BFA Conference 2026 Reveals Franchising Insights and Keynotes

The details of the BFA conference 2026 programme have been revealed, with the event scheduled to take place in Telford on 12 November 2026. Sponsored by The Franchising Centre and Constant Contact, the conference will be followed by the BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards, historically described as the 'Oscars' of franchising.

The event will bring together franchisors and franchisees to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the industry. Senior director of international marketing at Constant Contact, Berit Block, stated that the partnership with the BFA is critical for ensuring that both parties work together to balance brand consistency with local customisation.

The CEO of The Franchising Centre, Dugan Aylen QFP, added that the conference marks the beginning of a new chapter for the sector, as the pace of change in business has accelerated in recent years, especially in terms of technology, politics, the economy, and the expectations of both franchisors and franchisees.

Pip Wilkins, CEO of the BFA, described the conference as more than just a 'conference' event, noting that it is a significant opportunity for everyone in franchising to learn and network. She emphasized that the conference is by far the BFA's biggest event of the year, offering a comprehensive range of educational sessions.

The agenda for the 2026 conference includes talks and presentations on various topics, such as recruitment, leadership, and creating national opportunities. The BFA has also invited keynote speakers to complement the educational content of the day, including former Royal Marines Commando and founder of Reborn Mindset, Aaron Moon, broadcaster and presenter Timandra Harkness, and Dragon's Den's Sara Davies MBE.

Aaron Moon, who served in Afghanistan in 2009 and lost his right leg below the knee due to an IED, will deliver a presentation entitled 'What Happens When Life Doesn't Ask Permission.' His talk will focus on how to build resilience, adapt to change, perform under pressure, and take ownership when faced with life's toughest challenges.

Timandra Harkness, a familiar voice on radio and a writer and presenter, will deliver a presentation titled 'The Future isn't Artificial: Why Human Judgement Still Matters.' Her talk will explore the role of human judgment in the future of technology and data.

Sara Davies MBE, founder of Crafter's Companion and a Dragon's Den investor, will share her experience, energy, and business insight with delegates. She will discuss her journey from university to building an international business and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The BFA, which was formed in 1977 by major franchising organizations, is the voluntary self-regulating governing body for franchising in the UK. The association is dedicated to upholding the standards of ethical franchising and delivering various educational events throughout the year, some free and some paid for.

The BFA's website, code of ethics, and other resources can be found at the following links: thebfa.org, www.thebfa.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Code-of-Ethics-for-Franchising.pdf, and www.thebfa.org/wp-content/uploads/British-Franchise-Journal-Infographic-Highlights.pdf.