Irish Franchise Awards, which recognise excellence in franchising, are open for nominations until October 19th, 2007.  Now in its fourth year, the prestigious awards identify and reward the outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals in the growth and development of the franchise industry on the island of Ireland. The franchise sector has shown spectacular growth over recent years and according to the Irish Franchise Association's latest survey in July 2007, there has been a marked increase in turnover for the sector to €2.099 billion representing an increase of 69% since the last survey in 2004 with currently 270 active systems in Ireland providing 25,461 jobs.The Awards, sponsored by Ulster Bank and hosted by the Irish Franchise Association, will be presented at a formal black-tie awards ceremony at the Conrad Hotel, Dublin on Thursday November 22nd 2007. 

Orna Stokes, Head of Franchising at Ulster Bank said; With approximately 2,000 new businesses being set up every month in Ireland it is our job to provide great advice and a top quality service to franchisees. We are delighted to be involved in the Irish Franchise Awards 2007 as we understand the importance of recognising and rewarding outstanding entrepreneurs within the franchising arena and these awards provide us with a fantastic opportunity to do so. This award ceremony celebrating excellence in Franchising is anticipated to be one of the most impressive business events of the year reflecting the remarkable growth of the sector.

The event will be attended by leading figures from the franchising and business community.  IFA Chairman, John Green, said, Franchising is a viable option for budding entrepreneurs given its far better success rate than starting businesses on their own. It is also an attractive model for existing business owners wishing to expand their business. The awards categories represent both retail and service industries and for both sectors include Franchise of the Year, Franchisee of the Year, Best Emerging Franchise and Franchise Person of the Year.  The closing date for nominations is Friday, September 28th 2007 and details are available from the Irish Franchise Association.