UEA MBA Student Report Reveals Franchising Growth

With more than 250,000 people actively looking at owning their own franchise business and more than 1,500 franchise brands expanding nationwide, Franchise Development Services (FDS) publishes the first comprehensive report reviewing all aspects of the UK franchise industry.

The report, produced by MBA students from the Norwich Business School at the University of East Anglia (UEA), launches National Franchise Week - September 27 to October 3. It demonstrates that franchising is the safest way to start a business - some 90% of new franchise owners succeed.

Roy Seaman, Managing Director FDS said: "The franchise industry's good health is evident in the East of England with Norwich, 'Franchise City' at its heart - home to more than 100 retail franchise brands within the city walls. So far this year 10 new franchisors have entered the market in the East of England, providing increasing opportunities for people to own their own business. In addition, with our help, 75 new franchise businesses have launched in the region."

"The major banks with franchise departments are actively loaning money to the franchise sector," added Roy Seaman. "People who have been made redundant or have simply lost their job are exploring franchising as a proven business format for their skills, energies and ambitions."

Local government is waking up to the potential for franchising to kick-start the economy. Ipswich Borough Council is running the first ever local authority sponsored franchise exhibition on November 10.

For potential franchisors, FDS runs a series of free seminars - 'How to successfully franchise your business' - the next seminar in Norwich is on October 20.

The report Insight: An Industry review of Franchising in the UK 2010 is the result of research by UEA MBA students and analyses historic, present and future trends in the UK franchise market incorporating the views of franchisors, franchise owners and banks with specialist finance departments.

Terry Kendrick, MBA Programme Director at Norwich Business School, said: "FDS and our team of four MBA students have produced an interesting report on a key business area. Together they have provided an insightful introductory overview for those looking at this marketplace - a great example of experienced university students working with business"

The report, costing £495, will be offered at £125 during National Franchise Week. It is available from FDS, tel. 01603 620301 or email enquiries@fdsltd.com for more information.