TWO ‘mumpreneurs’ from Holmes Chapel have been recognised with a ‘5 Star Franchisee Satisfaction’ award alongside global giants McDonalds.

Puddle Ducks, founded by Tracy Townsend and Jo Stone, offers aquanatal classes and swimming lessons for babies and children via a network of 30 franchises across the UK.

At the 2013 Best Franchise Awards, Puddle Ducks, alongside McDonalds and TaxAssist Accountants, were recognised in a new initiative called 5 Star Franchisee Satisfaction.

Puddle Ducks co-founder, Tracy Townsend, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to win this award. We work extremely closely with our franchisees to ensure that they have all of the support, resources and guidance they need to be a success, so it is wonderful to be recognised for our work.

“I’d like to thank everyone in Duck HQ and everyone within the franchise network, for their passion and expertise in supporting each and every franchise.”

To be considered for the award, franchisors had to participate in a benchmarking programme and receive above average feedback across five areas; Training and Support, Franchise System, Culture and Relationships, Leadership and Stewardship and General Satisfaction.

Less than one in five franchisors that participated in the programme received the award.

Steven Frost, Partner at Smith and Henderson, which co-ordinates the programme, said: “The Best Franchise Awards are based on what really counts – the experience of thousands of actual franchisees.

“These shortlisted franchisors therefore represent an elite group of franchisors that provide first class support to their franchisees. We should congratulate them for their achievements.”