Europe’s leading promotional gift and branded clothing franchise, Recognition Express, is sponsoring the EWIF Award for New Woman Franchisee of the Year 2011.

The closing date for entries is 24 February 2012 and the winner of the award will be announced at the Encouraging Women Into Franchising (EWIF) Awards Ceremony in London on Thursday 29 March 2012.

The EWIF awards were set up to recognise and reward the growing contribution and success of women involved in the franchise industry, one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK’s economy during 2010.

As well as The Recognition Express Award for New Woman Franchisee of the Year 2011, there are six other awards including The NatWest Award for Woman Franchisee of the Year 2011 and The Owen White Award for Franchisor Woman Employee of the Year.

Recognition Express also sponsored an award last year for EWIF Young Woman Franchisee of the Year 2010, which was won by Amanda Perkins, owner of Musical Minis in Buckingham and South Northamptonshire.

Nigel Toplis, Managing Director of Recognition Express, said:

“I’m delighted to be involved in this event and to be given the chance to sponsor such an important category. These awards are a great way to publicise the growing success of women in the franchising sector and to encourage more women to get involved. Running your own franchise is a great way to gain independence and establish a business.”