York photographer wins top franchise award

10:47am Monday 6th October 2008

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PHOTOGRAPHER Angie Baynes, 27, of York, is the Franchisee Of The Year.

The businesswoman was named gold winner of the 2008 British Franchise Association’s (bfa) Franchisee Of The Year awards at the International Convention Centre, in Birmingham.

Cathryn Hayes, head of franchising for HSBC Bank, which sponsored the awards, said: “Her success story is not only representative of hard work and commitment, but is also a testament to the support provided by a successful franchising business model.”

Angie, who established her £2 million turnover Venture Studios, in Micklegate, York, and in Hull, won a cheque for £5,000 The awards celebrate the UK's best performing franchisees in an industry now worth an annual £12.4 billion to the economy.

Angie, who started her photography studio franchise five years ago, impressed the judging panel by demonstrating how she has “managed change” – the theme of this year’s awards.

She started her career, aged 18, when she began working in the photography studio of her father, Anthony David Baynes, in November, 2003.

When he retired three years later she started another franchise in Hull city centre and set up her York venture, opening with a full diary of appointments.

Angie said: “When I saw the calibre of the other finalists I thought this wouldn’t be my night. I was wrong and I’m still in a state of shock. I should have known I had a chance if they were judging me on enthusiasm and passion for my brands, my product and my staff.”