Wagging Tails proved to be the big winners at the 2014 NatWest EWIF (Encouraging Women into Franchising) Awards. Having been shortlisted in three categories Wagging Tails picked up two awards as owner Lisa Suswain took the prize for Woman Franchisor of the Year and Clair Slingo, owner of Wagging Tails' Guildford branch, was named Woman Franchisee of the Year.
Wagging Tails, a company which offers dog lovers the opportunity to run their own pet care business, has seen considerable success since Lisa launched it as a franchise in 2010 and now has 11 franchises trading across the country.
Talking about Lisa’s work in developing Wagging Tails Sarah Carlile, Director of category sponsor Coconut Creatives, said,
“This winner’s business is clearly a passion and she is really trying to be an ambassador for her industry at all levels.
In conclusion, this woman produced a most compelling entry demonstrating a deep understanding of her business, forging the way not only in the franchising arena but in her industry as a whole. Her demonstrated unrelenting level of professionalism and pursuit of excellence in every area of her business showed that she clearly values her franchisees’ success as much as her own. “
Speaking about Clair’s achievements in winning the Franchisee of the Year Award Brian Whitford MBE, of category sponsor Bartercard, stated:
“The attitude and behaviour of this franchisee ratifies the whole rationale of franchising to me; and that is that each franchise is a network of like-minded people that want to have their own business but want the help and support of a structured system, and others to feed off rather than having to struggle on their own.
The best franchises are the ones that are successful in this area – where the franchisor respects and helps the franchisee but the franchisee understands that they have the responsibility to give stuff back in order to help the overall growth and success. It is a win-win for both parties and this franchisee exemplifies this in her approach and can see the results in her performance.”
EWIF Co-Chairwoman, Louise Harris, added: “It’s great to know we have honoured some of the best in the industry, both upcoming and established women in franchising. We hope it will inspire women everywhere to take a closer look at franchising an as option, either buying into one of the many women friendly businesses available or franchising their own business.”
The Awards took place at RBS House, London on Thursday 22nd May in front of over 100 guests from the world of franchising (including sponsors Bartercard, Coconut Creatives, McDonalds Restaurants Ltd, Merry Maids, NatWest, NomasVello and The Franchise Show) to honour those women forging successful businesses in this industry.