Multi-unit Franchise Conference programme revealed
Specialist conference opens the door to the rewards of multi-unit franchising
Ambitious entrepreneurs will gather at the Multi-unit Franchise Conference at Birmingham’s NEC on 5 October 2018 to explore the lucrative world of multi-unit franchising.
According to the British Franchise Association (bfa), nearly 30% of UK franchise units are owned by multi-unit franchisees. The statistics point to this to being a rewarding strategy, with a higher percentage of multi-unit franchises counting themselves as profitable or very profitable than single unit operators.1
Sponsored by HSBC, the Multi-unit Franchise Conference is designed to support existing franchisees who are ready to expand their portfolio, or those with the vision and funds to invest in multiple units from the outset.
The carefully crafted conference programme combines presentations exploring best practice and opportunities to build valuable connections.
Whether aiming to take on several units with the same franchise brand, or hoping to diversify into a new market, delegates will benefit from the expertise of keynote speaker Chris Holmes, Chief Development Officer at KFC.
During his presentation, The strength of the partnership, Chris will offer insights into what makes a successful relationship between a brand and its franchisees, and how multi-unit franchising can leverage this partnership to its maximum potential.
Mark Fox, Chief Executive at Roadchef, will share advice drawn from his years working as a franchisor and, now, as a multi-unit franchisee responsible for a portfolio of 178 franchises across 30 sites with an annual turnover of around £200m. Roadchef works with brands including McDonald’s, Costa Coffee, WH Smith, Chozen Noodle and Days Inn.
Mark will reveal critical areas for consideration when deciding which brand or brands to grow a portfolio of franchise businesses with during his session entitled Growing an international brand in the UK. He comments:
“Having worked as both franchisor and franchisee, I look forward to sharing some of my insights from both sides of the fence with the audience to help them think about what factors might be important when considering a partnership with any brand. In particular, I’ll seek to reveal some of the nuances of working with an international name and product range.”
Following Mark’s presentation, delegates will enjoy roundtable discussions focussed on three challenges commonly faced by multi-unit operators: Managing underperforming units, using technology to assist expansion, and managing multiple franchisor relationships. As well as providing an added chance to build a useful network of contacts, participants will receive a post-event report summarising the best practice shared during these sessions.
A panel discussion among dynamic young multi-unit franchisees will seek to inspire the next generation of multi-unit operators. Panellists include the bfa HSBC Young Franchisee of the Year 2018, Almas Adam. As a franchisee of Right at Home, CeX, DumDum and Wrapchic, Almas is well-placed to contribute. He says:
“My journey from owning one Right at Home franchise, to expanding and diversifying with new brands and sectors, was a natural evolution. Once you experience success with one franchise, it makes obvious sense to replicate the process.
“I look forward to sharing my experience and comparing notes with fellow young entrepreneurs and franchisees. I see the event as a learning opportunity where we and the delegates can network and explore new opportunities for diversification.”
Andrew Bratessani, HSBC’s UK Head of Franchising, comments: “Multi-unit franchising is a reflection of the advantages that the franchise model offers – support, scalability, profitability and success.
“There is a wealth of experience and knowledge among already operational multi-unit franchise holders and I’m delighted that HSBC will sponsor an event which will offer access to this know-how. The event will nurture further progress and growth among existing and prospective multi-unit franchisees alike.”
The National Franchise Exhibition offers a showcase of more than a hundred bfa-accredited franchise brands. Conference delegates can take advantage of an optional Facilitated Meetings service to connect with leading brands. On request, the event’s complimentary and personalised PA service will arrange and co-ordinate meetings between delegates and the exhibiting brands of their choice.
Tracy Shah, Director at Venture Marketing Group, organisers of the conference, summarises:
“The Multi-unit Franchise Conference brings together the expertise and inspiration to support delegates with their expansion plans. In addition, those spurred into action will enjoy the added benefit of having on-site access to key members of national and international exhibiting brands.”
Places are limited at this exclusive conference, and those wishing to attend should book by 14 September to benefit from an early bird rate of just £35+vat (£115+vat thereafter).
View the full conference programme here
To secure a place, please call 020 8394 5223 or email Anna.Booth@vmgl.com
1 Source: bfa/NatWest Franchise Survey 2015
