One of coffee shop Costa's biggest franchisees has won a top award.

Diljit Brar, who runs Goldex out of offices in Southfleet, near Gravesend, triumphed in the British Franchise Awards 2021 - held at a glitzy event this week in Birmingham.

Goldex has more than 50 Costa stores across Kent and the South East.

And it saw Diljit Brar named winner of the HSBC Multi-Unit award for his work with the brand.

This HSBC Multi-Unit category represents franchisees that have "built empires using franchising, and have shown a clear passion for business with a mastery of management".

He was praised for the launch of several employee loyalty programmes to further support staff development and his provision of multiple opportunities to help staff upskill and grow within the business.

The award-winner said: "During the last 18 months, the UK hospitality sector faced enormous challenges. However, for me, my priority was making sure all franchisees felt supported. It’s particularly special to be recognised for those efforts, but this award would not be possible without the whole team. So, this award is for them.”

Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchise Association, said: “To be able to lead 50 different locations through the difficulties of the pandemic to success is a real testament to all Diljit’s hard work."