Franchise Development Services is delighted to announce the publication of the latest edition of The UK Franchise Directory. The directory's 22nd edition contains 1,350 franchisors, ranging from Avis, Burger King and Caremark to X-press Legal Services, Yellowtom.com and Zumo Fresh Smoothie Bar, as well as comprehensive advice and guidance features from industry professionals. This combination of analysis and commentary makes The UK Franchise Directory a must read for everyone interested in franchising.

Over the last six months, interest in franchising has soared by over 100% as people feeling threatened by the recession look for future security under the franchise umbrella. Franchising has grown in popularity and stature as more and more people realise the benefits of investing in a franchise: a more successful and stable way to start your own business and avoid pitfalls associated with self-employment.

Data collected by the Natwest/British Franchise Association 2008 Franchise Survey found that nine out of 10 franchise owners operate a profitable business and 25 per cent of those turn over £500,000 or more. These high success rates coupled with the growing number of people being made redundant nationwide has led to more people taking the plunge and becoming their own boss with a franchise. Franchising encompasses a broad range of industries and business types and with so much choice and information available it can be quite daunting to know where to start. This is why The UK Franchise Directory 22nd Edition is packed with expert advice and guidance to help prospective franchise owners begin an exciting journey into the world of franchising.

Listing every franchisor operating in the UK, this directory is a starting point for everyone wishing to research available opportunities within the franchise industry. The directory contains details on franchise opportunities alphabetically and in their business category in an easy to find format, alongside a comprehensive advice and guidance section for prospective franchise owners and franchisors written by banks, lawyers and bfa-affiliated franchise consultants. New additions to this year's directory include the product and service buyer's guide to the franchise sector and a Master Franchise Showcase.

The UKFD contains detailed information on a number of franchises currently recruiting, such as financial projections, expansion plans and ideal franchise owner profiles. The directory is supported online at theukfd.net which, while by no means a replacement for the printed edition, offers more editorial based insights into the companies and regular updates. All franchises listed in the print directory will display a weblink leading directly to an online information page with more editorial about the franchise.

The UK Franchise Directory 22nd Edition is on sale at £35 with post and packaging free of charge.

To place your order, call 01603 620 301 and ask for Marisa, or Michelle. You can also order online at www.theukfranchisedirectory.net/subscribe.php , email your confirmation of order to enquiries@fdsltd.com or post your cheque and order details to FDS Ltd, Franchise House, 56 Surrey Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 3FD.