100 of the best – the franchise industry comes together to celebrate
On Thursday 16th March, franchisors from across the nation gathered for a glittering awards gala at The Tower Hotel, London, to celebrate being named one of the UK’s top 100 franchise brands. Now entering its seventh year, the Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100), in association with HSBC, recognises the industry’s brightest franchises – from long-standing brands to new start-ups paving the way.
The EF100 ranks those who have performed outstandingly based on no less than eight criteria, including the mentoring and ongoing support of their franchisees, their position in the marketplace and prospective growth targets in the next financial year. Entrants this year were also judged on the business plans they have put in place to ensure the current economic instability and lingering impacts of the pandemic do not hinder the growth of their business.
To place first on the acclaimed list is an achievement sought by many. This year, Snap-on Tools has taken the top spot - this being the sixth consecutive year the franchise has ranked in the top 10 of the EF100. National Franchise Manager Lisa Law said, “We’re incredibly proud of our team and franchisees who have made this win possible. The dedication to selling, fantastic customer relationship skills and genuine self-motivation our franchisees possess are what sets them apart.”
In addition to celebrating the UK’s top 100 brands, the event was an opportunity for several stand-out awards to be presented. Scooping the HSBC Exceptional Performance Award was homecare provider Right at Home, with the Innovation of the Year Award, sponsored by BusinessesForSale.com, being going to kitchen makeover franchise Dream Doors for its outstanding marketing and technology. Thanks to their fresh ideas as the enter the world of franchising, the Emerging Franchisor of the Year went to Pass the Keys.
“This year, franchises were evaluated on their ability to proactively tackle current issues. As always, we were astonished by the productive and progressive outlook of these businesses,” said Scott English, Brand Director of Elite Franchise. “Every year the ranking becomes more competitive, and this year has been no exception. From hundreds of entries, the list showcases franchises that have continued to provide exemplary services or products alongside substantial support to their networks of franchisees. The franchises on this list have truly impressed us with their innovative ideas and positive mindsets – they deserve huge congratulations.”
The highest climber since last year’s list is Puddle Ducks - from 44 in 2022 to 20 in 2023 - with the highest new entrant being The Travel Franchise at position 17. In addition to celebrating the best in the industry, the EF100 acts as a guide for anyone considering buying a franchise. With every year, the list provides an array of exciting opportunities for budding entrepreneurs, showcasing the very best Britain has to offer.
Anita Roberts, Franchise Director at HSBC UK and one of the 24 franchising specialist judges this year, added, “The EF100 event is the perfect opportunity to bring together the best in UK franchising. As with every year, I’m very proud to be a part of the event, celebrating the franchises which have shown fantastic resilience and tenacity during the demanding economic environment. The way in which franchisors and franchisees have united to formulate new mechanisms for growth is nothing short of remarkable.”
The EF100 2024 list will be open for entry in August later this year. To view the full EF100 2023 league table, visit http://elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk/ef-100/ef100-2023