Association (bfa), the Qualified Franchise Professional (QFP) is built upon the ethics of the bfa and underpins the vital importance of best practice franchising.

For individual franchise professionals it is a formal recognition of their professional knowledge and experience in franchising, and evidence of their understanding of the intricacies of best practice franchising, as well as an investment in further and continuous development.

bfa marketing manager Tom Endean said: “The bfa is raising the bar by not only promoting improved practices and standards, but encouraging franchisors and advisors in the industry to extended their learning and ultimately prove their existing good business practice via the form of an industry qualification.”

The QFP is based on a continuous professional development learning platform, which means that once they are qualified individuals will retain their status by remaining engaged in the industry and attending specially qualified events, conferences and seminars. This ensures that standards remain high and anyone using the qualification is completely up to date with the latest best practice and thinking.

In order to gain the QFP they must attend a number of prequalified events and seminars over a period of three years, accumulating a minimum of 3,000 points. Candidates are then invited to submit a dissertation or attend an interview, successful completion of which earns them the QFP qualification.

QFP status enables franchisor to demonstrate their industry expertise to prospective franchisees, clients, fellow franchisors and even new and existing staff.

Mr Endean added: “The industry will benefit hugely from this qualification, enabling individuals that have already chosen to work in an ethical manner, to demonstrate this more easily to potential clients and members of the public.

With the recent tough economic climate causing many people to think about entering into the franchise world, this qualification will give an added reassurance that the brand they are buying into, or the advice they are getting, is in line with the highest possible industry standards.”

Information: 01865 379 892, email trainingadministrator@thebfa.org, www.thebfa.org