The National Franchise Exhibition 2026 is the UK's flagship franchise event, exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA). Taking place on 2.
Dates
2–3 Oct 2026
City / country
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Venue
National Exhibition Centre (NEC)
Time
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Companies exhibiting at The National Franchise Exhibition 2026 include 7th Heaven, Barclays, BNI, Business Franchise Magazine and Flip Out.
Event overview
The National Franchise Exhibition returns to the NEC, Birmingham – exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA). The UK's flagship franchise event will showcase industry-leading brands over 2 action-packed days with 50+ free talks offering something for everyone.
Learn all about the franchise model and discover how you can run your own business with the support of an established brand. The event features 100+ exhibiting brands across a wide range of sectors – from food and beverage to care, education and fitness.
TL;DR
The National Franchise Exhibition is the perfect place for a prospective franchisee to kick-start their journey to business ownership. With over 100 leading franchise brands under one roof, visitors can explore a vast range of opportunities across multiple sectors. Attendees benefit from 50+ free presentations and workshops, get one-to-one expert advice from industry professionals including the BFA, lawyers, and. The event also offers exclusive access to the Multi-unit Franchise Conference, McDonald's Insight Sessions, and the new Finance Zone. Supported by the BFA, the exhibition guarantees a high-quality, vetted selection of exhibitors
The National Franchise Exhibition is the UK's flagship franchise event, offering unparalleled access to a large, highly targeted audience of. Exhibitors gain direct face-to-face contact with thousands of motivated individuals actively seeking franchise opportunities. As the only franchise exhibitions supported by the British Franchise Association, the event provides a trusted platform that attracts serious. Exhibitors can showcase their brand, network with industry leaders, and benefit from a packed schedule of free educational talks and.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
Halls & areas
1North Avenue, Marston Green, B40 1NT Birmingham, United Kingdom
Entrances & gates
Main Entrance
Follow signs for The National Franchise Exhibition
Over 16,500 car park spaces. Standard parking £10 per day; Express parking £20 per day. Pre-booking recommended for discounts. Free shuttle buses operate between car parks and venue during exhibition open days. EV charging available (150 x 7kW chargers, plus ultra-fast 300kW DC chargers) – Type 2 cable required
16,500 spaces · £10.00/day
Fully accessible: step-free access throughout most facilities, wheelchair-friendly toilets, automatic doors at main entrances. Mobility equipment hire available (wheelchairs £5, scooters £20) – pre-booking recommended. Hearing loop systems in many halls. Partnership with AccessAble provides detailed access guides to 28 areas. Blue Badge parking available
Multi-Faith Prayer Room located on the Piazza (Halls 1-5) next to the chaplaincy office. Equipped with washing facilities, prayer mats, and holy books
Cloakrooms adjacent to each hall. Charges: £2 per coat, £3 per bag. Open 30 minutes before event opening and close when event closes. No overnight storage
Same as cloakroom service (£3 per bag) – no overnight storage
Secure charging units in the Piazza and Atrium. Compatible with Lightning, Micro USB, USB Type-C. Cost: £2 for up to 60 minutes, £4 for 60+ minutes. Contactless payment only
Free shuttle bus service operates between all car parks and the venue during exhibition open days. Starts one hour before the event and stops one hour after
Food options
Piazza Food Court, Atrium Catering, On-site Restaurants
On-site diningParking: Over 16,000 parking spaces available . Pre-booking online is recommended for discounts up to 24 hours before your visit . Follow signs for The National Franchise Exhibition, then take the free shuttle bus or walk
Attend
Event days & opening times
General Admission
Free ticket
Ticket info
Ticket notes
Tickets are free. Pre-registration is required
What's on
1
Advisory
1
Conference
1
Event days
TBA
Typical time
Jack Miller
Managing Director @ Right at Home Central Wiltshire
Building scalable social care organisations through franchising
David Lixton
Commercial Director @ Future Stars Coaching
Franchise development and growth strategies
Duncan Colvin
Head of Compliance @ Venners
Operational compliance and audit in franchising
Friday, Oct 2, 2026
BFA Franchising Seminars
Multi-Unit Franchise Conference
McDonald's Insight Sessions
Keynote: Anisa Khan
Keynote: Piers Linney
Professional Advisors One-to-One Sessions
Finance Zone Drop-in
Growing Your Own Business Workshops
Franchising Your Business Talks
Real Franchise Stories Panel
Multi-unit Franchise Conference
British Franchise Association (BFA)
Akerman
Attivo
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2026
Official website states '100+ leading franchise brands'- 69 , but no specific count provided
Growth over time
Edition recap
The National Franchise Exhibition made a triumphant return to the NEC, Birmingham, on 3 & 4 October 2025, reaffirming its position as a key date in the industry calendar for both aspiring entrepreneurs and established franchise owners. Bringing together opportunities across 46 diverse sectors, the event once again proved an unmissable hub for education, networking, and franchise discovery.
This year’s exhibitor line-up was a dynamic mix of household names and emerging concepts, from McDonald’s and Black Sheep Coffee to leading fitness brands Snap Fitness and Anytime Fitness, as well as trusted care providers Visiting Angels and Home Instead. Together, they reflected the sheer range and vitality of the modern franchise landscape.
More than a showcase of business models, the exhibition offered a comprehensive programme of seminars, panel discussions, and expert presentations, designed to equip attendees with the insights and confidence to take the next step on their franchise journey.
Visitors praised the event’s supportive and informative environment, with one attendee commenting, “I’ve loved being here. It’s a fantastic setup with so many established franchise brands exhibiting, which makes it easy to explore opportunities with real confidence.”
Exhibitors also highlighted the quality of conversations and genuine engagement. Kara Ratcliffe, Franchise Development Manager at Anytime Fitness, said “Exhibiting at The National Franchise Exhibition has proven to be a valuable investment for Anytime Fitness. The event gives us the perfect platform to connect directly with potential franchisees and introduce our brand to new audiences.” Meanwhile, Luke Spellman, Franchise Development Manager at Home Instead, added, “We love. The Franchise Exhibitions. It’s a great opportunity to meet prospective franchisees in an environment that encourages meaningful discussions and collaboration across the industry.”
A standout moment of the weekend was the keynote from pioneering entrepreneur Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Black’s, who captivated audiences with her talk, “7 Secrets for Every Successful Business.” Sharing lessons from her own remarkable journey, Jo offered practical advice for growth and inspiration for those looking to make their mark in franchising. Reflecting on the event, Jo said “It was wonderful to see the message resonate with so many people in the audience. Whether you’re running a gym, a coffee franchise, or selling chocolate, business is business. Events like this remind you of the shared challenges and the strong sense of community that defines franchising.”
Looking ahead For those with ambitious plans for 2026, all eyes now turn to The British & International Franchise Exhibition, taking place at Olympia, London on 30 & 31 January.
New this edition
Keynote from Jo Fairley
Pioneering entrepreneur and co-founder of Green & Black's delivered a talk titled '7 Secrets for Every Successful Business', sharing practical advice and inspiration
SourceExpanded sector representation
The event covered 46 diverse sectors, from food and beverage to fitness and care, demonstrating the breadth of the franchise industry
SourceTestimonials
I've loved being here. It's a fantastic setup with so many established franchise brands exhibiting, which makes it easy to explore opportunities with real confidence
Exhibiting at The National Franchise Exhibition has proven to be a valuable investment for Anytime Fitness. The event gives us the perfect platform to connect directly with potential franchisees and introduce our brand to new audiences
We love. The Franchise Exhibitions. It's a great opportunity to meet prospective franchisees in an environment that encourages meaningful discussions and collaboration across the industry
It was wonderful to see the message resonate with so many people in the audience. Whether you're running a gym, a coffee franchise, or selling chocolate, business is business. Events like this remind you of the shared challenges and the strong sense of community that defines franchising
Next edition outlook
The next National Franchise Exhibition is expected to return to the NEC, Birmingham, in October 2027, continuing the momentum from the 2026 edition. The organiser also runs. The British & International Franchise Exhibition at Olympia, London on 29–30 January 2027, which serves as a complementary event for the franchise community
Likely expansion of sector coverage and exhibitor numbers Continued focus on educational content and expert advice Potential new features based on attendee and exhibitor feedback
Impact
The 2025 edition reaffirmed the event's position as a key date in the industry calendar, bringing together opportunities across 46 diverse sectors and offering a comprehensive programme of seminars, panel discussions, and expert presentations. The event showcased a dynamic mix of household names and emerging concepts, reflecting the range and vitality of the modern franchise landscape
Audience quality
Visitors praised the supportive and informative environment, with one attendee commenting on the 'fantastic setup' and the ease of exploring opportunities with confidence. Exhibitors highlighted the quality of conversations and genuine engagement, describing the event as a valuable investment for connecting with potential franchisees
Exhibitor outcomes
Exhibitors reported high-quality interactions and meaningful discussions. Kara Ratcliffe of Anytime Fitness noted the event provides 'the perfect platform to connect directly with potential franchisees and introduce our brand to new audiences.' Luke Spellman of Home Instead added that the event 'encourages meaningful discussions and collaboration across the industry.'
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
The National Franchise Exhibition 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for UK franchising. The sector contributes £19.1 billion annually to the UK economy, with a record 1,009 franchise systems operating and an industry failure rate below 6% – a fraction of the casualty rate among independent start-ups . Despite economic headwinds, 77% of BFA members are confident about their 2026 business plans . For aspiring franchisees, the event offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the fastest-growing categories – personal services (up 53% since 2018) , tech and digital services, and recurring-revenue models like fitness – while meeting the brands that are adopting AI, franchise-as-a-service, and multi-unit growth pathways. For exhibitors, the event provides direct access to a wave of motivated, digitally-savvy entrepreneurs – franchise enquiries have risen 41% in five years . With 50+ free talks, one-to-one expert advice, and the exclusive support of the BFA, the exhibition is the definitive marketplace for anyone serious about franchising in 2026
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
AI integration accelerates across franchise operations
Artificial intelligence is becoming central to franchise success. In March 2026, the BFA polled members: 42% had not seen a discernible difference, but a combined 58% reported positive results from AI adoption- . In 2026, AI will drive lead generation, streamline customer service, enable hyper-personalised local marketing, improve scheduling, and provide clearer performance insights for franchisees
SourcePersonal services surge as retail and vehicle services decline
Store retail and vehicle services – the old pillars of UK franchising – have declined by 25% and 34% respectively. Personal services franchising (children's tutoring, pet care, domiciliary home care, health and wellness) has surged 53% since 2018 to fill the gap, with 89% of franchised units remaining profitable
SourceYounger, digital-first entrepreneurs enter franchising
A new generation of franchise owners – often professionals under 35 – is emerging, leaving corporate careers to build scalable businesses . Between January 2021 and January 2026, franchise and resale enquiries rose from 11.27% to 15.96% – a 41.61% increase . This cohort expects transparency, real-time performance data, modern systems, and clear pathways to multi-site ownership
SourceFranchise-as-a-Service and low-cost models democratise ownership
Cloud-based subscription models ('Franchise-as-a-Service') allow operators to access a franchisor's brand, systems, and support through a recurring fee rather than a large upfront franchise fee and physical premises . Low-cost, home-based, mobile franchise formats are making business ownership accessible to people who wouldn't have considered it five years ago
SourceRecurring revenue models gain appeal amid economic uncertainty
Income reliability is now a top priority. Membership-based sectors like fitness continue to see strong franchise interest . Franchisees in hospitality and QSR sectors are diversifying risk amid rising costs and minimum wage increases, with the minimum wage set to rise again in April 2026
SourceFranchise support judged by outcomes, not promises
Prospective franchisees increasingly demand transparency, data, and realistic forecasts- . The strongest franchisors will be judged not by their pitch but by the tangible outcomes they deliver – measurable ROI, operational consistency, and genuine franchisee profitability
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
BFA survey shows strong business confidence across franchising heading into 2026
ReadFranchising in 2026: Still a relevant route to market?
ReadWhy more Britons are leaving corporate careers for franchising in 2026
ReadBFA busts franchising's biggest misconceptions
ReadUK Franchising Embraces AI – But the Real Results are Just Beginning
ReadBFA: Women choose franchising for flexibility
ReadThe UK franchise exhibition calendar is anchored by two flagship events, both exclusively supported by the British Franchise Association (BFA): The National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham (October) and The British & International Franchise Exhibition in London (January). These are complemented by the International Franchise Show in London (April), which is the UK's largest franchise exhibition by exhibitor count. Together, they provide year-round opportunities for prospective franchisees to explore opportunities, attend educational sessions, and network with industry leaders
International Franchise Show
London, United Kingdom
Free access; over 11,000 attendees expected
websiteThe National Franchise Exhibition
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Includes Multi-unit Franchise Conference on 2 October 2026
websiteMulti-unit Franchise Conference (Birmingham)
Birmingham, United Kingdom
Co-located with. The National Franchise Exhibition
websiteThe British & International Franchise Exhibition
London, United Kingdom
Co-located with. The Franchisee Network Conference on 29 January 2027
websiteThe Franchisee Network Conference
London, United Kingdom
Co-located with. The British & International Franchise Exhibition
websiteAutumn 2026 Window
Birmingham NEC – the primary autumn franchise event cluster. Ideal for year-end planning and discovery
Winter 2027 Window
Olympia, London – the primary winter franchise event cluster. Complements the autumn Birmingham edition
Spring 2026 Window (Past)
Excel London – the UK's largest franchise exhibition by exhibitor count. Held April 2026
Event dates and details sourced from FranchiseInfo, the official organiser, and verified against third-party listings including the BFA, Canadian Franchise Association, and AUMA. The International Franchise Show dates are from official show pages and Excel London venue listings
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
The preferred and closest airport. Free Air-Rail Link connects directly to Birmingham International Station, adjacent to the NEC, in 90 seconds. Runs every two minutes, 03:30–00:30 daily
1 km (0.6 mi)
to venue
5 min
by car
East Midlands Airport (EMA)
Alternative regional airport with scheduled flights from Europe and domestic routes. Car or taxi required; no direct rail link to NEC
60 km (37 mi)
to venue
45–60 min
by car
Coventry Airport (CVT)
Smaller airport serving limited general aviation and cargo; limited commercial passenger service
25 km (16 mi)
to venue
30 min
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 60–120 / night
Basic, functional accommodation. Examples: ibis Styles Birmingham NEC & Airport (modern, breakfast included)- ; ibis Birmingham Airport NEC (162 recently renovated rooms, 2-min shuttle to NEC) ; Holiday Inn Express Birmingham NEC (5-min drive from NEC)- . Prices are estimates based on typical rates
USD 120–220 / night
Comfortable business and leisure hotels with good facilities. Examples: Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC (4-star, adjacent to NEC, 5-min drive from airport) ; Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC (free shuttle to station, on-site leisure club) ; AC Hotel by Marriott Birmingham NEC & Airport (5-min stroll to NEC) . Prices are estimates
USD 200–350 / night
Full-service hotels with extensive amenities. Examples: Hilton Birmingham Metropole (4-star, largest convention hotel outside London, 795 rooms, direct link to NEC complex, LivingWell Health Club with pool, sauna, steam room) ; Genting Hotel & Spa at Resorts World (15-20 min walk from NEC, attached to entertainment complex)- . Prices are estimates
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Train
Fastest option from city centre. Direct trains run regularly from Birmingham New Street (under 15 min), London Euston (~1.5 hr), Manchester, Edinburgh, and many UK cities. Birmingham International Station is connected to the NEC via the covered 'Bridgelink' walkway – step-free, weatherproof, 5 min on quiet days, 10-15 min during peak events
Bus
National Express West Midlands routes X1 (Birmingham–Coventry), X12 (Birmingham–Solihull), and 75/75A serve the venue. Buses stop at Birmingham International Interchange, adjacent to the station – then walk via covered Bridgelink. Alternative routes: 900 (every 15 min, ~30 min journey) and 97 (every 30 min, ~45 min)
Coach
Over 120 National Express and Megabus coach services run daily to Birmingham Airport. From the coach station, take the free Air-Rail Link (90 sec, every 2 min, 03:30–00:30) to Birmingham International Station, then walk to NEC
Air-Rail Link (from Airport)
Free automated people mover. Runs every 2 minutes, takes 90 seconds, operates 03:30–00:30 daily. Departs from upper level of Terminal 1. Arrives at first floor of Birmingham International Station; then follow signs through covered Bridgelink to NEC
Taxi / Private Hire
Official black cab partner: TOA Taxis (24/7) – book via 0121 427 8888, toataxis.co.uk, or TOA app. Ride-hail: UberX from airport to NEC approx £15-22; from city centre to NEC approx £19-27. Bolt also available (approx 20-30% cheaper than black cabs)
Car / Driving
Centrally located in UK motorway network – clearly signposted from all major routes. Pre-book parking online to save £5 vs on-the-day rate. Over 16,500 spaces, with free shuttle buses from car parks to venue during exhibition open days (start 1 hr before event, stop 1 hr after) EV charging available (first-come, first-served)
Free Venue Shuttle
Complimentary shuttle bus service operates between all NEC car parks and venue entrances during exhibition open days. Starts one hour before the event and stops one hour after. Service times and walking route alternatives displayed at bus shelters near car parks
Bicycle / On Foot
Cycle racks available at Piazza main entrance and Atrium 1 entrance. Shared cycle/footpath route to Birmingham International Station, then walk via Bridgelink (approx 10 min). Brompton folding bike hire available on Station Link Road (10 min walk from NEC)
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor visa (business) | Nationals of countries listed in the UK visa national list who are not visa-exempt and wish to attend trade fairs, exhibitions, business meetings, or conferences for up to 6 months. Also required for those with a criminal record or previous UK entry refusals, even if they are from a visa-free country | $169.00 | Usually 3 weeks (90% decided within 3 weeks, 98% within 6 weeks)- . Priority (5 working days) and Super Priority (next working day) services available for an additional fee | |
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | Visitors from visa-free countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, EU/EFTA member states, and many others) who do not require a full visa but need prior authorisation to travel to the UK for business or tourism for up to 6 months | $25.00 | Usually processed within 3 working days; apply online before travel | |
| Long-term Standard Visitor visa | Individuals who visit the UK regularly for business or tourism and want a visa valid for 2, 5, or 10 years | $633.00 | Same as Standard Visitor visa (usually 3 weeks) |
Nationals of countries not listed in the UK visa national list generally do not need a visa for stays of up to 6 months. This includes most EU/EFTA member states, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many others- . However, many visa-free nationals now require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) . Citizens of Ireland and British nationals are exempt from both visa and ETA requirements under the Common Travel Area- . Always check the official UK government website for the most current list
The UK accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary import of goods for commercial use, including trade fairs and exhibitions . Goods must remain in the same condition and be re-exported within the authorised time limit (usually up to 24 months) . The Carnet must be presented at every instance of entry, exit, or transit . Consumable goods and items intended for sale are excluded . Apply through your national Chamber of Commerce . The UK also offers Temporary Admission (TA) as an alternative procedure
Official visa pageWeather
October in Birmingham is mild and damp: average high 14°C (57°F), average low 7°C (45°F). Average rainfall ~70–88 mm (2.8–3.5 in) over 12–14 rainy days. There is a 34% daily chance of rain. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking between halls
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The NEC is the UK's best-connected venue . By rail: Birmingham International Station is a 5-minute covered walk from the venue ; direct trains from Birmingham New Street (15 min) and London Euston (~1.5 hr). By road: M42, M40, M6 – postcode B40 1NT . Free shuttle buses operate between all car parks and venue entrances during exhibition open days . Free Air-Rail Link from Birmingham Airport to the station . Numerous hotels within walking distance, including on-site campus options. Birmingham city centre is 14 miles (10 min by train)
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Business Etiquette
UK business culture values punctuality, politeness, and a professional but approachable demeanour. Handshakes are standard when meeting. Queueing is taken seriously. Conversations often start with light social topics before moving to business. Decision-making can be consultative, so be prepared for follow-up discussions
Language
English is the primary language. Communication is generally direct but delivered with understatement and politeness. Avoid overly aggressive sales tactics; a consultative, relationship-building approach works best
Dress Code
Business attire at the exhibition is typically smart casual to business formal. Suits and dresses are common, though many exhibitors and visitors opt for smart, comfortable clothing suitable for a busy trade show floor
Networking
The UK franchise community is close-knit and supportive. Networking is highly valued — expect genuine conversations and a willingness to share insights. Business cards are still widely used. Follow-up emails after the event are standard and appreciated
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Birmingham Airport serves major European and some long-haul destinations. For international visitors, connecting via London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol, or Dubai is common. From the airport, take the free Air-Rail Link (90 seconds, runs every two minutes) to Birmingham International Station, then walk 5 minutes to the NEC
Book flightsWhether you need a visa or an ETA depends on your nationality. Citizens of visa-national countries must apply for a Standard Visitor visa in advance . Citizens of visa-free countries generally need an ETA, though some may be able to visit without either . Business visitors attending the exhibition are typically eligible under the Standard Visitor route for activities such as attending trade fairs, conferences, and business meetings- . You cannot work, sell directly to the public, or provide goods or services
Processing: 3 weeks standard; priority services available for faster processing
Apply online at least 3 months before travel . You will need a valid passport, details of your travel plans, accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds . For business visits, a letter from your employer or the UK host confirming the purpose of your trip is recommended- . ETA applications are processed online and typically faster than full visa applications
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Areas to stay
NEC campus (on-site hotels – most convenient, walkable) · Birmingham Airport area (excellent transport links, free Air-Rail Link to NEC) · Birmingham city centre (15 min by train from Birmingham International Station)
Budget
$60–$120 USD per night
Mid-range
$120–$220 USD per night
Premium
$200–$350+ USD per night
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: From Birmingham Airport (BHX), take the free Air-Rail Link (90 seconds, runs every two minutes, 03:30–00:30) to Birmingham International Station, then a 5-minute covered walk to the NEC . Alternatively, taxis are available
Hotel → venue: On-site hotels (Hilton, Crowne Plaza, etc.) are within a 3–10 minute walk. Hotels near the airport offer free or paid shuttle services to the station (e.g., Holiday Inn free e-shuttle 05:00–23:00) . City centre hotels are a 15-minute train ride from Birmingham International Station
Ride-hail: Uber and Bolt operate in Birmingham. UberX from airport to NEC is approximately £15–22- . TOA Taxis are the official NEC partner – book via phone 0121 427 8888 or online
Public transit: Train: Direct services from Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International (under 15 min). Bus: National Express West Midlands services X1, X12, 75/75A serve the venue- . Coach: Over 120 National Express and Megabus services daily to Birmingham Airport
Parking: Over 16,500 spaces on-site. Pre-booking recommended. Standard parking from £10/day. Free shuttle buses operate between car parks and venue during exhibition open days. EV charging available (150 x 7kW chargers plus ultra-fast 300kW DC chargers)
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: October
Temperature: 7–14°C (45–57°F)
Seasonality: Average rainfall 70–88 mm (2.8–3.5 in) over 12–14 days; 34% daily chance of rain
Packing: Pack layers (light sweaters, long sleeves), a waterproof jacket or umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes. The NEC is climate-controlled but outdoor walking between car parks and venue may be damp
Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.
Add side trips
Default day plan
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Friday, 2 October
The first day typically has the fullest exhibitor presence, the most comprehensive seminar programme, and the Multi-unit Franchise Conference, making it the optimal day for serious networking and information gathering. Saturday is also valuable but may have a more casual atmosphere
Define your goals: identify sectors and franchise models you want to explore — Prioritise 5-10 exhibitors and sessions that align with your investment criteria
Register for free tickets and book any premium sessions (e.g., Multi-unit Franchise Conference) — Tickets are free but pre-registration is required
Review the exhibitor list and seminar schedule (when published) and create a personal itinerary — The exhibitor list is 'coming soon' – check back regularly
Plan travel and accommodation: book parking (discounts up to 24 hours before) , train, or hotel — NEC has seven on-site hotels within walking distance
Prepare questions for exhibitors and advisors; bring a notepad, pen, and business cards — One-to-one advice is available from BFA, lawyers, and financiers
Arrive early, collect your badge, and attend your top-priority sessions — Opening hours: Friday 10:00–17:00, Saturday 10:00–16:00
Arrive at NEC, collect badge, pick up show guide
Hall 3 entranceAttend BFA Franchising Seminar
BFA Seminar TheatreVisit key exhibitors (pre-selected from list)
Hall 3 exhibition floorLunch break and networking
NEC catering area / Piazza Food CourtOne-to-one advice session with professional advisor
Professional Advisors zoneExplore Finance Zone and speak with banks
Finance ZoneAttend Keynote Speaker session
Main stageFinal exhibitor visits and lead follow-up planning
Hall 3Resorts World Birmingham
Entertainment Complex
5-min walk
Shopping, dining, cinema, casino, and bowling – ideal for evening relaxation
National Motorcycle Museum
Museum
10 min drive
World's largest collection of British motorcycles – a unique look at British engineering and history
Bear Grylls Adventure
Activity Centre
5 min drive
Thrill-seeking activities including indoor skydiving, climbing, diving, and assault courses
Pendigo Lake
Lake / Park
On-site
Peaceful setting for a short walk and fresh air, located just outside the NEC
Birmingham city centre
City Centre
15 min by train
Explore the Bullring shopping centre, Cadbury World, Digbeth creative quarter, and diverse restaurants
Professional Advisors Zone
Advisory
One-to-one advice with BFA representatives, lawyers, and financiers
Finance Zone
Financial
Meet with major banks (NatWest, Lloyds, Barclays) and specialist franchise funding providers
Multi-unit Franchise Conference
Conference
Exclusive networking with industry peers and seasoned advisors, plus complimentary lunch and VIP drinks
Real Franchise Stories Panels
Panel
Put questions to franchisees and learn from their experiences
Catering Areas / Piazza Food Court
Social
Informal networking over lunch or coffee breaks
Budget
Exhibitor pricing not publicly published on the official event website as of the search date. The site provides general advice on exhibiting but does not list stand costs or package details
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
Exhibition Ticket
visitor · General Admission
—
Multi-unit Franchise Conference Delegate Pass
visitor · Delegate
—
Parking
both · Standard (pre-booked)
GBP 13.95–18.95 / per day
Hotel
both · Budget
USD 50–100 / per night
Hotel
both · Mid-range
USD 80–180 / per night
Hotel
both · Premium
USD 120–250 / per night
Train (Birmingham New Street to International)
both · Single
GBP 5–10 / per journey
Taxi (City Centre to NEC)
both · Single
GBP 15–30 / per journey
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exhibition Ticket | visitor | General Admission | — | official | 2026-08-31 |
| Multi-unit Franchise Conference Delegate Pass | visitor | Delegate | — | unknown | 2026-08-31 |
| Parking | both | Standard (pre-booked) | GBP 13.95–18.95 / per day | estimate | 2026-08-31 |
| Hotel | both | Budget | USD 50–100 / per night | estimate | 2026-08-31 |
| Hotel | both | Mid-range | USD 80–180 / per night | estimate | 2026-08-31 |
| Hotel | both | Premium | USD 120–250 / per night | estimate | 2026-08-31 |
| Train (Birmingham New Street to International) | both | Single | GBP 5–10 / per journey | estimate | 2026-08-31 |
| Taxi (City Centre to NEC) | both | Single | GBP 15–30 / per journey | estimate | 2026-08-31 |
Decision
Answer eight quick questions to find out whether you should Visit as a potential franchisee, Exhibit as a brand or service provider, or Skip this event for now. Choose the option that best matches your situation
QUESTION 1 OF 8
What best describes your role in franchising?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
When you are seriously considering buying a franchise within the next 12 months and want to compare options in person
Best for
Aspiring franchisees, career changers, and small investors looking to explore franchise models, attend educational sessions, and meet franchisors
Timeline
Immediate – you can attend without prior preparation, though reviewing the exhibitor list and seminar schedule is recommended
Risks
Overwhelming number of exhibitors; need to filter priorities
May feel pressured by sales pitches without enough background
exhibit
If you have a proven franchise model, clear recruitment targets, and a budget for a well-designed booth and lead capture
Best for
Franchise brands, master franchisors, and service providers (legal, finance, consultancy) seeking to recruit new franchisees and network with industry peers
Min. budget
$2,500.00
Timeline
T-90 days: plan stand, order services, train team; T-30 days: finalise logistics and marketing
Risks
Significant investment with uncertain ROI if not well-prepared
Competition for visitor attention among many exhibitors
skip
If you are more than 18 months away from any franchise commitment, or if you are simply curious without concrete plans
Best for
Casual observers, those still researching the viability of franchising, or individuals with no immediate budget or timeline
Timeline
No urgent timeline – you can wait for a future edition or explore online resources first
Risks
Missing out on networking and direct insights
Delaying your franchise journey unnecessarily
Book with
British Franchise Association (BFA)
Exclusive supporter of The National Franchise Exhibition. Provides expert advice, seminars, and representation
Official supporter listed on event website
Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)
Proud partner of The National Franchise Exhibition, supporting international franchise opportunities
Listed as partner on the Franchise Exhibitions page
NatWest
Major bank participating in the Finance Zone, offering funding options for franchisees
Mentioned as a Finance Zone participant
Lloyds Bank
Major bank participating in the Finance Zone
Mentioned as a Finance Zone participant
Barclays
Major bank participating in the Finance Zone
Mentioned as a Finance Zone participant
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Trust footer
38
References
17
Publishers
0
Date checked
FranchiseInfo
Taiwan Trade
Retail Franchise
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
