Next Generation Franchisee Winner – Jack Parkhouse

Jack Parkhouse, Aspray franchise, has brought home the award for Next Generation Franchisee at the bfa HSBC Franchise Awards 2021. His modesty, drive and determination are what ultimately confirmed his win and set him head and shoulders above the other nominees.

What is a Next Generation Franchisee?

The Next Generation award category seeks to celebrate franchisees that have shown a passion for business and are making waves in building a successful franchise. Jack battled it out against a record number of entries to secure the accolade. High praise was given to his determination to grow Aspray through the pandemic by building network groups and teaching sales techniques within support meetings.

Commenting on the win, Jack said: “It’s been a challenging year for many businesses across the UK, especially relatively new ones like us. However, to receive such excellent recognition is really encouraging, and shows all our hard work has paid off. I always strive to be the best in what I do, and this award is a validation of that, but this success would not have been possible without the hard work of the whole Aspray team who I am extremely proud of.”

Setting the Standard

Right from that start, Jack was a franchisee to watch. Setting himself challenging, but achievable goals was key to Jack’s success. Jack said: “I wanted to have a really good run at doing more business in my first year than anyone had ever done in the Aspray model. I wanted to make sure that we kept client satisfaction at the absolute top of everything we were trying do and then build something that was going to impact the local community really well.”

Beginning his franchise just 6 weeks before the first national lockdown of the coronavirus pandemic did not stop Jack from striving towards and achieving his goals. Taking the Aspray business model and using it to fit his new circumstances allowed him to push forward and triumph in his first year.

More than the individual

One of the main qualities that sets Jack apart is his ability to recognise the importance of the brand and the impact that the wider company has on his business. His willingness to work with other franchisees and share ideas and best practise across the network has allowed him to not only impart his wisdom but also learn from others who are in the same situations as him but may look at a problem from a different perspective. Jack said: “My franchise can only be as strong as the brand itself, so being commercially aware of the brand’s growth and the new franchisees coming into the network brings tremendous value to my business, both professionally and financially.”

Andrew Brattesani, Head of Franchising, HSBC, said: “Aspray is a business that brings people together to share ideas and techniques in order to support one another. It’s always fantastic when we can shine a light on some of the franchise world’s newest franchisees, so this award is always a special one for us. Jack’s story is truly inspiring. He represents the very best franchising can offer and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for him and his team.”

Looking Forwards

Following his win, Jack is looking forward to the future. He has a large focus on the community and hopes to bring employment opportunities to his area as his business expands.

Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchise Association, said: “For many franchisees, the risk of investing in the franchising world can seem daunting. Jack no doubt had these fears too but for him, failure was just not an option. It’s a true credit to his determination and hard work that he has secured this truly well-deserved win. He’s a shining example of how franchising can offer a great way to realise your dreams, and I have no doubt the future is very bright for him and the rest of the Aspray team.”