Franchise brands have seen a surge in interest from former frontline and public sector workers who are dissatisfied with their pay and working conditions. According to the results from over 120 franchise brands completing the survey conducted by the Elite Franchise 100 team, they have created over 32,000 jobs since January 2021. Notably, 261 of those jobs were taken up by people leaving teaching, NHS and other frontline services roles to invest in a franchise.
The automotive sector took the top spots in the EF100 ranking this year, with Snap-on Tools and Driver Hire coming in first and second, respectively. Since January 2021, five automotive franchise brands have created 190 jobs, with 26 of those filled by former frontline and public sector workers choosing to become franchisees.
The childcare and social care sectors have also seen significant growth, creating nearly 1,500 and over 9,700 jobs, respectively, in the last two years. Unsurprisingly, these sectors have been particularly attractive to those leaving frontline and public sector roles, with 54 people launching childcare franchises and 28 investing in social care franchises to transform their careers.
The hospitality industry, which makes up one-fifth of the EF100 league table, has also seen significant growth. The sector created close to 4,500 jobs since January 2021 across 19 franchise brands, with over 150 former frontline and public sector workers joining the industry in the last two years.
Franchising has become a popular option for those seeking comfort and security during the unsteady financial climate of the last few years. The opportunity to become a business owner with a strong support network has been particularly appealing to those who want to make a difference in both their professional and personal lives. Joanna Reid, a former NHS worker turned franchisee for Bloom Baby Classes, is a prime example of this.
“I had a traumatic second pregnancy and birth which opened my eyes – I realised that life was too short to be doing something which drained me physically and mentally each day. Franchising with Bloom has not only allowed me to help children in their development, but I also have an amazing support system and a work-life balance I can fit around my family,” said Reid.
The contributors to the survey will be celebrated as part of the EF100 awards ceremony on 16th March in London – find out more about the EF100 here.
Image attached: Former NHS worker Joanna Reid
