Snap-on crowned Franchisor of the Year!

Bringing its 100th year to a close in style, Snap-on Tools has been crowned Franchisor of the Year at the prestigious HSBC British Franchise Association (bfa) Awards 2020.

The global tool giant was presented with the bronze Franchisor of the Year accolade, cementing its position as one of the UK’s top three franchises.

Sponsored by HSBC, the awards recognise the very best franchised businesses in the country, celebrating consistent growth, innovation, network support and contribution to the sector. Franchising contributes over £17billion to the UK economy and more than 700,000 people are employed in the industry across the country. As Franchisor of the Year, Snap-on is now part of an elite group of franchisors flying the flag for gold-standard franchising across the UK.

“It’s very humbling to have been chosen as a winner from hundreds of other respected franchise brands across the country,” said Lisa Law, National Franchise Manager at Snap-on Tools. “Our success is down to the hard work of each and every member of our business including our 415 franchisees, and I want to thank them all for their continued dedication.”

“2020 has been a tough year, so to have been recognised and commended in this way is a tremendous achievement. We’ve done all that we can to innovate and support our network during these difficult times and the enthusiasm and positivity they have shown in return has been truly inspiring. The passion, strength and resilience of our brand is why we continue to lead in both the automotive and franchising industries. Adding ‘Franchisor of the Year’ to our name in our 100th year feels very special indeed.”

“The competition was fierce,” said Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchise Association. “There are more franchise systems than ever before, showing that businesses are choosing franchising as an ideal model for them. Snap-on Tools has over 160 support staff and focuses on enabling the franchisee network to thrive, with an enviable support programme to ensure that everybody has all the tools for success.”

Snap-on Tools is the world’s number one professional tool brand. They are a leading global manufacturer and distributor of tools for the automotive, marine, railroad and engineering technician. Franchisees sell the most sought-after tools in the industry, delivering outstanding customer service to technicians from their very own, iconic showroom on wheels.

“Snap-on Tools impressed the judges with its passion and initiative offerings,” added Andy Brattesani, UK Head of Franchising at HSBC. “For instance, it’s ‘Jump-Start Programme’ which pays for half of the start-up costs, has been pivotal in allowing the leaders of tomorrow to get into franchising. It’s been a difficult year for all businesses, so we are pleased to see members of the franchise community thriving, having adapted to operate successfully despite the difficulties thrown their way.”

The HSBC bfa Franchisor of the Year awards are the flagship event in the franchising calendar, with nominees and winners, proving the business works ethically and in the best interests of franchisees and staff. This year the awards were held virtually on 30th November.