Franchise Support across the Capital
Developed to encourage business start up and self employment through franchising, the Exemplas-managed ‘Business London Franchise’ (BLF) programme had an ambitious agenda. It didn’t just seek to promote, enable and support franchising; it also sought to make a lasting impact on the quality of franchising – and to extend this impact across the Capital.
Meeting Different Needs
As a London Development Agency (LDA) funded pan-London initiative, the success of BLF hinged on Exemplas’ ability to appreciate the different sub-regional contexts and respond to the diverse local needs – with a consistent and high quality approach.
In order to have maximum impact, the programme didn’t just need to support franchisees and franchisors; it also needed to engage with and support the business advisors who would be working with them.
Supporting Franchisees
Drawing on the success of the Exemplas-led CREATE partnership, the support model for franchisees (and potential franchisees) was tried, tested – and proven to work.
A blend of awareness training, bespoke workshops, advisory sessions, online knowledge and a specific enquiry line offered something for everyone – regardless of postcode, borough or region.
Working through the existing business support networks, Exemplas ensured that BLF tapped straight into local venues, community networks and regional channels, ensuring that the same high quality of provision was offered across London.
“This workshop was very enlightening and informative. It was very useful and inspirational. The workshop has helped me to have the foundation I needed to assist me in my business start up.”
Olalekan A Folami. Buying a Franchise seminar attendee.
Capacity building business support
With enthusiasm for franchising on the increase, ensuring that the mainstream business support was up to the job was the next challenge; and, the support for the business advisors took the form of Exemplas’ SFEDI accredited programme. Delivered across London, the Adviser Training Workshops raised awareness of Structured Business Formats (SBFs), helped capacity-building business support organisations – and proved a runaway success:
“An enjoyable, informative course and engaging trainer. Thank you.”
Derek Hayes. Adviser Training Workshop attendee.
Supporting Franchisors
With one remaining angle – franchisor support – a series of Best Practice Business Forums were run across London. Three dynamic and prestigious events provided an opportunity for stimulating discussion, networking and knowledge sharing – bringing everyone together:
“Excellent throughout.”
Andrew Dennis. Business Forum attendee.
With an innovative range of provision and through operating at both local and pan London levels, Exemplas has been able to ensure that the BLF programme made a lasting and meaningful contribution to the practice of franchising.