Racial & Cultural Insights

On 18th January 2024, we proudly presented our third DE&I Insight session, sponsored by McDonald’s Restaurants, focusing on the crucial topics of race and cultural equality within UK business. The session, hosted by BFA CEO Pip Wilkins QFP, featured a panel of franchising luminaries: Farrah Rose QFP (Director of International Development at The Franchising Centre), Amrit Dhaliwal QFP (CEO of Walfinch), and John Kiely MBE (McDonald’s Franchisee).

This insightful discussion explored practical strategies and initiatives aimed at fostering diversity, touching upon key areas such as the role of mentorship, leveraging positive marketing to highlight success stories, and the continuous pursuit of education. Emphasising the journey toward equality, the panel stressed the significance of ongoing improvement and the positive influence that personalised praise from leaders can have.

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Pip Wilkins QFP

What Pip doesn’t know about franchising probably isn’t worth knowing! With 25 years’ experience in the franchise sector, her career has been focused on the BFA and she now leads one of the most successful franchise associations in the world.

Farrah Rose

Farrah has unrivalled experience in international franchising and has been operating in this field since 1984. As a multi-award winning consultant, she has worked tirelessly to transform franchising as we know it to become a leading voice for women and minorities in the industry.

Amrit Dhaliwal

Amrit Dhaliwal brings together his commitment to care with a focus on delivering enhanced quality of service for clients across the UK. His care sector skills and experience as both a leader in care and as an award-winning businessman as CEO of Walfinch, support a network of franchised Walfinch home-based care offices across the UK.

John Kiely MBE

John owns 7 McDonald’s Restaurants in Coventry. John employs over 800 people and is proud to be one of the largest employers of young people in Coventry. Prior to franchising John worked in banking, telemarketing and in the construction industry. In 2021, John was awarded an MBE for Services to the City of Coventry.

Key Takeaways

Leadership and Cultural Change

The importance of leaders taking a proactive role in promoting diversity and inclusion within their organisations. The idea that leading by example and initiating cultural change can drive positive outcomes.

Recruitment and Inclusivity

Emphasising the need for fair and open recruitment processes that welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds. Discussing the importance of removing barriers and creating an inclusive environment from the start.

Addressing Racism and Ignorance

Delving into the challenges of dealing with instances of racism and ignorance in the workplace. Advocating for a zero-tolerance policy while also recognising the role of education in addressing ignorance.

Integration and Harmony

Exploring the delicate balance between individuals choosing to integrate into a new culture and the responsibility to add value to the community. Identifying the importance of harmony and mutual respect in diverse communities.

Success Stories and Positive Practices

Highlighting the success stories of businesses that have embraced diversity and inclusion. Encouraging the sharing of positive practices to inspire others and create a more inclusive business landscape.

Cultural Sensitivity

Accepting the significance of language and communication in creating a safe and inclusive environment. Addressing the challenge of different cultural groups sticking to themselves and promoting strategies for breaking down barriers.

Recognition and Celebration

Highlighting the need to recognise and celebrate the successes of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Acknowledging the positive impact that diversity can have on businesses, families, and communities.