Mac Tools has been shortlisted at the UK’s most prestigious franchise awards, after being named as a finalist in the Award for Innovation category of the bfa HSBC Franchise Awards 2018.

The awards are the longest established in the franchise sector and feature some of the biggest brands in the country, with McDonald’s and Costa among the other finalists this year. The number of entries this year rose by nearly one-third, highlighting the impressive achievement of being named as a finalist.

It becomes the latest accolade within reach for Mac Tools, which was named the country’s top van franchise in December’s Best Franchise Awards. The brand has won multiple awards in recent years including a 5 Star Franchisee Satisfaction award based on confidential feedback from its franchisees.

Lesley Cobb, Mac Tools Franchise Operations and Recruitment Manager, said: “We’re so proud to be shortlisted thanks to all the incredible work done by our support team in conjunction with our franchisees, who have a strong voice in shaping new initiatives.

“We’ve looked at all aspects of our business model to ensure franchisees have everything they need to become the go-to people for quality tools. From planning and finance to communications and new products, we’re constantly evolving what we do and to have that recognised is a fantastic achievement.”

Pip Wilkins, the bfa’s CEO, commented: “Our annual awards are proving more popular than ever, with a 32% increase in entries this year over 2017, so it’s been a tough task to narrow it down to our 18 finalists. I’d like to thank everyone who entered and congratulate our finalists… It’s wonderful to see so many great entries, the effort and commitment that goes into every one is undeniable. Good luck to all on the shortlist.”

Lesley added: “While Mac franchisees benefit from the brand being part of the world’s biggest tools manufacturer, Stanley Black & Decker, this nomination shows we retain our agility and ability to move quickly to stay at the forefront of our industry. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Finalists will present to an expert judging panel, with the bfa HSBC Franchise Awards winners named at a black-tie ceremony on 28 June.