Franchise conferences offer an invaluable opportunity to bring together franchisees and franchisors from local and international branches, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. These gatherings are not just about networking – they are pivotal in realigning common goals and setting a strategic direction for the future.
One effective way to achieve this alignment is by setting a theme for the conference. A well-chosen theme can set the tone for the entire event, guiding discussions, workshops and presentations, ensuring that everyone leaves with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. As your franchise looks to the future, a thoughtfully selected theme can pave the way forward and reinforce the core values and objectives of the organisation.
In light of this, following Stagecoach Performing Arts’ annual Global Conference, CEO Andy Knights discusses how this year’s conference went and their renewed mission to shine a spotlight on wellbeing for the entire network.
In June, we united franchisees from across the globe to celebrate their achievements from the past year. This year, we wanted to shift the focus to the individual. We have an exceptional network of franchisees and have seen first-hand the significant impact Stagecoach has on our students. However, we also recognise that everyone in the Stagecoach community is an individual with their own goals, work, personal lives, and wellbeing. That is why this year’s conference was committed to exploring how we can support each person throughout their Stagecoach journey with these goals in mind.
Themed #ThriveWithStagecoach and hosted at De Vere Tortworth Court, a Victorian mansion nestled in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, the two-day event featured several workshops led by Support Centre staff and external speakers. Keynote speakers included Paul Owen of True Sales, who delivered a talk on how franchisees can enhance their sales techniques with honesty and integrity at the core of their approach.
A keynote speech from Becky Davis, a renowned Leadership and Wellbeing Coach, highlighted the importance of having a thinking partner to facilitate change and professional progression—helping individuals become the best versions of themselves. At Stagecoach, we aim to be that thinking partner for our entire network, from students to franchisees, to ensure they can all #ThriveWithStagecoach.
With a network filled with successful franchisees, we wanted to take our support a step further to help franchisees feel strong, empowered and confident as individuals – especially in their roles as Principals. This is how we arrived at the theme of ‘Thrive’. We understand that being a business owner can sometimes be lonely. Whether they have been a franchisee for years or are just beginning their Stagecoach journey, whether they lead a large collective of teachers and managers or work with a small team, we want them to know that there is always someone they can reach out to for support. Keynote talks and workshops from the likes of Paul, Becky and our Support Centre team were designed to provide that crucial support network, ensuring that everyone in our community can truly thrive.
In a true testament to our commitment to valuing our entire network, esteemed franchisees were honoured for their 10-year, 20-year, 25-year and 30-year milestones in the business. Additionally, awards voted on by the franchisee network were presented before dinner and an evening of drinks and entertainment. It certainly is not a Stagecoach conference without drinks, dinner and some well-earned celebration. It is always a great opportunity to celebrate our franchisees’ hard work over the past year and reflect on the fantastic 30-year journey that some of them have experienced with us. Seeing everyone each year is always a highlight. I am thrilled we could give special recognition to Cathy Birkett at Stagecoach Urmston for the Newcomer Award, Amanda Mariani at Stagecoach Westmount-NDG in Canada for the International Award, Nick Plummer-Walsh at Stagecoach Doncaster for the Franchisee’s Franchisee Award and Sarah Garrett at Stagecoach Maidstone West for being this year’s Franchisee of the Year.
Their hard work, like that of our entire network, has not gone unnoticed. I hope this year’s conference has provided some valuable tips and insights into how franchisees can effectively manage their business and wellbeing simultaneously because, ultimately, the more we can all thrive as individuals in this business, the more we can work together to contribute to the collective success of Stagecoach.
