The Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100) is delighted to announce the latest rankings of the top 100 franchisors in the UK for 2025. The awards, established in 2017, showcase and recognise the industry’s exceptional franchises. Now in its ninth year, the prestigious league table is thrilled to unveil its annual list of the Top 100 achievers.
For the third year running, Snap-on Tools has claimed the coveted number one position in the EF100 ranking, standing out amid fierce competition across various industries. The global leader in tool manufacturing and distribution will proudly hold the title throughout 2025.
“This is our fourth number one ranking in the EF100 – and this year’s win marks our third consecutive year in the top spot. But the success of the Snap-on franchise doesn’t belong to any one person: it’s the result of everyone’s collaboration, common ambition and genuine drive to be the very best – be they franchisee, associate, field support, product development, senior management or MD!” said Byron Miltz, UK Managing Director for Snap-on Tools.
“We are all incredibly proud to have been recognised by so many industry experts as the UK’s number one franchise – again! We truly embody our vision ‘to create an environment in sustainable growth is constantly being achieved’ thanks to the dedication of hundreds of people across the entire country. Excitingly, even though we’ve just had one of our most successful years to date, the next 12-18 months are set to be history in the making!”
“The resilience and innovation demonstrated in response to the challenges posed by the British business environment is truly commendable,” said Anita Roberts, Franchise Director at HSBC UK and one of this year’s judges. “From navigating economic uncertainties to adapting to shifting consumer trends and technological advancements, franchise brands in the UK consistently rise to the occasion. This spirit of determination and creativity not only drives the evolution of the franchising industry but sets new benchmarks for excellence. It’s a testament to the strong mindset and the unwavering commitment to progress that defines the British franchising community.”
The league table’s top five consists of Water Babies in second place, Home Instead taking third, Stagecoach Performing Arts in fourth and Driver Hire in fifth position. Securing a spot in the top five is an outstanding accomplishment, highlighting the resilience, adaptability and strength of their business models.
Commercial Director of Elite Franchise, Jodie Marsh, commended each franchise for their achievements: “Gaining a spot in the Top 100 is a remarkable achievement to be truly proud of. Each year, we assess entries based on our eight key criteria while also evaluating the strategies the franchises employ to tackle challenges and ensure long-term success. These brands’ forward-thinking attitudes and groundbreaking innovations never cease to impress us, earning them the recognition they wholeheartedly deserve.”
This year’s highest climber is Greensleeves Lawn Care, rising a massive 33 places from last year’s rankings to position 47 and the highest new entry is Little Kickers, making its first appearance in the Top 100 at no.42. The EF100 offers valuable insights for individuals exploring franchise opportunities, showcasing a diverse range of thriving franchises across multiple industries.
Finalists will gather at a glitzy ceremony on Thursday 13th March 2025 at Leonardo Royal, St Paul’s in Central London, where several additional awards will be given to brands showcasing outstanding performance, ranging from sustainability to diversity and inclusion.
This year, Elite Franchise subscribers can also get involved in voting! You have the opportunity to select your People’s Choice Award winner by visiting https://elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk/ef100-winners. Here, you can explore detailed profiles of each brand, learn more about their achievements and make an informed decision. Once you’ve found your favourite, simply click through to cast your vote and show your support for their incredible work.
Additionally, the prestigious Suppliers Award is determined exclusively by the EF100 winners themselves. This award recognises outstanding contributions from suppliers who have gone above and beyond to support the franchise industry.
To find out more about the EF100 and the brands that make up the full 100 list, please visit https://elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk/ef100-winners
Feature Image: EF100 2024 winners
About Elite Franchise Top 100:
The Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100) is an annual league table that celebrates the best of the UK’s franchisors. It was established in 2017 and has since become a prestigious event in the UK franchise industry calendar. The EF100 recognises excellence, innovation and impact in franchising. Entries are judged by a panel of industry professionals. The EF100 is supported by major sponsors including HSBC UK Bank plc.
