Puddle Ducks’ franchisee makes a splash at the bfa awards

Victoria Rowley was crowned the winner, recognising her achievements despite a number of setbacks over the past 12 months

Puddle Ducks franchisee for East Kent, North Kent and South East London, was thrilled to receive the award for ‘Resilient Riser’ at the recent British Franchise Association HSBC British Franchise Awards for 2021.

Victoria Rowley, youngest franchisee across the Puddle Ducks’ network, was crowned the winner, recognising her achievements despite a number of setbacks over the past 12 months.

Victoria said: “I am so overwhelmed to have received this award! To be recognised nationally for growing my business and achieving success throughout a difficult period is amazing. I am passionate about what I do and was confident that my business would bounce back after the pandemic due to demand and Puddle Ducks trusted franchise model. Congratulations to everyone shortlisted for such wonderful achievements throughout a difficult period.”

During a difficult time for many, Puddle Ducks was affected by the lockdown periods, with pools closed. Victoria didn’t let that stop her, continuing to prepare her business for when they could get into the pool again. As a result, her business thrived, welcoming new pools and new customers despite being out of the water. She has grown her business hugely, coming out of the pandemic stronger.

In 2020, Victoria business partner’s circumstances had changed, so she made the decision to take on the business herself.

She also took on a neighbouring territory, increasing her team, her pools and her client base.

Throughout a difficult and challenging time, Victoria kept her whole team in a job despite having no lessons running throughout various lockdown periods. Not only this, but she took on six new teachers and one new poolside assistant, seeing them through their training throughout the pandemic.

She organised training programmes to get her teachers back up to speed before jumping into the pool post-lockdown. And throughout the pandemic, Victoria and her team have received glowing feedback from their customers for keeping them informed and in the loop throughout, ensuring their strong customer base would jump again back into the pool!

All of this Victoria managed whilst recovering from a severely debilitating viral infection which left her learning to walk again and unable to drive.

Jo Stone, managing director and co-founder of Puddle Ducks said: “Victoria truly is a shining star and an amazing ambassador for our franchise network. She has grown an exceptional business throughout exceedingly difficult circumstances and has come out the other side still absolutely loving what she does. This is so heart-warming for us to see at National Office, knowing our support has helped Victoria on her journey. We are so proud to have her as part of our Puddle Ducks family- congratulations on your win, Victoria!”