Driver Hire is up for two awards at this year’s BFA HSBC British Franchise Awards. It’s been shortlisted for ‘Franchisor of the Year’ – the top overall award. In addition, Connor Ferguson, owner of Driver Hire Plymouth, is a finalist in the ‘Next Generation’ award category, which celebrates the achievements of franchisees aged 30 and under.
Founded in 1977, the British Franchise Association (BFA) is a self-regulating governing body, formed to accredit and promote franchise systems that meet strict ethical and business criteria.
Known as the ‘Oscars’ of the franchising industry, the awards evening takes place on 9th November in Birmingham. It’s the flagship event in the franchising calendar.
Driver Hire will be battling it out against five other franchise brands to take home the coveted ‘Franchisor of the Year’ accolade. Connor (pictured) is up against two other young franchisees in his ‘Next Generation’ category.
Commenting on the announcement, Graham Duckworth, Driver Hire’s Franchise Sales Director said: “Becoming a finalist is recognition of strong ethical franchising credentials and a commitment to franchising. It serves as a marker of success for both franchisors and franchisees. It proves the business is working in a structured and well-balanced way, serving the best interests of franchisees and consumers.”
Pip Wilkins, Chief Executive of the BFA said: “We would like to offer our enormous congratulations to all this year’s finalists. We received a huge amount of entries, and it was wonderful to read of all the amazing work being done in the UK franchising sector. We applaud our finalists for their enthusiasm, dedication and tenacity and for continuing to uphold the highest standards of the association.”
UK Head of Franchise, Commercial Banking at sponsors HSBC Bank Gillian Morris said: “Shortlisting candidates for the HSBC bfa Awards is one of the toughest challenges of the year, once more the candidates were a very high standard, and it was very tough to shortlist just a few entries. I was really impressed at the diversity of entries across brands and sectors, which is a great testament of the strength and reach of the franchise industry. I am looking forward to meeting the finalists and wish them all luck!”
Winners will be announced at a gala black-tie event following the BFA’s annual conference on 9th November 2023.