According to a recent survey by the British Franchise Association (BFA)*, the sector contributes an impressive £19.1 billion to the UK economy each year. With over 50,000 franchise units operating nationwide and an average turnover of £400,000 per unit, franchising clearly presents a proven route for those looking to secure their financial future.
What truly sets the UK franchise sector apart is its exceptional economic performance. An impressive 89% of franchise units report being profitable, with 95% achieving profitability within five years – a stark contrast to independent startups, of which only 42% survive to their fifth year.** This track record underscores the strength and sustainability of the franchise model – even in the face of economic uncertainty. Ahead of this year’s National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC, Birmingham, on 3 & 4 October, we delve into the key factors behind this success and explain why now is the ideal time to invest.
Franchising in the UK: How the sector is thriving and evolving
Franchising in the UK has evolved steadily over the past decade, with significant shifts towards diversity and inclusivity. Today, the franchise industry boasts a 60/40 male-to-female split, a notable advancement from 2005 when women made up just 20% of the sector. This shift, combined with 50% of franchisors viewing diversity as a key business priority, is driving greater inclusivity and helping to shape a more dynamic, diverse, and profitable sector.
An impressive 66% of franchisees have reported improved business results since the pandemic, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of franchising as a business model. Looking ahead, the outlook for the industry remains positive, with 87% of franchisors anticipating better financial conditions in the coming year. This optimistic sentiment creates an ideal environment for prospective franchisees to explore new opportunities and take the leap into business ownership.
Start your franchise journey at The National Franchise Exhibition
With the franchise industry booming and new franchises opening up every day, 2025 is the ideal time to advance your entrepreneurial ambitions. The National Franchise Exhibition returns to the NEC, Birmingham, on 3 & 4 October, offering the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in exploring different brands within the sector. Whether you’re new to franchising or looking to expand your business portfolio, this event – exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association – is a must-visit.
This year, the exhibition will showcase a diverse range of franchises across a huge variety of sectors: from food and beverage to fitness, care to education, and more. Attendees will have the chance to meet household names such as McDonald’s and Anytime Fitness, as well discover emerging franchise brands at various investment levels.
For those interested in affordable franchise opportunities, the Low-Cost Franchise Showcase will be a key highlight. Featuring brands with investments starting from under £10,000, this area is designed to show entrepreneurs how franchising can offer a low upfront investment route to business ownership.
Visitors can also benefit from an extensive seminar programme, packed with free talks and expert-led presentations. Whether you’re just beginning to explore franchising or actively researching potential investments, these sessions provide the essential tools to help you navigate the franchising world.
Networking that works: Build the connections that drive success
With 71% of franchisors citing face-to-face networking as an essential part of the research process, the exhibition offers a dynamic platform to meet with the wider franchising community. Visitors can connect with franchisors, franchisees, and industry professionals who can help guide them along their entrepreneurial journey.
The Real Franchise Stories Q&As offer a chance to hear directly from successful franchisees, who will share their personal experiences, challenges, and insights into running a franchise business. These sessions provide practical, real-world advice that can help prospective franchisees make informed decisions about their future.
Thinking big? The Multi-unit Franchise Conference is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights from successful multi-unit franchisees, industry leaders, and representatives from top brands. Visitors will learn key strategies to build and manage a multi-unit operation, as well as how to scale their business for long-term success. It’s a chance to network with some of the most influential figures in franchising and discover exactly what it takes to grow and sustain a thriving multi-unit empire.
Grow established businesses through franchising
For those with existing businesses, franchising offers a powerful growth strategy. Benefit from free one-to-one sessions with funding specialists, franchise consultants and experienced franchise lawyers, all ready to help take your business to the next level.
Entrepreneurs will also have the opportunity to gain invaluable insights during exclusive panel sessions hosted by the British Franchise Association, along with expert guidance from Ashtons Franchise Consulting. These discussions cover essential topics such as legal frameworks, business readiness, and how to lay the groundwork for long-term, sustainable growth through franchising.
Your franchise success story begins here
The National Franchise Exhibition offers far more than just an opportunity to explore franchise options – it’s a comprehensive event designed to empower attendees with everything they need to succeed as entrepreneurs. Whether you’re looking to start a new business, grow an existing franchise portfolio, or expand your business by franchising, this event delivers invaluable resources, expert guidance, and the chance to connect with a network of like-minded individuals ready to support your journey.
Click here to learn more about the event and secure your free ticket to The National Franchise Exhibition at the NEC, Birmingham, on 3 & 4 October.
*Data from The British Franchise Journal 2024
** Moneyzine.com
