Starting a business in a recession isn’t the easiest choice, but it’s one that has paid off for Stuart Fisher, owner of Recognition Express Harrow, who has just been awarded ‘New Franchisee of the Year’ after a rock solid first year of trading.

Stuart, 48, who runs the business with the help of his wife Beverley said: “We are over the moon. It’s very encouraging to have our efforts acknowledged in this way. It’s

been a lot of hard work but also a lot of fun.  We hit our first year target and we’d like to do even better next year.”

Nigel Toplis, managing director of Recognition Express, explains why Stuart was presented with the award: “Stuart has worked really hard to achieve such excellent results in his first year.  He is always knocking on doors, networking and staying active.  That’s what you need to do to keep your business thriving in a recession.”

Stuart was a qualified accountant his whole working life and a Finance Director at an exhibition and conference venue for 11 years, before he decided to set up his own business.

Stuart explains: “I had always fancied running my own business in some shape or form and I didn’t want to look back in 10 years and wish I had taken the plunge, so I started doing some research.  I visited the National Franchising Exhibition, started chatting to Nigel and I liked what Recognition Express had to offer.”

“18 months on and I can honestly say that the organisation does everything it says it does on the label.  There’s comprehensive training with refreshers if needed, great support in all areas of the business and a helpful network of 43 franchise owners.”