The UK’s most esteemed franchises gathered on Thursday night to celebrate the Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100) 2024. The event, held at the opulent Leonardo Royal, St. Paul’s in London, brought together the titans of the franchising industry to recognise their incredible achievements over the past year.
The EF100, since its inception in 2017, has become a benchmark for success within the franchising community, showcasing brands that have demonstrated growth, innovation and excellence. For the 2024 league table, unveiled in December, the competition was fierce and the standards higher than ever.
Gillian Morris, Head of UK Franchising at HSBC UK, and spokesperson for the headline sponsor, articulated the sentiment of the night, “Franchising is an engine of growth for the UK economy, and we are pleased to support an initiative that not only promotes excellence but also supports the ongoing development of the franchise sector.”
This year’s awards saw the introduction of four additional accolades, each representing a hallmark of franchise distinction:
- HSBC Exceptional Franchise Performance of the Year Award: Recognising Revive! for their outstanding business growth and franchisee support.
- EF100 Emerging Franchisor of the Year Award: Awarded to Visiting Angels, celebrating their innovative approach and potential for significant impact on the industry.
- BusinessesForSale. com EF100 Innovation of the Year Award: Caremark stood out in this category, with their inventive strategies.
- EF100 Community Builder of the Year Award: The Creation Station earned this honour, with their commitment to local communities through engaging and creative initiatives.
- EF100 Franchisee Outstanding Achievement Award: Turtle Tots Staffordshire was celebrated for their exemplary achievements and contributions to the network’s success.
- Highest New Entry of the Year: Puccino’s made a significant splash as the highest new entrant, marking them as a brand to watch.
- Rising Star of the Year: Turtle Tots, demonstrating remarkable growth and dynamic leadership within the franchise community.
- EF100 No.1 Winner 2024: Snap-on Tools, a brand that has consistently excelled in franchising standards, takes the top spot, setting the benchmark for others.
UK Managing Director of Snap-on Tools, Byron Miltz, proudly reflects on their position atop the rankings, “What an honour it is to be named the UK’s number one franchise for a second year running. I could not be prouder of the team here in the UK, and of our incredible franchisees, whose hard work, dedication and love for the brand is what makes Snap-on who we are today. It’s been a privilege to share this moment with so many other wonderful brands; congratulations to everyone who made the EF100 list!”
Brand Director of Elite Franchise, Scott English, added, “As the franchising sector continues to flourish, the EF100 awards and league table remains a testament to the thriving spirit of innovation and community that underpins this unique business model. Congratulations to all the winners and entrants on your deserved recognition and success.”
