13 March 2026
Stagecoach Performing Arts has been crowned the UK’s No.1 Franchise of the Year at the prestigious Elite Franchisee Top 100 Awards, also taking home the award for Exceptional Franchise Performance at the ceremony held last night (12 March).
The Elite Franchisee Top 100, nominated and sponsored by HSBC, is one of the most respected benchmarks in British franchising, recognising organisations that demonstrate outstanding performance, network strength, and long-term growth. Being named No.1 places Stagecoach Performing Arts at the very top of that field.
This latest recognition continues a remarkable run of form for the brand. Last year, Stagecoach Performing Arts took home the Marketing Award at the British Franchise Association (BFA) Awards – also held in association with HSBC, further cementing its reputation as a leader not just in performing arts education, but in franchising as a whole.
Founded over 38 years ago, Stagecoach Performing Arts has grown into one of the UK’s most recognised performing arts education providers, with a network of franchisees delivering weekly classes in singing, dancing, and acting to children aged 4 to 18 across the country.
Lisa Stead, CEO of Stagecoach Performing Arts, said: “To be named the UK’s No.1 franchise is an extraordinary honour, and what makes it truly meaningful is that it reflects the work happening in Stagecoach schools across the country every single week. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, professionalism and care shown by our franchisees and their teams every single day. The confidence you build in young people and the communities you create for families are the real reason we are celebrating this moment. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and even more excited about what we will continue to build in the years ahead.”
The double win at the Elite Franchisee Top 100 reflects continued investment in franchisee support, network development, and the quality of provision delivered across Stagecoach schools nationwide. Combined with the BFA Marketing Award, it signals a brand firing on all cylinders.