Featured news and articles
Front cover feature: ShakeTastic
ShakeTastic, the award-winning milkshake and juice bar, is now franchising and has opened its first international store in Pearl-Qatar.
BFA appoints chief executive officer
The British Franchise Association (BFA) has appointed Pip Wilkins as its chief executive officer, succeeding Brian Smart who is retiring after 27 years at the association.
What makes a franchisor stand out from the crowd?
Cathryn Hayes, head of business support at the BFA, gives her top tips on what makes a good franchisor turn into a great franchisor.
Recruiting – its all about people
Julie Taylor, of Franchise Resales, says that businesses can fail or simply not develop if the franchisor does not get the recruitment process right.
Online accounting
Carl Reader, of d&t accountants, recommends a cloud-based accountancy, bookkeeping and reporting system for the business owner.
Cyber-security
Maurice Logie, of Moreland Insurance, says that an emerging law will raise the minimum security standards for businesses and that they should have a response plan in place.
How to spot a legitimate business opportunity from a scam
Richard Holden, head of franchising at Lloyds Banking Group, says it is essential to undertake thorough research in order to identify a genuine business opportunity.

The Mobalpa showroom in Pinner.
Mobalpa
The kitchen retailer’s franchisee for Pinner, Greater London, Mo Yaqub, celebrates his first year with the company by achieving a £700,000 turnover.
Making your email database work for you
Jenny Mugridge, of Mayfly Internet Marketing, talks about email marketing and the use of different software tools that can assist you to retain customers and reach new ones.
Predicting a trend
Suzie McCafferty, managing director of Platinum Wave, the franchise consultancy, predicts which area of the sector will be leading the way.
Franchisee recruitment
Iain Martin, of Mr Franchise, continues his case study by discussing its strategy for lead management and identifies common mistakes that can be made by a franchisor.
The penalty rule
Gordon Drakes and Tim Rickard, of Fieldfisher, talk about the changes to the law rule on penalty clauses and how it will affect franchising.
What the franchise contract must cover
Nicola Broadhurst, of Stevens & Bolton, discusses the importance of having a well-drafted and comprehensive franchise agreement.
Buying a franchise
This Q&A article addresses the fundamental issues of franchising for the beginner.