Essential conference for franchisees with ambitions of expansion

Entrepreneurs will uncover the secrets to success with multi-unit franchising and build valuable industry connections at the Multi-unit Franchise Conference on 31 January at Olympia London.

Thanks to the formula for success which franchising offers, 93% of franchisees reported profitability in 2018. It’s therefore understandable that around one in three franchisees choose to build on this success by expanding into further franchise units. While the rewards of multi-unit franchising can be considerable, operating numerous businesses – sometimes across more than one brand or industry – generates some unique considerations.

The Multi-unit Franchise Conference is designed to educate existing franchisees and high-level investors on the distinct strategies for investing in and operating thriving portfolios of franchises.

In a carefully curated programme of presentations, panel discussions and workshops, a goldmine of expertise will be shared by accomplished multi-unit franchisees and senior members of well-known brands.

A highlight on the running order will be Richard Dening-Smitherman, Chief Operating Officer of Burger King UK. Richard has over 15-years food and beverage experience leading world-class international food operations. Today he is responsible for over 500 franchised and company-owned Burger King restaurants.

Richard will open the conference with his keynote: ‘A Whopper story: the future of Burger King UK’. As well as outlining Burger King’s plans for the brand’s future, Richard will explain the evolving relationship between the company and its franchisees.

He comments:

“As an iconic and heritage food brand, Burger King is at an exciting juncture. We’re reigniting a connection with something that’s endured for over 60 years and that is still relevant in the marketplace and people’s lives.

“Our franchisees are central to our growth and we’re proud to be working in partnership with our third generation and new franchisees alike to build and deliver our vision.

“I very much look forward to sharing what that vision looks and feels like with delegates at the conference, and to connecting with experienced franchisees who would share our passion and excitement for Burger King’s story and plans for growth.”

The conference welcomes back inspirational young entrepreneur Safwan Adam as he participates in a panel discussion: ‘Finding the perfect fit: how to choose the right franchise brand to add to your portfolio’.

Acquiring his first franchise, CeX, at just 25, Safwan now runs a multi-unit company encompassing multiple brands. He will join Shakeel Jivraj whose family portfolio of Pizza Hut stores reached 23 units at their largest and most successful stage (2017-18).

Over the past 12 months, Shakeel has been investigating diversification into other industries and brands, reflected in a recent investment in fitness brand 9Rounds.

Drawing on their own experiences, Safwan, Shakeel and two Vodafone franchisees will share their top considerations when selecting another investment.

Providing inspiration, award-wining motivational speaker and leadership coach Brad Shackleton will share five key tactics to help business owners drive their ventures forward in 2020.

Richard Dening-Smitherman will return to the stage with a panel of franchisors, including Phil Gaffer, Franchise Sales & Business Development Manager at Papa John's and Colin Hughes, Country Director for the UK & Ireland at Subway. A candid discussion is sure to ensue on the topic: ‘Myth busting: what high street trends and online growth really mean for franchising’.

The group will examine the real picture behind the headlines and share examples of how the franchise sector is evolving and adapting to ensure long-term security for franchisees.

A 45-minute networking lunch then follows, offering one of the many opportunities throughout the day to forge useful connections in the industry.

Creating a further chance to engage with peers, an interactive workshop will be run by The Franchisee Network. In this session delegates will gain essential tactics and strategies to implement in their business and will make valuable links with fellow franchisees.

Topics will include: Creating a stable workforce, driving sales growth, and fostering essential business skills within organisations.

Networking drinks conclude the day and provide the chance to continue conversations and further establish fruitful relationships.

Tracy Shah, Director at Venture Marketing Group who organise the conference, comments:

“The Multi-unit Franchise Conference has quickly established itself as the must-attend event for new and veteran multi-unit franchisees.

“It cultivates knowledge-sharing and networking which nourish plans for expansion in the lucrative franchise sector. We look forward to welcoming delegates and equipping them with the ideas and connections to progress their ambitions.”

Places are strictly limited at this exclusive conference. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to book by 24 January to secure a seat and to take advantage of the early bird discounted rate of £35 plus VAT.

For more information on all aspects of the event please visit www.franchiseinfo.co.uk/muc-2020

Published: 23 January 2020

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