Thinking of starting your own business? Now is the time!

Franchising in the UK is best showcased at events such as The British & International Franchise Exhibition, supported by the British Franchise Association (bfa), where thousands of prospective franchisees will come to find a new career. Essential for anyone interested in franchising, whether they are new to the concept or preparing to finalise agreements, the exhibition enables people to source practical ideas for businesses, and information and advice on the realities of franchising.

An ideal starting point for entering the UK franchise market, the international event features solicitors, bank representatives, bfa members, business advisors, franchisees and franchisors with knowledge on all elements of franchising. 'We expect increased interest in franchising this year as people learn how successful franchises are,' says David Tuck, Franchise Sales Manager at Venture Marketing Group, organisers of The British & International Franchise Exhibition. 'The Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) - which was recently introduced by the Government to help banks fund small and medium size businesses - will also contribute to expanding the industry, so the exhibition is expected to be packed with people ready to buy,'

The exhibition boasts a diverse range of exhibitors including McDonald's, Cash Generator, Money Logic and Snappy Snaps. Countless sectors will be represented at the event, including many recession-resistant industries such as food and beverage and automotive repair. The British & International Franchise Exhibition showcases ideas to suit virtually every interest and type of skill, making it London's 'must-attend' event for aspiring business owners.

A host of initiatives will include The Franchise Starting Point, Find Your Franchise Zone, Franchisee Panel and International Zone, and offer specialised areas for particular interests, demographics and knowledge levels. In a new move, the International Zone will be an exclusive invitation-only area for VIPs and foreign investors. Subway, Laatutakuu and Expense Reduction Analysts are amongst the list of international franchises to attend.

London's only British Franchise Association (bfa) supported event, The British & International Franchise Exhibition boasts a series of renowned free seminars. Hosted by both the bfa and franchise exhibitors, topics include The Essential Guide to Choosing a Franchise, Is Your Business Ready to be Franchised?, An In-Depth Look at Franchising and An Introduction to Business Format Franchising. The seminars provide the perfect starting point for anyone wanting to find out more about becoming a franchise owner or franchisor and are presented by leading speakers from the UK franchise industry.

Reported by Mel Wilson reports