The bfa hosted a series of specialist roundtable discussions on 19 July for new and established franchisors alike to share their experiences in small, relaxed group settings. Groups of between seven and ten franchisor and affiliate members held court on a variety of subjects, with the informal and limited-numbers format lending itself perfectly to highly informative, engaging and lively exchanges of ideas. 

With a vast wealth of knowledge around the tables during discussions, which were chaired by franchisors and affiliates with expertise in each particular topic, it was an invaluable opportunity for franchisors to gain insight into the business practices of their peers and pick up useful hints and tips. Subjects covered included franchisee profiling, recruitment and support; local marketing; and the development of online tools.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with newer franchisors praising the open and informative concept and the generous time available to discuss a range of subjects important to, or worrying, them. Those with more years in the industry commented on the ability to discover new ideas and gain fresh understanding by sharing their experiences with fellow franchisors. Affiliates were able to add to their knowledge of franchising, and the event also awarded delegates 250 points towards their QFP qualification.

Mark Rozier, franchise development manager for Concentric Lettings, said: “I haven’t attended a roundtable event before and felt this was a great way for members to share best working practices within our respective groups. Members were generally open and congruent which is always the best policy...we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and look forward to future events.”

Following a full day of talking shop, proceedings took on an altogether different tone when the evening’s entertainment at Warwick Castle began, and all thoughts of work were firmly put aside...following a champagne reception came the Kingmaker experience, hosted by an authentic medieval troupe, featuring the sights and sounds of battle and a stunning tour of parts of the historic castle. Dinner took the form of a plentiful banquet-style offering, with free-flowing drinks and entertainment including table magic, traditional music and the ‘option’ of being taken up on stage to participate in fun and games! (Pictures available on request...!) Merriment lasted well into the evening and beyond, and was the perfect complement to the day’s hard work.

The bfa extends its warm thanks to those chairing the day’s discussions: Nathan Siekierski of Jasper’s Catering; Andy McCarroll from Designate; Suzie McCafferty of Platinum Wave; Simon Bartholomew of Oscar Pet Foods; Paul Monaghan from The Franchise Training Centre; and Sally Lawson of Concentric Lettings.

We hope to announce further bfa roundtable discussions soon following the tremendous success of this event.