Associate doubles Harper Macleod’s presence on franchising experts lists

Andrew Fraser, associate at Harper Macleod, has become the second lawyer in Scotland to be awarded the Qualified Franchise Professional (QFP) accreditation by the British Franchise Association (bfa).

The achievement means Harper Macleod remains the only law firm in Scotland with QFPs within its ranks - the other lawyer accredited being partner David Kaye - and has half of the country’s QFPs.

Mr Fraser joins a select band of four, including his father, franchising consultant Euan Fraser, on the list. Harper Macleod is also top ranked by Chambers UKfor franchising, and counts brands such Chicken Cottage, Coldwell Banker and Project Pie Pizza among its clients.

Mr Fraser said: “This is a real feather in the cap for both myself and the firm. We take real pride in being trusted advisers to the franchising community and it’s important to keep developing professionally so that we can give the best possible advice to clients in Scotland and beyond. Having this accreditation shows that we’re doing just that, and it’s also good to level up the bragging rights in the Fraser family!

“I’ve learned a lot working with David and others in the franchising world, including the bfa itself. Franchising is a sector already worth around £800 million to Scotland’s economy and one that has the potential to grow exponentially – we’re here to play our part in making that happen.”

Mr Fraser came through a rigorous accreditation process with the bfa’s expert panel to be awarded QFP status. The only nationally recognised qualification specific to the franchising industry, it signifies a highly developed level of expertise and experience in franchising and a thorough understanding of its complexities, ethical standards and best practices.

Prior to joining Harper Macleod, Mr Fraser was an independent franchise consultant, helping businesses to grow through franchising, giving him a unique perspective on the industry.

Awarded by the bfa, the QFP accreditation is recognition of a personal level of commitment, time and continuous professional development by a member of the franchising community. The qualification is open to all franchisors, principals, support staff and directors of bfa member companies, including affiliated franchising expert advisers.