From Portugal to Yorkshire: Maria Mestre wins national award after building thriving cleaning business

Maria Mestre, who runs NIC Local across South and West Yorkshire, has been named a winner of the Great British Franchisee Awards 2026, recognising her outstanding business achievements, commitment to customer service and dedication to developing her team.

Over the past 11 years, Maria has built a thriving commercial cleaning business, serving a diverse range of clients, from offices and healthcare facilities to some of Yorkshire's most iconic attractions.

Originally from Portugal, Maria enjoyed a successful career in sales, marketing and media before relocating to the UK. She spent seven years with Avon Cosmetics, progressing from copywriting into sales management, where she supported a network of 540 representatives.

Moving to Yorkshire presented challenges, from adapting to a new culture to being separated from family and friends. Even understanding the Barnsley accent proved difficult initially, but Maria embraced her new surroundings and went on to establish a successful business.

Today, she leads a team of 55 employees and counts one of Yorkshire's most recognisable attractions, The Piece Hall in Halifax, among her customers.

Maria's resilience was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic when hotel closures caused a significant proportion of her business to disappear almost overnight. Rather than waiting for the sector to recover, she diversified into new markets, securing cleaning contracts at motorway service areas, including a major partnership with Roadchef.

The move helped protect the business and provided a platform for continued growth.

Commenting on her award, Maria said: “Winning the Great British Franchisee Award for 2026 is an incredible honour and a powerful validation of our team's daily dedication.

“Whilst the award might have my name on it, I'm just a link in the chain. It is a chain that starts with great people delivering exceptional results on the frontline but connects right back to dozens of individuals behind the scenes at NIC Local who each do their part to make this success possible.

“That’s ultimately one of the greatest benefits of franchising. Running your own independent business can be lonely and daunting. Having experts on your side who aren't just supportive, but are true experts in their respective fields, is a total game changer.

“I am deeply grateful for the recognition and look forward to building on this shared success in the years to come.”

Maria firmly believes that investing in people is fundamental to delivering outstanding customer service.

Every employee completes a structured induction programme covering health and safety, customer service and quality standards, supported by ongoing training and mentoring.

She also celebrates exceptional performance through the Pride of NIC awards, recognising employees who go above and beyond for customers and colleagues.

Her people-first approach has contributed to excellent customer loyalty, with the business retaining all its customers over the past two years.

Regular site inspections and four-weekly cleaning audits help maintain consistently high standards and ensure customer feedback is acted upon.

Maria also supports community initiatives through the wider NIC Group, including the NIC Yorkshire Visually Impaired Tennis League and Yorkshire Pathways Cricket Programme, promoting inclusion and participation in sport.

An active member of the NIC Local franchise network, she regularly shares advice with fellow business owners and prospective franchisees, offering valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of running a commercial cleaning business.

Phil Harrison, Franchise Development Manager for NIC Local, praised Maria's achievements.

He said: “We are absolutely delighted to see Maria Mestre recognised at the Great British Franchisee Awards 2026.

“Maria is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through hard work, commitment and a genuine passion for people. Since joining NIC Local, she has built a successful business while consistently demonstrating the qualities that make a great franchise owner.

“One of Maria's greatest strengths is her ability to get the very best out of her team. She takes the time to understand people, develop their skills and give them the confidence they need to succeed.

“She also has exceptional attention to detail when it comes to her customers, building strong relationships and continually looking for ways to improve the service her team provides.

“Everyone at NIC Local is incredibly proud of Maria. Her award is thoroughly deserved.”

The judges of the Great British Franchisee Awards were particularly impressed by Maria's leadership, customer loyalty and commitment to supporting her team.

They commented: “Maria is an exceptionally deserving winner of a Great British Franchisee Award, having demonstrated outstanding customer service and a genuine commitment to developing and supporting her people.

“Her ability to build lasting relationships with customers and employees, alongside her determination, resilience and willingness to support fellow franchisees, makes her a fantastic ambassador for franchising.”

Looking ahead, Maria plans to strengthen existing customer relationships, pursue larger contracts and continue investing in her team's development.

Her award recognises not only 11 years of business success but also the determination, adaptability and commitment to people that have helped her build a respected Yorkshire business.

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