What Makes Great Franchising: Insights from The Alternative Board and the British Franchise Association
The world of franchising is often misunderstood, with many people thinking it’s only about big brands like McDonald’s or Costa. However, the reality is that franchising is a diverse and thriving sector that contributes nearly £20 billion to the UK economy, covering a wide range of industries from business coaching to care services and retail. In a recent podcast, The Alternative Board’s MD, Ed Reid, and FD, Mags Fuller, joined Pip Wilkins, Chief Executive of the British Franchise Association (BFA), to explore what makes great franchising and how the sector is evolving.
According to Ed Reid, “It’s about helping business owners to get what they really want out of life and their business and building a model that lets our franchisees do the same.” The Alternative Board (TAB) exists to improve the lives of SME owners, and its franchise model is built around providing support and community to business leaders. Franchise partners run their own local businesses under the TAB brand, supported by a HQ team in Leeds.
The Qualities of a Successful Franchisee
So, what makes a great franchise partner? According to Ed, “You have to care about helping businesses and you have to bring real business experience.” Many TAB franchisees come from senior corporate roles and want to work for themselves but not by themselves. Others have already owned and sold a business and want to give something back — this time with a proven system and community backing. The key is to have a genuine desire to help others and strong business experience.
As Mags Fuller explained, “Their day is up to them to manage, which is something many haven’t had in their previous corporate lives.” Life as a TAB franchisee is varied and rewarding, with days spent running board meetings, coaching members one-on-one, developing business relationships, or attending national events. The control and flexibility that come with being a franchisee are a major draw for many.
The Power of Community in Franchising
Community is at the heart of franchising and The Alternative Board. Franchisees are part of a network that shares best practices, ideas, and challenges. Experienced partners mentor newer ones, while fresh perspectives from newer franchisees keep the whole system evolving. As Mags explained, “It’s not just support from us — it’s support from each other. That’s what keeps our network strong.”
Pip Wilkins highlighted the importance of community in franchising, saying, “It’s an accessible model that lets people run a business they care about with the backing of a brand and support network.” The UK franchise sector is diverse and thriving, with many different types of businesses and opportunities available. Whether you’re looking to start a new business or grow an existing one, franchising can provide the support and structure you need to succeed.
Looking to the Future
Both The Alternative Board and the wider franchising community are focused on growth, evolution, and connection. The model continues to prove its value because it offers something increasingly rare — independence with support, flexibility with structure, and a genuine sense of belonging. As Ed summarized, “We’ll keep evolving to meet the needs of SMEs and our franchise partners. The opportunity keeps growing, and so do we.”
If you’re an experienced leader who wants to build a business with purpose, flexibility, and impact, The Alternative Board may be the perfect opportunity for you. With its proven model and supportive community, TAB can help you achieve your goals and make a real difference in the lives of business owners. Here
