The celebration marked the first time it was held in-person, in over two years
Spirits soared at the recent NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising Awards. After two years of being online, there was a real buzz at the NatWest building in Bishopsgate, London, for the 12th annual NatWest EWiF Awards – a highlight for women in franchising, since 2010.
A celebration of women who push boundaries, set new standards and overcome adversity, the EWiF Awards recognises industry pioneers, innovators and visionaries from businesses of all ages and sizes, across every sector. With over 120 entries submitted, here are the winners.
New Woman Franchisee of the Year
Rebecca Lomax, Puddle Ducks
Like many in this category, Rebecca opened her franchise during lockdown. Undeterred by COVID’s impact on her sector, she made use of all available resources. By the end of her first year, she’d bought a neighbouring territory, giving her 16 staff teaching 700-plus customers.
New Woman Franchisor of the Year
Camilla Culshaw, The Teepover Club
Most business owners reach a point when they need to consider the best route of expansion. For Camilla, franchising her brand was a top priority, hurried by increasing demand, thanks to the pandemic. And, as she welcomed her first franchisee, she also welcomed a new baby!
Woman Franchise Employee of the Year
Lucy Crabtree, babyballet Franchising Ltd
For anyone running a franchise, having an employee who knows the business so well she can operate as the owner, is invaluable. This is true for Lucy, who was instrumental in the development of the brand for which she works, and enabled franchisees to increase turnover.
Service Provider of the Year
Suzie McCafferty, Platinum Wave Franchising
Servicing the franchise industry involves working with a variety of clients and industries, and supporting their growth. Suzie helped a number of brands to launch or expand into the UK, during 2021; tapping into her personal franchising knowledge and expertise.
EWiF Ambassador of the Year
Suzie McCafferty, Platinum Wave Franchising
Suzie is passionate about franchising, and its benefit to women starting their own businesses. So much so, that she takes any and every opportunity to educate people about it, including politicians and students. A true ambassador for the franchise industry, at all levels.
Young Woman in Franchising of the Year
Abi Doublard, Anytime Fitness UK
2021 hit some industries harder than others. However, Abi played a major role in reopening her brand after lockdown. She inspired most customers back – plus 17,000 new ones – in the first month. Newly appointed to the franchise leadership team, she also oversaw a major franchise rebrand.
Woman Franchisee of the Year
Ally Phillips, Pink Spaghetti
Running a top franchise in the network is a brilliant achievement. Ally became the fastest growing franchise, increasing her customer base and employing more staff. She now shares her success to inspire others in her network.
Woman Franchisor of the Year
Lucy Campbell, Right at Home UK
Lucy’s passion and commitment to her brand and sector, saw her take the lead in many areas – from speaking to the media, to lobbying for better treatment of care workers. All this after her recent promotion to CEO.
Inspirational Woman of the Year
Debbie Simpkins, InXpress
Many of us know someone who inspires us, which is what this award recognises. Someone like Debbie who didn’t just run her franchise whilst undergoing surgery and cancer treatment, she substantially grew it! All at a time when being in hospital was a lonely road, thanks to COVID restrictions.
Overall Woman in Franchising
Lucy Crabtree from babyballet Ltd
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