Ashtons’ Partner helps choose Franchisor of the Year

Ashtons’ Partner Damian Humphrey was recently involved in the judging process at the esteemed British Franchise Association’s Franchise Awards 2017.

A total of 12 franchisors and franchisees were crowned as winners of the bfa HSBC Franchise Awards 2017 which was held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Birmingham.  Approximately 350 people attended the two day conference which finished with the glitzy awards ceremony on the final night.

Homecare provider, Bluebird Care was named Franchisor of the Year, while Hannah Drury from Caremark Sutton was awarded Franchisee of the Year after being voted for on the night by the audience.

The winners range from up and coming smaller businesses to larger well-known brands and come from multiple sectors including swim schools, logistics, homecare, children’s craft events, fast food retail and home improvement.

After being shortlisted as finalists, each business had to present to a panel of judges headed up by Brian Smart, Director International, Europe of the bfa. Alongside Damian Humphrey from Ashtons, the panel included Pip Wilkins (CEO of the bfa), Andrew Brattesani (UK Head of Franchising from HSBC), Neil Foster (EKW) and Julie Waites (The Franchising Company).