Blogs, tips and updates!

Shortlisted for Four Categories at the Disruptive Franchise Awards

We are beyond excited to announce that we’ve been shortlisted for four incredible awards at the 2025 Disruptive Franchise Awards!

This prestigious event, led by renowned franchise strategist Stacey Cann, celebrates innovation, leadership, and the pioneers driving change in the UK franchise industry.

Our nominations include:

  • Franchisor of the Year – Katie Bullon
  • Trailblazer in Franchising – Katie Bullon
  • Franchise Industry Champion – Katie Bullon
  • Franchise Support Manager of the Year – James Beeson

These recognitions are a testament to the hard work, vision, and dedication of the entire activ network. They reflect more than just individual achievements, they speak to the broader movement we’ve built together in our unique business as The Marketing Agency Franchise.

Our successful mission to create a franchise that saves solo marketers 45+ hours a month, is one rooted in empowerment, progress, and purpose-led franchising.

Our focus is changing the way people run solo marketing businesses, and to hear of the recognition for this movement is amazing. 

James Beeson

Special shoutout to James, our Customer Success Manager, who’s made waves since joining us in December 2024. This is James’s first role in franchising, but his impact has been huge. His strategic support and clarity have been vital to our franchisees’ success, and we couldn’t be prouder to see his efforts celebrated on a national stage.

“It’s a huge honour to be named a finalist for Franchise Support Manager of the Year,” said James.

“Being part of a team that’s revolutionising the marketing industry through franchising has been an incredibly rewarding journey. From refining our recruitment approach to strengthening engagement systems, I’m excited to see what’s next. This recognition is just the beginning!”

And then there’s our CEO Katie, who’s been shortlisted for a truly remarkable three awards. Katie’s leadership, innovation, and influence in the franchising world have shaped activ’s journey since she took on the role of franchisor in 2021.

“Being shortlisted in three categories at the Disruptive Franchise Awards is a real honour,” said Katie.

“I’ve always believed in the power of franchising, and to now be recognised as a franchisor feels like a full-circle moment. The transformation of activ has been a labour of love, and I’m so grateful for this recognition.”

Katie Bullon Elite Franchise Magazine Contributing Writer

Katie’s vision has been the driving force behind our evolution. From launching groundbreaking new systems to enhancing training and mentoring structures, she’s led with clarity, heart, and purpose, ensuring that activ remains at the forefront of the marketing and franchising sectors.

This year, the Disruptive Franchise Awards enters an exciting new chapter under Stacey Cann’s leadership, building on its successful foundation and adding fresh, dynamic categories. With this new energy, the awards are set to shine a spotlight on the trailblazers and change makers driving the future of franchising.

The Disruptive Franchise Awards 2025 will be held on Friday, 26th September 2025, at The Village Hotel, Watford. Sponsored by Book When, and with special guest Dani Wallace in attendance, We can’t wait to celebrate with our fellow innovators and leaders in the franchising community. 

Watch this space! To learn more about us, download our brochure.