The world paid tribute to one of the UK's top business role models and one of franchising's most famous founders in September. Dame Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop, passed away on 10th September.

Dame Anita opened her first store in 1976, and by 1978 she was franchising the concept - including at her first international location in Brussels. The Body Shop's early success and fast growth was achieved by following the franchise route, which also enabled its founder to spread her philosophies and causes through enthusiastic franchisee store owners. In the 1990s The Body Shop moved away from its franchise strategy in the UK, but it continues to grant franchise licences internationally (famously receiving 2,500 applications in one year when it launched in the USA). Dame Anita also adapted the franchise model to help establish The Big Issue in 1990, which awards territories to distributors who keep their own profits.

With franchising set to take a place on the national agenda through National Franchise Week (previewed on page 186), Dame Anita's passing robs franchising of one of its most charismatic ambassadors. However, with over 1,000 companies offering franchise opportunities across the UK, the choice and range of franchises available has never been more attractive. The Franchise Magazine's publishers are launching a new initiative through www.TheUKFranchise Directory.net, providing free information on every known franchise in the UK (see page 222). Add it to your bookmarks today to make sure your own research is as comprehensive as possible.