Check out the women, brands and franchises shortlisted for this year’s NatWest-sponsored awards’ ceremony in London.
It’s been another successful year for women in the UK’s franchising industry. And to celebrate these high-achievers, the 13th annual EWiF Awards ceremony will take place at the NatWest Conference Centre in Bishopsgate, London (EC2M 4AA) on Tuesday, May 16th.
Sponsored once again by NatWest, there will be 10 gongs up for grabs at the event organised by the not-for-profit body Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWiF). Run entirely by volunteers, EWiF offers advice and guidance to women searching for a route into the franchise industry.
And in a press release published on International Women’s Day, the organisation said: ‘Within franchising, there are women operating at every level. These include franchisor and franchisee, as well as those working within a franchise head office, or offering services and products to empower brands.
‘For each of our categories, we wanted to ensure opportunities were open to all, at every level. The entries we received this year were outstanding, leaving the judges with some difficult decisions to make. However, after much deliberation, we are delighted to announce this year’s finalists.
‘These amazing women have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations in the franchising industry. At Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWiF), we are proud to be part of a community that’s all about empowering women and creating opportunities for them to succeed in franchising.’
Among the women nominated for more than one award are: Angela Stirling of Lingotot and Suzie McCafferty of Platinum Wave Franchising. Meanwhile, Right at Home UK is up for an award in three different categories.
Here are the categories and finalists ahead of the 2023 ceremony:
New Woman Franchisor
Every year, business owners see the value of turning their company into a franchise, and then embarking on the journey to pilot and formulate their new venture.
Holly Stepien (Bloom Toddler Classes Limited);
Jenna Wilson and Fay Smith (Little Dreams);
Karen Gibb (Mind Marvels).
New Woman Franchisee
We are passionate about the opportunities franchising gives to women who want to run their own business. Since 2021, a number of women have taken the bold step to invest in their future by buying a franchise.
Emily Kerrison (Kidslingo);
Sarah Macguire (Raison Home);
Shafali Shown-Keen (McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd).
Woman Franchisor
Many women run successful franchises, while still being able to balance other important aspects of their lives, such as running a home and family.
Angela Stirling (Lingotot);
Jenni Dunman (Daisy First Aid);
Lucy Campbell (Right at Home UK).
Woman Franchisee
As more women become aware of the benefits that franchising offers, this category is only going to grow year-on-year.
Ally Phillips (Pink Spaghetti);
Amy Patel Popat (Right at Home UK);
Ellie Cawdell (Puddle Ducks);
Jessie Lilley (babyballet).
Women Franchise Employee
Women make up a large percentage of the franchise workforce, although we know from experience and conversation, that many just don’t feel worthy of an award. However, they are making a positive impact, and franchising wouldn’t be as strong without them.
Alex Bunn (Revive! Auto Innovations (UK) Limited);
Bella Hallam (Visiting Angels);
Heather Wehrle (Right at Home UK);
Katie Morris (Petpals).
Young Woman in Franchising
Age should never be a barrier to success. We love reading about how young women are grasping life with both hands and rising to a variety of challenges with grace and determination.
Asha Marie Richardson (Razzamataz Theatre Schools);
Eloise Prosser (GoodOaks Homecare);
Holly Stepien (Bloom Toddler Classes Limited).
Service Provider
Without those people in the industry who understand the intricacies of the franchise world, many businesses would struggle. Congratulations to our four finalists who are all helping franchises in crucial ways.
Desirie Lea (Morris & Co Chartered Accountants);
Jen Chapman-Boffin (CB Cinder Ltd);
Nigel Apperley (Trustist);
Suzie McCafferty (Platinum Wave Franchising).
Inspirational Woman
This category celebrates those who go far beyond the norm, while helping to inspire others within the industry.
Angela Stirling (Lingotot);
Hannah MacKechnie (Radfield Home Care);
Jenni Dunman (Daisy First Aid).
Ambassador
The three aims of EWiF are to empower, educate and inspire women into franchising. As EWiF Ambassadors, our members are often active across all three aspects. Therefore, this award celebrates women who embody what it means to empower, inspire and educate.
Kate Matthews (Boddy Matthews);
Ruth Brown (Home Instead);
Suzie McCafferty (Platinum Wave Franchising).
Overall Woman in Franchising
This award will be chosen from the above list of category winners.
The awards’ ceremony on May 16 is open for everyone to attend. It will start at 10.30am and approximately conclude at 3.00pm. It’s a day in the aspirational world of franchising and we guarantee you’ll feel inspired and uplifted by this event – even if you’re not a finalist.
So book your tickets online via: https:/www.ewif.org/2023-natwest-ewif-awards/.
