Conference programme

Wherever you are in your search for that perfect business, take time to attend the comprehensive free conference covering everything you need to know before you take that big step into the world of franchising.

The conference is divided into a number of tracks to enable you to pick and choose the seminars relevant to your needs. For an overview of the full timetable turn to pages 44 to 46 for the full conference programme.

bfa franchising seminars - the industry's leading experts offer essential advice for anyone thinking of buying a franchise or looking to franchise their business. Sessions cover everything from the basics and how to get started to an in-depth look at franchising, including legal and financial considerations.

Management franchises - there are a wide variety of management-based franchise opportunities available, perfect for those with strong sales, management, business and people skills. These seminars will give a complete picture of the ‘white-collar' managerial franchise businesses available.

Couples in franchising - more than one in four franchises are operated by a couple, proving it's a formula for success for many, often leading to a better work-life balance and a business that can fit around the family. These seminars will give you an all-round view of the opportunities available.

Growing your own business - for current business owners who need to find out how to grow their business on a budget.

High-level investment franchising - some businesses
require more capital than others, but provide a far greater
return on investment. Find out in these seminars what makes them different and why can they cost more than other franchises.

Franchise resales - often purchasing an existing franchise - known as a franchise resale - has its benefits over starting afresh: you are buying into an established business, there is a shorter start-up period and it may come with
an established location, employees and customer base. Find out more in these seminars.

Women in franchising - with more women going into franchising, many are looking for home-based opportunities with flexible working hours to supplement a family income or juggle the responsibilities of family life. Find the perfect flexible franchise
for you.

Hands-on franchising - there are a whole host of franchises for those with practical hands-on skills, who enjoy meeting new people and getting out and about. Learn more about these franchises in a series of seminars.

Franchising your business - if you think your business might be franchisable then these are must-see seminars. Learn more about the franchise agreement, where to start and who can advise you.

International franchising - if you are considering starting a business overseas these seminars will enable you to find out
where to start, covering a variety of topics including funding and legal issues.

Keynote speakers

Friday 19 March
11:00 - 11:45 • Theatre 4
Simon Brown, Brand Director, Canterbury of New Zealand and Former Head of International Trading, Ladybird
Simon has over 15 years' experience developing international business models and until 2008 headed up the Ladybird brand expansion strategy into target markets. His presentation will cover what makes a successful expansion plan, highlighting pitfalls and mistakes others have made.

Friday 19 March
11:15 - 11:45 • Theatre 2
Mr Toni Mascolo OBE, Founder,
Toni & Guy
Mr Toni Mascolo OBE - best known as the ‘Toni' in revolutionary hairdressing brand Toni & Guy - has enjoyed a successful career in business that spans over 45 years. He has been directly responsible for changing the face of modern hairdressing. His presentation will cover the Toni & Guy story, illustrating what makes a winning business in the long term.

Saturday 20 March
10:20 - 10:50 • Theatre 4
Nick Smart, Vice President for Development UK & Ireland, Hilton Hotels
A veteran hotelier, Nick has worked with some of the world's biggest brands in the UK and US hospitality industry for nearly 25 years. He joined the Hilton Development team in November 2006, taking overall responsibility for the growth of the Hilton portfolio of hotel brands in the UK & Irish markets.

Saturday 20 March
14:15 - 14:45 • Theatre 2
Brian Mullens, UK Finance Director, McDonald's
Brian is the Chief Financial Officer for McDonald's UK, a role that includes responsibility for the re-imaging of restaurants and franchising strategy. His presentation will introduce you to the McDonald's model for franchising and the partnership approach it takes with its franchisees to grow the business.