Life imitates art – and that includes franchising. People are inspired by films and TV shows every day, so does it surprise you that franchises and business owners can find inspiration here too? In this Friday Franchising News, we’re taking a look at franchises that have recently taken a cue from the big screen and the little screen. For some, this means being motivated to start a business; for others it’s encouragement to join a national movement; and for one business, it provides a reason for a giveaway and a way to connect better with their consumer base. Whatever the reason, these franchises are proving that they can find inspiration for innovation all over.
Academy Award Winning Film Inspires Isle of Wight Franchise
In May, the Isle of Wight will be welcoming a new Driving Miss Daisy franchise. An innovative community companion driving service, Driving Miss Daisy was inspired by the Academy Award winning film of the same name that featured Morgan Freeman as a driver for an elderly client. The franchise originated in Canada and now has 37 UK branches. Graham Tutton, Ian Luff and Mo Luff will open their Driving Miss Daisy franchise on 1 May this year. Graham and Ian have been in business together for 17 years and have decided on this career change to give back to the Island’s community. Mo comes from a background in mental health and dementia patients. The team will start out covering Cowes, Newport and possibly Ryde, but they hope to build their fleet of vehicles to cover the whole island and give clients back their independence in a reliable and safe environment.
Shakeaway Sponsors “Midnight Sun” Competition to Celebrate Film Release
Shakeaway has announced that the franchise is running a competition to celebrate the film release of “Midnight Sun” starring Bella Thorne and Patrick Schwarzenegger. The film, in cinemas Friday, 30 March, is a story of first love, dreams realised, and a nearly perfect summer. The winner of the competition will receive an unforgettable night out for four people at the gig of their choice. The prize includes return travel by private luxury car from the winner’s home to the concert venue within 50 miles, or a £50 travel allowance if the venue is over 50 miles away; four tickets to the concert of the winner's choice in the UK; dinner and drinks before the concert at a restaurant close to the venue with a voucher of £50pp. Fans can enter on Shakeaway’s Facebook page by telling the franchise in 20 words who they would like to bring on this unforgettable night out. 36 runners up will be selected to receive a copy of the “Midnight Sun” book. The contest ends midday Thursday, 12 April.
Razzamataz Backs ITV’s This Morning’s National Be Kind Campaign
Razzamataz, a national theatre school franchise, is backing ITV’s This Morning’s national Be Kind campaign, which came about following a series of powerful interviews focused on bullying and the effect it had on children and their families. The Be Kind campaign aims to provide an anti-bullying message and provide open communication for children who have been victims of bullying. The Razzamataz franchise instills confidence into each child to help them face life challenges, and the business hopes this confidence will help children speak up in the face of bullying. For more than 18 years, Razzamataz has been the place where many children can open up, be themselves, and use the performing arts to work through their worries. Razzamataz hopes to use their experience and position within communities to help lend a voice to the important Be Kind cause.