Franchising continues to be a powerful force in the UK business landscape, contributing an impressive £19.1bn to the economy and generating an average unit turnover of £400,000*. As the UK’s flagship franchise event returns to the NEC, Birmingham, there’s never been a better time to discover what it takes to turn entrepreneurial ambition into ownership.
On 2 & 3 October, The National Franchise Exhibition will bring together aspiring business owners, industry experts and leading franchise brands for two days of inspiration, advice and practical guidance. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore hundreds of established franchise brands, meet experienced franchisors and franchisees, and discover how franchising can provide a proven route into business ownership.
Exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA), the event will showcase more than 100 franchise brands spanning a wide range of sectors, including McDonald’s, Anytime Fitness, Home Instead, Zambrero, OVO Solar & Heating, Greene King plus many more.
With more than 50 free talks and sessions taking place across the weekend, visitors can build their knowledge of franchising at every stage of their journey. From ‘An introduction to Franchising ‘and ‘Real Franchise Stories Q&As’, to sector-specific sessions and practical business advice, the programme is designed to give prospective franchisees the insight and confidence to take their next step.
One of this year’s keynote highlights comes from Anisa Khan, founder of viral culinary brand Bombay Pizza and a 2025 finalist on BBC’s The Apprentice. Taking to the stage on Friday 2 October at 13:00, Anisa will deliver ‘From solo to scale: A founder’s playbook for growth’, sharing the lessons behind turning an idea into a scalable business.
On Saturday 3 October at 12:15, entrepreneur, serial investor and former BBC Dragon Piers Linney will take to the stage for his keynote, ‘Putting AI to work’. With extensive experience across entrepreneurship, investment and technology, Piers will explore how businesses can harness AI to work smarter, improve performance and unlock new opportunities.
Beyond the seminar programme, industry experts will be available throughout the event to offer complimentary one-to-one advice. Specialist lawyers will help visitors navigate the legal side of franchising, funding providers will explain the finance options available, and franchise consultants will provide practical guidance on finding and evaluating the right opportunity.
The Finance Zone will once again bring together a broad range of funding providers, including major banks such as NatWest, Lloyds and Barclays alongside specialist franchise finance providers. Visitors can also take part in exclusive business masterclasses led by ActionCOACH, offering practical strategies and insights to help aspiring business owners build confidence, overcome challenges and create sustainable growth.
For existing franchisees looking to take their business to the next level, the Multi-unit Franchise Conference, sponsored by Akerman, provides an opportunity to learn from some of the sector’s most experienced operators. Established multi-unit franchisees and representatives from brands including Itsu, Pepe’s Piri Piri, Bluebird Care and Black Sheep Coffee will share their experiences and insights into building and scaling a successful franchise portfolio.
Helen McCulloch, Portfolio Sales Director, Venture Marketing Group, comments: “For more than 30 years, The Franchise Exhibitions have helped people turn their business ambitions into reality, connecting aspiring entrepreneurs with established brands, industry experts and the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. With such a diverse range of franchise opportunities, an inspiring speaker programme and practical support available throughout the event, we’re looking forward to welcoming the next generation of franchisees to the NEC, Birmingham this October.”