The New Woman Franchisee of the Year 2026 award celebrates the franchisee who has made an exceptional impact in the early stages of their business journey, and this year’s winner, Helen McEvoy of The Holiday Franchise Company, is a shining example of what can be achieved through innovation, determination, and a willingness to do things differently.
Through her specialist business, Wine Travel Experts, Helen has quickly established a unique presence within the travel sector, creating unforgettable wine-focused travel experiences that stand apart from traditional travel offerings. Her award win recognises not only the success she has achieved so far but also the exciting future that lies ahead.
A moment of complete surprise
For Helen, winning the award was a moment she never saw coming.
“It was a wonderful surprise. I think you can tell my reaction from the photos taken of me going to collect the award—pure shock and surprise!” she said. “I was genuinely blown away to be nominated and did not think for a second that I would win. I should have bought a new dress!”
Her reaction perfectly captures what makes the EWiF Awards so special. They shine a spotlight on remarkable women who are often so focused on building their businesses that they rarely stop to recognise just how much they have accomplished.
Standing out through innovation
When asked what helped her stand out to the judges, Helen points to the distinctive nature of her business model.
Wine Travel Experts has successfully connected the worlds of wine and tourism through ABTA and ATOL-bonded package holidays, creating a specialist offering unlike anything else in the market. The business goes even further with its own Destination Management Company (DMC) in South Africa, enabling customers to enjoy exclusive wine tours and experiences that competitors simply cannot replicate.
Alongside this unique proposition, Helen has demonstrated impressive entrepreneurial drive through an ambitious events-led marketing strategy. By exhibiting at some of the UK’s leading wine and travel shows, she has raised the profile of the business and positioned Wine Travel Experts as an innovative force within the travel industry.
The judges were particularly impressed by Helen’s ability to identify and develop a genuinely unique niche, while simultaneously building brand awareness through creative promotional activity. Her entry showcased a business with a clear competitive advantage, a strong growth strategy, and a founder willing to think beyond traditional approaches to achieve success.
Recognition that is already making a difference
The impact of winning has been immediate.
“People stop me in the street and talk about the award win,” Helen explained. “The recognition the EWiF award has given to Wine Travel Experts is huge.”
Beyond the publicity, the award has also delivered something equally valuable: confidence.
“The award win has given me a huge confidence boost. Setting up a new business can be quite daunting. The EWiF family has, in a short space of time, given me a range of support and encouragement. I am so appreciative of this new network that I can draw on.”
That sense of community and support is a powerful part of the EWiF experience. Recognition from industry experts not only validates the hard work that goes into building a successful business but also provides the encouragement to keep growing, innovating, and aiming higher.
Why you should apply for the 2027 EWiF Awards
Helen’s story demonstrates exactly why entering the EWiF Awards can be such a valuable experience. What began as an application she never expected to win has resulted in increased visibility, industry recognition, new opportunities, and a significant confidence boost. Whether you’re a franchisee, franchisor, supplier, or emerging leader, the awards provide a platform to celebrate your achievements and share your story with the wider franchising community. If you’re making a difference in your business, don’t wait for someone else to tell your story. Put yourself forward for the 2027 EWiF Awards. Like Helen, you may be surprised by just how far your journey has already taken you.
