The British Franchise Exhibition will offer visitors invaluable insight into the world of franchising at EventCity, Manchester on the 19th and 20th June 2015

With the recent announcement by The Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne, confirming his commitment to the continued investment of an economic ‘Northern Powerhouse’, 2015 is set to be an important year for Manchester and the North West.

The North of England has already seen significant economic expansion over the last 10 years, with towns such as Warrington increasing its number of successful new businesses by 30% from 2004 to 20131. Confidence in the UK economy is continuing to grow and with support from The British Franchise Exhibition, ambitious entrepreneurs are given the opportunity to start their own businesses and contribute to the strength of the local and national economy.

Returning to EventCity this summer, The British Franchise Exhibition will showcase the benefits of running a business, and offer visitors the chance to discuss potential ventures with franchise brands offering regional opportunities. Attendees will also gain exclusive insight into the proven success of the franchise model which currently boasts the employment of over 500,000 Brits across the UK and 92% of franchises operating profitably.

Sponsored this year by global gym brand, Anytime Fitness, the two-day event will bring together industry experts, key franchise brands and potential franchisees from across the north of the UK. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to meet face-to-face with top brands, all of which meet the British Franchise Association’s (bfa) strict guidelines.

Exhibitors from a wide range of industries including property, care, food and drink, cleaning, home improvement, white collar, van-based and fitness, each with a range of high to low investment options will be on hand and keen to speak with aspiring business owners to answer any queries regarding their business. Established brands such as McDonald’s, Clarriots Care, Mac Tools, Anytime Fitness, Esquires Coffee, Platinum Property Partners and Ewe Move will also be showcasing all the exciting new opportunities they have on offer.

Adrian Goodsell, franchise sales director at Venture Marketing Group comments, “With the North of England set to see an increase in power and growth, this is prime time for ambitious businessmen and women to speak to regional experts about possible business ventures. The British Franchise Exhibition is an exclusive opportunity to meet with British Franchise Association (bfa) approved brands to gain trustworthy advice and see how franchising could work for you.”

A variety of free and informative features as well as first hand guidance from industry experts will also be available to those attending the exhibition. This includes an extensive conference programme offering over 40 free seminars, finance clinics, and panel discussions.

New to this year’s exhibition, the ‘Growing Your Own Business’ workshops offer a great opportunity for anyone looking to expand their current business and gain invaluable first hand business advice on topics such as SEO, creative marketing, PR, social media, sales and crowdfunding. The event will also feature keynote speakers offering their inspirational stories and personal experiences. Speakers include Joshua Cook, managing director at Zeven Media who recently gained the backing of Deborah Meaden after appearing on Dragon’s Den; and Helen Lawson and Sophia Lucop-Leech, who started up their company Inspired Goodbyes with the help of Business Growth Hub.

The British Franchise Exhibition takes place at EventCity, Manchester on 19th & 20th June 2015.