Supported by the British Franchise Association (bfa), the exhibition is the perfect venue for anyone researching their franchise options, with opportunities to meet franchisors, franchisees and business service providers, face to face.

The 2007 NatWest / bfa annual survey highlights the important role in franchising that this particular market plays, generating £0.2 billion in turnover annually.

Today 32 per cent of franchise systems have a presence in Northern Ireland, and Peter Hendron is one of a growing number of people in the region who have recognised the benefits of franchise ownership.

In 2002 he set up a Cartridge World franchise in Belfast, and has since opened stores in Ballymena and Coleraine.

He said: “Apart from being my own boss and looking after three successful stores, I think one of the great things about being a Cartridge World franchisee is being part of an industry that is still relatively new and is constantly expanding and gaining wider appeal with consumers and businesses alike.

“Cartridge World presented a fresh franchising opportunity; something completely new for my career and the surrounding business community and therefore an exciting challenge for me as a franchisee,” he said.

Visiting a franchise exhibition should form an important part of the research process for any potential franchisee, says bfa head of marketing Dan Archer.

“You will have the opportunity to discuss your suitability with a number of franchisors, all under one roof,” he said.

You should approach your search for a franchise in an ordered and systematic manner. Having so many franchisors in one place makes the exhibition a good place to compare and contrast the facts and figures of each system, franchise by franchise.

“Talk to the specialist franchise advisors at the exhibition – bankers, lawyers, consultants, accountants and the media,” added Mr Archer. “And plan on using franchise specialists to advise you and find the franchises that will suit you.”

To help individuals assess their franchise options, the bfa runs free seminars during the exhibition which serve as an introduction to franchising.

Seminars are run on both days, with ‘An introduction to franchising’ aimed at prospective franchisees.

Existing businesses looking to expand their operations through franchising can benefit from the ‘How to franchise your business’ seminars.

The bfa will have its own stand at the exhibition and members of the team will be on hand to answer your questions or supply you with more information to help your search.

So if you are looking to start your own franchise business, The Franchise Exhibition in Belfast this week could be your starting point on the road to realising your dreams of self-employment. For more information on franchising, visit www.thebfa.org.