What Franchise Issue 21.1

exactly this,” Fitton adds. “It shows how powerful that combination of convenience retail, QSR, and delivery can be when it’s done right.” Partnerships in action Retail’s Best gives retailers a chance to see these opportunities in action, with the invitation-only format bringing together a high-calibre audience of independent retailers and franchisors. Vas highlights why franchising in convenience retail is such a timely opportunity. “High-footfall, space-limited locations demand offers that maximise every square metre; food- to-go does exactly that,” he explains. “With margins tightening, we need to reduce our reliance on long-term declining categories like tobacco or compliance-restricted categories such asVape, so standing still isn’t an option. Early movers will secure the best locations and the strongest operators.” Fitton hopes that independent convenience retailers attending the event will grasp the full value of partnering with a soft franchise likeWelcome: “It’s the balance of support and independence that makes Welcome such a strong franchise partner,” he points out. Vas also underscores why Retail’s Best Convenience, Food & Franchise is highly relevant right now: “We’ll focus on improving profitability and replacing under-pressure categories, with food-to-go and store-in-store opportunities taking centre stage,” he discloses. “True to Retail’s Best, we’ll also explore emerging trends – from security innovations and customer loyalty programmes to retail media that uses data to target by daypart – so attendees leave knowing what works now and how to stay ahead.” and successfully lobbied for a Pelican crossing outside my shop. My team is part of that community too: one member has been with me 30 years, another 20. I look after them, and in return, they look after the store. Time has also allowed me to diversify. Alongside my Leamington One Stop, I’ve invested in other franchise brands with my children: Heavenly Desserts, Karak Chaii andWingKingz. My son, after a stint at PwC, wanted to do something different. He’s a foodie, so Karak Chaii was a natural fit. My daughter helped set up Heavenly Desserts. They’ve taken ownership, and it’s been fantastic to see the next generation embrace franchising. Each new brand has been a learning curve. When we opened Heavenly Desserts, we knew nothing about that sector. But that’s the beauty of franchising – the expertise comes with the model. They trained us, we trained our staff, and soon enough it ran smoothly. It’s a win-win: the franchisor shares knowledge, and we bring our graft. I believe food-to-go is the future. Groceries are important, but customers increasingly want hot, fresh food on the move, supported by delivery platforms. That’s why my diversification has focused on food and drink. If I’d chosen fitness, for example, I’d have been out of my depth. But in food, I already understand the sector. Of course, there have been challenges. When we first joined One Stop, promotional stock used to arrive all at once. With no storeroom, we’d be drowning in cages of products, blocking aisles and frustrating customers. I raised it with the franchise director, and they listened. Now stock is phased over four weeks, making life much easier. That’s the thing about franchising: when it works well, it’s a partnership. For other retailers considering franchising, my advice is simple: do your homework. Speak to franchisees, visit stores, ask the awkward questions. Not all models work. Be wary of small formats that can’t support fresh or chilled ranges, and don’t underestimate the value of alcohol sales – without them, convenience retailing is tough. Looking ahead, I’d like to expand into more commercial property, and maybe explore a coffee franchise or even bubble tea. Franchising gives me the confidence to take on new ventures without starting from scratch. When I think back to that little shop painted yellow, with £50 in my pocket and a van from the scrapyard, I never imagined where it would lead. Franchising has given me freedom, growth, and the chance to involve my children. Above all, it has allowed me to keep doing what I love, which is serving my community.” Retail’s Best Convenience, Food & Franchise 2025 promises to be the must-attend event for multi-site convenience retailers and ambitious operators looking to grow. With a focus on concessions, shop- in-shop concepts, modular setups, and kiosk formats, this year’s event highlights the flexible franchise and food-to-go opportunities helping operators diversify and expand, offering retailers the chance to connect, share ideas, and gain insights that are shaping the future of the convenience sector. Visit retailsbest.co.uk to find out more. F U R T H E R I N F O R M A T I O N 67 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM Ins ight