Franchise Brands appoints MHP after AIM IPO

Corporate communications consultancy MHP has been appointed to advise Franchise Brands plc on its financial communications after advising the international, multi-brand franchisor on its AIM listing last month (August 2016).

Franchise Brands raised £3.5 million – before expenses – in its market debut as one of only three companies to raise funds via an AIM IPO in August.

Founded in 2008 by ex-CEO Stephen Hemsley (who is now chairman at Domino’s Pizza) and non-executive director Nigel Wray, Franchise Brands has over 350 franchisees in 12 countries under its main brands ChipsAway and Ovenclean. The company intends to increase its portfolio of franchise brands through B2C business acquisitions.

Julia Choudhury, corporate development director at Franchise Brands, said: “We are delighted to have appointed MHP to advise on Franchise Brands’ AIM listing and beyond. Financial communications will play an integral role in updating our new shareholders and the wider market as we build on our success to date and expand through the acquisition of complementary franchise businesses.”

Katie Hunt, a managing director in MHP’s financial team, leads the account team with support from associate director Jade Neal and account manager Hannah Winter.

Hunt added: “Franchise Brands has a strong platform from which to deliver its clear strategy, with the benefit of a highly experienced management team and board. We’re delighted to have been a part of its successful IPO and we look forward to working closely with the Franchise Brands team to support the business through its next stage of development and growth.”

MHP recently won Saga and VPC Speciality Lending investments plc and announced new CEO Alex Bigg in September.