Vodafone Business has launched a new channel called Vodafone Business IT Hubs, offering new local franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs and IT experts alike.
The company says it is looking for more than 300 franchisees across the UK to set up a Vodafone Business IT Hub in their area, forming part of its new strategic drive to help SMEs (small to medium-sized businesses) better manage and get the most from their IT solutions.
Each Vodafone Business IT Hub will have a local territory in which it will offer an outsourced one-stop-shop for IT and communications managed services. Support on offer will include help with hardware and applications, alongside connectivity and security.
The franchisor says the target market for the hubs will be SMEs who are resource-limited and don’t have their own internal IT support function available.
Vodafone adds that research by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) found that many SMEs needed IT support as 37% believed they lacked the capacity to manage multiple ICT suppliers, contracts, and licences. Whilst 25% of SMEs felt their current digital tools were not resilient enough to help protect their business from online threats including phishing, ransomware, and password hacking.
Limited companies trading under the Vodafone brand
Vodafone explains that its Hubs will be limited companies trading under the Vodafone brand, and will employ their own local technicians, account managers and engineers. The Hubs will also sell a portfolio of Vodafone products and services alongside selected products from world-class partner vendors, enabled by an industry leading platform, with IT software, services, and resources.
Miryem Salah, chief data officer and head of Vodafone Business IT Hubs, said: “We know that business owners need to prioritise serving their customers and growing their business; in a busy world this doesn’t always leave the time or the resource to keep on top of their IT estate or manage multiple suppliers.
“At the same time, we know there are IT experts sat at their desks across the UK who have a dream of setting up their own businesses but need some support to get started. That’s where we come in.
“We can offer our franchisees the capability, scale and confidence that comes from working with a large global brand, as well as finance and marketing support, while they can offer the technical skills and local knowledge to build a successful business that supports the local SME community.
“We’re excited to start this journey with our new franchisees in 2024 and beyond. I’d urge anyone with an interest to get in touch.”
People interested in taking on a Vodafone Business IT Hub franchise opportunity should click the link below for further information:
Vodafone Business IT Hub Franchisee | Vodafone UK
Posted: 21st March, 2024
Studio Pilates International, the Australian fitness franchise, has opened its second UK studio in Putney, southwest London, following the launch of its first outlet in Exeter, Devon.
With initial plans for nine studios in the UK and Ireland, the health and wellness brand is aiming to make further strides across the UK over the next five years, with Studio Pilates’ projections indicating over 8 million client visits and revenue exceeding £200m for its UK franchisees.
Established in 2002 and now operating across five countries, Studio Pilates says it facilitated over 1.7 million workouts last year, underscoring its pivotal role in promoting health and wellness on a global scale.
Jade Winter, co-founder and chief executive of Studio Pilates International, said: “We’re thrilled to see the continued interest in our franchise opportunities and the ambition of entrepreneurs to bring Studio Pilates to their communities.
“From the moment you step through our doors and are greeted by the soft glow of chandeliers and the warmth of dark hardwood floors, you’ll know you’ve entered a space that transcends traditional fitness centres.
“The success of our studios demonstrates the enduring appeal of boutique fitness offerings and the positive impact they can have on local economies.”
The franchisor says the new locations have hit the ground running attracting over 2,000 customer signups from day one, generating healthy revenue figures, and with classes available morning, noon and night, the Putney studio is poised to accommodate the diverse schedules of a growing community of enthusiasts.
‘A destination for health, wellness, and community’
Rachel Franklin, franchisee of the Putney studio, said: “The opening of our Studio Pilates marks a significant shift in the UK’s fitness landscape. With our luxurious studio setting and innovative approach to Pilates, we’re not just providing a workout – we’re creating a destination for health, wellness, and community.
“As reformer Pilates continues to surge in popularity, we see an incredible opportunity to not only transform bodies but also contribute to the thriving business community in the UK.”
Studio Pilates, with the anticipation of a further 55 worldwide studios in the pipeline, says it remains dedicated to its mission of changing the way the world workouts through its business model and value to customers.
In addition to studios in Australia and the UK, the brand operates in China, New Zealand and the U.S.
Posted: 14th March, 2024
As 2023 drew to a close, I reflected on the key developments in UK franchising case law in the year that was. There were four cases of note, three judgements awarded in favour of the franchisor, and one in favour of the franchisee.
By Gordon Drakes, Partner, Fieldfisher
Interestingly all four cases are related to the topic of non-renewal and termination, and there are number of key takeaways for franchisors to bear in mind.
This article will not consider learnings from wider commercial case law, which is applicable to franchise systems, but sets out (in reverse chronological order) an overview of the cases and the key takeaways.
1. Burke Partnership (TBP) v The Body Shop International Ltd (Body Shop)
The Body Shop and TBP entered into two franchise agreements in 1981 and 1982 in respect of a retail store franchise for three Body Shop stores across the territories of Norwich and Cambridge (the ‘Agreements’). The Agreements were materially identical, and continued for a five term year, with a right to renew for a further five years. The Agreements were renewed over a thirty year plus period, by way of extension letters, which extended the term of the Agreements by five years.
Body Shop attempted to end this practice by serving a notice to terminate on three years’ notice, stating that the Agreements were not intended to run in perpetuity, and had become hopelessly out of date. TBP rejected the notices, stating that the Agreements are not perpetual as they can be determined, but the right to renew is ongoing, and Body Shop had no right to terminate on convenience. TBP sought a declaration from the court that the notices to terminate were invalid, and the Agreements should continue.
The court rejected Body Shop’s arguments for the following reasons:
- The Agreements already had express provisions relating to duration, renewal and termination, and the Agreements did not lack commercial or practical coherence in the absence of an implied term to terminate on reasonable notice.
- The term sought was not so obvious that it went without saying, meaning it could not be implied so easily.
- The argument that the terms were outdated, and so an implied right to terminate was needed, was not accepted as the Agreements and their extensions had been entered into willingly. Such a term would not have been contemplated at the time, and the commercial bargain struck in the early 80s endured to now.
Takeaways
- All franchisors should take the opportunity to review their renewal processes, criteria and contractual terms, to ensure there are no “ticking time bombs” woven into the fabric of their networks.
- Franchisors with “legacy contracts” should think carefully before engaging in a process of imposing a new franchise agreement or terminating on reasonable notice, if the underlying agreement does not allow for this.
- The English courts remain hesitant to imply terms. The court will only do so if the implied term does not interfere with the express terms, is required to correct a manifest error or is so obvious that it does without saying.
- In relation to interpretation, the courts will not consider commercial hindsight, but will look at the factual matrix as it existed at the time, and what would have been commercial common sense to the parties when they entered the agreement. Time is irrelevant – the commercial bargain as agreed over 40 years is still persuasive.
- A repeating right to request a renewal does not amount to a perpetual contract.
- Court declarations are a useful tool in litigation, particularly where damages would not be an adequate remedy, enabling parties to resolve uncertainty over major aspects of their claims before proceeding to full trial.
- Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a longstanding franchisee.
2. Winkworth Franchising Ltd v Goble
Winkworth and Goble entered into five 20-year franchise agreements (the ‘Agreements’) in respect of the sale and letting of property in London. Goble had a right under the Agreements to twice extend them by ten years. Winkworth could refuse to extend on specific grounds, including if Goble had breached any contractual obligation.
Goble was obliged to provide Winkworth with annual accounts for the year of 2020, by May 2021. Goble failed to produce the accounts following several requests from Winkworth. In 2022, Goble notified Winkworth that it wished to renew the Agreements. Winkworth issued a counter notice refusing the request for renewal, on the basis that Goble had failed to provide the required information.
Goble contested the validity of the counter notice, on the basis that:
- The breaches were not sufficiently material to justify the sanction of a refusal of an extension.
- The requests for information by Winkworth were insufficiently clear and that no rent receipts existed.
- Winkworth was estopped by convention as an understanding had arisen that there was no specific time frame for the provision of accounts.
- Winkworth was unfairly trying to find fault so that it could take over the franchises or enter into new agreements on different terms.
This was a summary judgement, and the court had to determine if Goble had a ‘realistic prospect of success’ at full trial. The court granted a declaration that Winkworth’s counter notice was valid.
Essentially, the renewal terms were clear and an additional requirement of materiality should not be imported in the Agreements. Winkworth’s requests for accounts had been ‘legitimate and sufficiently clear’ and Goble’s argument that a common assumption had arisen to estop Winkworth was not relevant to whether the terms of the franchise agreement had been breached.
Takeaways
- This case highlights the importance of having clearly drafted conditions for renewal.
- The courts are reluctant to import an additional requirement of materiality if a franchisee is in breach of those conditions.
- It is important to follow up on breaches. In this case, that Winkworth has issued breach notices for the late submission of accounts easily overcame the argument for estoppel by convention.
3. London Business House Ltd v Pitman Training Ltd
London Business House Limited (LBH) entered into a franchise agreement in 2015 with Pitman Training Limited (Pitman) to provide career focussed training courses and qualifications for individuals looking to develop their professional skills.
LBH terminated the franchise agreement in 2017, blaming the failure of the franchise on Pitman’s supply of “white labelled” course materials to another course provider, which was operating in the same territory. LBH claimed Pitman’s activity breached an implied term of exclusivity, and that Pitman misrepresented to LBH in pre-contractual negotiations by stating LBH would enjoy an exclusive territory from which to trade the Pitman brand.
The court held that Pitman’s actions had not breached any contractual exclusivity, and LBH, which was advocating as a litigant in person without legal representation, had failed to produce sufficient evidence of pre-contractual misrepresentation, which could overcome the entire agreement and non-reliance clauses in the franchise agreement.
Takeaways
- Despite finding against LBH, the court was persuaded by the argument put forward by LBH that there was an exclusive aspect to the grant of the Pitman franchise, despite an absence of the word “exclusive” in the grant of rights. Language used elsewhere in the franchise agreement certainly created an impression of exclusivity over the use of the brand and system in a dedicated area.
- Franchisors should review their grant of rights carefully (typically non-exclusive, sole or exclusive, or perhaps a franchisee right of first refusal), and ensure this is consistent throughout the franchise agreement, and reflected in all pre-contractual discussions and documents.
- If franchisors overlay geographical areas with “channels”, they need to take care over how their franchise agreements regulate exclusivity. The same applies if franchisors themselves sell goods or services into the same areas, perhaps via online sales, or in this case, white labelled goods or services.
4. Hunters Franchising Ltd v Brybond Ltd
Brybond, the master franchisee, had entered into a renewal regional master franchise agreement (MFA) in 2014 for the Hunters estate agency. The MFA included a development schedule requiring Brybond to meet certain development targets (appointing approved sub-franchisees) within its allocated territory, failing which Hunters could withdraw exclusivity.
When the time came for renewal of the MFA, it was not disputed that Brybond had failed to comply with the development targets.
However, Brybond argued in defence of the breach that Hunters did not act in good faith because it allowed a position to develop in which the only question Hunters asked or answered, when deciding whether to approve each of Brybond’s proposals for sub-franchisees, was whether an existing franchisee (who had reached a settlement with Hunters which affected the part of allocated territory in the MFA), would suffer under that proposal and Hunters did not allow itself to either measure that disadvantage objectively or to contrast it with the disadvantage to anyone else with whom it had legal relations by the rejection of that proposal.
In consequence, it was argued, Hunters did not use its power (or veto) to reject (or approve) proposals, for the purpose for which that power was granted, but, rather, used it for an ulterior purpose; either to favour the other franchisee or to put Brybond in breach of the MFA.
Counsel for Brybond abandoned the contention that there was a broader, more free-standing, implied duty of good faith in the 2014 MFA, but instead asked the judge to consider if Hunters had breached a Braganza implied term when exercising its contractual discretion to approve or disapprove a development proposal.
The court held there was no breach of the Braganza duty (an implied obligation in the absence of clear language to the contrary) either on grounds of irrationality or for an ulterior purpose. Hunters had a consistent policy relating to exclusivity and allocation of development opportunities, it did consider the impact of its decisions on the relevant franchisees and it dealt openly with Brybond, reminding Brybond of this policy, considering other proposals with an open mind, and suggested refinements to the proposals in question.
Takeaways
- The courts are unwilling to imply general duties of good faith, unless there is a clear contractual gap to address.
- The Braganza duty differs from a general implied duty of good faith and applies only to where one party is able to exercise discretion on a matter that affects both parties with differing interests.
- Franchisors should develop criteria for all matters requiring contractual consent (such as site/candidate approval, contract renewal, or approving a sale of business).
gordon.drakes@fieldfisher.com
www.fieldfisher.com
Posted: 4th March, 2024
Julie Clabby, founder of Busylizzy, the pregnancy and postnatal fitness franchise, has set her sights on getting more women to embrace an active lifestyle during the busiest phase of their lives. Here she explains why Busylizzy aims to empower women to undertake 150 minutes of physical activity per week.
Pregnancy and motherhood are transformative experiences that bring joy and fulfilment but also come with their set of challenges. One aspect that often takes a backseat is maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
However, a groundbreaking study by the Active Pregnancy Foundation in June 2023 revealed the crucial benefits of regular physical activity for pre and postnatal women. Recognising this need, Busylizzy has crafted specialised Pregnancy and Mum&Baby Programmes for its franchisee network.
Active Pregnancy Foundation findings
The study emphasised the importance of physical activity for both the physical and mental well-being of pre and postnatal women. Healthy pregnant and postnatal women were encouraged to accumulate 150 minutes of activity per week.
The benefits ranged from reducing the risk of complications such as pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes, to addressing issues like excessive weight gain, delivery complications, and postnatal depression. Moreover, babies of active mums experienced fewer complications, emphasising the holistic advantages of exercise during this crucial period.
Challenges faced
Despite the proven benefits of physical activity, many women find it challenging to incorporate exercise into their routine due to various reasons. Common obstacles include a lack of childcare, demanding work commitments, or apprehension about engaging in appropriate forms of exercise during pregnancy or the postnatal period.
The Busylizzy Pregnancy and Mum&Baby Programmes are designed to cater to the unique needs of women during these stages, ensuring a safe and effective fitness journey that a traditional gym cannot provide.
Pregnancy Programme
The Pregnancy Programme offered by Busylizzy franchisees seamlessly blends yoga and Pilates sessions with cardio and strength workouts, led by qualified pre and postnatal professionals.
These classes provide comprehensive care for every participant, whether at a local studio or through live Zoom sessions at home. This flexibility addresses the time constraints and concerns about participating in the correct forms of exercise, making it accessible for all.
Mum&Baby Programme
Transitioning into the Mum&Baby Programme, new parents receive dedicated support from six weeks postpartum onwards. Focused on pelvic floor health, gentle stretches to alleviate common postpartum discomforts, and inclusive strength and cardio sessions, these workouts cater to the unique needs of postnatal bodies.
The emphasis is not just on the mothers; the programme incorporates activities that engage the baby, making it a holistic and enjoyable experience for both.
Conclusion
Since 2011, Busylizzy’s commitment to the well-being of pre and postnatal women shines through and with our dedicated programmes, franchisees can offer even more tailored support to women during this special time.
By participating in our programmes, women can easily achieve the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week, all while enjoying quality time with their babies.
Empowering women to overcome common barriers to exercise, we offer a pathway to a healthier and more active lifestyle during pregnancy and beyond.
julie@busylizzy.co.uk
www.busylizzy.co.uk/franchise
Posted: 4th March, 2024
As the world welcomes the rejuvenating spirit of spring, Paris Baguette, the renowned bakery brand, embraces this season of growth with significant developments.
Following its successful expansion into the UK market, as detailed in previous issues of Franchise World, the brand is has announced the signing of three new franchise agreements. This marks a pivotal step in Paris Baguette’s strategic vision for European expansion.
The journey of Paris Baguette, which began with a dream to globalise unique baking techniques, has been a tale of continuous innovation and customer-centric approaches.
With over 4,000 stores worldwide, the brand’s commitment to quality and its fusion of French-inspired delicacies with local flavours have earned it an esteemed reputation across continents.
Evolving story
In the spring of 2024, Paris Baguette’s story continues to evolve. The three new franchise agreements signify not just the expansion of its physical footprint but also a growing trust in its business model and brand philosophy. This move is a testament to the brand’s robust franchise support system, comprehensive training, and innovative marketing strategies that have been instrumental in its global success.
Looking forward, Paris Baguette remains steadfast in its mission to bring its unique culinary experiences to more people. Its business model, focused on collaboration and support, offers potential franchisees a pathway to success.
The brand’s emphasis on community engagement and sustainability aligns with the values of modern consumers, making it an attractive venture for entrepreneurs.
As Paris Baguette steps into spring with new partnerships and plans for further expansion, it invites ambitious entrepreneurs to join its journey. The brand’s success story, highlighted by these new franchisees, is a beacon for those aspiring to be part of a global legacy that blends culinary artistry with business acumen.
Paris Baguette has a seasoned team of franchising experts supporting its UK expansion programme, including Tony Newnham, managing director of BPW Consultancy Ltd., and the well-known international franchise expert, Dr Mark Abell.
info@parisbaguette.uk
www.parisbaguette.uk
Posted: 4th March, 2024
The cruise specialist, GoCruise & Travel which is part of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd., has refreshed its franchise offering and launched a new prospectus for those looking for a new opportunity in travel selling.
Whether it’s embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage or staying in style at a luxury retreat, the vast array of trips bookable through GoCruise & Travel ensures that every type of dream holiday is taken care of.
As a cruise specialist, GoCruise & Travel works with some of the industry’s top names, so travellers planning their dream sailing will be sure to find one that ticks all the right boxes.
What’s more, a stress-free trip for clients is guaranteed, as GoCruise & Travel looks after every aspect of the holiday from start to finish, meaning that all travellers need to do is enjoy themselves.
And, for those keen to help holidaymakers plan everything from exciting city breaks to sun-soaked cruise trips, GoCruise & Travel has launched a new prospectus with three different training packages – perfect for both experienced travel sellers and those new to the industry.
About the franchise
The GoCruise & Travel Franchise, which is part of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd., comprises individual business owners who help clients find, organise and book their dream holiday. The franchisees also offer invaluable holiday advice, which is both independent and unbiased.
Thanks to the strong relationships GoCruise & Travel has with its trade partners, there are great holiday and cruise deals to be taken advantage of.
Members benefit from the network’s partnerships with leading cruise companies, including P&O Cruises, Azamara and Silversea Cruises, and can develop their industry knowledge and expertise with help from supportive colleagues across the business. Plus, travellers can rest easy knowing their holiday is ATOL and ABTA-protected.
Joining the team
The network of GoCruise & Travel franchisees stretches across the UK with more than 60 individuals booking getaways for their clients.
For those considering joining, there are three academy training options to choose from (costs are subject to VAT):
- The New to Travel package (£4,995) gets beginners up and running.
- The Returning to Travel option (£995) is perfect for those with some experience.
- The Experience in Travel route (£295) is for knowledgeable travel sellers who want to get to grips with the GoCruise & Travel way of working.
There’s a joining and small monthly fee that covers all the licensing you’ll require and the support you’ll benefit from.
Franchisees can even earn £80,000, or more, a year. Also, with GoCruise & Travel being part of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd., it’s possible to earn 100 per cent commission from in-house tour operator Fred. Holidays.
For more information about GoCruise & Travel Franchise opportunities, take a look at the new prospectus here or contact Colin Martin-Weekes, franchise general manager, on 07880 290 993 or colin@gocruiseandtravel.co.uk.
Posted: 4th March, 2024
The Co-op has launched its first Welsh franchised store to serve and support the Parc Derwen community of Bridgend, South Wales.
The convenience retailer operates approaching 40 franchise stores and says it is committed to growing its franchise model to bring its products and the benefits of Co-op membership to more communities.
The 2,700 sq ft Parc Derwen outlet includes an in-store bakery and Costa coffee alongside a focus on fresh, healthy products; meal ideas; everyday essentials; food-to-go; Fairtrade products, and free-from items including vegan and plant-based products.
Customers will also be able to order online for home delivery through Deliveroo – with groceries picked fresh in store to be delivered quickly and conveniently. A parcel collection service will be added following the launch.
Co-op’s iconic brand
Martin Rogers, director of partnership development at Co-op, said: “We are delighted to open our first franchise store in Wales. It is a tried and tested model, where our franchise partners utilise Co-op’s market leading convenience expertise to operate their own store under Co-op’s iconic brand – allowing us to bring Co-op products to more places, closer to where our member-owners and customers live and work.
“It is a channel we are focused on growing, as we work closely with partners of pedigree who share our values and principles in order to expand our franchise operation.”
Suresh Edirimuni, Parc Derwen joint franchisee with Ramesh Nadarajah, added: “We are delighted to launch and really looking forward to welcoming member-owners and customers. Our aim is to operate at the heart of local life, and we’ve worked to develop the range, choice and services to create a compelling offer to support our community.”
As one of the world’s largest consumer-owned co-operatives, the Co-op says its members own the business and play an intrinsic part in the governance of the organisation, enjoying a wide number of benefits including member-only pricing across everyday essentials and personalised offers through the Co-op Membership app.
Posted: 4th March, 2024
The Spring issue of Franchise World magazine features new franchises coming to the market and those reporting expanding networks. Take guidance from experts in the sector by reading the latest advisory articles and reading the news pages.
Fat Phill’s, the Amsterdam-based smash burger franchise brand, has announced it has entered into a franchise agreement with Auntie Anne’s UK master franchisee, Freshly Baked Ltd., to develop the brand across the UK.
The partnership has been co-ordinated by the London-based food franchise consultancy, Seeds Consulting, with an agreement for Freshly Baked to develop 100 locations over the next 10 years.
Fat Phill’s was founded by Armin Vahabian in 2019 and has since expanded to 17 locations across the Netherlands. The brand specialises in fresh to order smash burgers, American-style sandwiches and cheesesteak fries and says it has become the fastest growing burger brand in the country.
Comments
Vahabian commenting on the agreement said: “We are excited about partnering with Freshly Baked. Their track-record as a master franchisee for Auntie Anne’s speaks for itself: they are structured to roll out and have a deep understanding of our sector and the franchise relationship.”
Matteo Frigeri, director at Seeds Consulting, added: “Fat Phill’s is not just a great restaurant concept; it works equally well as a franchise. It has delivered a competitive ROI and growth for all its current franchise partners, most of which are opening already their second or third location.”
Max Burton, managing director of Freshly Baked Ltd., said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Armin and his team in Holland. Initially we are focussing on opening three stores between 1,000 sq. ft. and 1,800 sq. ft, more likely to be in Greater London high streets with stores being centrally located within busy conurbations.
“What attracted us to Fat Phill’s is the quality of their smash burgers and associated offers, their modern shop fit design and attention to detail from the franchisor.”
Freshly Baked Ltd. operates 38 Auntie Anne’s locations in the UK. Last year it agreed to renew its master franchise agreement with the U.S.-based Focus Brands for a further 10 years, to more than double its UK estate of pretzel stores.
matteo@seeds-consulting.co.uk
max@auntieannes.co.uk
Posted: 21st January, 2024
Greensleeves is celebrating its fourth consecutive year of growth across its UK network of over 100 locations. With an 11 per cent increase in turnover compared to last year, the franchisor says its expanded network with eight new franchisees in 2023, proves its outdoor franchise is a ‘number one lawn treatment provider’ with over 80,000 customers.
Cheryl Harper, managing director of Greensleeves, said: “2023 has been a hugely successful and eventful year as we continue to develop the brand across the UK. As well as celebrating our 25th anniversary in May, we have consistently grown our business for four years in a row, which is remarkable and demonstrates the robustness of our brand during such economically and politically challenging times.
“We have always prided ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and for a home service franchise, it’s essential to securing repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals. We received over 8,500 reviews on Trustpilot, of which 97 per cent were rated great or excellent, and as a result have increased our score to 4.8/5.
“As a commitment to providing the very best customer service, we have also expanded our head office team with six new appointments. Together, they are committed to equipping and supporting the franchisees with the right tools to run their businesses effectively and efficiently.”
Harper was appointed Greensleeves’ managing director this year, which the company sees as being instrumental in steering the 25-year-old franchise to become a leading player in the horticulture industry.
Harper continued: “I’m extremely proud of all the key milestones we have achieved this year and to have such a steadfast network of franchisees who are all making an impact in their local communities. Being part of the Neighbourly UK family has also been a really positive move for the network, and we are now able to collaborate closely with the other five home service brands.”
Building on the success of this year, Greensleeves has ambitious growth plans for 2024 and will be looking to expand the network with up to 10 new franchisees with exciting new developments to kick-start the new year.
www.greensleevesfranchise.co.uk
Posted: 19th December, 2023
Greggs, the UK food-on-the-go retailer, reports a significant milestone for its franchise model as the 500th franchised shop opens in Monktonhall, East Lothian, Scotland, with its franchise partner and forecourt operator the Motor Fuel Group (MFG).
This year Greggs opened 71 franchised units, which now account for approximately 20 per cent of its total estate. The company says it has a legacy of fostering strong and long-standing relationships with some of the UK’s largest franchise partners and forecourt operators.
Greggs currently works with 16 franchise partners across the UK who play an important role in providing the brand with access to restricted locations such as motorway services areas, petrol filling stations, educational establishments and smaller high street convenience locations.
Through its partnership with MFG, Greggs has a network of 84 shops, many of which are positioned in roadside locations and retail parks, enabling Greggs to cater to customers on-the-go.
‘A huge milestone’
Malcolm Copland, commercial director at Greggs said: “Just one year since we marked our 400th franchise, we’re now delighted to open our 500th – this is a huge milestone that underscores the success of our franchise model. As we round off 2023, we’re pleased to be well on track to meet our ambitious shop expansion targets for the year ahead.
“The relationships we’ve built over the years with our valued franchise partners have been critical in enabling us to accelerate our shop expansion plans, reach key travel hub locations across the UK and enhance even greater accessibility for our customers.”
Greggs has more than 2,300 shops nationwide and approximately 28,000 employees. Its shops specialise in daily fresh shop-made sandwiches, and savouries baked in the shop throughout the day. These are complemented by additional ranges, including breakfasts, vegan options, low calorie products, and an evening menu.
Supporting communities
Greggs was founded in 1939 by John Gregg, who delivered fresh eggs and yeast by pushbike, to families around Newcastle. The ethos of Greggs has always been doing the right thing by its people, partners and the communities it serves. In the 60s it launched its first free ‘pie n peas supper’ for older residents in Gateshead which still runs today. And in 1999 it launched Greggs Breakfast Club to offer schoolchildren free breakfast each school day and it now supports over 50,000 children through 800 clubs.
These initiatives, along with others, are supported through the Greggs Foundation, a grant-making charity that aims to build stronger and healthier communities in the areas it operates.
https://corporate.greggs.co.uk/faqs
Posted: 18th December, 2023
The BFA (British Franchise Association) has announced the founder and Chair of children’s swimming franchise Water Babies, Paul Thompson, as the new Chair of the BFA. Thompson joined the BFA board in 2018 and has served as the Deputy Chair for the last 12 months.
Thompson founded water babies in 2002. He quickly built his business into a multi-award-winning franchise with 80 franchisees, covering over 60 territories across the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, Germany, Canada and China.
In 2022 Water Babies received the Investors in People Platinum Award, and this year became a Certified B Corporation. Water Babies is now the world’s largest baby swim school teaching more than 47,000 babies to swim every week.
Commenting on his new appointment, Thompson said: “It goes without saying that I am a huge advocate of the BFA and the work it does in promoting the highest standards of professional franchising.
“I am honoured and humbled to have been asked to be the Chair of our industry’s representative body and I am excited to play my part in the continued growth of the BFA. I would like to thank Ken Deary for his excellent tenure over the last two years and I will of course aim to continue his good work.”
Reflecting on his tenure, outgoing Chair Ken Deary QFP, FCCA, the owner and chairman of domiciliary care franchise Right at Home UK said: “It has been an absolute honour to Chair the BFA for the last two years. The BFA performs a fantastic role promoting ethical franchising and best practice amongst an array of franchising brands, across a number of very diverse sectors and to have been the Chair of our trade association has been something I will always value with true pride.”
Deary added: “I am pleased to remain a BFA board member and represent the BFA on the European Franchise Federation and look forward to working with Paul who I believe will be a skilled, safe pair of hands, to continue to guide the BFA from strength to strength.”
Pip Wilkins, chief executive officer of the BFA concluded: “Under Ken’s tenure the BFA has weathered the storms of the tail end of Covid and the current economic crisis the country finds itself in. He has at all times been a rock in stormy seas and I would like to thank him for his support and guidance to me, the board and the association over the last two years. We welcome Paul as our new Chair, eager to see what his extraordinary success in the franchise sector will bring to the role.”
Posted: 14th December, 2023