Britain’s franchisors were strongly represented at the inaugural global master franchise forum held by Franchise Pool International in Venice.
The forum introduced franchisors to specialist franchise brokers and consultants from across Europe who could help them find master franchises in their targeted countries.
A well-known UK franchisor who attended said: “This innovative concept allows the participants to develop relationships at a pace that may not have been possible before, drawing on international expertise and achieving their growth strategies.”
The UK member of Franchise Pool is the International Franchising Centre, part of Britain’s largest franchise consultancy group, the Franchising Centre.
Farrah Rose (pictured), a director of the International Franchising Centre, said she was delighted with the enthusiasm shown by UK franchisors for the event. “Many are actively seeking growing overseas markets and this was reflected by the strong UK representation,” said Rose. “One UK franchisor has already found a European master franchisee as a result of attending and there are more deals in the pipeline.
“The success of this two-day meeting was due to the fact that it wasn’t a side show, but an independent event in its own right, entirely focused on matching franchisors with master franchisees across Europe. Those who attended were committed and serious about international expansion and this was borne out by the immediate results.”