Member Article

Local business women win top national awards

Jo Stone and Tracy Townend, directors of Cranage-based Puddle Ducks, have won two prestigious national titles at the 2019 NatWest Encouraging Women into Franchising (EWIF) Awards. The annual awards celebrate the best and brightest women in franchising.

The local ladies have been co-owners of the baby and children swim school franchise since 2002. At a glittering award ceremony in London, they were announced winners of the Woman Franchisor of the Year, before going on to scoop the ‘winner’s winner’ award of Overall Woman in Franchising (or, in their case, women) in Franchising.

The pair met when they were both pregnant with their first children, who were subsequently born on the same day and recently turned 18. Since then, Jo and Tracy’s supportive friendship has developed alongside their business. They now preside over a large, national network and support other people to take their own steps into business ownership.

In naming them as joint overall winners at the 2019 awards, EWIF recognised their hard work and close bond which hasn’t wavered, something Tracy was keen to acknowledge.

She explained, “I have recently had a long period of illness and Jo has been a tower of strength, not only for me, but also for the Puddle Ducks head office team and our lovely franchisees who kept the business thriving. The judges were keen to give special mention to Jo for all she has done, not only in supporting me and the Puddle Ducks business, but for also being a wonderful advocate for the franchise industry.”

On accepting the awards, Jo said, “It was a real surprise to receive the overall Woman in Franchising award. From the start, we have had big dreams and we prioritise and encourage supportive relationships throughout the company. It feels great to be recognised by the EWIF and it is wonderful that Tracy and I can share the joy in winning the awards.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Charlotte Gribbin .