What’s the role of the bfa?
According to the bfa’s Articles of Association, its primary role is to:
- promote the interests of franchisors
- Maintain its Code of Ethical Conduct and compliance therewith
- Provide advice on all queries related to franchising
- Promote trust and confidence in bfa-accredited franchises
- Provide education and training with regard to franchises, and
- Increase efficiency and economy in the franchising practice.
Furthermore, at its core, the bfa supports and influences high-quality ethical business format franchising in accordance with the European Code of Ethics.
What is a bfa membership?
There are three primary bfa membership types. These are:
- Full membership: this refers to a franchisor who has run a pilot scheme for a minimum of one year and who has at least four franchises (two of which must have been operating for two years).
- Associate membership: these members are required to have run a pilot operation for one year and a minimum of one outlet must have been operating for a period which is more than one year.
- Provisional membership: this refers to those in franchising who are or will be developing their franchise concept. They will also be taking accredited professional advice on its structure.
There are also bfa Affiliate members, who are considered professional service providers specifically for the franchise industry. These service providers have been accredited by the bfa.
What is the bfa’s Code of Ethical Conduct?
The bfa’s Code of Ethical Conduct is an ethical framework that binds franchisors, franchisees and suppliers involved in the franchising ecosystem to operate ethically. As such, the Code of Ethical Conduct has provisions for both franchisors and franchisees, which they agree to be bound by in order to gain greater levels of trust, authority, legality and legitimacy, as well as be considered ethical and credible in the industry whilst adhering to non-regulated industry standards.
What are the benefits of Franchise Association membership?
As a member of a franchise association, those in the franchising ecosystem will be able to benefit from accreditation as their organisation and corporate practices will be scrutinised first. This relates to both how franchisors treat their clients as well as their franchisees.
Furthermore, the bfa specifically offers industry certification to franchise professionals. The greater levels of certification, the more likely it is that the franchise is well-run and is hence more successful.
Next, the bfa is a great source of information through its ability and expertise in offering advice as well as publications for those involved in or interested in joining the franchise industry. Examples of publications include the legal implications of franchising, documents one needs to be aware of, how to decide if franchising is for you, aspects related to financing, etc.
Lastly, the bfa publishes quality listings. Because the franchises which have joined it are required to adhere to certain standards, listings of franchisors are considered of high value because only those in good standing make it on the bfa’s list.
