Fastway Couriers, Ireland’s leading independent parcel collection and delivery service, has been named Franchise of the Year (Service) at the Irish Franchise Association Awards. The Awards, which are an established and anticipated event in the Irish franchise calendar, recognise excellence in franchising in Ireland.
Fastway won the title in the service category following the company’s most successful year to date. The franchise, in partnership with Home Delivery Network Limited, the UK's largest dedicated home delivery and collection service, secured a two and a half year contract for all Irish parcel deliveries of Littlewoods Ireland, moving Fastway into the B2C market.
Key highlights for the Fastway in 2009 also include:
- 22% increase in courier franchisees, bringing the total number of franchisees to 173
- 66 new jobs created in Ireland
- 14% increase in parcel movement despite a 30% market decline
- 30% increase in customer acquisitions.
Commenting on the Award, Andy Hennessy, Joint National Master of Fastway Couriers (Ireland) said:
“We are delighted to win this Award which recognises excellence in franchising as well as success in the courier industry. We had a tremendous year in 2009, particularly in the context of a 30% decline in the parcel delivery sector last year. Apart from our business success and service to our customers, we also take pride in the support we provide to all our franchisees throughout the 32 counties. In 2009, the Franchise Support Office provided over 500 on-site support visits to all regions.”
Gerry Riordan, Joint National Master continued:
“The Award also reflects our strong positioning in terms of our strategic plan for growth for the next three years. We aim to become the ‘Courier of Choice’ for home delivery retailers. This plan reflects our ability to build on our presence in this emerging market and this award acknowledges the hard work and dedication of all our staff and franchisees.“
The Franchise of the Year Award is open to any Irish or International franchise which has an established business franchise system in Ireland. The winning business is chosen for their success, progress and potential, including level of support to franchisees.
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