Venture Marketing Group (VMG), the organisers of the BFA-sponsored franchise exhibitions is to hold its first Multi-unit Franchise Conference in London at Olympia on Friday 9th March 2018, to deliver an insight into multi-unit franchising.
VMG reports that research consistently shows that over 90 per cent of franchisee-owned units are profitable, so it is not surprising that many entrepreneurs are multiplying their achievements by accumulating further franchises.
Whether the success of one franchise has prompted investment in more units, or an entrepreneur is set on investing in multiple ventures from the outset, the conference will offer targeted advice.
The conference, sponsored by HSBC, will bring together senior industry experts and multi-brand franchisees to deliver guidance on pursuing expansion through multi-unit ownership.
Attendees will learn about embarking on and managing a multi-unit operation, including selecting the right mix of brands, funding options available, and the rewards that introducing an international
brand into the UK can offer.
Chris Holmes, chief development officer of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), will discuss the entrepreneurial spirit needed to be a world-class franchisee, while Kevin Hydes, chief finance and commercial officer of Tim Hortons UK & Ireland, and former head of international at Costa Coffee, will share his vast experience of introducing an international brand into a new market.
A panel discussion among four franchise veterans will reveal ways to build and grow a successful collection of multi-unit and multi-brand businesses. Panel members will be include Raja Adil, managing director of The Adil Group. Adil heads a network of 120 franchises spanning the UK and employs more than 3,000 people across his Burger King, Costa Coffee and KFC outlets. He will be joined by three other successful multi-unit franchisees operating various brands including O2 Telefónica, Domino’s, CeX and Anytime Fitness – both in the UK and abroad.
Emily Price, head of operations at the BFA, will host a panel discussion on the future of franchising. The aim of this session is to deliver a lively exchange of ideas and opinions among the panel of multi-unit franchisees all under the age of 30. VMG says these young entrepreneurs are revolutionising the franchise industry at they run multi-unit portfolios.
Andrew Bratessani, HSBC’s UK head of franchising, comments: “The number of multi-unit franchisees continues to grow as business owners recognise that the proven business models, which sit behind established brands, provide an efficient way to scale-up their operations. I am especially excited by the growing number of young franchisees who are capitalising on the blueprint for success that franchise ownership offers. I look forward to hearing from the panel of ‘young guns’ who are forging an exciting path into multi-unit franchising.”
Tracy Shah, director at VMG, summarises: “We are delighted to host this specialist conference, which shines a light on multi-unit franchising. The programme brings together professional advice with unique insights from those already leveraging the potential, and reaping the rewards of this approach to business. As a result, attendees will leave with clear expectations, advice and contacts to help them boost their success with multi-unit franchising.”
Places are limited at the conference, which runs alongside the two-day British & International Franchise Exhibition starting on the Friday. For those wishing to attend there is an early bird registration rate, if booked by 2nd March, of £35 (£115 thereafter).
To secure a place call 020 8394 5223 or email Nathalie.Farrugia@vmgl.com