Nearly 30 franchisees have been shortlisted for the 2012 bfa HSBC Franchisee of the Year awards – after judges struggled to choose from the high calibre of entries.
The annual industry awards, which are supported by Express Newspapers, will this year see 28 semi-finalists fight it out for a place in the final.
Two additional franchisees from London and the south east are celebrating their success, after they were selected in addition to the region’s allocation of five entrants. The south west and south Wales will also have an additional entrant representing the region in the semifinal.
The semi-finalists include three chiefs of McDonalds franchises, two franchisees of the pre-school music class chain Jo Jingles, and a milkman for Dairy Crest.
They will all now proceed to a second round of judging at the end of the month, which will see up to three finalists selected from each region, to be interviewed by the judging panel in mid-August.
The overall winners of the bronze, silver and gold awards will be announced at a black tie gala in October.
Cathryn Hayes, head of franchising at HSBC, said: “I think we are going to have a challenge ahead of us, with so many inspirational and passionate individuals at this semi-finalist stage….reflecting the rich vein of talent and determination that empowers the franchise industry.”
Sean Hammond, head of franchising at Express Newspapers, added: “The successes of these franchisees are the products of their own dedication, customer care and professionalism. However, this sits on top of a solid foundation of ethical franchising from their franchisors. This collaboration is a powerful combination and these franchisees are a testament to what can be achieved.”