Launch date confirmed for The UK Franchise Directory

The new and improved 22nd edition of The UK Franchise Directory launches at The British & International Franchise Exhibition at Olympia, London (20th-21st March). With over 1,350 UK and Irish franchisors listed, such as McDonald's, Subway, Cash Generator and ChipsAway to name a few, and advice and guidance features from industry professionals, The UK Franchise Directory is a must read for anybody considering franchising.

Over the last 10 years, franchising has grown in popularity and stature as more people realise the benefits of investing in a franchise, namely a more successful and stable way to start your own business while avoiding the common pitfalls associated with self-employment. Data collected by the Natwest/British Franchise Association (bfa) 2008 Franchise Survey has found that nine out of 10 franchise owners operate a profitable business and 25 per cent of those turn over £500,000 or more. These high success rates coupled with the growing number of people being made redundant nationwide has had a positive effect on the franchise industry with more people taking the plunge and becoming their own boss.

Franchising encompasses a broad range of industries and business types and with so much choice and information available it can be quite daunting to know where to start. This is why The UK Franchise Directory is packed with expert advice and guidance to help prospective franchise owners begin an exciting journey into the world of franchising.

Publisher Professor Roy Seaman CFE says: 'The UK Franchise Directory is the most trusted resource for serious prospective franchise owners in the UK and has been responsible for many franchise purchases since the first edition back in 1981. The aim of this publication is to educate prospective franchise owners on the wide range of opportunities available to help them find the right franchise to suit their skills, financial ability and future aspirations.'

The new directory commences with a foreword from the President of the bfa Sir Bernard Ingham and includes a comprehensive advice and guidance section for prospective franchise owners and franchisors written by banks, lawyers and bfa-affiliated franchise consultants. New additions to this year's directory include the product and service buyer's guide to the franchise sector and a Master Franchise Showcase.

By listing every franchisor, this directory is a starting point for everyone wishing to research available opportunities within the franchise industry. The directory will list franchise opportunities in the UK and the world at large alphabetically and in their business category in an easy to find format. Irish franchises are once again included in what will be a more complete list and there will also be information on this year's franchise exhibitions in the UK and throughout the world.

Reported by Richard Chatten