The British Franchise Exhibition, which takes place at the GMEX in Manchester on January 28 and 29, offers a wide range of franchisors from across all industry sectors, expert advisors and seminar programmes.

The UK franchising industry, which turns over nearly £10bn a year, has become increasingly attractive to those wanting to set up a new venture.

Visitors to the exhibition can meet a large number of well-established franchised companies and assess the benefits of running their own business as part of an established franchise brand. They should also use their visit as an opportunity to learn as much as possible about franchising.

The key features of the exhibition include a number of free seminars run by the British Franchise Association, including ‘An introduction to franchising’, for prospective franchisees.

BFA Communications manager Johanna Roughley says: “These seminars show you how franchising can help you start your own business under the umbrella of an established brand and within a proven business format.

"People looking to buy a franchise will find out the benefits of franchising versus other business formats, what the franchisor looks for in a franchisee and vice versa, the size and the expected growth of the franchise market, the initial choice of franchise, the business plan, financing and how to get it and the realities of start-up at the BFA seminars.”

The ‘How to franchise your business’ seminar is aimed at prospective franchisors, allowing them to see how franchising can help grow their business, develop a national network with a recognised brand and make their brand a household name. The seminars feature experienced panellists, such as BFA Member franchisors and franchisees and BFA Affiliates.

“Those looking to expand their business through franchising will receive a basic outline of what it means to be a franchisor, the obligations and responsibilities, as well as the opportunities and advantages of becoming a franchisor," adds Johanna.

The various franchise companies attending a BFA-sponsored franchise exhibition carry different levels of BFA accreditation. Full members are established franchised businesses with a proven trading and franchising record. Associate members have proven their ability to launch and support at least one franchised outlet for 12 months and are now in the process of building their network. Provisional members are at the beginning of their development in franchising, however, there is a real business up and running where end products and services are being sold successfully to consumers.

Johanna Roughley adds: "Franchise exhibitions are a great opportunity to speak not only to franchisors and franchisees, but also the franchise advisors such as banks, consultants and lawyers, so if you are going along to the exhibition allow some extra time for that.”

With so many franchise propositions available, it is easy to get carried away with plans to invest in one. The BFA`s advice is not to make any commitments until you are certain this is the right opportunity for you, as ultimately this is something you will be committing yourself and your family to for the next five or 10 years.

For more information on franchising or to register for free exhibition tickets visit the BFA website at www.british-franchise.org.uk or call the ticket hotline on 01280 707433.