A TaxAssist Accountants franchisee has netted the Bronze award at the Franchisee of the Year Awards.

Mark Fordham, accountant franchise owner for St Albans and Harpenden, won the honour at the annual British Franchise Association awards ceremony in recognition of how he increased revenue  from his existing client base by cross-selling services such as insurance, debt recovery and employment advice.

Mark, who received a cheque for £2k, also launched his first shop-front, increasing visibility and accessibility when many others are keeping a low profile, and is expanding his franchise territory to include Hemel Hempstead and nearby areas.

Staff and training remain a key focus for the business, with regular courses, update days and online learning facilities available to help staff develop their skills and keep up to date with changing regulations.

Franchisees do not need any formal accountancy qualifications as full training is given, but you do need to have a relevant career background, be self motivated, disciplined, ambitious, hardworking and keen to build a substantial successful business.