the judges have named the 15 finalists who will compete for the British Franchise Association (bfa) HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards 2010, supported by Express Newspapers.

There are three national awards, recognising overall excellence, franchisee support and brand building, and the 15 finalists will now meet the panel face-to-face to compete for the chance to be crowned the best in the industry.

Vying for the bfa HSBC Franchisor of the Year award are Auditel, Autosmart, Bluebird Care, Domino’s Pizza, Driver Hire, McDonald’s, TaxAssist Accountants, and Wiltshire Farm Food.

In the HSBC Franchisee Support award category, the four finalists include Countrywide Grounds Maintenance, Monkey Music, Revive!, and X-Press Legal Services, while the Express Newspapers Brand Builder award will be contested by three franchisors; Cook, LighterLife, and Smallprint.

Brian Smart, Director General of the bfa, said: “The number of outstanding nominations we have received has been impressive, especially given the economic climate in which these companies have been operating. Having the right support during tough times is essential, but it is also important for businesses to demonstrate the great work they are doing through awards such as these. Now that Britain is gaining a strong footing once again, it is important to inspire the next generation of franchisors and franchisees, and our finalists are doing just that.”

Cathryn Hayes, head of franchising, HSBC, said: “Having worked with many companies over the past year we know that all areas of business have been affected by the recent downturn, and it is heart warming to see so many innovative management tactics amongst franchisors, which made the selection of the finalists extremely challenging.”

Kieron Summerhayes, deputy group advertising controller, Express Newspapers, said: “The calibre of franchisors in the UK who have successfully maintained and built their brand is evidently outstanding, as it was tough to conclude the shortlist. We’re looking forward to going one step further by awarding the most innovative and inspiring franchisors at the awards ceremony next month (June).”

The winners will be announced at the 21st British Franchisor Awards gala dinner taking place at the East Midlands Conference Centre in Nottingham on June 2.

Information

British Franchise Association 01865 379 892 www.thebfa.org