The British Franchise Association’s (bfa’s) flagship annual awards ceremony has now opened for entries.

The awards, sponsored by HSBC, comprise three key categories – Franchisor of the Year, Brand Builder of the Year, and the Franchisee Support Award.

Finalists in each of the three categories will be invited to attend an interview with the bfa’s judging panel on May 15-16, before the overall winners are announced at a gala dinner on June 21.

Brian Smart, the bfa’s director general, said: “Each year the awards uncover the most remarkable success stories in franchising and the extraordinary people that drive these businesses, large and small, to greatness.

“The winners set high standards to inspire and motivate others across the UK to employ fresh and effective ways to achieve business success.”

Existing bfa members will receive entry forms in the post, and additional entry forms can be downloaded from www.thebfa.org . For more information about franchising, visit our franchising channel