Leading specialist recruitment franchisor, Driver Hire, has been nationally recognised at the prestigious 2015 bfa HSBC ‘Franchisor of the Year’ Awards, collecting this year’s Silver Award. An award winner in 2006 and 2012, Driver Hire has been a bfa finalist in nine out of the last ten years.                                                                                 

Chris Chidley, Driver Hire’s Chief Executive and its Franchise Sales Director, Graham Duckworth,   received their award at a special awards evening held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Birmingham. It was presented to them by Andy Brattesani, Head of Franchising at HSBC; Cathryn Hayes, Head of Business Support at the bfa; and Sean Hammond, Classified Advertising Manager for Express Newspapers.

”It’s wonderful for our business to be recognised in this way,” says Chris Chidley. “Of course, the ultimate proof of success lies in the trading record and profitability of individual franchisees. The Driver Hire network is seeing strong growth in 2015, building on record trading in both of the last two years, which saw 20% year-on-year turnover increases. That speaks volumes about our business model – and the quality of a Driver Hire franchise.”

Judges looked for a franchisor that demonstrated a passion for ethical franchising and a commitment to their network of franchisees. They were particularly impressed with Driver Hire’s ability to deliver new, profitable revenue streams whilst maintaining strong franchisee engagement and support.

Andy Brattesani said: “An outstanding year for Driver Hire has been rightly recognised with this award. They continue to be innovative and inspiring. The mutually beneficial relationships between franchisor and franchisees continue to deliver results”.

Cathryn Hayes added: “Network turnover and franchisee performance continue to impress at Driver Hire. It is a business that’s a highly deserving recipient of this award.”

The British Franchise Association (bfa) annually recognises the very best of UK franchisors. Award winners were selected on their ability to showcase their achievements within the diverse franchise sector.