Shaw opened her first Subway store in Thornton Heath, South London, in September 2007, and thanks to her wealth of industry experience combined with her entrepreneurial spirit and hard work ethic, she has seen the business go from strength to strength. She now owns another store in West Wickham and between the two stores employs 14 full and part-time staff.

Now in its 25th year, the British Franchise Association awards celebrate stories of business excellence across the length and breadth of the UK, showcasing the hard work and dedication of individuals creating the headlines with their inspirational and exceptional achievements. The Female Franchisee of the Year award was presented to Rachel in recognition of her commitment and drive, acknowledging her passion and skills that enable her to stand out of the crowd.

Shaw, commented: “I am thrilled to have been awarded the British Franchise Association’s Female Franchisee of the Year. I love my job and have a great team of people working with me across both stores. It is an honour to have been recognised for our hard work and success in this way. I would like to thank the Subway brand Development Agents who have empowered me through their fantastic support and guidance over the years. After an incredible evening of celebrations, I am now looking forward to seeing my family and three sons who are all very proud!”

Mike Charest, Assistant Regional Director for the Subway brand in Europe, said: “We are delighted that Rachel has received this esteemed award from the British Franchise Association. She is a very enthusiastic and knowledgeable franchisee - she has a great deal of experience in the Quick Service Restaurant industry and has demonstrated that she is a tremendous advocate for the Subway brand. She has developed excellent relationships in her local business community and ensures her two stores are well-managed, profitable and provide a great experience for her customers. She is very deserving of the Female Franchisee of the Year title!”

Elvira Lautenschlager, Executive Assistant for the Subway brand’s Development Agents, who accompanied Rachel to the awards ceremony, added: “Rachel is a fantastic mentor for prospective and new Subway franchisees in the London area. She dedicates time to spend with individuals, helping to answer their questions and offer her advice, based on her experiences with the Subway brand.

“Her two stores in Thornton Heath and West Wickham are very well run and she employs a great team, who ensure that customer service is their top priority. Rachel is very well known in her local community and is always happy to help out, she’s an exemplary franchisee and the recognition she has received from the British Franchise Association is very well deserved.”

Published: 9 October 2014

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