BUSINESSWOMAN Paula Wood is one of the finalists for the Franchisee of the Year at the British Hairdressing Business Awards.

The Franchisee of the Year award recognises the top five British business brains who have branched out from a mother company to launch a successful franchise salon.

Paula runs Saks Hair in Minshull Street, Knutsford, and impressed industry judges with her business acumen, turnover, brand building and marketing activities, as well as staff development and strong business growth figures.

Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards said: “To be named as a finalist in the Franchisee of the Year category confirms how exceptional Paula is.

“She has crafted an amazing business, navigating relationship with head office extremely well and producing strong figures.

“Whilst franchisee salons take the name and procedures of an established business, they are still a start-up company and Paula has done wonderfully well in creating momentum for herself.

“Salons don’t automatically get a brilliant reputation; that’s built on attracting skilled staff and giving high quality customer service, and this is what Saks has done. We wish Paula the best of luck.”

Paula said: “Whilst I’ve had amazing support from my parent company, opening a salon has been the most challenging thing I’ve ever done.

Knutsford Guardian:

“It’s been an incredible journey of seeing what I’m capable of and championing my team as well. I’m delighted to be recognised. Starting a business is hard, but it’s been the most exciting process.”

Shortcuts Software UK sponsors the Franchisee of the Year category.

HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards will take place on September 9 at the Park Plaza Hotel in London.