It’s certainly been a busy old year for Barking Mad, the dog-boarding franchise. Not only did the company celebrate its 16th anniversary but it was also acquired by Franchise Brands in November. And now it’s rounded off 2016 with a huge win at the Growing Business Awards.
Being chosen as a finalist out of a selection of 500 trailblazing entrepreneurs who were also nominated is certainly impressive in itself. But to then go on and win the award for best Micro Business of the Year is certainly something to write home about. It’s an especially big achievement considering that the company faced off other talented finalists such as baby-swimming franchise Turtle Tots.
In a joint statement, the judges’ praised” the Barking Mad team had “demonstrated stand out passion and enthusiasm for the marketplace they have all but created.””
The Growing Business Awards are created by the business publication Real Business is sponsored by Amazon and supported by the CBI, the non-profit organisation championing British businesses in order to recognize SME and entrepreneurial success.”
Commenting on the win, Lee Dancy, founder and managing director at Barking Mad, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to go from putting up a poster in 2000 asking for a dog-sitter, to standing here tonight with the accolade of Micro Business of the Year, for our leading dog-sitting business.” She also said she was looking forward to celebrating with her team, especially the office dog Lotti.
We have a feeling Lotti won’t be the only one wagging her tail in the office today. 
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
Eric Johansson
As web editor and resident Viking, Johansson ensures Elite Franchise is filled with engaging and eclectic entrepreneurial stories. While one of our most prolific franchise writers, he has sharpened his editorial teeth by writing about entertainment and fitness. Follow him on Twitter at @EricJohanssonLJ to catch up with his stream of consciousness.
