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Privacy Policy and Website Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 19 August 2026

The Franchising Centre is a trading name of Franchise Investments and Developments Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales under company number 04469024.

Registered office: 92 St Faith’s Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1NE
Email: enquiries@thefranchisingcentre.uk

Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Franchising Centre (“TFC”, “we”, “us” or “our”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store and share personal information when you interact with us, use our website, make an enquiry, become a client, enquire about a franchise opportunity, apply for or enquire about a role, use one of our consultancy services, or express an interest in software, technology or another service that we provide or introduce.

We process personal information in accordance with applicable UK data-protection and privacy legislation, including the UK General Data Protection Regulation (“UK GDPR”), the Data Protection Act 2018, the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 (“PECR”), as amended, and the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025.

2. Who we are

The Franchising Centre is a specialist franchise consultancy and services business.

Our work includes:

  • advising independent businesses considering franchising as a route to growth;
  • developing businesses into franchise systems;
  • providing franchise strategy and consultancy;
  • supporting existing franchisors with the development and growth of their franchise networks;
  • franchisee recruitment and lead management;
  • franchise recruitment marketing;
  • matching prospective franchisees with suitable franchise opportunities;
  • executive recruitment and recruitment for roles within the franchise sector;
  • international franchise development and recruitment;
  • consultancy, training and other professional services;
  • introducing, supplying or reselling software and technology solutions provided by companies with whom we work; and
  • associated business, marketing and support services.

Because of the range of services we provide, the way we use personal information depends on why you are dealing with us.

3. When we are a controller and when we act for somebody else

Under data-protection law, a controller decides why and how personal information is used. A processor processes personal information on a controller’s behalf.

The Franchising Centre may act as a controller, processor or, in some circumstances, alongside another organisation as a separate or joint controller.

For example:

  • if you contact TFC directly about our consultancy services, we will normally be the controller of your information;
  • if we manage franchisee recruitment on behalf of a franchisor, we may process information on that franchisor’s behalf;
  • if we subsequently use information, where lawfully permitted, to help an individual identify other potentially suitable franchise opportunities, TFC may act as a controller for that separate activity;
  • where we conduct an executive recruitment assignment, TFC may be a controller of candidate information while the recruiting organisation may become a separate controller when candidate information is provided to it; and
  • where you enquire about software or technology provided by one of our partners, TFC and the relevant provider may each process your information for their respective purposes.

The precise position depends on the nature of the relationship and the service being provided.

4. The personal information we may collect

The information we collect depends on your relationship with us.

It may include:

Identity and contact information

  • your name;
  • postal address;
  • email address;
  • telephone or mobile number;
  • company or organisation;
  • job title; and
  • preferred method of contact.

Business and consultancy information

If you contact us regarding developing or growing a business or franchise, we may collect information including:

  • information about your business;
  • trading history;
  • business model;
  • products and services;
  • turnover or other financial information you choose to provide;
  • business growth plans;
  • franchise plans;
  • geographical information;
  • current franchise network information;
  • operational information;
  • notes from meetings and conversations; and
  • information necessary for us to provide consultancy services.

Franchise opportunity and franchisee recruitment information

If you enquire about becoming a franchisee, we may collect information such as:

  • franchise opportunities you have enquired about;
  • geographical preferences;
  • preferred territory;
  • investment range or available funds;
  • proposed funding arrangements;
  • timescale for investing;
  • business, management or employment experience;
  • relevant skills and qualifications;
  • reasons for considering franchising;
  • preferred industries or business types;
  • responses to qualification questions;
  • notes from telephone calls, meetings and correspondence;
  • your progress through a franchise recruitment process; and
  • reasons why an opportunity may or may not be suitable.

Recruitment and candidate information

If you enquire about employment opportunities, register as a candidate or take part in an executive recruitment process, we may collect:

  • your CV;
  • employment history;
  • qualifications;
  • skills and experience;
  • professional interests;
  • salary and remuneration information;
  • geographical preferences;
  • role preferences;
  • interview notes;
  • references;
  • availability; and
  • other information relevant to a recruitment assignment.

Software and technology enquiries

If you enquire about software or technology that we provide, resell, recommend or introduce, we may collect:

  • your contact details;
  • company information;
  • the product or service in which you are interested;
  • information about your business requirements;
  • communications with you;
  • demonstration or meeting information; and
  • information necessary to make an introduction to, or provide support involving, the relevant technology provider.

Client and supplier information

We may process:

  • business contact details;
  • contractual information;
  • project information;
  • billing and payment information;
  • correspondence;
  • meeting notes; and
  • information required to manage our commercial relationships.

Website and technical information

When you use our website or digital services, we may collect information such as:

  • IP address;
  • browser type;
  • device information;
  • pages visited;
  • referring websites;
  • dates and times of visits;
  • information submitted through website forms;
  • website interaction information; and
  • information collected through cookies or similar technologies.

Please see our separate Cookie Policy for further information.

5. How we collect personal information

We may collect personal information:

  • directly from you;
  • through our website and online forms;
  • by telephone, email, SMS or other communications;
  • during meetings, events or exhibitions;
  • from a franchisor or other client for whom we provide services;
  • through franchise enquiry portals and lead-generation platforms;
  • through job applications and recruitment platforms;
  • from professional networking sites;
  • through referrals and recommendations;
  • from software or technology partners;
  • from publicly available business sources, where lawful;
  • from advertising platforms;
  • from other suppliers or service providers; and
  • from other third parties where the sharing of the information is lawful.

Where we obtain your information from somebody other than you, we will provide appropriate privacy information where required.

6. How we use your information

We may use personal information to:

  • respond to enquiries;
  • understand the nature of your enquiry and direct it to the appropriate person;
  • provide franchise consultancy services;
  • assess whether franchising may be appropriate for a business;
  • develop franchise systems and documentation;
  • support the growth of existing franchise businesses;
  • manage franchisee recruitment campaigns;
  • provide information about a franchise opportunity;
  • contact and qualify prospective franchisees;
  • arrange telephone calls, meetings and presentations;
  • manage a prospective franchisee through a recruitment process;
  • report recruitment activity to a franchisor client;
  • help prospective franchisees identify other potentially suitable franchise opportunities where permitted;
  • provide executive recruitment and search services;
  • assess candidates for employment opportunities;
  • introduce candidates to recruiting clients where appropriate;
  • contact individuals about potentially relevant roles where legally permitted;
  • respond to software and technology enquiries;
  • arrange software demonstrations or introductions;
  • introduce prospective customers to relevant software or technology providers;
  • provide consultancy, training and professional services;
  • manage our client and supplier relationships;
  • administer contracts, projects and payments;
  • maintain our business records;
  • operate and improve our website and services;
  • measure the effectiveness of our marketing;
  • send marketing communications where permitted by law;
  • maintain records of marketing preferences and objections;
  • protect our business, systems and users;
  • prevent fraud or misuse;
  • establish, exercise or defend legal claims; and
  • comply with our legal and regulatory obligations.

We will not use personal information for an incompatible new purpose without first considering whether that use is lawful and whether you need to be given additional information.

7. Franchise consultancy and business development enquiries

If you are an independent business owner or represent a business considering franchising, growth or franchise development, we will use the information you provide to:

  • respond to your enquiry;
  • understand your business and objectives;
  • discuss whether our services may be suitable;
  • prepare proposals or quotations;
  • provide consultancy services if you engage us; and
  • manage our ongoing business relationship.

Our lawful basis will generally be taking steps towards or performing a contract, our legitimate interests in responding to business enquiries and operating our consultancy, or a combination of these.

8. Franchisee recruitment

We work with franchisors to help recruit franchisees.

If you enquire about a franchise opportunity, your personal information may be processed by The Franchising Centre as part of the recruitment process.

Depending on how the enquiry was generated, information may have been collected:

  • directly by TFC;
  • by the franchisor;
  • through a franchise recruitment website or landing page;
  • through a franchise portal;
  • through advertising or lead-generation activity; or
  • through another authorised source.

We may use that information to:

  • respond to your enquiry;
  • provide information about the franchise;
  • discuss the opportunity with you;
  • understand your requirements;
  • assess your interest and potential suitability;
  • arrange meetings or discussions;
  • follow up your enquiry;
  • record your progress; and
  • share relevant information with the franchisor.

Where we are processing information solely on behalf of a franchisor, the franchisor may be the controller and we may act as its processor.

9. Other franchise opportunities and our franchise matching service

We recognise that somebody who decides not to proceed with one franchise opportunity may remain interested in becoming a franchisee.

Where we have an appropriate lawful basis and, where required, the necessary marketing permission, we may offer to help you identify other franchise opportunities that may be a better fit.

This may involve considering factors such as:

  • your preferred location;
  • investment level;
  • experience;
  • interests;
  • preferred sector;
  • business objectives; and
  • timescale.

We may contact you about potentially relevant opportunities and, where appropriate, arrange an introduction to another franchisor.

We will not assume that an enquiry about one particular franchise means that you have consented to receive marketing by email or SMS about unrelated franchise opportunities.

Where consent is required, we will request it separately.

You can withdraw consent or ask us to stop direct marketing at any time.

10. Executive recruitment and employment enquiries

The Franchising Centre provides executive recruitment and recruitment services for businesses operating within the franchise sector.

If you apply for a role, send us your CV, register an interest in employment opportunities or engage with us during an executive search, we may use your information to:

  • assess your experience and suitability;
  • discuss career opportunities with you;
  • identify potentially appropriate roles;
  • communicate with you about recruitment assignments;
  • present your profile to a recruiting organisation where appropriate;
  • arrange interviews;
  • obtain references where appropriate; and
  • administer a recruitment process.

We will not normally provide your full CV or personally identifiable candidate profile to a prospective employer without an appropriate basis for doing so.

If an employer receives your information as part of a recruitment process, that organisation may become a separate controller and will be responsible for its own handling of your personal information.

11. Software and technology enquiries

We work with a number of organisations that provide software and technology products relevant to businesses and franchise organisations.

Where you enquire about such a product or service, we may:

  • respond to your enquiry;
  • explain the product or service;
  • assess your requirements;
  • arrange a demonstration;
  • provide sales or support information; and
  • introduce you to the relevant technology provider.

Where your information is passed to a technology provider, that provider may process it as a separate controller under its own privacy policy.

We will tell you where appropriate that an introduction or disclosure is being made.

12. Our lawful bases for processing

We only process personal information where we have a lawful basis.

Depending on the circumstances, we may rely on:

Contract

Where processing is necessary to perform a contract with you or take steps at your request before entering into a contract.

Legitimate interests

We may rely on legitimate interests where processing is necessary for our business or those of another organisation and your rights and interests do not override those interests.

These interests may include:

  • responding to enquiries;
  • operating and developing our consultancy;
  • managing client and supplier relationships;
  • providing recruitment services;
  • communicating with business contacts;
  • improving our services;
  • maintaining appropriate records;
  • protecting our systems;
  • preventing fraud;
  • establishing or defending legal rights; and
  • certain direct marketing activities where permitted by law.

Where appropriate, we assess whether our interests are necessary and proportionate and balance them against your rights and reasonable expectations.

We rely on consent where appropriate or required, including certain electronic direct marketing activities.

Where we rely on consent, you may withdraw it at any time.

We may process personal information where necessary to comply with a legal or regulatory obligation.

Other lawful bases may apply in limited circumstances where permitted by data-protection law.

13. Email, SMS and other direct marketing

We may use email, SMS, telephone and other communication methods to contact you about:

  • an enquiry you have made;
  • a service you have requested;
  • a franchise opportunity you have expressed an interest in;
  • a recruitment process in which you are involved;
  • a software or technology enquiry;
  • our services;
  • relevant business or franchise information; or
  • other opportunities you have asked to hear about.

Where a communication constitutes direct marketing, we comply with UK GDPR and PECR.

Where consent is required for email or SMS marketing, we will obtain an appropriate consent.

We may rely on another lawful route where permitted by law, including the applicable rules for business-to-business communications or the statutory soft opt-in where all of its requirements are satisfied.

You may opt out of direct marketing at any time by:

If you opt out, we may retain limited information on a suppression list so that we can ensure your preference continues to be respected.

14. Who we may share personal information with

We may share information where necessary and lawful with:

  • franchisor clients;
  • businesses using our franchise consultancy services;
  • prospective franchisors or franchisees where an introduction has been requested or is otherwise appropriate;
  • employers and recruitment clients;
  • software and technology providers;
  • professional advisers;
  • consultants and authorised members of the TFC team;
  • CRM and recruitment-system providers;
  • email and marketing-platform providers;
  • SMS and telecommunications providers;
  • website hosting providers;
  • cloud and IT service providers;
  • payment and accounting providers;
  • analytics and website-service providers;
  • professional networking and recruitment platforms;
  • regulators, law-enforcement bodies and courts where required; and
  • purchasers, investors or successor organisations in connection with a genuine corporate transaction.

We do not sell personal information as a standalone commodity.

Where an external supplier processes personal information solely on our behalf, we require appropriate data-protection arrangements to be in place.

15. International transfers

Some organisations that provide services to us, or with whom we work, may process personal information outside the United Kingdom.

Our international franchise work may also involve an individual specifically seeking an opportunity outside the UK.

Where personal information is transferred internationally and data-protection law requires safeguards, we will use an appropriate transfer mechanism.

This may include:

  • a country covered by UK adequacy regulations;
  • the UK International Data Transfer Agreement;
  • the UK Addendum to approved standard contractual clauses; or
  • another lawful transfer mechanism.

You may contact us for further information about safeguards relevant to a particular transfer.

16. How long we keep information

We do not keep personal information for longer than we reasonably need it.

The appropriate retention period depends on factors including:

  • why the information was collected;
  • whether an enquiry remains active;
  • whether you are a current or former client;
  • whether you remain an active franchise or recruitment prospect;
  • whether you have asked us to continue considering you for opportunities;
  • contractual requirements;
  • accounting and tax requirements;
  • applicable limitation periods;
  • legal or regulatory obligations; and
  • whether information is needed to establish or defend a legal claim.

We periodically review information and delete or anonymise it when it is no longer required.

Where you have opted out of marketing, we may retain limited identifying information for the purpose of maintaining a suppression record.

17. Security

We take appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect personal information from accidental or unlawful loss, alteration, disclosure, destruction or unauthorised access.

Access to personal information is limited to people who reasonably require it for their role.

Our measures may include:

  • password and access controls;
  • authentication measures;
  • secure systems;
  • backups;
  • staff procedures;
  • supplier controls;
  • confidentiality requirements; and
  • appropriate technical security measures.

No internet-based system can be guaranteed to be completely secure, but we take reasonable steps appropriate to the nature of the information we hold.

18. Special-category information

We do not generally need special-category personal information in order to provide most of our services.

However, such information may occasionally arise, particularly during recruitment.

Where special-category information is processed, we will ensure that a lawful basis and an appropriate additional condition for processing apply.

19. Automated systems and profiling

We may use CRM, recruitment, marketing and other technology to:

  • organise enquiries;
  • categorise leads;
  • manage communication workflows;
  • identify potentially suitable opportunities;
  • schedule follow-up activity; and
  • assist our consultants and recruitment teams.

This may include automated processing or profiling.

We do not generally make decisions producing legal or similarly significant effects solely by automated means.

Where we do undertake automated decision-making subject to specific legal requirements, we will provide the information and safeguards required by law.

20. Your rights

Depending on the circumstances, you may have the right to:

  • be informed about how your information is used;
  • request access to your personal information;
  • ask us to correct inaccurate information;
  • ask us to erase information in certain circumstances;
  • ask us to restrict processing in certain circumstances;
  • object to certain processing;
  • receive certain information in a portable format;
  • withdraw consent where processing is based on consent; and
  • challenge certain automated decisions.

These rights are subject to the conditions and exemptions contained in data-protection law.

We may need to verify your identity before responding to a request.

21. Your right to object to direct marketing

You have the right to object at any time to the use of your personal information for direct marketing.

If you ask us to stop using your information for direct marketing, we will do so.

22. Data-protection complaints

If you believe we have not handled your personal information appropriately, please contact us at:

enquiries@thefranchisingcentre.uk

We will acknowledge a data-protection complaint within the period required by applicable law and will investigate and respond without undue delay.

You also have the right to complain to the UK data-protection regulator, the Information Commissioner’s Office (“ICO”).

Information about making a complaint is available from the ICO at www.ico.org.uk.

23. Contacting us

For questions about this Privacy Policy or requests relating to your personal information, contact:

The Franchising Centre
Franchise Investments and Developments Ltd
92 St Faith’s Lane
Norwich
Norfolk
NR1 1NE
United Kingdom

Email: enquiries@thefranchisingcentre.uk

24. Changes to this Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our business, services, systems or applicable law.

The current version will be published on our website together with the date it was last updated.

 

 

Website Terms & Conditions

1. About these terms

These terms apply to your use of The Franchising Centre website.

By using the website, you agree to use it in accordance with these terms and applicable law.

Nothing in these terms affects any rights that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited.

2. Website owner

This website is operated by The Franchising Centre, a trading name of Franchise Investments and Developments Ltd.

Company number: 04469024
Registered office: 92 St Faith’s Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1NE.

3. Information on this website

The content of this website is provided for general information only.

Although we take reasonable care to ensure information is accurate and current, we do not guarantee that all information is complete, accurate or up to date.

Franchising, business development, recruitment, investment, finance, legal matters and taxation can involve issues specific to individual circumstances.

Nothing on this website should be treated as legal, financial, accounting, tax, investment or other regulated professional advice.

You should obtain appropriate specialist advice before making decisions where necessary.

4. Franchise opportunities

Information about franchise opportunities appearing on or referred to through our website may be supplied by the relevant franchisor.

The availability, terms, costs, financial performance, territories and suitability of any franchise opportunity may change.

Nothing on this website constitutes an offer or guarantee that:

  • a franchise will be awarded;
  • a particular territory will be available;
  • finance will be available;
  • an individual will be accepted by a franchisor; or
  • a franchise will achieve any particular financial result.

Prospective franchisees are responsible for carrying out their own due diligence and obtaining appropriate independent legal, financial and professional advice before entering into a franchise agreement.

5. Franchise consultancy

Information about developing or operating a franchise business is provided for general guidance unless you have separately engaged The Franchising Centre under a consultancy agreement.

Any consultancy work we undertake for a client will be subject to the terms of the relevant proposal, engagement letter or contract.

If there is a conflict between these website terms and a specific written client agreement, the specific agreement will take precedence in relation to the services covered by it.

6. Recruitment information

Vacancies and recruitment opportunities may be advertised on behalf of third-party employers.

We do not guarantee that:

  • a vacancy will remain available;
  • an applicant will be shortlisted or interviewed;
  • an offer of employment will be made; or
  • information provided by an employer will remain unchanged.

Employment contracts are entered into between the employer and successful candidate unless expressly stated otherwise.

7. Software and third-party products

We may provide information about, introduce, resell or assist in supplying software, technology or services provided by third parties.

Where a product or service is provided by a third party, separate terms and conditions may apply between you and that provider.

We are not responsible for a third-party product or service except to the extent expressly agreed in writing between you and The Franchising Centre.

8. Intellectual property

Unless otherwise stated, the content of this website is owned by or licensed to The Franchising Centre and is protected by copyright, trade mark and other intellectual-property laws.

This includes, without limitation:

  • text;
  • reports;
  • articles;
  • graphics;
  • logos;
  • branding;
  • photographs;
  • videos;
  • website design;
  • layout; and
  • downloadable materials.

You may view, download or print website content for your own personal or internal business reference.

You may not reproduce, republish, distribute, sell, commercially exploit, modify or create derivative works from our content without our prior written permission, except where permitted by law.

Any third-party trade marks or content remain the property of their respective owners.

9. Acceptable use

You must not:

  • use the website unlawfully;
  • attempt to gain unauthorised access to the website or its systems;
  • introduce malware, viruses or harmful code;
  • interfere with the operation or security of the website;
  • scrape or systematically extract website content or data without permission;
  • impersonate another individual or organisation; or
  • use the website in a way that infringes the rights of another person.

Our website may contain links to third-party websites and services.

These links are provided for information and convenience only.

We do not control third-party websites and are not responsible for their content, security, availability, privacy practices or terms of use.

The inclusion of a link does not necessarily constitute our endorsement of the third party.

11. Availability

We aim to keep our website available and functioning correctly but do not guarantee uninterrupted or error-free access.

We may suspend, withdraw, change or restrict access to all or part of the website where reasonably necessary.

12. Liability

Nothing in these terms excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so.

Subject to that, The Franchising Centre is not responsible for loss arising solely from reliance on general information made available through this website where appropriate professional advice should reasonably have been obtained.

We are not responsible for loss caused by circumstances outside our reasonable control or by third-party websites, systems or services.

Any liability arising from professional services supplied to a client will be governed by the applicable consultancy, recruitment or other service agreement.

13. Privacy and cookies

Our collection and use of personal information is governed by the Privacy Policy above.

Our use of cookies and similar technologies is explained in our separate Cookie Policy.

14. Changes to these terms

We may amend these Website Terms & Conditions from time to time.

The version published on this website at the relevant time will apply to your use of the website.

15. Governing law

These Website Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales.

The courts of England and Wales will have jurisdiction in relation to disputes arising from the use of this website, subject to any mandatory rights that apply under law.

16. Contact

If you have questions about these terms, please contact:

The Franchising Centre
Franchise Investments and Developments Ltd
92 St Faith’s Lane
Norwich
Norfolk
NR1 1NE

Email: enquiries@thefranchisingcentre.uk

Gary Chatwin

Funding & Finance Introducer

“I help businesses and franchisees access the right funding to start, grow and succeed”

Gary is an experienced business manager who works with growing businesses to turn ambition into achievable plans.

With a practical, people-focused approach, he helps business owners understand what drives sustainable growth – from managing cash flow and securing the right funding to building a strong pipeline of new business.

Having worked with businesses across a wide range of sectors, Gary believes that success is ultimately about people rather than products or services. He works closely with entrepreneurs to help them match their ambitions with the right strategy, resources and financial foundations to achieve them.

Jan Webb

Client Relations Manager

"I’m your first contact, and will be there to make sure that your franchise journey runs smoothly”

Fiona Rimington

Executive Assistant

“I help the team that supports you”

Fiona brings a wealth of experience across a wide range of sectors, including franchising, export, aviation, manufacturing and distribution. She has worked in a variety of roles supporting senior executives, developing a strong understanding of how effective operational and administrative support underpins successful, well-run businesses.

At The Franchising Centre, Fiona supports both the internal team and clients, helping to ensure smooth day-to-day operations while contributing to business development and growth initiatives across UK and international franchising. Her broad experience and attention to detail make her a valued support to senior management and the wider team.

Derek Knaggs

I.T. and CRM Systems Manager

 “I help connect the technology dots in franchising”

Derek works closely with the team at The Franchising Centre, helping to connect the technology dots across franchising projects. He supports the development and implementation of digital and technical solutions that help franchisors work more efficiently and effectively.

Derek holds a First Class BSc (Hons) in Computing from the University of Worcester and has a strong interest in web applications and digital problem-solving. Alongside his technical expertise, he is developing his skills in web design and front-end development, with a focus on creating practical, user-friendly digital experiences.

Continuously learning and expanding his portfolio, Derek also enjoys hands-on technical work, building hardware and technology solutions for small businesses. His blend of analytical thinking and creativity allows him to support innovative, future-focused technology solutions within franchising.

Rob Dancy

Franchise Consultant

“I develop & grow your business through franchising”

Rob is a Partner and Franchise Consultant at The Franchising Centre, with a lifelong connection to franchising. He grew up alongside the development of his family business, Oscar Pet Foods, which became the UK’s leading van-based franchise with a network of over 100 branches.

Rob began his career as an Oscar franchisee at just 18, gaining first-hand, grassroots experience of running a franchised business before completing his degree. After graduating, he joined FranchiseSales.com, where he helped develop one of the UK’s leading franchise recruitment portals, building extensive experience across franchise recruitment, sales, marketing and business development.

Since 2008, Rob has worked with businesses across the North West, helping them use franchising as a growth strategy and supporting them to recruit the right franchisees to build strong, sustainable networks. His approach blends strategic insight with practical, real-world franchise experience.

More recently, Rob has invested in the Radfield Home Care franchise for Tarporley & Mid Cheshire, allowing him to apply his expertise locally while helping people in his community age well and remain independent in their own homes.

Laura Harvey-Smith

Franchise Consultant

“I help businesses understand, build, and grow through franchising”

Dan Allen

Franchise Consultant

“I help franchisors grow and run stronger, more effective franchise networks”

Dan is a senior franchising professional with more than 15 years’ experience across sectors including FMCG, B2B services, franchising, construction, training and retail. He brings a broad commercial perspective and a strong track record in helping businesses grow, adapt and scale.

At The Franchising Centre, Dan works closely with franchise brands to recruit the right franchisees while also providing ongoing strategic support to franchisors. His role spans franchise recruitment strategy, business development, performance improvement and helping brands build compelling propositions that attract high-quality candidates and support sustainable network growth.

Dan has held senior leadership roles responsible for business development, international expansion, sales leadership, performance management, cultural change and product development. He is known as a confident communicator and negotiator, with extensive experience leading teams and projects in multinational environments across Europe, Asia and North America.

Strategic, commercially focused and highly collaborative, Dan combines clear thinking with practical delivery to help franchisors achieve their growth objectives.

Andrew Croney

Franchise Consultant

 “I help franchisors optimise recruitment systems to sign more franchisees”

Andrew is a specialist in franchise recruitment marketing, helping brands unlock the full value of their lead pipelines — from building and reactivating databases to improving follow-up and conversion.

With over a decade in franchising and 25+ years’ experience in CRM, automation and data-driven marketing, Andrew uses tools such as CRM systems, email marketing, lead scoring and AI to attract, engage and convert the right franchisees. His approach combines strategic thinking with detail-led execution, always backed by clear reporting and measurable results.

Andrew has worked with UK and international franchise brands to generate over £5m in initial franchise fees, creating long-term franchise network value well in excess of £170m. His work includes launching new franchise concepts from the ground up, delivering consistently high lead volumes in challenging markets, and supporting award-winning franchise brands.

Outside of work, Andrew is a competitive fitness enthusiast, having competed at the Hyrox World Championships in 2024. He also enjoys spending time outdoors and tracking down great coffee.

Bill Hendrie

Franchise Consultant

“I help businesses franchise, grow, and support successful networks”

Bill has over 30 years’ experience in franchising and is known for his honest, practical approach to helping businesses grow. His career began in sales and publishing before moving into recruitment, where he was first introduced to franchising — a sector that would become his long-term professional home.

Progressing from field support to Training Manager and ultimately Franchise Director, Bill became heavily involved with the British Franchise Association (BFA), serving as a Regional Chair, Board Member and Chairman of the Franchise Group for Scotland. He also holds Qualified Franchise Professional (QFP) status, recognising his extensive knowledge and experience in franchising.

Now part of The Franchising Centre, Bill works closely with clients to assess whether their business is truly suited to franchising and, where it is, to help them develop strong, credible franchise propositions that attract the right franchisees. He believes in clear communication, delivering on promises and guiding clients confidently through what can otherwise be a daunting process.

Based in Gloucestershire, Bill lives with his wife Lesley and takes great satisfaction from seeing his clients succeed — a passion that continues to drive his work today.

Michael Hulmes

Franchise Consultant

“I help businesses assess, build, and grow through franchising”

Michael Hulmes is a Partner and Franchise Recruitment & Development Consultant at The Franchising Centre, with over 15 years’ experience helping businesses grow through scalable and ethical franchising.

Michael began his career in senior operational roles with McDonald’s and Subway, where he supported large franchise networks, launched new locations, trained franchisees and developed structured programmes to drive performance. He later led an exciting start-up project, developing a coffee and food brand from concept to launch, opening two locations within six months and overseeing all aspects of site planning, brand development, recruitment, training and operations, including the launch of an external catering arm.

From 2019 to 2021, Michael worked with Bright & Beautiful (part of the Neighbourly Group), progressing to Senior Franchise Business Coach. In this role, he supported franchisees nationwide, providing strategic guidance across sales, marketing, financial management and leadership, delivering strong revenue growth and the successful launch of multiple new franchise locations.

Michael joined The Franchising Centre in 2023 and was made a Partner in 2025. He supports businesses across the UK with franchise recruitment, development and growth strategy, and has recently been working with international brands entering the UK market, delivering Market Entry Studies to assess viability and franchise potential. His work includes recruitment strategy, onboarding optimisation, territory planning, business planning, financial forecasting and ensuring compliance with BFA standards.

Known for his creative and innovative approach, Michael combines strategic thinking with practical delivery to help brands launch successfully, improve conversion rates and build profitable, sustainable franchise networks.

Dan Sherrington

Head of Brand Storytelling

“I help franchise brands communicate their story in a way that converts”

Dan is the Head of Franchise Storytelling at The Franchising Centre, helping franchise brands articulate stories that don’t just get noticed, but get remembered.

In an increasingly crowded marketplace, Dan works with brands to define and communicate narratives that build trust, create emotional connection and inspire action. With a deep understanding of how storytelling influences decision-making, he helps franchises stand out by clearly expressing not just what they do, but why they do it — and why it matters.

Specialising in franchising, Dan understands that a franchise opportunity is more than a product or service; it’s a potential turning point in someone’s life. Whether it’s a new career path, a fresh start, or the chance to build a lasting legacy, he ensures each brand’s story reflects the true value and impact of the opportunity being offered.

At The Franchising Centre, Dan works closely with franchisors to uncover what makes their business unique and bring that story to life in a way that resonates with prospective franchisees, partners and customers alike.

Alan Bradley

Head of Digital

“I create and implement effective digital marketing strategies for franchisors and franchisees”

Alan is a Franchise Digital Marketing and Technology Strategist with more than 20 years’ experience in franchising. Having also been a successful franchisor himself, he brings a practical, commercial understanding of how digital marketing and technology must work for both franchisors and franchisees.

Alan specialises in designing and optimising complete digital ecosystems for franchise brands, combining strategic marketing with carefully selected software and technology solutions. His work helps franchisors improve efficiency, manage growing networks, enhance franchisee recruitment, and strengthen brand performance across digital channels.

His expertise spans bespoke digital strategies, franchise management and recruitment software, CRM systems, local marketing platforms, social media content and design, PPC advertising, digital PR, programmatic marketing, and targeted TV advertising. Every solution is rigorously assessed to ensure it delivers real value and supports long-term, scalable franchise growth.

At The Franchising Centre, Alan works closely with UK and international consultants to support client brands and has played a key role in enhancing the digital marketing and technology strategies of high-profile franchises, including Harry Ramsden’s and YO! Sushi, as they expand into new territories.

Outside of work, Alan is a devoted family man who values time away from the digital world with those closest to him.

John Overdijking

Head of Franchisee Recruitment

“I help franchise brands attract, qualify, and recruit the right franchisees”

John heads up Franchisee Recruitment at The Franchising Centre, where he specialises in attracting and securing high-net-worth investors for both UK-based franchisors and global brands entering the UK market.

Raised in The Netherlands by a Dutch father and Scottish mother, John brings a truly international outlook to his work. He studied Marketing and Business at The Hague University of Applied Sciences before building a long and successful commercial career with W. L. Gore & Associates (GORE-TEX), where he spent almost 23 years in senior sales, trade marketing and strategic account management roles, working closely with C-suite stakeholders and major UK and international brands.

John moved into franchising in 2018, initially as a franchisee and recruitment consultant with Driving Miss Daisy, before joining The Franchising Centre in 2022. Since then, he has played a central role in delivering high-profile recruitment projects, including the successful rollout of over 150 supermarket-based YO! Sushi kiosk licences in partnership with Snowfox, and the recruitment of franchisees for emerging international care brands entering the UK.

Known for his strategic mindset, strong project management skills and exceptional relationship-building ability, John thrives on matching the right investors with the right franchise opportunities.

Outside of work, John is a devoted family man and enjoys golf, pickleball, the gym, and occasionally lending a hand in his wife’s Driving Miss Daisy franchise.

Alan Wilkinson

Head of Digital

“I help your business run more cost-effectively through smart tech, software, and AI solutions”

Alan began his career in banking before moving into recruitment and then franchising in the mid-1990s. Over the next decade, he worked across a wide range of franchised businesses, holding senior roles including Franchise Recruitment Manager, General Manager and Managing Director, and gaining hands-on experience as a franchisee in both depot-based courier and home-based sales models.

In 2006, Alan joined The Franchising Centre as a Franchise Consultant and has since supported businesses across the UK, particularly in the North of England and Scotland, helping established companies accelerate growth through franchising. He has worked across numerous sectors, including health and fitness, children’s activities, renewable energy, retail, logistics, security, professional services and local government.

Alan heads up TFC Digital, The Franchising Centre’s technology and software division. In this role, he helps franchisors reduce costs, improve efficiency, streamline communication, enhance CRM and marketing performance, and simplify the management of growing franchise networks. TFC Digital works with carefully selected software partners, with all solutions rigorously tested and tailored specifically to the needs of franchisors.

Alan was the second person in the UK to gain the Diploma in Franchise Management and the first to also hold the Qualified Franchise Professional (QFP) accreditation from the British Franchise Association.

Outside of work, Alan is a keen cyclist, school governor and former community campaign leader, recognised as a Community Champion by Prime Minister Gordon Brown. He values a strong work–life balance and brings the same practical, grounded approach to his work at The Franchising Centre.

Katie Snelling

Head of Creative

“I design and build the marketing collateral for every aspect of a franchisor’s franchisee recruitment process.”

Katie is a graphic and web designer with a strong passion for branding and digital storytelling. Since joining The Franchising Centre, she has played a key role in shaping how the business presents itself visually and online. In 2018, Katie led the refresh of the TFC brand, introducing a more modern, confident identity, and has since redesigned the latest version of the TFC website, bringing an even more contemporary, user-focused approach to the brand.

Her role spans brand, digital and content, working as part of the team responsible for TFC’s social media and wider online presence. Katie also supports TFC’s franchise clients by designing and building franchise recruitment websites, creating email marketing campaigns, developing brand guideline packs, and producing a wide range of marketing collateral, from franchise prospectuses and Franchise Information Memorandum documents to both print and digital assets.

Based by the sea in North Norfolk, Katie lives with her husband and two children and makes the most of coastal life — from beach walks and paddleboarding to sailing off to secret sandy islands. Away from the coast, she loves skiing, camping, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.

Steve Felmingham

Director

“I help franchisors solve operational challenges and strengthen their networks”

Steve has been involved in franchising for over 25 years, and has been a Franchisee, a Franchisor, an International Master Franchisee and an International Franchise Consultant, developing, launching and managing dozens of UK and international Master Franchises in Europe, USA, Canada, South America and Australia. During that time Steve was also a main board director of a highly successful international publishing and distribution franchise with over 28,000 outlets worldwide.

Prior to discovering franchising Steve developed and built three of his own independent businesses, and is the first to agree that “franchising is a much easier way to start – or develop – a successful business model.”

One of the first franchise advisors in the UK to be awarded the QFP (Qualified Franchise Professional) status in August 2011, Steve is regularly invited to speak at seminars around the UK and overseas; writes articles and commentary for the franchising press and is a regular speaker at the British Franchise Association’s Franchise Exhibitions.

Steve Eastaugh

Director & Head of Franchise Operations & Support Services

"I help franchisors build and grow high-performing franchise networks"

Steve has over 25 years of operational experience holding positions as Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer leading departments across organisations including marketing, sales, customer services, research & development and HR.

10 years of franchising experience with Premier Education Group PLC, where Steve led a market leading provider of education and recreational services, growing a UK franchise network of over 130 territories and operational master partnership franchises in India and USA.

Steve has worked in and with corporate, public and charity sectors, holding executive directorships, non executive directorships and chairing a number of UK company boards. Currently owner/director in performance mindset company Mindspan and a consultant & partner of The Franchising Centre for 5 years.

Farrah Rose

Director & Head of International

"I help develop and grow your business globally through franchising"

Farrah Rose is a world-renowned franchise consultant with more than 40 years’ experience at the forefront of international and ethical franchising. A long-standing BFA affiliate member and IFA supplier, she has played a pivotal role in shaping franchising best practice across developed and emerging markets worldwide.

Beginning her career at Burger King in the early 1980s, and later working with the Arcadia Group, Farrah helped define international growth strategies at a time when franchising was still in its infancy. In the 1990s, she became a key partner at The Franchising Centre, where she spearheaded international development methodologies that remain industry standards today.

Over the past three decades, Farrah has advised more than 300 PLCs and SMEs across sectors including food & beverage, retail, fitness, education, hospitality, and B2B services. Her client portfolio includes brands such as WaterBabies, YO! Sushi, Harry Ramsden’s, F1 Arcade, Bread Ahead, F45, PureGym, KFC and Boots Retail International.

Farrah has also held senior advisory roles with the Commonwealth Secretariat, the Maltese Government, the UK Department for International Trade, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, delivering franchise awareness and strategy programmes across Europe, the GCC, BRIC nations and beyond.

Her contributions have been recognised globally, including induction into the Global Franchise Hall of Fame (2023) and Global Franchise Magazine’s Highest Contribution to International Franchising Award. Today, she also serves in non-executive advisory roles, contributes regularly to franchising media, and is co-authoring a book on international franchising.

Dugan Aylen

CEO & Director

"I work with businesses to turn franchising into a successful growth strategy"

Dug has specialised in everything to do with franchisee recruitment for the last 2 decades and has a passion for helping franchise companies find the right profile of franchise owner, as well as ensuring that potential franchisees go through the right process to ensure they also come to the right decision.

Dug has worked with many franchise companies, improving and implementing franchisee recruitment systems to ensure success in this key area of their business.

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