Outsourcing franchise wins prestigious BFA award
It was an occasion to savour for Surrey-based outsourcing company Get Ahead when they received one of the evening’s major accolades at the recent annual British Franchise Awards (BFA). Sponsored once again by HSBC, the awards’ ceremony celebrates the successes of the franchising industry, following another difficult year for businesses across the UK.
And Get Ahead, whose headquarters are in Godalming, departed The Vox Conference Centre in Birmingham with the Franchise Balance award. The company’s founder and director, Rebecca Newenham, said: “This award is particularly special, as it comes off the back of what was an extremely challenging year for our franchisees.
“By setting up our on-boarding programme, we wanted to give them a shoulder to lean on during difficult times. This provided them with an extra level of care and support. As a franchisor, we always strive to be the best in what we do and I’m incredibly proud of the entire Get Ahead team.” This was the 32nd year that the BFA Awards ceremony was held, with the 2021 edition attracting a record number of entries.
Pip Wilkins, chief executive of the BFA, said: “On-boarding is a crucial part of franchising, so it’s always great to see a business that strives to do all it can to support its franchisees. This award is a real testament to Get Ahead‘s hard work and dedication, in the wake of the challenges of the past year and a half. It was a very well deserved win.”
And Andrew Brattesani, head of franchising with HSBC, added: “During the last 18 months, many businesses have felt the strain of ongoing pressures. However, the franchising model does provide businesses with much-needed support when they need it most. Get Ahead‘s on-boarding programme serves as an excellent example of how franchises can provide additional care during difficult times. So it’s no surprise they have taken home this brilliant accolade.”
This latest award ends another big year for the company. Get Ahead also scooped a silver award at the Best Business Women Awards, while founder Rebecca was crowned Southern England Business Woman of the Year for 2021. Get Ahead has already been shortlisted for other awards’ ceremonies, which are set to take place in the New Year. And, for the second year running, they were named the SME Best Virtual Admin Support Firm.
About: Get Ahead, which was created in 2010 by Rebecca Newenham, offers outsourced support to businesses of all sizes. It has opened regional offices across the UK, supporting over 100 clients at any one time. Rebecca’s vision is this: To ensure any business – small or large – has the opportunity to tap into the right virtual support.
