Business Franchise Magazine May/June 2025

VOLume 19 ISSUE 04, 2025

cover story

The way logistics should be done:

Brand Evolution latest news

in franchising

mastering the art of customer reviews in franchising Know the Players:

Understanding the Key Parties in a Franchise Transaction

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Being an ex can be a good thing. The “ex” in ex-service people stands for exemplary employees; extremely skilled communicators who excel at problem-solving and have an excellent work ethic. Like Michelle Lafferty who, after a career in the Australian Army, now works as a School Officer and Teacher’s Aid. Ex-service people just like Michelle are extraordinary assets for any workforce and could be exactly what your organisation needs.

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EX-SERVICE PEOPLE EXPERIENCED & READY EXPLORE MORE AT VETERANSEMPLOYMENT.GOV.AU

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VOLume 19 ISSue

04, 2025

AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEAL AND

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VOLUME 19, ISSUE 4, 2025 On the cover: pack & send

president: Colin Bradbury. colin@cgbpublishing.com Publisher: Vikki Bradbury. vikki@cgbpublishing.com.au editorial department: editor@cgbpublishing.com.au sales & marketing manager: Annie Bradbury. annie@cgbpublishing.com.au Production: production@cgbpublishing.com.au accounts: accounts@cgbpublishing.com.au DESIGN: Michelle Quinn. michelle@cgbpublishing.com CGB PUBLISHING PO BOX 17 Pomona, QUEENSLAND 4568 TEL: (07) 5485 2704 www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au www.businessfranchisemagazine.co.nz

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The way lo gisTics should be done:

Brand Evol ution

refresh isn’t about rewriting who we are, “it’sThis about better expressing what we’ve always

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in franch news ising

masTerin arT oF cu g The reviews insTomer Fr anchisi ng Know The

stood for: trust, quality, and making things easy for our customers.

- Nicholas Woodward.

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Pl ayers:

undersTa nding The Key ParTies in a Franchis TransacTi e on

$4.95 (AUD),

$7.95 (NZ)

inc. GST.

Welcome to our latest issue of

Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand Magazine!

It’s an exciting time here at CGB Publishing, we have been publishing Franchise Magazines for over 40 years Globally and pleased to say we are still going strong! I always try and bring the latest on developments in franchising and in this issue, we have several great articles starting with our Front Cover and Cover story, after more than 30 years of helping Australians get things where they need to be—across the street or around the world—PACK & SEND is entering a new chapter. This isn’t about changing who they are—it’s about moving forward with purpose. You can read more about this on page 12.

From our experts to keep you updated and informed. Phil Chaplin is the CEO at CFI Finance group and in this issue discusses how The decision to buy or start a franchise, or in fact any business, is a significant one. Sam Rees, Senior Partner at IP Partnership Lawyers covers the updated Franchise Code of Conduct. Peta Lonergan is the Assistant Commissioner for Risk and Strategy Employer Obligations at the ATO, her subject this edition is on getting obligations right this fringe benefits Tax Year. This is just a sample so turn to the contents page to find more expert advice and some great articles on Franchise systems such as, InXpress, Craveable Brands, Benihana etc.

Our Main feature this issue is Pets and Franchising, and Robert (Houndog) Toth from Sanicki Lawyers suggests some topics to think about when looking at a Pet supplies, accessories, pet care and training Franchise. Tony Meredith has some good ideas on how to turn your love of pets into a profitable franchise, Stewart German from Stewart Germann Law gives his opinion on why pet franchises are so popular in New Zealand.

Again, turn to the contents page to check out more on this topic.

Finally, don’t forget to check out our A-Z Franchise listing directory with all the best franchise opportunities available right now.

Until next time, enjoy the read.

The information and contents in this publication are believed by the publisher to be true, correct and accurate but no independent investigation has been undertaken. Accordingly the publisher does not represent or warrant that the information and contents are true, correct or accurate and recommends that each reader seek appropriate professional advice, guidance and direction before acting or relying on all information contained herein.

Opinions expressed in the articles contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publication is sold subject to the terms and conditions that it shall not be copied in whole or part, resold, hired out, without the express permission of the publisher.

Vikki Bradbury Publisher

SUPPLIER FORUM

business franchise MAGAZINE 5

conte nts

12

16 Cover Story

Women in Franchising

12 Pack & Send: The Way Logistics Should be Done

58 Tereza Murray: The Franchise Model Holds Strong, With Strong Leadership Still Key

In every issue 8

What’s New! Announcements from the Industry

14 Franchise Council of Australia (FCA): Empowering Success: Franchising at The Heart of Australia’s Small Business Community.

37 Feature Supplement: Pets And Franchising 68 Behind the Headlines 70 Professional Services Listings

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72 Franchise Listings 74 A-Z Franchise & Services Directory

Franchisor in Depth 26 GJ Gardner: The Rising Trend of Highly Modified Homes 30 StageCoach Perfoirming Arts: The Stage is Set: Inspire the Next Generation 52 F45 Training: More Than Fitness

Focus 18 InXpress: Michelle Price: Leading the Way in Logistics and Franchising 24 Craveable Brands: A Leader in The Australian Chicken QSR Industry 32 Benihana: Our Kitchen is Your Table

Have Your Say 22 Sonia Shwabsky: Empowering Underrepresented Groups in Franchising

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62 Scott Bush: The Cheesecake Shop CEO’S Top Tips

also in this issue:

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Amber.................................................................................................................74 Aramex............................................................................................... IFC , 74 Benihana................................................................................................ 57, 74 Chargrill Charlies..........................................................................51, 75 Chicken Treat....................................................................................51, 75 CoffeeTreat................................................................................................... 75 Franchising Expo................................................................................. 66

pets & franchising Feature

conte nts

Expert Advice Snapshot 64 Jetts Fitness: Expands Into India With Ambitious Growth Plans

Profile 66 Franchising Expo: Discover What’s Possible at The Franchising Expo Sydney

38 Tony Meredith: The Secret to a Successful Franchise 40 Robert Toth: The Pet Supplies, Accessories, Pet Care and Training Sector 42 Brian and Prue Keen: Franchising a Pet Business Can be Tricky

Expert Advice

44 Addison Shaw: How To Run a Franchise Without Being Stuck in The Office 24/7

16 Elise Balsillie: Mastering the Art of Customer Reviews in Franchising

46 Stewart Germann: Purr – fect Pet Franchises Are Doggone Popular

20 Lauren Clement: Wrangling Cats (and Customers) a Franchise Owners Guide to Harmonious Herding 28 Phil Chaplin: Know the Players: Understanding the Key Parties in a Franchise Transaction 34 Helen Kay: What Every Aspiring Franchisee Should Know Before Signing 54 Sam Rees: Do All Franchised Businesses Now Come With a Guaranteed ROI as a Result of The 2025 Franchise Code of Conduct Amendments?

60 Peta Lonergan: Getting Obligations Right This Fringe Benefits Tax Year

Snapshot 48 Petbarn Mobile Dogwash: No.1 Lifestyle Winner in The TopFranchise 2024 Awards 50 Aussie Pet Mobile: Not Your Everyday Franchise: Work Flexibly, Manage Now, Own Later!

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Impressu.......................................................................................................... 70 IP Partnership........................................................................................... 70 InXpress.................................................................................................. 73, 75 Keep It Moovin............................................................................. 49, 75 Kumon............................................................................................................... 76 Kwik Kopy...................................................................................................... 75 Legal Vision................................................................................................. 70 Mindchamps............................................................................................. 76 Morgan Mac...............................................................................OBC, 70 Mobile App City.............................................................................. 3, 76 My Home....................................................................................................... 76 Oporto......................................................................................................51, 77 Pack & Send................................................................................................ 77 Petbarn Mobile Dogwash....................................................... 77 Poolwerx...............................................................................................36, 77 Red Rooster........................................................................................51, 77 Right at Home................................................................................71, 78 Snap-On Tools............................................................................... 65, 78 Soul Origin.................................................................................................... 78 Stagecoach Performing Arts...................................78, IBC Target Select.............................................................................................. 70 VeteransAffairs.............................................................................................4

FRANdata congratulates Kwik Kopy’s recognition as a highperforming brand on the Australian Franchise Rating Scale™ Ratings are allocated after an independent and fact-based assessment across seven key categories. In achieving this 5-star rating, the franchise system demonstrated a high level of transparency and franchise performance.

Kwik Kopy CEO Sonia Shwabsky said, “We are incredibly excited to receive a 5-star rating, which reflects our team’s hard work and dedication and is the culmination of a 43-year journey supporting entrepreneurs in local communities to make their mark on the world. Working with FRANdata has been invaluable. Their insights have provided us with a clear understanding of our strengths and reassured us that Kwik Kopy continues to thrive as a leading franchise system. We are grateful for this recognition, and it motivates us to continue empowering our franchise owners and driving innovation in the print and marketing industry.”

FRANdata’s Australian CEO Darryn McAuliffe explained, “A feature of the Kwik Kopy franchise system was its sustained resilience and performance over a period of decades. Kwik Kopy is also likely to receive heightened interest from the lending community given the ongoing high scores achieved in the independent Franchise Underwriting Report prepared for lenders”.

Rating assessment outcomes from the Australian Franchise Rating Scale™ are being delivered now to participating franchise systems and are recorded on The Australian Franchise Registry™.

FRANdata Australia is Australia’s leading franchise business intelligence and information advisory business.

JAX Tyres & Auto Maitland Relocates to Modern Facility, Enhancing Customer Experience JAX Tyres & Auto Maitland has officially opened its new store at Unit 1, 23 Melbourne street, Maitland. With the new location offering additional services, increased capacity, and improved convenience for the Maitland community.

This relocation marks a significant milestone for husband and wife owners Matthew and

Kate Pyle, who have operated the store at its previous location at Greenhills for over 20 years. Being a family-run business, with their children and son-in-law now working alongside them, Matthew and Kate have always placed a strong emphasis on customer service. This has allowed them to build strong relationships with the local

community, welcoming the grandchildren of their original customers to JAX Tyres & Auto Maitland.

Matthew Pyle, Co-Owner of JAX Tyres & Auto Maitland, says, “When you work with family, you’re more than just colleagues, you’re a united team, built on trust, support, and shared values. As a family-run business, we take pride in working toward common goals and celebrating our successes together. One of our core values is treating our customers like family, which has allowed us to serve generations of Maitland locals.”

Kate Pyle, Co-Owner of JAX Tyres & Auto Maitland, says, “We’re excited to offer our loyal customers a more spacious and efficient experience at our new Melbourne Street location, which allows us to provide even better service for both customers and staff.”

The newly opened facility has meant the team can now offer additional services for customers, including caravan servicing, motorbike servicing and tyre maintenance and replacement as well as car airconditioning - gassing and servicing.

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Fernwood Fitness Enters a New Era driven, and highly capable leader who will take Fernwood into its next exciting phase”. said Williams.

As she assumes the role of CEO, Amis Wheaton is poised to build on Fernwood’s powerful legacy, leading with innovation, growth, and a steadfast commitment to empowering women across Australia.

A defining moment in Australian women’s

Fernwood Fitness has transformed the

fitness has arrived. After 36 years of

landscape of women’s health and well-

trailblazing leadership, Fernwood Fitness

being.

founder and CEO Di Williams is stepping

“These past 36 years have been nothing

into the role of Chair of the Board, entrusting the future of the iconic brand to newly appointed CEO, Belinda Amis Wheaton.

short of extraordinary—an incredible journey of challenges, triumphs, and transformation. The decision to step back from daily operations wasn’t made lightly,

From a single club in Bendigo, Victoria, to

but I do so with complete confidence in

a national powerhouse with 73 locations,

Belinda’s leadership. She is an inspiring,

“It is an incredible honour to step into the role of CEO at Fernwood Fitness. Di has built more than a business—she has created a community, a movement, and a legacy that has changed the lives of women across the country. I am beyond grateful for her trust, and I embrace the responsibility of leading this brand into the future with passion and purpose,” said Amis Wheaton.

“My vision is to elevate Fernwood to new heights—expanding our impact, embracing innovation, and ensuring that every woman who walks through our doors feels stronger, more confident, and deeply supported.”

Williams will remain a driving force in Fernwood’s strategic direction as Chair of the Board, ensuring that its core mission remains strong while exploring new opportunities for growth and expansion.

CHATIME UNVEILS A FRESH NEW STORE IN WESTFIELD CAROUSEL Chatime has announced a re-imagined store will open in Westfield Carousel, offering Perth locals an exciting new experience that is guaranteed to bring enjoyment into everyday life.

Rachel Druce, National Marketing Manager, comments: “It is an exciting time for the brand, as our stores continue to unveil a new fresh look and feel, delivering consumers a bright, fun and energetic hospitality experience. Perfectly embodying Chatime’s brand ethos of bringing enjoyment through the everyday, the new space offers endless creativity and freedom for all.”

The new store, located at Westfield Carousel, features a vibrant, colourful display and a heightened end-to-end customer friendly experience. Large-format digital screens will showcase the newly crafted menu, including the new energetic coffee range, as well as four self-serve kiosks available for customers to interactively

explore and customise their beverage of choice.

Following the continued global success, Chatime Australia’s store portfolio has continually expanded and this marks the second store refresh in just under 10 years, following the first unveiling of the new store identity at Westfield Bondi Junction in December 2024 in Sydney.

In the past 12 months, Chatime has successfully partnered with a vast range of brands including Chupa Chups, Allens, Red Bull, and Milo, as well as being made readily available to customers through stockists; UberEats and DoorDash.

Committed to delivering an inclusive customer experience in every cup, Chatime offers an extensive menu featuring a wide variety of drinks, including fruity, milky, frozen, sparkling, hot beverages and their all-new coffee range. All brewed with the finest, high-quality ingredients guaranteed to deliver vibrant flavours and aromas. business franchise MAGAZINE 9

Gelatissimo Continues Global Growth with New Store Openings Sydney, Australia – Gelatissimo is excited to announce the opening of two new stores in New South Wales, reinforcing its position as Australia’s favourite gelato brand. The new locations in DFO Homebush and Castle Hill bring our award-winning, handcrafted gelato to even more communities.

A Sweet Treat for Homebush and Castle Hill!

DFO Homebush – Our newest store also serves freshly brewed coffee and delicious cook-ies, making it the perfect stop for a sweet treat. To celebrate, we held a Free Scoops Hour on 15th March, attracting gelato lovers from all around.

Castle Hill – Officially opening on 13th March, Castle Hill launched with a week-long free upsize promotion. Another Free Scoops Hour will take place on 5th April!

reflects our growing international presence, driven by cus-tomer demand and the dedication of our Master franchisee in Orange County.

Gelatissimo Expands in the USA

Exciting Plans for 2025

Gelatissimo’s latest store opened at University Center Irvine, California, marking our fifth store in the USA. This expansion

With a strong presence in Australia and the USA, Gelatissimo plans further expansion in 2025, particularly in Western Australia

and key regional areas. Chief Development Officer Anthony Shina shared, “Gelatissimo is on track to becoming an international powerhouse. In the last 12 months, we’ve opened 11 stores in Australia and 3 in the USA, and we’re excited for the future.”

Gelatissimo’s expansion continues to strengthen its position as a leader in handcrafted gelato.

Rate Money to shake up commercial property lending market Rate Money, Australia’s leading specialist in self-employed home loan solutions, is expanding into the commercial property lending market. This strategic move will provide self-employed borrowers with greater access to alternative financing options beyond residential lending.

“Our focus has always been on empowering self-employed borrowers with flexible, competitive home loans,” said Rate Money CEO Ryan Gair. “Now, we’re extending that support to commercial property lending, offering solutions that align with the broader financial needs of our franchisees, customers, and referral partners.”

Rate Money’s commercial loan products cater to a diverse range of borrowers, including Alt and Full Doc loans up to $8 million, off-the-plan purchases, vacant land, and cash-out options. SMSF borrowers are also supported. These products come 10 business franchise MAGAZINE

with competitive rates, no ongoing fees, no clawbacks, and no annual reviews or revaluations—features that provide the flexibility and transparency self-employed borrowers value.

Australian commercial loans written by mortgage brokers surged over 23% last year to $91 billion[1], while SMSF ownership in commercial property reached $108 billion[2].

“There is strong demand from accountants, real estate agents, developers, mortgage brokers, and self-employed investors looking for wealth-building opportunities,” said Gair. “Our expansion into commercial lending allows us to meet this demand with tailored solutions.”

To support this growth, Rate Money has strengthened its team, appointing a National Business Development Manager and a Commercial Lending Manager.

Franchisees will benefit from new opportunities to expand their service offerings, attract a broader client base, and deepen referral relationships.

“With this expansion, we’re ensuring our franchisees have the tools and expertise to thrive in today’s dynamic lending environment,” Gair added.

[1] MFAA. 2024. Industry Intelligence Service 18th Edition.

[1] ATO. 2024. Self-managed super fund quarterly statistical report – September 2024.

FABE Fuels Piccolo Me and SolBowl Expansion into Lebanon FABE, a leading Australian hospitality group, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its beloved brands, Piccolo Me and SolBowl, into Lebanon.

This exciting move marks a significant milestone in FABE’s global growth strategy, bringing a taste of Australian cafe culture and the healthy, vibrant SolBowl concept to the heart of the Middle East, and a homecoming for the brands’ founders.

Piccolo Me has garnered a loyal following in Australia with its commitment to quality ingredients, creative menu offerings, and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

“We are incredibly excited to bring the Piccolo Me experience to Lebanon,” said Charlie El Hachem Co-Founder FABE. “This expansion is especially meaningful as it represents a return to our roots. Our father Harry El Hachen came to Australia in 1983 with a dream to create a better life for his family. His strong work ethic and inspiration instilled in us a tireless drive from a young age.

My brother Roy and I have watched, learned and worked with our father to bring this

dream to life. Along the way we have met other incredible entrepreneurs like Lilly Seeman (Founder of Solbowl) and now Alan Sassine, our partner in Lebanon.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Alan Sassine, a renowned Lebanese entrepreneur and philanthropist.

His insights and experience of the local market and commitment to quality will be instrumental in ensuring success in Lebanon. We’ve already had numerous potential partners reach out from the GCC since the announcement and are looking for franchisees from other regions.” says Charlie.

60 New MindChamps Early Learning & PreSchool centres for Victoria MindChamps, a global leader in early childhood education, has teamed up with JAGM Capital to launch 60 state-of-the-art childcare centres over the next six years, ushering in a new era of learning in Victoria by giving children access to an exceptional education that prepares them for the future.

Northgate Developments has been brought on board as a strategic partner to help bring this ambitious plan to fruition. Leveraging their expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects, Northgate will assist in the construction and rollout of these centres, ensuring each location is purpose-built to meet the gold standards of a MindChamps Early Learning Centre.

“We’re thrilled to expand MindChamps’ proven early childhood education model into Victoria,” said David Chiem, Founder, Executive Chairman & Group CEO of MindChamps. “Since our beginnings as a research centre in Sydney in 1998, our Social Charter has been to “challenge and lift education standards globally and to provide educational opportunities to those who would not otherwise have the means.” This collaboration with JAGM and Northgate Developments will not only bridge the gap in the current childcare sector but also ensure that children in Victoria are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in the age of AI and beyond.”

Michael Bronfman, Managing Director of JAGM Capital, said “As fathers ourselves, we understand the profound responsibility of providing the very best for our children. It’s this personal commitment that led us to notice a significant gap in the Australian childcare sector—one that many families are unknowingly navigating. At first, we didn’t fully grasp the difference between genuine early learning education and what we now understand as ‘childcare.’ business franchise MAGAZINE 11

cover story: PACK & SEND

The way logistics should be done:

PACK & SEND’s Brand Evolution

After more than 30 years of helping Australians get things where they need to be—across the street or around the world— PACK & SEND is entering a new chapter. This isn’t about changing who we are—it’s about moving forward with purpose.

It’s a confident evolution, one that strengthens our commitment to dependable, customer-focused logistics while presenting a Brand that better reflects who we are today— and where we’re going next.

From our beginnings in 1993, PACK & SEND has been built on one powerful idea: to take the stress out of sending. Over the decades, the Company delivered that promise to businesses and consumers alike through expert packing, reliable service, and flexible solutions across a national network of passionate Franchise Partners.

Now, with a refreshed brand identity that has launched to market in April 2025, PACK & SEND is reinforcing its reputation with a modernised look and feel—while staying true to the ‘no limits’ mindset that has driven success over the decades.

A Natural Next Step PACK & SEND’s brand evolution isn’t about change for change’s sake. As Nicholas Woodward, our Country Manager, has emphasised, this is not a pivot—it’s a progression.

“This refresh isn’t about rewriting who we are,” says Nicholas. “It’s about better expressing what we’ve always stood for: trust, quality, and making things easy for our customers. We’re offering the same great service we always have—just with renewed energy and a clearer, more consistent identity.”

Our new logo, visual identity and core message— “The way logistics should be done”—bring this to life. Designed to reflect a confident, professional and customer-first mindset, the refreshed branding will roll out across every customer touchpoint, from vans to signage, uniforms, web and social channels.

At its heart, the Brand Evolution represents the main purpose of reducing friction in logistics: “we pack with precision, send 12 business franchise MAGAZINE

with confidence, and handle everything in between.”

Designed for the Future of the Network In a world where customer expectations are rising and digital experiences shape every buying decision, standing still is not an option. PACK & SEND’s brand refresh is grounded in detailed research and market insight.

The Company partnered with strategic branding and customer insight agencies to explore how people perceive PACK & SEND today—and what they expect from logistics providers in the future.

Crucially, this evolution is also about supporting PACK & SEND Franchise Partners—with better tools, unified messaging, and a brand they can be proud to represent in their local markets.

Ultimately, Franchise Partners remain the face of PACK & SEND. Their commitment, local knowledge and day-to-day excellence are what set PACK & SEND apart. This brand update will empower them with modern, flexible assets that help them grow their businesses and deliver exceptional service.

Meeting the Moment in eCommerce The PACK & SEND brand refresh comes at a time of major change in Australian eCommerce. According to the latest reports, Australians spent a record $69 billion online in 2024. That number is set to grow, especially among Millennials and Gen Zs— audiences who prioritise speed, flexibility and personalisation.

These same shoppers also say delivery experience is the number one factor in earning their trust—and PACK & SEND is perfectly positioned to deliver on that expectation.

A tailored, customer-first approach is exactly what consumers (and their favourite brands) are looking for. And with our upgraded brand tools, streamlined customer touchpoints, and national network of service centres, PACK & SEND is ready to scale our strengths in the moments that matter most: at the checkout, at the counter, and at the doorstep.

“Everything Taken Care Of” Our updated brand promise— “Everything taken care of ”—goes deeper than just logistics. It speaks to our desire to give customers complete confidence. Whether they’re sending a urgent parcel or managing a high-volume eCommerce marketplace, they know we’ve got their back.

It also reinforces a key insight from our research: customers aren’t just buying a delivery—they’re buying peace of mind.

PACK & SEND’s evolved identity ensures our brand reflects the trust and care we deliver every day.

What’s Next The brand evolution was officially launched to market in April 2025. Over the following months, the rollout will extend across our national footprint, helping every Franchise Partner bring the Brand Evolution to life.

We’re also investing in new signage, updated uniforms, refreshed marketing collateral and digital assets—including enhanced store pages and templates for local area marketing.

It’s a major milestone, but it’s also just the beginning. Our long-term ambition remains clear: to be Australia’s most dependable and dynamic logistics network, built on trust, expertise, and local relationships.

business franchise MAGAZINE 13

franchising council of australia (fca)

Empowering Success:

Franchising at the Heart of Australia’s Small Business Economy

In a year that has seen both opportunity and uncertainty for Australia’s small business community, the Franchise Council of Australia remains steadfast in its mission: to promote the value of franchising and empower success for both franchisees and franchisors.

This mission has never been more important than it is now, as we navigate a new Federal Government landscape and celebrate a major milestone for our global community— Australia’s inaugural participation in World Franchise Day. Our work begins and ends with advocacy.

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Whether in Canberra or in state capitals across the country, our engagement with policymakers is anchored by the conviction that franchising is a proven model of small business success. In the lead-up to the May 3 Federal Election and following the recent Federal Budget, the FCA has been actively representing our members’ interests, ensuring that franchising is not only recognised but prioritised.

The 2025–26 Federal Budget offered some modest relief for small businesses—energy bill rebates and a temporary pause on draught beer excise indexation—but fell short of delivering a long-term, coordinated support strategy. While we welcome targeted assistance, what the sector truly needs is policy certainty and a structured approach that supports both growth and resilience.

As we prepare for the implementation of the updated Franchising Code of Conduct and continue advocating for a fair, co-regulatory licensing regime, the FCA will maintain pressure on government to ensure that regulatory reform reflects the realities of running a franchise business in Australia.

It is this kind of policy engagement that speaks to the core of what franchising offers our economy. With over 90,000 small business franchisees and 500,000 employees contributing more than $173 billion, franchising is not a niche sector—it is a vital engine of national prosperity. As the peak body for this sector, the FCA is delivering for members by giving voice to their priorities, strengthening our industry’s reputation, and ensuring franchising remains a sustainable pathway for entrepreneurship.

600,000 jobs and contributes more than $135 billion annually to the economy.

To bring this campaign to life, the FCA is coordinating a national effort that includes government outreach, media engagement, and public education. We’re encouraging elected representatives at all levels to officially recognise World Franchise Day and acknowledge the role of franchise businesses in their communities. Through real franchisee stories and a robust media campaign, we’ll highlight the ways in which franchises invest locally, create employment, and drive innovation.

Franchising is not just a business model—it’s a community-building engine. And World Franchise Day gives us the perfect platform to celebrate that publicly and proudly. We invite every franchise business in Australia to get involved, share their stories, and use this day to showcase the impact they’re making.

Franchising is not just “a business model—it’s a community-building engine. And World Franchise Day gives us the perfect platform to celebrate that publicly and proudly.

”

Recognising Excellence: The Franchise Industry Awards Alongside our advocacy and global engagement, we continue to champion excellence within the sector through the annual Franchise Industry Awards. This year’s event, to be held on 25 June at the Fullerton Hotel in Sydney, will be a signature celebration of success across franchising— from standout franchisees to visionary franchisors and dedicated suppliers.

We’ve made it simple and inclusive: one ticket price, open to all, and packed with value.

Tickets also include access to the Franchise Forum, a professional development event offering CFE points and an opportunity to connect with thought leaders and industry pioneers.

World Franchise Day: Celebrating Local Impact on a Global Stage This June, Australia will proudly join countries across the globe to mark the very first World Franchise Day. For the FCA, this moment is more than symbolic—it’s an opportunity to showcase the human stories and economic contribution that define our sector.

World Franchise Day, taking place on 11 June 2025, recognises franchising as one of the most successful and inclusive business models in the world. It empowers everyday Australians—many of whom are first-time business owners—to build their own future through the support of an established system.

In Australia alone, franchising supports over

With nominations extended and tickets now on sale, I strongly encourage everyone in the sector—members and non-members alike— to take part. This is our night of nights, an opportunity to recognise innovation, commitment and leadership. Events like these don’t just celebrate the past year’s achievements—they inspire the future.

Why It All Matters Every initiative we undertake at the FCA— whether it’s engaging in legislative reform, launching a nationwide campaign, or hosting industry awards—is grounded in our core mission: to empower success for franchisees and franchisors. It’s about ensuring that franchising remains a viable, respected, and rewarding path to business ownership.

We want our current members to feel proud of their involvement in the FCA, confident that their industry is being effectively represented and supported. We also want

About Jay Westbury: CEO Jay Westbury brings over two decades of experience in leading peak industry bodies, including his previous roles as CEO of Retail Drinks Australia (formerly Australian Liquor Stores Association) and the Australian Travel Industry Association (formerly Australian Federation of Travel Agents). Both sectors have close ties to franchising, giving Jay a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within this industry. those not yet involved to see the value of joining a united voice that’s shaping the future of franchising in Australia.

This year has already delivered some powerful reminders of why our work matters.

From celebrating the legacy of industry pioneers like Maxwell Scott Raine, who was posthumously inducted into the FCA Hall of Fame for revolutionising the real estate sector through franchising, to launching a historic day of international recognition, we are reinforcing that franchising in Australia is a story of leadership, resilience, and impact.

At its best, franchising creates opportunities for people from all walks of life to thrive in business. It allows local entrepreneurs to benefit from national scale, and gives consumers trusted service with local accountability. As CEO of the FCA, I am proud of the work we are doing to advocate for this model and support the thousands of Australians who are living its promise.

We look forward to continuing this journey with you—our members, our partners, and our broader franchising community.

If you are not yet a member of the FCA, I invite you to join us and be part of a growing, dynamic sector that’s driving Australian business forward.

Phone: Email: Web:

03 9508 0888 info@franchise.org.au www.franchise.org.au business franchise MAGAZINE 15

expert advice: Elise Balsillie | Head of Thryv, Australia and New Zealand

Mastering the art of customer reviews in franchising Have you ever thought about how customer reviews for one location can have a multiplier effect on the entire franchise network? Customer reviews not only affect a single franchisee, they shape the overall brand’s online presence, influencing system-wide sales and franchise growth.

Customer reviews also shape reputation, influence buying decisions and, when managed well, create lasting customer loyalty. Yet, too often, franchise groups fail 16 business franchise MAGAZINE

to implement a structured and strategic approach to review management, leading to inconsistent responses, negative brand perception and lost opportunities for growth.

For franchisors and franchisees alike, mastering customer reviews is about using feedback as a business asset. Here is how franchises can harness SaaS tools, implement best practices and turn every review into a growth opportunity.

Why customer reviews are crucial for franchises When customers research a local franchisee, they often come across the master brand’s online presence. A poorly managed review

strategy may not only affect one location but may also impact system-wide sales and franchise growth.

The challenge is that negative reviews tend to surface more frequently because people are more inclined to leave feedback when something goes wrong. However, when franchise groups take a proactive approach to review management, they can build credibility and trust across locations, enhance visibility in search rankings, identify operational pain points before they escalate and convert dissatisfied customers into loyal advocates.

The key is to take a holistic approach, ensuring every franchisee follows a consistent and strategic review management process.

Common mistakes franchises make with review management Are franchises making the most of their customer reviews? While many businesses recognise the importance of online feedback, some common missteps can weaken their brand reputation and customer relationships.

Generic responses can make customers feel undervalued, as templated replies lack

As Head of Thryv Australia and New Zealand, Elise Balsillie leads teams across customer channels, helping businesses streamline operations, embrace technology and grow with confidence through digital transformation.

With more than 25 years of experience in media, education and technology, including two decades at Thryv, Elise is passionate about empowering small businesses and delivering solutions that provide them a competitive edge.

Under her leadership, Thryv has been recognized as an ‘Employer of Choice’ for two consecutive years, reflecting her commitment to people and culture.

authenticity and personalisation. Ignoring negative reviews is another critical mistake - burying your head in the sand won’t make problems disappear and only signals indifference.

Inconsistent handling across locations can create brand discrepancies, especially when franchisees manage reviews differently without a centralised strategy. Slow response times may also frustrate customers, as reviews should be acknowledged within 24 hours to show that feedback is valued even if a solution cannot be resolved by then.

Leveraging SaaS tools for seamless review management Managing customer reviews across multiple locations can be overwhelming without the right technology. A scattered approach leads to inconsistencies, missed opportunities and a lack of real-time insights. This is where software tools become indispensable, providing a centralised system that streamlines review management at scale.

With automated review requests, AI-driven sentiment analysis and location-specific segmentation, franchisors can proactively shape their brand’s reputation while ensuring every franchisee upholds the same standards.

A well-implemented platform can transform reviews into actionable insights, helping businesses identify trends, improve operations

and enhance customer satisfaction. By leveraging these tools, franchise networks can turn review management from a reactive task into a powerful growth strategy.

Turning negative reviews into growth opportunities Negative reviews can feel like a setback, but they also offer a valuable opportunity to strengthen customer trust and refine business operations.

How a franchise responds to criticism can make all the difference - turning an unhappy customer into a loyal advocate. The key is to respond to negative feedback promptly and with genuine empathy, showing customers that their concerns are taken seriously.

Beyond a simple response, franchises should analyse recurring issues to pinpoint operational weaknesses, take meaningful action to resolve complaints and follow up to ensure satisfaction. Encouraging happy customers to share their experiences can also help balance the narrative, reinforcing positive brand perception. When handled strategically, negative reviews can become a tool for continuous improvement and longterm customer loyalty.

Emerging trends in franchise review management Franchisors who stay ahead of review

management trends can gain a significant competitive edge. Advanced AI-driven sentiment analysis is helping businesses detect patterns in feedback, allowing them to address potential issues before they escalate.

Proactive review collection is becoming standard practice, with franchisors integrating automated requests into customer journeys to encourage more balanced feedback. Meanwhile, omnichannel feedback integration ensures a more comprehensive view of customer sentiment by consolidating insights from social media, Google and direct customer surveys.

By embracing these emerging trends, franchise businesses can refine their customer experience, strengthen brand reputation, and build lasting loyalty across their entire network.

Balancing AI automation with genuine customer engagement AI-powered tools have revolutionised review management, offering automation for sentiment analysis, review tracking and suggested response templates. However, overreliance on AI can strip away authenticity.

Customers can tell when a response lacks a human touch.

To strike the right balance: • Use AI to categorise and prioritise reviews but have real people craft responses. At Thryv, there is AI Review Response which instantly generates three review responses for you whenever you reply to someone’s feedback. You can choose your favourite, adjust the message or leave it as-is and hit publish.

• Ensure franchisees personalise every response rather than using AI-generated replies word-for-word.

• Train your team members to handle difficult reviews with empathy and authenticity, ensuring AI assists rather than replaces human judgement.

A thoughtful blend of technology and personal engagement will enable franchises to manage reviews efficiently while maintaining a strong customer connection.

When handled correctly, every review, positive or negative, is an opportunity to stand out in a crowded market, build stronger relationships with customers and drive longterm growth. The key is mastering the art of listening, responding and improving, across the board. v business franchise MAGAZINE 17

focus: InXpress

Michelle Price:

Leading the Way in Logistics and Franchising

Michelle Price, Chief Commercial Officer for Asia Pacific, has been instrumental in driving the growth of InXpress across the region for nearly four years. With over three decades of experience in the freight and logistics industry, she has held senior leadership roles with major global forwarding companies, managing large-scale operations including warehouses, truck fleets, and extensive office teams.

cemented her commitment. The strong sense of community and shared purpose fuels her passion and drives her mission to share the InXpress opportunity with others.

When Michelle discovered the InXpress model, it immediately stood out. The ability to deliver competitive freight solutions through established carrier partnerships—without the need for physical assets—was not only an efficient approach but also a smarter, more agile way to succeed in an industry undergoing rapid change. While the business model initially drew her in, it was the culture that truly

At InXpress, Michelle has seen an increasing number of women excel as successful franchise owners, working alongside their equally dedicated male counterparts. But diversity isn’t limited to franchising; it extends throughout the organisation. The balance of women to men in leadership and employment roles is, in Michelle’s words, “outstanding.” The culture fosters support, encouragement, and ambition, creating an

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Supporting Women in a MaleDominated Industry As a seasoned professional in logistics—a sector traditionally dominated by men—Michelle understands the unique challenges women face in leadership and entrepreneurship. What sets InXpress apart, she believes, is its genuine commitment to empowering women across all levels of the business.

environment where individuals—regardless of gender—can grow and thrive.

Throughout her career, Michelle has had strong backing and opportunities for advancement, but she sees InXpress as a true leader in inclusivity and growth. Starting as Country Manager and Director for Australia and New Zealand, she was promoted just over 17 months ago to Chief Commercial Officer for Asia Pacific. In this role, she collaborates with high-performing teams across the region and plays a pivotal role in supporting more than 130 franchisees in APAC, including over 50 franchises in the ANZ market, as they build and scale their businesses.

A Business That Feels Like Family For Michelle, InXpress embodies everything she values—results, relationships, and resilience. While the company is performance-driven and focused on achieving targets, it is also a network built on genuine care and collaboration. At InXpress, success is not just individual—it’s shared. Wins are celebrated together, challenges are tackled as a team, and growth is a collective effort. The culture is rooted in a deep commitment to each other and a shared vision for success.

Beyond its strong community, InXpress offers cutting-edge technology designed to simplify operations for franchisees. Its intuitive systems streamline quoting, booking, and freight management, allowing franchisees to focus on building relationships and growing their businesses.

With outstanding support from carrier partners, daily access to industry experts,

and a business model built on recurring income, InXpress stands out as a franchise opportunity unlike any other in the market.

InXpress: A Scalable Franchise Opportunity in a Thriving Industry InXpress is a global leader in shipping and logistics, delivering tailored freight solutions to businesses of all sizes. As a trusted thirdparty logistics provider (3PL), InXpress has built strong partnerships with Tier 1 global and domestic carriers—including DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT, StarTrack, and other domestic providers. These relationships enable franchisees to offer competitive shipping rates and outstanding customer service, supported by cutting-edge technology that streamlines freight management. Businesses can book, track, and manage shipments with ease, whether shipping locally or internationally.

A Franchise Model That Works InXpress offers a proven franchise model designed for scalability, profitability, and flexibility. With low overhead costs and no requirement for warehouses or trucks, franchisees operate as freight consultants, helping customers navigate the complexities of shipping and logistics. The model is built around remote operation, allowing franchisees to launch and grow their businesses from home.

Franchisees receive world-class technology, ongoing training, and hands-on business coaching from the dedicated support team based in Brisbane. Additionally, they become part of a strong, collaborative network of

franchisees who share knowledge, celebrate successes, and uplift each other throughout their business journey.

Whether you’re seeking a fresh start, a career shift, or a way to build a lasting business for your future, the InXpress model empowers individuals to run their own logistics business—without the traditional risks and overheads of starting from scratch.

Why Now Is the Time The logistics industry continues to grow year after year, driven by global e-commerce, evolving supply chains, and the increasing demand for efficient shipping solutions.

Businesses are constantly seeking smarter, cost-effective freight options, and InXpress franchisees are uniquely positioned to provide them.

If you’re looking for a new career path, a flexible lifestyle, or a way to build something meaningful for your future, this is the perfect time to take advantage of the InXpress opportunity. No prior freight experience is required—just the drive to learn, connect with customers, and build a business of your own.

An InXpress franchise is more than just a business—it’s a community, a pathway to personal and financial growth, and a chance to be part of one of the world’s most dynamic industries. With the right support, training, and tools at your fingertips, success is within reach.

If you’re ready to take control of your future, work on your own terms, and be part of something that’s making an impact, InXpress is ready for you. v business franchise MAGAZINE 19

EXPERT ADVICE: Lauren Clemett | Keynote speaker, International award-winning Neurobranding Specialist and Best Selling Author

Wrangling Cats (and Customers):

A Franchise Owner’s Guide to Harmonious Herding Lauren Clemett is a Keynote speaker, International award-winning Neurobranding specialist and best selling author with over 25 years brand management experience. Lauren shares how to overcome overwhelm and lead with direction, purpose and meaning, making marketing your professional services a walk in the park! www.yourbrandtruenorth.com

understanding that everyone has a unique way of processing and sharing information and adapting your approach accordingly.

A Franchise Owner’s Reality Let’s face it: people are different, and as a franchise owner, you’re constantly juggling customers and team members with diverse communication styles. Some want the facts, fast. Others crave connection and conversation. Some need time to process information or want to have some sort of guarantee, while others prefer to make decisions on the fly.

And then there are those who simply avoid conflict or communication at all costs. How do you motivate, satisfy, and maintain a positive work environment when everyone seems to be speaking a different language?

Ever feel like you’re trying to herd a room full of particularly stubborn cats? As a franchise owner, you’re not just running a business; you’re navigating a wild tangle of personalities among your menagerie of customers. From the “just give me the bottom line” types to the “let me tell you what happened” chatterboxes, and the “I need all the details” analysts to the “I’ll just nod and smile” peacekeepers, it’s a veritable communication catastrophe.

And your team? Don’t even get me started. You’ve got the “fly by the seat of their pants” doers, the “water cooler gossip” connectors, the “analysis paralysis” thinkers, and the “conflict avoidant” carers.

It’s enough to make you want to retreat to a quiet corner and hope everyone communicates telepathically.

There is a way to tame this communication cat-astrophe, avoid conflicts and create harmony amidst the chaos. It’s about 20 business franchise MAGAZINE

Introducing Personal Communication Styles (PCS): Your Guide to Harmony There are plenty of personality tests out there that help you understand how to engage with people and lots of communication programs, but there is one simple way to communicate better as a leader, and that’s to know how others want to be communicated with (usually starting with knowing how you like to communicate). This is the concept of Personal Communication Styles (PCS) and it’s very simple to understand and easy to put into practice.

Think of a good comms process as a map that guides you through the different communication terrains and imagine yourself wandering through the forest, observing the birds in the trees. They all have different songs, and they all behave and look different even though they live in the same area. And birds of a feather, flock together - they all seem to attract others who are just like them.

As humans we have the same ability as birds to converse with others, finding our tribe and using a wide range of communication styles at different times. However, we will each have one dominant style which is our comfort zone. This is our usual operating mode.

Doves: The Harmonious Caretakers Doves are caring, supportive, and value harmony. They avoid conflict and put relationships first. They will avoid doing anything to rock the boat, they like the status quo and are always thinking of others first. To communicate effectively with Doves, create a peaceful and supportive environment.

Focus on building trust and demonstrating empathy and don’t spring anything on them or ask them to change things in an instant.

Do you have a supportive dove in your world? Are you the one who takes care of others?

So now that you know the four types of personal communication styles, can you identify which is your dominant one?

Remember, we use all styles at different times, so before you put a cat amongst the pigeons, consider how you communicate. You may be an owl when signing a contract, or a dove when caring for a loved one. Perhaps you’re a peacock at networking events and an eagle when you are driving a deal with a supplier. Above all though, how do you communicate in a crisis? What is your usual operating mode? The trick is to understand how you communicate most effectively and then you can identify the PCS of those around you.

We’ll use birds as a metaphor for each of the four communication styles so you can find which is your dominant one, and you can identify the PCS of your customers and team as well. The four types of personal communication styles are: Eagles, Peacocks, Owls, and Doves.

Eagles: The Result-Oriented Leaders Eagles are driven, decisive, and focused on results. They want the bottom line, and they want it now. They’re not interested in small talk or emotional appeals. They don’t like hanging about gossiping, or fluffy conversations or having to listen or read too much and they want you to cut to the chase. To communicate effectively with Eagles, be clear, concise, and to the point. Focus on outcomes and avoid unnecessary details.

Is this you? Are some of your customers eagles, or your team?

Peacocks: The Social Connectors Peacocks are outgoing, enthusiastic, and thrive on connection. They love to chat, network, and share their stories. They enjoy hearing or reading reviews and testimonials, and they love before and after stories. They like networking and having fun while they learn, earn or buy. To communicate effectively with Peacocks, engage them in conversations, build rapport, and create a positive and energetic atmosphere.

Do you have peacocks on your team? Are you one? Which of your clients is like this?

Owls: The Analytical Thinkers Owls are detail-oriented, logical, and analytical. They want all the information, and they want it to be accurate. They don’t like being rushed and want to take time to make their decisions. They want all the information to make comparisons and they are highly competitive. To communicate effectively with Owls, provide them with data, facts, and evidence. Give them time to process information and be prepared to answer their questions.

When was the last time you encountered an owl? How long did it take them to buy from you?

Once you’ve done that, you can engage better in your marketing messages, with your customer service and sales, follow-ups, team comms and training and even in your own household!

Here are some tips to use your new communications knowledge to the max: • Adapt your communication style and tailor your message to the individual you’re communicating with. This includes emails, marketing and in-person communication.

• Listen actively, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues to quickly find out if you’re dealing with an eagle, owl, peacock or dove.

• Ask clarifying questions to identify and understand the other person’s perspective and preferences then respond in a way you know they will like to be communicated with. Details for the owls, quick outcomes for the eagles, care and support for the doves and chatty engagement for the peacocks.

• Create clear communication channels and guidelines for communication within your team, making sure they know each other’s PCS and are trained to find and tap into the client’s PCS. • Develop a culture of open communication, encouraging team members to use their PCS to decide which customers they look after, or how roles are determined. You may find you have a peacock in the office who would be brilliant on the front counter!

Understanding and adapting to different communication styles is one way you can transform your franchise from a communication catastrophe to a cohesive and collaborative environment. Using PCS means you can build stronger relationships with your team, improve customer satisfaction, reduce conflict, and create a thriving business where everyone feels heard and valued. v Ready to embrace the diversity of communication styles, and become a master of harmonious cat-wrangling?

Find Your Flock here: Take the PCS quiz at https://yourbrandtruenorth.com/ pcs-quiz/ and discover your dominant communication style, then download the guidebook for free. business franchise MAGAZINE 21

have your say: Sonia Shwabsky | CEO | Kwik Kopy Australia

Empowering Underrepresented Groups in Franchising: The Key to Business Success

In a country as proudly multicultural as Australia, the diversity of lived experience across our workforce is one of our greatest national assets. At Kwik Kopy, I’ve seen firsthand how individuals from all walks of life – different cultures, career backgrounds, genders and life stages – can thrive as franchise owners when given the right support and opportunity.

While debates on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) continue to swirl globally – fuelled by recent policy shifts in the US – in Australia, the numbers speak for themselves.

Over 40% of franchisees are born overseas, and close to 30% of franchise businesses are owned by women. These aren’t just statistics; they’re proof that underrepresented groups are already driving success in franchising, and the smart money is on amplifying that momentum.

The Business Case for Inclusion We don’t view DEI as a tick-box exercise– it’s an enabler of growth. Research from the Australian HR Institute shows a troubling gap between intent and action in corporate DEI strategies. Just 50% of HR professionals believe their leaders treat DEI as a priority, despite clear evidence that diversity drives business performance.

At Kwik Kopy, our “can do” culture empowers people to take the leap into business ownership, regardless of background or prior experience. We back ambition 22 business franchise MAGAZINE

with structured support, and the results speak volumes: higher retention, broader innovation, stronger team culture and a more representative business landscape.

As a woman who has built her career in male-dominated industries, I understand the barriers – and the importance of breaking them down. My journey wasn’t linear, but with resilience, mentorship, and opportunity, I found my path to leadership. Now, I’m committed to helping others do the same.

Making Franchising Accessible – For Everyone One of the biggest myths about franchising is that you need prior industry experience to succeed. At Kwik Kopy, we bust that myth every day. Our onboarding program includes up to four weeks of comprehensive training across operations, marketing, technology and sales – delivered in-person, online, and on-site. We continue that support through regional meet-ups, national conventions, peer connection and continuous learning via our Kwik Kopy Academy.

Just as important as the technical training is the human support. Our team works alongside every franchisee, not only to help them launch and grow their business, but to foster collaboration through feedback loops, peer learning and national campaigns.

Whether it’s HR support, marketing strategies, or tools like CRM and e-commerce systems, we equip our franchisees with everything they need to succeed – no matter where they start.

Celebrating Migrant Success Stories One standout example is Kervin Merchant, who joined Kwik Kopy Blacktown in 2018 after moving from New Jersey with roots in India. Seeking a new career that aligned with his lifestyle and values, Kervin embraced the opportunity and now leads a million-dollar business. His story is far from unique – many migrants bring adaptability, ambition and grit that make them natural entrepreneurs. But the key to their success lies in access to the right systems and mentorship.

Research from the Centre for Policy Development confirms this: refugees are the most entrepreneurial of all migrant groups in Australia. Yet, too often, they’re overlooked in mainstream business channels. As leaders, we have a responsibility to change that – not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s smart business.

Building the Future of Franchising Creating a truly inclusive franchising environment means more than just opening the door – it means walking alongside new owners, providing tailored training, clear pathways to leadership, and fostering a community where people feel they belong.

At Kwik Kopy, that means structured support for work-life balance, flexible ownership models, leadership development opportunities, and tools to build confidence in marketing, sales, and customer experience.

We’re not just growing businesses; we’re growing people.

Australia’s diversity is a competitive advantage we’re only beginning to unlock.

With more than 7 million people born overseas, there’s an untapped well of talent, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit ready to contribute to our economy. It’s up to us – as business owners, mentors, and leaders – to recognise that potential, offer the platform, and back it with the training and belief people need to succeed.

Franchising, at its core, is about empowering individuals to own their future. And when we bring everyone to the table – women, migrants, career changers and those who've been historically overlooked – we don't just build better businesses. We build a better, more inclusive economy.

Driving Change Through Leadership and Representation True inclusion is also about visibility. When aspiring business owners see people who look

like them and share similar backgrounds or life experiences succeed in leadership roles, it sends a powerful message: “You belong here.” That’s why representation matters at every level of franchising, from frontline operations to boardrooms and strategic leadership. At Kwik Kopy, we actively work to elevate diverse voices through mentoring programs, leadership pipelines, and inclusive recruitment strategies that challenge the status quo.

We also know that financial barriers can often stand in the way of underrepresented groups entering the franchising space.

That’s why we explore flexible entry options, funding partnerships, and support structures to help people overcome the initial hurdles of business ownership. Affordability should never be the gatekeeper to talent and drive.

Inclusion isn’t a final destination – it’s an ongoing commitment. It means listening with empathy, staying open to feedback, and continually evolving our systems to meet the needs of our franchisees. As the business landscape shifts, so too must our approach.

The future of franchising will be shaped by those willing to challenge conventions, embrace diversity in all its forms, and create business ecosystems where everyone has a fair shot at success.

When we empower more people to participate fully in the business world, we don’t just strengthen our own networks – we help build a more resilient, innovative, and future-ready economy for Australia. And that’s a win for all of us. v business franchise MAGAZINE 23

focus: Craveable Brands

Craveable Brands: A Leader in the Australian Chicken QSR Industry At Craveable Brands, we’re proud to be at the forefront of the Australian quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, leading the charge with four iconic chicken brands: Red Rooster, Oporto, Chicken Treat, and Chargrill Charlie’s.

Our mission has always been simple: to provide Australians with high-quality, delicious chicken meals that are both accessible and memorable. Over the years, we’ve seen our brands not just survive but thrive, becoming beloved institutions in Australia’s vibrant fast food scene.

Our success isn’t just about the great-tasting meals we serve, it’s about how we support our franchisees, the heart of our business.

From long-standing franchisees to those just starting out, we’ve created an environment where success is within reach for anyone who is committed to delivering outstanding service and quality food.

Together, with the support of our dedicated team, we’ve redefined the chicken QSR industry in Australia and are excited to continue innovating in the years to come.

Red Rooster: An Icon of Australian Chicken For over five decades, Red Rooster has been a staple of Australian dining. Since 1972, we’ve been serving up the finest roast chicken, combining traditional flavours with modern twists to satisfy the evolving tastes of our customers. It’s not just our famous roast chicken that keeps Australians coming back. It’s the whole experience; the

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warmth, the nostalgia, and the community we’ve built around our brand.

At Red Rooster, we’ve recently refreshed the brand to ensure that we continue meeting the needs of today’s consumers. From updating store designs to introducing healthier menu options and expanding our delivery services, we’re always evolving. But we’ve never lost sight of what makes us special: great-tasting food, delivered with a side of heart. For our franchisees, Red Rooster offers a tried-and-tested business model, one that allows them to build a successful operation while being part of a family-oriented brand with deep Australian roots.

Oporto: Bold, Flame-Grilled Flavours Oporto has always been about bold flavours and fresh, flame-grilled chicken. Born from the passion of Portuguese-inspired cooking, we’ve carved a niche in the Australian market with a unique menu that combines fresh ingredients, intense flavours, and the unmistakable smokiness of flame-grilled chicken. From our famous Bondi Burgers to our mouth-watering wraps and salads, Oporto delivers something for everyone.

For our franchisees, Oporto presents an exciting opportunity to be part of a high-growth brand that is expanding rapidly across the

country. With a relatively low cost of entry and a proven business model, many of our franchisees have seen great success. Oporto’s vibrant, contemporary stores and commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience continue to drive its popularity. We’re proud of what we’ve built, and we’re excited to continue growing, both in terms of our footprint and the loyal customer base we’ve cultivated.

Chicken Treat: Western Australia’s Favourite Since 1976, Chicken Treat has been a beloved institution in Western Australia, serving up hearty meals that have earned the brand a loyal following. Known for our mouth-watering fried chicken, delicious family meals, and iconic chicken rolls, Chicken Treat has become synonymous with high-quality, great-tasting food in WA. We pride ourselves on delivering a menu that offers both indulgent options and healthier alternatives, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Although Chicken Treat remains focused in Western Australia, the brand’s success and deep connection to the local community have provided us with an incredible foundation for future growth. Our loyal customer base and the recognition we’ve built over the years make Chicken Treat a brand that resonates with people on a personal level. For our franchisees, this means being part of a brand that is trusted, well-loved, and consistently delivers excellent returns. With the support of our strong team, Chicken Treat continues to thrive, and our franchisees enjoy a proven business model backed by exceptional customer demand.

As we look to the future, Chicken Treat remains focused on maintaining our position as the go-to chicken brand for Western Australians, while continuing to innovate and adapt to evolving customer tastes. The brand’s continued success in WA is a testament to the quality and consistency we provide, and we’re excited to keep serving the community with delicious, comforting chicken meals for years to come.

Chargrill Charlie’s: Premium Quality Chicken with a Community Focus Chargrill Charlie’s is our premium offering, where the focus is on high-quality, locally sourced chicken cooked to perfection on a chargrill. Since joining Craveable Brands, Chargrill Charlie’s has quickly become one of our fastest-growing brands, offering a fresh, fast-casual dining experience that resonates with customers seeking healthier, indulgent options.

At Chargrill Charlie’s, we pride ourselves on the quality of our food and the exceptional service our team delivers. Our franchisees benefit from being part of a brand that values community, consistency, and premium quality. We’ve created a dining experience that’s focused

on providing a healthier alternative without compromising on taste, which is why we’ve seen such rapid expansion and loyal customers. For franchisees, Chargrill Charlie’s offers a profitable opportunity within a growing market, backed by a brand known for its commitment to quality.

Supporting Our Franchisees: The Craveable Difference At Craveable Brands, we believe that the key to our success is the success of our franchisees. We’re committed to providing them with the tools, support, and resources they need to thrive in a competitive industry. Whether it’s through ongoing training, marketing support, or access to the latest technology, we’re here to help our franchisees grow their businesses and realise their full potential.

We recognise that the QSR industry is ever-changing, and we’ve built a strong network that allows our franchisees to stay ahead of the curve.

From adapting to consumer trends like healthier eating and digital ordering, to expanding delivery services and introducing new menu items, we ensure our franchisees are always equipped to meet the needs of today’s fast-paced market. Our focus is on creating a supportive environment that allows our franchisees to focus on delivering great food and exceptional customer service.

The Future of Chicken QSR in Australia The chicken QSR sector in Australia is a thriving market, and we are confident that Craveable Brands will continue to lead the way. With our diverse portfolio of brands, we’re able to cater to a wide range of customer preferences, from the traditional roast chicken lover to those seeking bold flavours or healthier options. As Australians’ appetites for high-quality chicken continue to grow, we’re excited to be part of that journey and to help shape the future of the industry.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and delivering exceptional experiences for our customers and franchisees alike. We’ll continue to expand our footprint across the country, introduce new products, and explore new technologies to ensure we’re always meeting the evolving needs of the market.

At Craveable Brands, we’re more than just a group of chicken brands – we’re a family of passionate people who are committed to creating success. Whether it’s through our iconic Red Rooster, the bold flavours of Oporto, the Western Australian favourite Chicken Treat, or the premium offerings of Chargrill Charlie’s, we’re proud to be a part of your dining experience. And as we continue to grow, we look forward to many more years of success, innovation, and, of course, great chicken. v business franchise MAGAZINE 25

franchisor in depth: G.J. Gardner Homes

The rising trend of highly modified homes With median house prices in Noosa now exceeding $2 million1, buyers in the region are increasingly seeking high-end, modifiable homes that can be tailored to suit their lifestyle.

Home to almost 400,0002 people, the Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most sought-after beachside addresses, where one local business owner is working to make the lifestyle dreams of current and future residents a reality.

G.J. Gardner Homes Noosa franchise Director Eddie Kimmerly said 80 per cent 26 business franchise MAGAZINE

of his clients are cash buyers spending more than a million dollars on their build and they know exactly what they are looking for.

“The growing demand for custom-designed homes with specific modifications is something we are seeing more and more of, especially among high-net-worth families,” Mr Kimmerly said.

“Clients come to us with a long list of wants and it’s our job to make those happen – one customer came to us with a sketch of what he wanted on a napkin, and we ran with it and made it a reality.”

Some of the most common requests from buyers are around the indoor/outdoor lifestyle with the kitchen living dining flowing onto the alfresco and pool area, curves in cabinetry, door arches and walls, planter boxes, lifestyle-specific rooms like mud rooms, pool wet rooms and home offices, designer staircases, stone features, fireplaces, architectural hoods over windows, and oversize entry doors and glazing.

“With these more high-spec home builds we are also seeing increased demand for sustainable home features, from the materials we use to the installation of smart home technology,” Mr Kimmerly said.

“We are lucky that our systems allow us to design and price up a home in less than an hour whether based on an existing plan, a customised plan, or a completely new design.

“We really strive to deliver tailored solutions for our customers no matter the challenge, whether it be difficult building sites, knockdown rebuild homes, custom high-end builds, or modifying existing homes.

“At the end of the day what we want is to make our customers happy. Building a home is a huge investment and one that a lot of our customers are making after a long successful career, where they are now looking to enjoy a sea change and a slower pace.”

“Being adaptable and ready to meet the challenge goes a long way when you specialise in creating tailored home builds.

G.J. Gardner Homes Chief Executive Officer Trent Gardner said the builder wanted to show customers that no request is too difficult

Clients come to us with a long list of wants and it’s our job to make those “happen – one customer came to us with a sketch of what he wanted on a napkin, and we ran with it and made it a reality. ”

G.J. Gardner Homes Noosa franchise Director Eddie Kimmerly

and that its franchises can work with them to make their vision a reality.

“We take pride in our ability to offer our customers the flexibility to either customise one of our existing plans or draft up an entirely new design, our systems are designed to make estimating a custom home as efficient as possible - from single to double storey or split level homes, smaller estate lots to acreage sites, whatever your dream, we will work with you to build it," Mr. Gardner said.

About G.J. Gardner Homes: Since home builder Greg J. Gardner started the business in Queensland in 1983, G.J. Gardner Homes has built over 55,000 quality and customised homes for families across the globe. As a franchise organisation, G.J. Gardner Homes is Australia’s most successful home building network with over 150 franchises internationally in Australia, the United States and New Zealand.

G.J. Gardner Homes is committed to providing its customers with the absolute best experience when building their own home ensuring an enjoyable journey.

For more visit: www.gjgardner.com.au.

“It is an exciting time to be building new homes, the offerings around materials and home features are constantly changing and developing and we are lucky to work with some great partners who are leading the industry in these spaces.

“As a company born on the Sunshine Coast, I am thrilled to see how things are changing and developing in the area; it has come a long way since I grew up here and I can’t wait to see how it continues to develop at the hands of people like Eddie.”

After more than 10 years with G.J. Gardner Homes and two and a half years as a franchise owner, Mr Kimmerly is excited to see what the future holds for the Australian building market, particularly the Noosa region.

To start building your dream home visit G.J. Gardner Homes.

References 1. Noosa Heads House Prices & Property Trends 2. 2021 Sunshine Coast, Census All persons QuickStats | Australian Bureau of Statistics

business franchise MAGAZINE 27

expert advice: Phil Chaplin | CEO | CFI Finance Group

Know the Players:

Understanding the Key Parties in a Franchise Transaction The decision to buy or start a franchise, or in fact any business, is a significant one.

Sometimes that decision may seem simpler when you are dealing with a franchise because the information can be more polished and the roadmap easier to follow.

It pays to remember however that the objectives and motivations of all the transaction parties are different.

Understanding who the different players are, what they bring to the transaction (and what 28 business franchise MAGAZINE

they take from it) can help you navigate the process with confidence.

Franchisors In general, franchisors want to build their network and grow their brand, increasing their revenue and reach by bringing in good franchisees that will gel with the franchise values and run their businesses in-line with franchise standards. That said, the franchisor is still trying to ‘sell’ you a franchise; to convince you to invest your capital and energy into their franchise brand. Whenever anybody is trying to sell you something it would be a rare thing for them to be putting your interests ahead of their own. This doesn’t

make them bad or unscrupulous of course, but it is something that’s important to keep in mind no matter what you’re buying.

Accountants Analysing the financials of an existing business, or preparing quality financial forecasts, can be time-consuming and exhausting. It can also be easy to miss things if you don’t know to look for them.

When people avoid using an accountant for professional advice and services, it’s often due to cost, or because they think they don’t need an accountant until they’ve got their business up and running. The truth is probably the complete opposite. Accountants can not only

Phil Chaplin the Chief Executive Officer of the CFI Finance Group, a specialist finance company servicing the franchise, accommodation, and fitness sectors as well as small businesses more broadly across Australia and New Zealand.

Phil has over 20 years’ experience in providing finance to businesses across Australia and New Zealand and has managed finance companies in the private and banking sectors, he is a former chair of the Equipment Finance division of AFIA.

Business Brokers If you’re purchasing a franchise through a business broker, it’s easy to feel that they might be a neutral party, simply sharing information between the parties and facilitating a transaction. In practice however, most business brokers only get paid when they sell a business, to put it simply a business broker’s primary objective is to secure the sale. This doesn’t always mean that they are siding with the vendor; indeed, there may be situations where the business broker helps the vendor to temper unrealistic expectations or tries to guide the parties to a compromise on critical sticking points. Remember, a broker may have many potential purchasers for each business seller, so if they’re forced to choose you should expect the business broker to put the seller’s needs first.

Finance Brokers assist with things like company setup and trust structures to help with tax efficiency, but a good accountant will save you time and money just by knowing what they’re looking for and being a trusted ‘second pair of eyes’. In fact, an accountant may well be your cheapest insurance against making some potentially expensive mistakes.

Lawyers Lawyers are perhaps the most tightly regulated of the parties involved in any transaction, having to adhere to a broad range of regulations and codes of practice. I’ve often heard customers think they’re in a better position because a lawyer is involved in the transaction, only to have them later say that the lawyer is being paid for by some other party (the business seller, the franchisor, etc).

Don’t fall into this trap. Involving a lawyer in a major transaction is generally a good idea, so long as they’re experienced in the type of work you’re asking them for, and so long as they’re working for you! Remember, lawyers are creatures of specific expertise, so make sure that you choose one that’s experienced in business sales and commercial contracts!

A finance broker’s role is to match your requirements to the right lender (or lenders).

This generally means obtaining the finance you need, with market competitive terms and rates. Most finance brokers get paid by the lender when you take out a loan, with the costs of paying the broker included in your loan repayments in some way (this doesn’t necessarily mean you pay any more for using a broker, as lenders tend to reduce their rates for broker introduced deals to balance this out). Brokers are incentivised to ensure you get an approval, but make sure you use a reputable broker that specialises in commercial lending, and that you clearly understand any finance the broker arranges.

You may also want to get an indication from the broker as to which lender/s they intend to submit the deal to, as credit enquiries from multiple lenders may have a negative impact on your credit score.

Lenders The role of the lender is to lend money of course, but unlike a broker, a lender’s primary motivation is to ensure that you can and will repay your loan. This means the lender needs to get a good understanding of who you are as an applicant, as well as assuring themselves that your business venture has a reasonable

chance of success. When it comes to lenders you should look for one that understands franchising, or even better the particular franchise network you’re looking at.

Your Role As you may have already realised, your role in the transaction is far from a passive one. I say ‘the transaction’ as the setup or purchase of your business is a project distinct from your role running your new business. This is the mountain you need to climb to get to the green pastures that lay beyond. So, what’s your job?

• It’s up to you to identify a franchise that aligns to your skills, interests, financial capacity, and lifestyle goals. You motivation may be ROI, it may be work-life balance, or it may be something else entirely, but getting clear on your own motivation is a great place to start.

• It’s up to you to seek professional advice (particularly in areas that are not your core skillset), and to pay attention to what those advisors tell you. It’s also on you to not blindly follow advice, and to consider it critically as one part of the overall picture.

• It’s up to you to do your homework. Doing the bare minimum when it comes to your new business is not in the recipe book for success. Ask questions of everybody, and if you’re unsure or don’t understand something, ask again or ask someone else.

Success in franchising depends not only on choosing the right business but also on understanding the key players involved in the transaction. By recognising their roles, and motivations, you can make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Whether you’re securing finance, negotiating contracts, or assessing financial risks, surrounding yourself with the right team of professionals will give you the best chance of success. With the right knowledge and support, you can confidently embark on your franchise journey and build a thriving franchise business. v business franchise MAGAZINE 29

franchisor in depth: StageCoach

the stage is set

Inspire the Next Generation with a Stagecoach Performing Arts Franchise

Finding a franchise that aligns with your passions, gives you true job satisfaction, and turns a profit isn’t an easy find. Stagecoach Performing Arts boasts all three, and with over 300 franchisees across the globe and growing, take this as your casting call to let a rewarding opportunity in the children’s sector take centre stage in your life.

From humble beginnings to worldwide impact Starting way back in 1988 in the UK, Stagecoach started as a children’s activity service that united the three performing arts disciplines of singing, dancing acting into one weekly class. Rather than parents running from one club to the next or having to pick and choose which extracurricular activities their children would engage in, Stagecoach created a great, multi-activity alternative.

Since then, the business has grown into a well-established franchise with a strong footprint in the UK, and has expanded to eight countries worldwide, including Australia in 2000.

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Stagecoach franchisees around the world are supported not only by a large international franchisee network, but also by a head office team who are on hand to help with queries, resources and advice. The head office features specialist teams covering operations, marketing, IT, events and education. With Stagecoach, you have all you need to run a successful business there for you, including branding, and key policies. This head office guidance is not only to support with running a successful business but also knowing how and when to expand.

Inspiring the Next Generation For Stagecoach, performing arts education is about a lot more than getting children on stage, it’s also about the confidence and life skills children and young people develop.

These include: • Resilience • Courage • Social and communication skills • Creativity

Aside from the business potential, it’s the incredible feeling that comes from seeing the impact Stagecoach classes have on students that has franchisees regularly singing the praises of the Stagecoach experience.

Kate Davies, Principal and franchisee of Stagecoach Cardiff and Penarth in the UK speaks to this, “My daughter is a walking advert for Stagecoach! Her confidence has skyrocketed since joining, and I want to instil that sense of confidence in more and more children across Cardiff. Having taught with Stagecoach for many years and now serving as a Principal, I have seen first-hand how our programme can positively impact young people’s lives. By expanding our presence across my territory, I aim to continue to provide a safe and inclusive environment where children can develop their confidence and self-expression through the magic of performing arts.”

Closer to home here in Australia, Alison Tasker, Principal and franchisee of Stagecoach schools in Perth, Sydney and Melbourne, said, “I’ve always believed in the power of performing arts to inspire confidence and creativity”.

Incredible Growth Potential After running schools in Perth for some time, Alison recently took the leap into investing into more territories across the country by recruiting managers to run new schools in Sydney and Melbourne. On her expansion, Alison said, “It’s exciting to think about the potential we have to grow and reach even more communities. Stagecoach is already well-known in other countries, and I’m determined to bring that same level of recognition here. This is just the beginning of an incredible journey.”

The ultimate goal for Stagecoach to help more and more children build core life skills, which aligns with the brand’s motto and ethos of helping students find their “Creative Courage For Life”. Giving franchisees the tools to fill their schools and expand into new territories is a huge part of that, so this is a business that comes packed with growth potential. Plus, all the life skills that students gain at Stagecoach can be replicated by the brand’s franchisees, teaching teams and head office staff, with plenty of opportunities for further training and CPD to build confidence in their roles and help find their own “Creative Courage”.

A Brand That Scales Continents From the UK to Canada, Germany to Australia, Stagecoach is a brand that holds its own in the performing arts world. This is in part because Stagecoach is part of Trafalgar Entertainment, a premium international live entertainment business focussed on new productions, venue ownership, performing arts education, theatre ticketing, the distribution of live-streaming innovative content and the provision of great theatres.

Included amongst these is the Theatre Royal Sydney, further establishing Trafalgar Entertainment’s place in the Australian performing arts landscape.

The stage is set and now’s the time to be investing in a new business that will help both you and the children in your area flourish through the performing arts.

Make Stagecoach Part of Your Story Stagecoach is currently expanding in Australia with opportunities for new territories across the country. Get in touch with the friendly team to see how you can join a business where you have the opportunity to inspire the next generation and build a business that truly performs.

Discover more at australia. stagecoachfranchise.com.

business franchise MAGAZINE 31

focus: Benihana From an early age, the Aoki children learned the importance of cleanliness, the value of fresh ingredients, and the critical role of topquality tools. However, it was the eldest son, Hiroaki, or “Rocky,” who truly understood the power of entertainment and culinary innovation. His experience as a wrestler on the Japanese Olympic team led him to the United States in 1960, where he would begin to shape an idea that would later transform the dining landscape.

In 1969, Rocky opened the first Benihana restaurant in New York, featuring a small four-table teppanyaki concept. Little did he know that this venture would give birth to an iconic brand. By blending Japanese cuisine with performance, Rocky’s vision of combining extraordinary food with an entertaining dining experience was born.

“Where Strangers Become Friends, Meals Become Celebrations, and Celebrations Become Cherished Memories”

Our Kitchen is Your Table The origins of Benihana trace back to Japan, where a small coffee shop was opened by Yunosuke Aoki, a descendant of samurais, and his wife Katsu. This humble beginning marked the start of a culinary journey that would span across continents and generations.

Together with their four sons, the Aoki family grew the business into a full-service restaurant, fostering an understanding of the restaurant industry that would shape Benihana’s success.

At its core, Benihana is more than just a restaurant. It’s an experience—an experience where guests are not just customers, but part of an unforgettable culinary performance.

This communal dining concept, which has become a hallmark of the brand, combines the art of teppanyaki cooking with the spectacle of a personal chef creating a live show right at the table.

For over 60 years, Benihana has offered an impressive selection of freshly grilled steaks, high-quality seafood, and a wide array of creatively crafted Japanese dishes. The brand’s commitment to culinary excellence is evidenced by its continued success, and while Benihana is renowned for its hibachi cooking tradition, it has evolved to offer a broad range of dishes, including sashimi, sushi, and even elevated cocktail bars—innovations that have been particularly popular in the brand’s European locations.

The key to Benihana’s success lies in its ability to create a sense of celebration in every meal. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a simple night out, Benihana fosters an atmosphere where guests don’t just eat—they experience something special, something memorable.

Legacy Transformed: A Modern Twist on Tradition While Benihana’s legacy as a premier dining destination remains intact, the brand has not remained static. To stay relevant and continue to appeal to today’s consumers, the brand underwent a rejuvenation that would make it more versatile and modern.

The turning point came when Minor Food Group (MFG), the owner of Benihana’s international rights outside of the Americas, acquired a stake in the brand. With MFG’s global experience and strategic foresight, it 32 business franchise MAGAZINE

was decided that Benihana needed an update to meet evolving consumer demands and investor expectations. This modernization would be more than just a fresh coat of paint—it would incorporate new ideas to enhance the guest experience, improve operational efficiency, and create a more engaging ambiance.

One of the major changes was the introduction of an open dining section surrounded by raised teppanyaki tables. This design allows guests to enjoy the culinary performance without having to pay premium prices for front-row seats. The à la carte menu was also refined, delivering the same quality Benihana signature dishes, but in a more time-efficient way—perfect for customers who want to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal without compromising on taste.

Additionally, the restaurant’s décor received a contemporary makeover, embracing lighter furniture, Japanese-inspired video art, and music. The new ambiance reflects a modern yet still distinctly Japanese aesthetic, appealing to both traditional diners and younger generations seeking a stylish dining experience.

From a business perspective, this transformation has proven highly successful.

By reducing the restaurant footprint from 450–500 square meters to a more manageable 250–300 square meters, the brand has made significant strides in cutting overhead costs.

With a smaller investment in décor and equipment, Benihana has increased its return on investment (ROI) while also boosting its average unit volume (AUV). The changes have led to increased utilization of other dayparts, with lunch now accounting for over 45% of total revenue. This new model has been rolled out across locations in Singapore and Malaysia and is expanding to other regions, including Asia-Pacific and Middle East.

The introduction of both classic and urban formats has positioned Benihana to expand rapidly, with opportunities in a variety of settings: from shopping malls and in-line locations to stand-alone and hotel-based

outlets. The flexibility of these new formats makes Benihana an attractive proposition for potential franchisees, as they can now enter new markets with a concept that works across different demographics and locations.

The Journey Just Began: Benihana’s Global Expansion Benihana’s journey from a small restaurant in New York to a global brand with more than 100 locations worldwide is nothing short of remarkable. Today, more than 20 Benihana restaurants are owned or franchised by Benihana Holdings Pte Ltd, a part of Minor Food Group (MFG) since the acquisition in 2018.

MFG has been a major player in Benihana’s global success, with the group’s extensive experience in the F&B industry, particularly in the Asian market. As one of the first international franchisees of Benihana outside the US, MFG has developed a deep understanding of the brand and its operational intricacies, offering unmatched expertise and support for franchisees. The new restaurant model, tested successfully in Asia, has demonstrated how Benihana can stay fresh and appealing to a wide range of customers, ensuring continued success for the brand.

As Benihana continues to expand into new markets, including Australia, it offers a compelling opportunity for franchisees.

With the combination of an iconic brand, a refreshed business model, and the backing of a global leader in the F&B sector, Benihana is poised to thrive in new territories while remaining true to its legacy of providing exceptional dining experiences.

Who Is Minor International and Minor Food Group?

Minor International (MINT), the parent company of Minor Food Group (MFG), has a rich history that spans nearly half a century.

Founded in 1978 with a single beachfront resort in Pattaya, Thailand, MINT is now one of the largest hospitality and leisure

companies in the Asia Pacific region. The company operates over 560 hotels and resorts, as well as 2,669 restaurants and 267 retail trading points of sale, across 65 markets in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, and the Americas.

Minor Food Group, a division of MINT, is a global leader in the restaurant industry, with ownership and franchise rights for several renowned brands, including The Pizza Company, The Coffee Club, Sizzler, Thai Express, Benihana, and others. The group also acts as a master franchise partner for Dairy Queen, Burger King, Swensen’s, and Bonchon. With its vast network of restaurants and retail outlets, Minor Food Group brings a wealth of expertise and experience to its franchise partners.

Minor Food Group offers its franchisees unparalleled support, providing end-to-end solutions that include localized supply chains, creative digital marketing programs, and expert operational support. The company’s commitment to the success of its partners is evident in its track record of delivering profitable and sustainable franchise operations.

For more information on franchising opportunities with Benihana or any of Minor Food Group’s other brands, please reach out to: minorfoodfranchise@minor.com.

Benihana’s legacy as a culinary pioneer has only grown over the years. With a renewed business model, a strong brand foundation, and the backing of a global hospitality leader, the future looks bright for Benihana as it continues to expand its presence worldwide, including Australia. For potential franchisees, this is a unique opportunity to be part of a globally recognized brand that combines rich tradition with exciting innovation.

Join us, and let’s bring the Benihana experience to more guests around the world. business franchise MAGAZINE 33

expert advice: Helen Kay | Founder | Rise Legal

What Every Aspiring Franchisee Should Know Before Signing Franchising continues to be one of the most popular ways for Australians to enter business ownership—with the promise of brand recognition, systems, and support. But joining a franchise system isn’t just buying a business—it’s entering into a long-term legal relationship that comes with significant rights and responsibilities.

I’ve advised hundreds of franchisees across Australia and the UK over the past 20 years, and one thing is clear: the most successful franchisees are those who take the time to understand what they’re getting into before they sign. If you’re considering becoming a franchisee, here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision and protect your investment.

34 business franchise MAGAZINE

It All Starts with the Right Information

The Disclosure Document Is Long for a Reason

When you first express interest in a franchise, the franchisor must provide you with an Information Statement. This is a standard document published by the ACCC and is designed to help you understand the risks and responsibilities involved in joining a franchise system.

The Disclosure Document is your window into how the franchise system actually works.

It’s packed with important details and while it may feel overwhelming, it’s absolutely essential reading.

It’s not a sales brochure. It’s an educational resource—and one you should read carefully before anything else. It includes key questions to ask, factors to consider, and guidance on what it really means to be part of someone else’s brand.

Receiving this document early in the process is a legal requirement. If a franchisor skips this step or tries to rush you ahead without it, that’s a red flag. Take it as a sign to slow down and reassess.

Inside, you’ll find information about: • The business experience of the franchisor and its directors • Start-up and ongoing fees • Training and support provided • Restrictions on your operations • How marketing funds are used • Whether you’ll have an exclusive territory • Your renewal and exit options • Contact details for current and former franchisees • Any history of litigation or insolvency

This document should answer most of your commercial questions—and raise a few more. Don’t skim it. Read it slowly, highlight areas you’re unsure about, and keep a list of questions to raise with the franchisor and your lawyer.

By law, you must be given at least 14 days to review the Disclosure Document and franchise agreement before you’re asked to sign or pay anything. Use that time well.

Call Other Franchisees—And Ask the Right Questions One of the most valuable steps you can take is to speak to current and former franchisees.

Their contact details will (or should) be included in the Disclosure Document.

Ask them: • What has their experience been like?

• Have the franchisor’s promises matched the reality?

• Are they making money? How long did it take?

• What kind of support do they get day-today?

• Would they do it again?

Former franchisees, in particular, can offer important insights about why they left the system—and whether they’d recommend it to others.

Just keep in mind that everyone’s experience is different. A struggling franchisee might be in a poor location or may not have followed the system. But consistent feedback from multiple sources will help you spot patterns and identify real risks.

Don’t Underestimate the Franchise Agreement The Franchise Agreement is a legally binding document that governs the entire relationship between you and the franchisor. It’s not like signing a regular business contract or lease.

These agreements can be highly detailed, and they’re often written to favour the franchisor’s interests.

That’s not a bad thing—franchisors need to protect their brand—but it does mean you need to fully understand what you’re agreeing to. Common areas of concern include: • Territory: Do you have exclusivity, or could another franchisee be placed nearby?

• Termination: In what circumstances can the franchisor end the agreement early?

• Restraints: What are the restrictions on your ability to operate a similar business later?

Helen Kay is an accomplished business and franchise lawyer with over two decades of legal expertise.

As the founder of Rise Legal, Helen specialises in delivering strategic and practical commercial and franchise legal solutions. Her exciting career has seen her in pivotal roles at prestigious law firms, consistently offering exceptional legal counsel. Her unique combination of hands-on experience and visionary leadership positions her as an invaluable asset in the realm of commercial law and franchise expertise, assisting franchisors and franchisees in safeguarding their business through comprehensive commercial legal support.

Helen Kay | Managing Director | Rise Legal Business Lawyers | Offices: Gold Coast | Perth | Sydney T: 1300 064 707 | E: info@riselegal.com.au | https://riselegal.com.au

• Renewal: Is there an automatic right to renew, or does the franchisor have discretion?

• Exit: Can you sell your business? What’s involved in the transfer process?

• Fees: Are the marketing and admin fees fixed or percentage-based?

It’s vital to have a franchise lawyer review this document. Don’t rely on general legal advice—a lawyer who doesn’t understand franchising may miss key issues that could affect you down the line.

Franchising Is a Relationship— Not Just a Business Deal Many franchisees assume that buying a franchise is like buying a ready-made business. But franchising is really a long-term relationship. You’re buying into a brand, but also submitting to its rules, systems, and expectations.

That can be great—if the brand is strong, the support is real, and the communication is open. But it can also feel restrictive if you’re entrepreneurial or want to make changes to suit your local market.

Make sure your personality and values are a good fit for the system. Speak with the franchisor and get a sense of how decisions are made and how franchisees are supported.

Some systems are highly collaborative; others are more top-down.

Be Realistic About Costs and Timeframes Franchising is often sold as a “business in a box,” but it still requires hard work, capital, and time to get established.

Ask the franchisor for realistic financial performance data. What are the average earnings for a franchise in your category?

What are the startup and working capital requirements? How long before most franchisees break even?

Then ask your accountant to review the financial model. Does it stack up? Can you afford the setup costs and still have enough cash flow to support yourself?

Also consider your lifestyle. Some franchises require 60+ hours a week in the early stages.

Others are more flexible but demand high sales skills. Understand what’s required, and whether it aligns with your goals.

A Few Hours with a Franchise Lawyer Can Save You Years of Regret One of the most common mistakes I see is franchisees who invest heavily into a business—but skip the specialist legal advice to cut corners on cost.

It’s a false economy.

A good franchise lawyer won’t just explain the agreement—they’ll help you understand the commercial risks, assess whether the system is right for you, and make sure the contract reflects what you’ve been told.

They may also be able to negotiate small but meaningful changes to clarify terms or protect your interests. Even if no changes are made, having that independent legal review gives you peace of mind—and strengthens your position if issues arise later.

Final Thoughts Franchising offers an incredible opportunity to be in business for yourself, but not by yourself. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a shortcut to success.

Approach it like any major investment—do your due diligence, ask questions, get advice, and take your time.

No reputable franchisor will rush you. If you feel pressured, that’s a sign to pause.

A successful franchise relationship is built on mutual trust, transparency, and clear expectations—from the very beginning.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified commercial lawyer for personalised advice related to your specific circumstances.

Individual liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

business franchise MAGAZINE 35

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VOL 19 ISSUE 04 2025

aussie pooch mobile

work flexibility, manage now, own later!

turn your love of pets into a profitable franchise

purr-fect pet franchises

are doggone popular

the pet supplies, accessories, pet care and training sector

How to run a franchise without being stuck in the office 24/7 business franchise MAGAZINE 37

EXPERT ADVICE: Tony Meredith | Director and Head Coach | Tony Meredith Coaching

Turn Your Love of Pets into a Profitable Franchise

From gourmet pet treats to luxury day spas for dogs, it’s clear that our furry companions are more than just pets, they’re family. This shift in perception has fuelled explosive growth in the pet care sector.

As pet ownership rises and consumer demand for premium care and services surges, savvy entrepreneurs are recognising the potential to turn their passion for animals into a profitable and purpose-driven business.

Whether it’s grooming, retail, wellness, or training, franchising in the pet industry presents a rewarding opportunity to tap into one of the most resilient and emotionally connected markets today.

The Pet Industry: A Resilient and Growing Market In today’s uncertain economy, few industries demonstrate the resilience and emotional 38 business franchise MAGAZINE

loyalty of the pet care sector. Pet ownership continues to grow across both urban and regional areas, and with it, spending on high-quality food, grooming, training, and wellness services is also increasing.

The combined pet industry in Australia and New Zealand is now valued at over $14 billion, with annual growth tracking close to 5%. This upward trend is driven by the ongoing humanisation of pets, as owners are prioritising their pets’ health and happiness just as they would their own children.

Premium food, acupuncture, or mobile grooming was once considered a luxury, but has now become essential in the eyes of today’s pet parents.

This behavioural shift is good news for business. Pet-related franchises are proving to be both financially robust and emotionally rewarding, offering recurring revenue streams, high levels of customer loyalty, and strong word-of-mouth referrals. Consumers are not just buying a product or service, they’re investing in the wellbeing of a beloved family member.

Your Top Pet Franchising Opportunities With evolving pet care trends and strong consumer spending, I’ve investigated the most promising pet franchising opportunities: 1. Pet Grooming and Spa Services Pet grooming is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the pet industry. Mobile pet grooming, luxury pet spas, and selfservice dog wash stations are particularly attractive options due to their scalability, affordability, and growing demand.

Franchising in this space offers: • Strong brand identity and professional training • High customer retention, particularly in mobile grooming services • Low overhead costs with flexible business models 2. Pet Daycare and Boarding With pet owners juggling work and travel, pet owners seek safe and reliable

daycare or overnight boarding solutions.

This franchise model thrives on repeat customers and offers a recurring revenue stream. The key to success here is location, quality of service, and exceptional customer experience.

Key benefits of a pet daycare franchise include:

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Tony Meredith Coaching started in 2018 and works with hundreds of small-medium businesses across Australia, in the areas of Franchising, Retail, Services, Manufacturing, and Trades.

Tony has over 25 years’ experience working for some of the world’s largest corporations in a variety of senior sales and leadership roles. Contact Tony and his team if you want to grow an outstanding franchise business. info@tonymeredithcoaching.com.au https://tonymeredithcoaching.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-meredith-coach/ https://www.facebook.com/tonymeredithcoaching

• Recurring revenue from memberships and long-term bookings • Scalability with additional services like grooming and training • High demand in densely populated areas 3. Pet Training and Behavioural Services More pet owners recognise the importance of proper training, whether for obedience, behavioural issues, or specialised skills.

Pet training franchises provide structured programs, professional certifications, and brand credibility that individual trainers may struggle to establish on their own.

A pet training franchise provides: • Established training programs • Multiple revenue streams, including inperson and online training • Growth potential with emerging trends like wearable pet technology and virtual consultations 4. Pet Retail and Specialty Stores The pet retail industry is evolving, with rising demand for premium, organic, and sustainable pet products. Franchises in this space benefit from established supplier relationships, bulk purchasing power, and e-commerce integration.

Pet retail franchisees benefit from: • Established supplier networks and bulk purchasing power • Omnichannel sales strategies (in-store, e-commerce, subscriptions) • Niche market potential (organic pet food, eco-friendly toys, holistic pet wellness) 5. Veterinary and Pet Wellness Services Pet wellness is a booming sector, as owners invest more in preventative healthcare, natural treatments, and functional pet nutrition. Veterinary services continue to grow due to demand for routine check-ups, surgical treatments, and alternative therapies like acupuncture and hydrotherapy.

Franchising in this space offers: • Long-term customer relationships due to ongoing pet healthcare needs

• High consumer interest in natural and holistic pet care • Opportunities to partner with pet insurance providers

Key Considerations Before Investing in a Pet Franchise While franchising offers a strong foundation for success, strategic planning is essential.

As the saying goes, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Below is a list of planning considerations: • Location and Market Demand - Assess and research your local market to ensure demand for your chosen pet service.

• Financial Planning - Understand your financial investment capacity against the initial franchise fees, ongoing royalties, and expected returns.

• Brand and Franchise Support - A wellestablished franchise provides training, operational guidance, and marketing support.

• Compliance and Regulations - The pet industry is heavily regulated, with different requirements depending on location.

• Scalability and Future Growth - Look for opportunities to expand into multiple locations or introduce additional services.

Always think of multiplying even when you just want to start with one.

Challenges in the Pet Franchise Industry and How to Overcome Them While the pet industry offers exciting opportunities, success in franchising isn’t without its hurdles. Like any business venture, you’ll face challenges along the way.

The good news is that with preparation, the right franchise partner, and a commitment to continuous improvement, these obstacles can be effectively managed.

Here are some of the most common challenges and practical suggestions to overcome them: • Market Competition - Stand out with

exceptional customer service and strong local area marketing. Be active in your community.

• Regulatory Compliance - Ensure you meet local laws and licencing requirements. A reputable franchisor should provide you with clear operational guidelines and support for meeting all legal and safety standards.

• Hiring and Retaining Skilled Staff Passionate, well-trained employees are critical for business success. Prioritise hiring individuals who love working with animals and are aligned with your business values. Also, invest in ongoing staff development.

• Managing Cashflow and Seasonality Offer memberships and recurring revenue opportunities, diversify your services, and monitor expenses closely.

A strong franchise model will provide the systems and support to handle these challenges, along with access to a network of like-minded franchisees who can share advice, encouragement, and proven solutions.

With the right mindset and the right support, you’ll be well-equipped to turn these common challenges into stepping stones for growth.

Final Thoughts The pet industry is booming and evolving into a dynamic, high-growth sector driven by consumer emotion, loyalty, and lifestyle. For aspiring franchisees, this presents a unique chance to combine personal passion with business potential.

But success doesn’t come from passion alone. It requires smart planning, careful selection of the right franchise, and a deep understanding of what pet owners truly value. With the right foundation and ongoing franchise support, you can build a franchise that’s not only profitable but also incredibly fulfilling, bringing joy to pets, peace of mind to pet owners, and purpose to your entrepreneurial journey. v business franchise MAGAZINE 39

franchising feature

EXPERT ADVICE: Robert Toth | Special Counsel | Sanicki Lawyers

The Pet supplies, accessories, pet care and training sector Statistics (thank you IBIS World!)

As much as we all love statistics here is a “birds eye” view or the sector.

Industry revenue is expected to increase at 2.8% through 2024-25 to $4.1 billion which takes into account a 2.5% decline in 2024-25 due to inflation impacting retail spending.

There are around 822 businesses in the Pets and Pet Supplies Retailers sector in Australia.

Future Trends • Retailers will likely benefit from inflation pressure coming off and consumers willing to spend on premium foods, dietary supplements, vitamins, pet accessories and treats.

“ I luv my dog as much as I love you” - Yusuf Cat Stevens (1971) one of his first songs released. He had a great sense of awareness, I think about how much easier it is to love your dog than a human, no argument here !

Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates around the world with over two-thirds of households owning a pet.

Of course there is nothing like the unconditional love of a dog, cat, budgie, hermit crab, rabbit or blue tongue lizard is there! Well maybe not the hermit crab!

Each of these activities sustain a business and many are franchised businesses such as Petstock, Petbarn Dog wash, Dash Dog wash, Bark Busters, Pet Pantry and so many more and they offer excellent opportunities for people love pets and who want to run their own business and have flexibility in work hours.

We all love our pets and as consumers we are happy to splurge to ensure they are well fed, healthy and comfortable and they have the latest designer diamante collars and sports jackets.

This industry has shown incredible growth over the past 5 years and large corporates have come into the sector driving down prices and increasing competition (not that you would know it when I go to buy my dog food and treats for my boxer Bella!).

The sector has many small-scale retailers but there are increasingly large players such as Petstock (55% owned by Woollies), Petbarn (Greencross Group) who have a network of veterinary practices and pet specialty stores, Pet Circle (an e-commerce platform for pet supplies), Mega Pet Warehouse a pet supply store and even Bunnings ramping up their offer of pet supply products.

40 business franchise MAGAZINE

The sector comprises retail and on line pet supplies, pet training and grooming, dog washing, mobile pet care, veterinary care.

I can get my dog food home delivered, book a dog trainer or dog walker or go to doggie day care.

• There will be greater focus on pet health with consumers willing to spend more on specialist premium brand pet food rather than what’s on offer at the supermarkets.

• There will be growth in the spread of pet retailers as population growth continues to expand into regional and growth corridors around city centres. So as there is a need for your local supermarket, medical practise, dental practise and child care centre there will be a need for pet supplies, vets and supporting pet services.

• Competition will continue with growth of multi-channel retailers who have greater market share and resources, putting pressure on the smaller retailers.

Demand for pet supplies will continue to grow with pet food being around 55% of the overall revenue then animal healthcare

products at around 16% and then products and accessories.

The specialty pet sector is estimated to be worth an eye-watering $10 billion a year and includes pet training, dog washing, dog walking and training and veterinary services.

Franchising as a business model is well entrenched in this sector in retail and on line pet supplies, pet accessories, pet minding services, pet training, mobile dog wash and Veterinary services.

Robert Toth is Special Counsel and Franchise Specialist at Sanicki Lawyers with over 35 years of experience in franchise, licensing and distribution law.

Robert is also an Accredited Commercial Law Specialist and regularly publishes articles on franchising in Australia and overseas journals and acts for a number of overseas, local and master franchisors and acts in dispute resolution and mediations.

Named by global law experts as Franchise Law Expert of the Year 2025 in Australia.

Contact Robert@sanickilawyers.com.au or call him on mobile 0412 67 37 57 www.sanickilawyers.com.au

The opportunites The cost of taking on a turnkey PETstock franchise will cost around $350,000 which includes fit-out, stock, forklifts, signage and computer system which is a significant investment.

Lonely Pets Club is on expansion plans around Australia for those that love dog walking and doggy day care.

If you are more interested in dog training there are new franchise opportunities with Pro Dog training although this requires a bricks and mortar presence with an outlay of around $300,000 to $400,000, which includes the initial franchise fee of $50,000 and a flat 10% royalty on gross sales with no additional hidden fees.

Other more affordable franchises include dog training, dog grooming such as Blue Wheelers or Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash for an investment of around $15,000 to $20,000.00.

The cost of entry can vary hugely as do the demands and obligations required by each of them. Some franchised businesses will require large capital outlays of up around $300,000 to $400,000 (for a retail pet supplies operation) while a mobile dog wash may cost around $50,000 to $80,000.

The specialty pet sector is estimated to be worth an eye-watering $10 billion a year and includes pet training, dog washing, dog walking, and training.

As with many sectors there are more and more players coming into the sector and there are the larger retailers now realising their value in the sector.

As with any business opportunity or investment we recommend you consider the following issues before you commit: • Your budget – how much can you afford to invest without over stretching yourself and any borrowings.

• Your time – how many hours do you want or need to invest in the business full time or part time?

• How long – how long are you likely to be in the business and what’s your exit plan?

It may sound strange thinking about an exit plan before you have even gone into the business but every franchise has a lifespan, for example with a dog wash after 3 years you will likely want to move on. At that point what will you have to sell if anything and what are the costs of selling as franchise agreements usually have transfer fees so check that out.

• Do the numbers work? – As much as it looks like fun you are still running a business so you need to ensure that the figures stack up and you can (at the very least) get a reasonable salary for your efforts?

• Cash flow projections and financial advice – Do you need to operate from premises if so, there are fixed overheads such as rent, insurance, security deposits and staff costs so seek independent financial advice to make sure the business opportunity is viable. This makes a mobile franchise far more attractive due to less overheads and fixed costs.

• Picture this – Can you see yourself doing this work in 3- or -5 years’ time or is it something you will get bored with quickly and then need to exit?

A part of doing your due diligence on the franchisor before you commit is talking to

other franchisees in the system to get their feedback on the franchisor their culture conduct attitudes and the system.

• Does the franchisor give them the systems and support they promised?

• Do they resolve disputes and issues in a professional manner?

• Do they have the latest in software and accounting?

• How do they market the brand? Do they market on social media?

• How many franchisees have left the system, how and why over the prior 3 years?

• Do they have a non-compete clause at the end of the term how will that affect you?

Get the right advice before you commit Seeking advice from a Specialist Franchise Lawyer will also help you to limit your risk and help you make an informed decision as well as seeking independent financial advice.

We also see the good the bad and the downright ugly and generally know what’s going on in the franchise sector.

So do your due diligence before you commit as once you get into a franchise it is not easy to exit!

Robert (Hound dog) Toth. business franchise MAGAZINE 41

franchising feature

EXPERT ADVICE: Brian Keen | Founder | Franchise Simply

t pe a g n i s i Franch y ck i r t be business can ly ver can be incredib lo t pe a as s es sin s Running a pet bu ge market that exist hu e th g in be t as le and rewarding, not y area of pet sales er ev in d an m de e nning for servicing th business up and ru ur yo ve ha u yo ce a very service. And, on ep – expansion – is st xt ne e th s es cc and a raving su on. attractive propositi

ten d downsides that of pected challenges an ex un me so of are g ere kin you are thin But bewa re – th e this, especially if lik ess sin bu a in ard with catch people off gu fra nchisees (people g and are looking for sin hi nc fra h enue. ug rev ro tra th g in the ex expa nding what you do to brin te ca pli du to s) ion unexpected emot

42 business franchise MAGAZINE

Here’s a breakdown of some of the issues I have experienced with pet businesses over the years…

This is not to say that it can’t be done – it can and very successfully – think of 80 store trailblazer Pet’s Paradise a few decades back, and today’s Blue Wheelers and Bark Busters.

But there are some traps to be aware of before you begin.

1

Emotional Attraction

You will attract many prospective franchisees when you start to recruit. People who love animals and want to be involved in a business looking after them – pet sales, day or holiday care of different kinds, grooming, training and walking – the list is long.

The thing is those most attracted to looking after pets in one way or another are very often empaths, keyed into animal feelings. People who will find it hard to separate business from emotion, probably wanting to help every animal or give discounts to every struggling pet owner, which can cripple the bottom line.

For this group, dealing with loss or neglect, seeing neglected, ill, or dying animals can take a big emotional toll.

2

It’s Not All Cuddles and Playtime

This group probably won’t want to continually deal with all the messy work – think poop, pee, vomit, shedding—daily.

And they’ll probably won’t have realised dealing with animals all the time can be physically demanding. There’ll possibly be long hours, lifting heavy animals, and being on their feet most of the day, not to mention the risk of injury, bites, scratches, or even more serious injuries from unpredictable animals.

3

Not Knowing People, Not Pets, Are the Real Challenge

What they probably won’t realise is it will be the people they need to deal with who will need to be their real focus and work and give them the most problems. Some owners can be demanding, unrealistic, or misinformed. Or they can be very emotional and project their stress or grief onto pet care staff, especially if something goes wrong. This is a very challenging situation for an empath; feeling for the pets involved as well as for their distraught owners.

4

Business Realities

At the end of the day, franchisees need to be business owners, putting the business first and so many new franchisees find this

so very difficult and don’t have the necessary business skills. Many businesses in this category must deal with tight margins with high overheads (rent, supplies, insurance) and relatively low profit margins. Although some (dog walking) obviously fall at the other end of the spectrum.

Many also need to understand and deal with local council laws, permits, health and safety regulations, and liability risks. Kennels, daycare outlets are not generally permitted in urban areas and can’t be run from or close to most homes. Noise can become an issue. It is difficult to find premises suited to businesses like these.

And the pet care industry is growing fast, which means more competition and pressure to stand out. Franchisees need to always look great and professional and add a good marketing face to the business work they do. Something most empaths attracted to something like dog training have difficulty embracing.

5

Staffing Challenges

So, even if you do find a treasure trove of suitable franchisees it is very likely they will find it hard to find the right team. As I discuss, not everyone who “loves animals” is reliable, trained, or customer friendly.

Just as you will find when training your new franchisees, they will find training staff takes time you’ll often have to invest in training people from scratch, especially in handling animals safely and kindly. And in handling customers in every tricky situation we can think of.

6

Surprise guilt trip

Your franchisees will find balancing profit and animal care with making business decisions like pricing or refusing service can feel like “selling out” or being unkind.

Having to make hard decisions such as putting animals down can be a serious challenge.

Saying no to some customers who really need help, say refusing care for dangerous or aggressive animals, or firing a customer who won’t pay or who has unrealistic expectations, can feel wrong even when it’s necessary.

7

Burnout is Real

So, at the end of the day, the pet care industry is difficult.

You need people who will care for both the pets and their customers, and you need to know that at the end of the day many face passion fatigue – losing the joy that made them love the job in the first place.

Brian and Prue Keen Brian Keen has been involved in the franchise industry for more than 30 years and Prue has been involved with systems and business for as long. Together they founded Franchise Simply, Systems2Grow and Microloan Foundation Australia. Brian’s on-the-ground business experience as a multi-unit franchisee, franchisor and consultant helping many of the big names create their own franchise systems and growth over the years combined with Prue’s structured approach has been fed into Franchise Simply, helping today’s SMEs and Franchisors grow their business by franchising. www.franchisesimply.com.au | www.systems2grow.com

This fatigue is only added to by the nonstop nature of the job. Animals don’t know holidays, and many pet businesses require weekend or emergency availability.

And the tricky business environment franchisees will have to embrace, probably for the first time will not be the easiest thing to take on.

Your franchisor responsibilities So, before you decide to expand using company employed managers or franchisees, think carefully about the fact that you are going to have to not just look after pets in the future. As Tom Potter famously said when he was growing Eagle Boys Pizza, you will be transitioning from the pet business to the people business - moving your focus to the people who are going to do your pet care tasks now.

• Selecting the right people who will care for the animals but also who have the guts to run the business successfully and embrace the difficulties involved • Training everyone so they know your values and how to look after the pets, their business, their customers.

• Making sure every outlet is legal and suitable for purpose • Providing support to your team so they can get the job done without exhaustion and with pride It’s definitely not easy, but those who have succeeded will tell you the pet industry can be the most rewarding business sector both in terms of financial return and, if done with the right pet and people care ethics, personal satisfaction. v business franchise MAGAZINE 43

franchising feature

eXPERT ADICE: Addisson Shaw | Writer

How to run a franchise without being stuck in the office 24/7

New York Times bestselling author Rory Vaden said, “The franchise model is great because most people who are entrepreneurial want flexibility and time to do what they love. A lot [of] home business entrepreneurs struggle because they have to do everything.”

However, while the model is ideal, it doesn’t always translate into immediate flexibility.

While working remotely is one way of untethering yourself from your desk, it’s not a stand-alone solution. If you’re starting a new franchise or are busy being the boss running one, you need to create a business that allows you to do the job without being in the office, which requires strategic planning, training, and operational efficiency.

44 business franchise MAGAZINE

Steps to follow Develop team management structures Strategic planning and clear communication are crucial to ensuring your team operates efficiently, even when not under your watch.

Start by creating a hierarchy or chain of command that establishes a clear structure within the franchise. This ensures there’s a point of contact to maintain workflow continuity and accountability for everyone in the workplace. It also establishes a support network, not just for yourself but everyone on the team.

Thereafter, draw up a comprehensive plan outlining daily operations, expectations, and contingency strategies to guide your team. Clearly define responsibilities, provide detailed instructions, and include examples to minimise misunderstandings.

To maintain the structure’s integrity, ensure team members track their progress through regular reports. This creates a culture of accountability and keeps you informed of your business’s performance.

Create an effective operations system Once your management structures are firmly established, the next step is implementing robust Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that ensure your franchise runs smoothly in your absence. A well-designed system maintains day-to-day functionality and supports long-term growth by standardising processes and minimising disruptions.

Begin by ensuring all employees thoroughly understand their tasks, workflows, and expectations. A detailed franchise operations manual, digital knowledge base, or SOP handbook can serve as a reference guide,

Addisson Shaw is a passionate writer with a background in data science. Her writing focuses on the wonders of technology in marketing and business management. During her free time, Addisson loves exploring the outdoors enjoys going on hikes with her friends.

information based on their responsibilities.

Cloud solutions create a more structured and organised workflow when integrated with payroll, scheduling, and customer management systems.

Additionally, many cloud platforms seamlessly integrate with other business software, allowing you to manage everything from inventory to sales within a single system.

This saves time and reduces errors while optimising overall operational efficiency, whether you’re on-site or managing remotely.

Automate HR processes Cloud-based software can also be integral in HR management within your franchise business. Employment laws in Australia change often, affecting wages, leave, job contracts, and workplace safety. ensuring staff access to critical information whenever needed.

To further enhance efficiency, integrate automated reminders, checklists, and task management tools. These solutions help employees stay on track without requiring constant oversight.

A strong operations system also includes contingency planning. Establish protocols for handling common challenges and empower your team to make decisions within set guidelines. This approach prevents work backlogs and ensures seamless service delivery and high service standards, even in your absence.

Integrate a cloud-based system for easy access A cloud-based system enhances the efficiency of your franchise by providing all team members with access to real-time data, updates, and records. This ensures clear communication, minimises confusion, and supports informed decision-making, regardless of your location.

These digital tools also streamline operations by enabling the automated tracking of tasks, deadlines, and performance metrics, reducing the need for direct oversight. Many cloud-based systems offer role-based access controls, ensuring employees only see relevant

For example, the minimum wage increased to $23.23 per hour in July 2023, and from December 2023, fixed-term contracts, including extensions, can’t last more than two years.

Keeping up with these changes is important to avoid legal issues, but tracking them manually and ensuring all your systems and documentation are current can be challenging and time-consuming. However, cloud-based HR systems generally update automatically when laws change.

This keeps payroll, contracts, and policies accurate, helping you to stay compliant without constantly checking for updates.

Connect via video conference Being out of the office doesn’t negate face-toface communication. In the last few years, we’ve all become used to video calls, an efficient, time- and resource-saving way to hold crucial meetings.

Investing in high-quality webcams, microphones, and conference room setups ensures virtual meetings are as professional and effective as in-person discussions.

Additionally, establishing clear guidelines on meeting etiquette, such as setting agendas, using screen-sharing tools or virtual whiteboards and visual aids effectively, and recording key discussions, helps keep communication structured and productive.

Invest in training Training plays a critical role in maintaining consistency across a franchise and is essential for every member of your team.

Your employees must be equipped to handle their daily tasks and fully understand the specific rules, regulations, and standard operating procedures that apply to your business and the franchise as a whole.

To do this, you should implement structured training programs to ensure employees are well-versed in company policies, compliance standards, and best practices. This should not be a one-off pursuit, either. Regular training and refresher courses will keep your team sharp and make it easier for them to operate independently without you having to micromanage them on-site.

Investing in regular training also offers other benefits, as new hires become proficient and productive sooner, while experienced staff are upskilled and become better prepared to address challenges. Doing so will improve the overall strength of your franchise business and ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

It also allows you to focus on growth rather than being bogged down by ongoing issues.

Creating a franchise business model that works without you

Popular video conferencing platforms, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, offer reliable solutions for virtual meetings.

These tools allow you to stay connected with staff, suppliers, and other stakeholders.

Steven Beagelman summed it up well when he said, “Building a strong foundation through comprehensive training and ongoing support is crucial for both franchisors and franchisees to drive success in the industry.”

Many of these tools also integrate with project management systems like Slack, Asana, and Trello, enhancing workflow efficiency and collaboration.

The key is to build a self-sustaining operation that allows you to step away when needed without compromising on service delivery, quality, or integrity. v business franchise MAGAZINE 45

franchising feature

expert advice: Stewart Germann | Franchsing Lawyer | Auckland, New Zealand

PURR-FECT PET FRANCHISES ARE DOGGONE POPULAR Everyone loves pets or they should – they bring a new dimension to living. Lots of people have cats or dogs but you can have a pet rabbit, guinea pig, rat, mice, bird, lizard, turtle or tortoise but avoid a pet crocodile.

Life is better with a pet but they can’t care for themselves and that why humans exist. In New Zealand we have many pet franchises including, Animates, Bark Busters, Jim’s Dog Wash, Pets in the City, The Cats & Dogs Dinner Co. We also have franchised pet shops including and Pet Essentials.

I really like Petstock which supplies a lot of different pet foods, pet services, a vet and a dogwash service. In fact, I take my miniature schnauzer to the local Petstock shop for a groom and a wash and they do an excellent service. Petstock says: “Our connections with pets help us grow as people. At the Petstock Group, together we live by this truth. We are continually inspired by pets and animals to be better people, both in our careers and our everyday life.” – Shane Young, Petstock Group CEO As with any franchise purchase, you must do your due diligence. This includes finding out information from the pet franchisor such as: • Franchisor’s financial health and history

46 business franchise MAGAZINE

Stewart Germann founded Stewart Germann Law Office (SGL) in 1993 as a boutique law firm at Auckland, New Zealand, specialising in franchising, licensing and business law.

Stewart has over 40 years’ experience in franchising law and acts for franchisors in New Zealand, Australia, USA and the UK. SGL also acts for franchisees and provides legal advice. Stewart has spoken at franchising conferences in New Zealand, Australia, Italy, South Korea and USA and he was on the Board of the Supplier Forum of the International Franchise Association (“IFA”) for 6 years until March 2007.

Email: stewart@germann.co.nz | Web: www.germann.co.nz

• How long has the system been franchising

the franchisor, including buying supplies and services

• Details of pilot operation results – how many different animals

• Right of renewal

• Type and level of head office support and full details of the training

• Terms and conditions under which you may terminate the contract, if any

• Territorial practices and exclusivity terms

• Fees which you would have to pay like royalties and marketing

• Do you need to buy products from the franchisor?

• Precise boundaries of the territory

• Operating restrictions and launch assistance

• Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act 1999

Once you like the franchisor and the franchisor likes you and you have found out necessary information, you should be given a copy of the franchise agreement. This document will cover the following:

• Compliance with local Council regulations

• Geographical area and types of customers to whom you may sell • Your rights to sell or transfer ownership of the business • Nature and extent of your obligations to

Buying a pet franchise can be very exciting.

Often emotion gets in the way but a little bit is fine. At the end of the day you must make your decision based upon legal advice, an accountant’s advice and the professionalism and warmth of the franchisor. Also if you have borrow any money, then you will need a friendly bank to assist.

Finally, always remember if you are having a ruff-day, just think paws-tively! v

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Packed with information relating to many different sectors of the franchising industry, Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand is a valuable and informative source of guidance.

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business franchise MAGAZINE 47

franchising feature

snapshot: Petbarn Mobile Dogwash

Petbarn Mobile Dogwash:

No.1 Lifestyle Winner in the Topfranchise 2024 Awards (for 2nd year running) Petbarn Mobile Dogwash is recognised as the dog wash experts, but the brand means so much more.

Beginning 30 years ago as a small enterprise known as Flea Stoppers, the group City Farmers Dogwash and now Petbarn Mobile Dogwash is a part of Greencross Ltd. Comprising of 250 + Specialty stores throughout Australia, a mobile network of over 20 Dogwash vans as well as 150+ Veterinary clinics and online stores. Our Franchisees love what they do and are passionate about the part they play in a dog’s health and wellbeing.

Petbarn Mobile Dogwash is currently seeking franchisees with big hearts and big smiles to come on board and enjoy the ride. No experience is necessary and full training and support is given to the right candidate.

Join a strong brand with an exclusive marketing zone, all-inclusive start up package, 24/7 call centre, social media management and support, lead generation, lowest franchise fee in the market, and work outdoors and enjoy being your own boss.

We have some great opportunities in the WA area, South of the River, Nedlands area, and Greenfield Territories available in Mandurah region, Geraldton Territory, Kelmscott/Gosnell territory and Cannington territory.

For more information on this exciting opportunity, contact Scott Mcintosh on 0402 620 or visit the website www.petbarn.com.au/mobiledogwash 48 business franchise MAGAZINE

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business franchise MAGAZINE 49

franchising feature

snapshot: Aussie Pooch Mobile

Not Your Everyday Franchise:

Work Flexibly, Manage Now, Own Later!

Are you ready to turn your love for dogs into a fulfilling and flexible career? Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash offers an incredible opportunity to combine passion with business success—on your own terms.

For over 30 years, this trusted brand has been helping over 160 dog-loving Franchisees across Australia build thriving businesses while providing exceptional care for their furry clients.

Whether you’re looking for work-life balance, the freedom to be your own boss, or a rewarding venture that lets you follow your passion for dogs, Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash offers the perfect opportunity. With proven systems and the support of an awardwinning brand, franchisees have achieved remarkable success—some even exceeding $250,000 in annual revenue.

What Makes Aussie Pooch Mobile Stand Out? At Aussie Pooch Mobile, they believe that business ownership should fit around your life, not the other way around. Their franchise opportunity is specifically tailored for dog lovers who want to work flexibly while building something meaningful. They equip franchisees with everything needed to succeed, including: • Control Over Your Schedule: Choose when and where you work, making it ideal for those juggling family or other commitments.

• Proven Support Systems: From comprehensive training to ongoing mentorship, you’ll never feel alone on your pooch journey.

• Low Franchise Fees: A business model offers accessibility, making it easier to take the leap into business ownership.

Their franchisees take pride in providing exceptional care to pets across Australia, with franchises available in all states. Whether it’s hydrobaths, grooming, nail clipping, or Aromacare treatments, every service is delivered with love and professionalism.

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‘Manage Now, Own Later’ Program: An Affordable Path to Franchise Ownership They understand that starting a business is a big decision—one that requires confidence and careful planning. That’s why Aussie Pooch Mobile introduced their unique ‘Manage Now, Own Later’ program, offering an affordable and flexible pathway to franchise ownership. This initiative is perfect for business owners who want to experience the role before committing to full ownership.

As part of the program, you’ll start as a Representative, managing your exclusive Aussie Pooch Mobile territory under the trusted brand without the upfront investment.

Here’s what you can expect: • Operate with a Fully Equipped Trailer: Begin with all the tools you need to succeed, including a state-of-the-art mobile dog wash unit.

• Gain Hands-On Experience: Benefit from real-world training and practical exposure while working alongside a supportive team.

• Access Financial Options: Finance and trailer leasing make it affordable and an easier transition to full franchise ownership when the time is right for you.

It’s an ideal stepping stone for those wanting to work flexibly, gain confidence, and eventually own their piece of the Aussie Pooch Mobile success story.

A Thriving Industry with Endless Potential The pet services market is booming, with more Australians owning pets than ever before. As Peter Knight from The Franchise Accountant highlighted, Aussie Pooch Mobile is among the Top 10 Profitable Franchises to Buy in Australia, offering high demand and low fees. This creates the perfect environment for franchisees to grow and thrive.

Their business model also allows franchisees to tap into additional revenue streams, including retail sales, advanced grooming services, and specialised add-ons. These opportunities ensure a profitable and rewarding career path.

Start Your Pooch Journey Today Whether you’re exploring the ‘Manage Now, Own Later’ program or ready to step confidently into full franchise ownership, Aussie Pooch Mobile Dog Wash is there to guide you every step of the way. Take control of your future with a career that combines flexibility, independence, and a love of dogs.

Call Paul Walters, Managing Director at 0409 939 365 or visit www.aussiepoochmobile.com.au today and discover why Aussie Pooch Mobile isn’t your everyday franchise—it’s a pooch family!

Supporting over 400 franchisees, 1 million customers and 12,500 staff weekly across four iconic Australian food brands.

ENQUIRE NOW

WWW.CRAVEABLEBRANDS.COM/FRANCHISING

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franchisor in depth: F45 Training

MORE THAN FITNESS: F45 TRAINING

UNVEILS “FIT” - AN UNIFYING PARENT COMPANY PAVING THE WAY FOR HOLISTIC WELLNESS By unifying the Company’s three key brands - F45 Training, FS8, and VAURA Pilates - FIT marks the start of the next chapter in functional and community-based fitness following a record-breaking year of growth F45 Training, a leading global fitness community specialising in innovative, functional group workouts that are fast, fun, and results-driven, today announced the launch of FIT (Functional Inspired Training) House of Brands, a new company brand that unifies its key brands to create a singular and holistic wellness ecosystem.

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By bringing these brands together, FIT marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to delivering total wellness solutions through a unique combination of proven functional training, wellness and recovery, and fitness and community-driven experiences. Operating in over 55 countries, FIT continues to build momentum and grow.

“The launch of FIT marks a pivotal moment for the fitness and wellness industry,” said Tom Dowd, CEO of FIT. “We’re not just evolving – we’re redefining ourselves as well as our brand story, enabling expansion under our umbrella to include new modalities

whether through acquisition or development.

FIT is leading the charge in holistic wellness by uniting F45 Training, FS8, VAURA Pilates, and our recovery services under one powerful vision. This is about empowering communities worldwide to move better, feel stronger, and live longer.”

With over 1,500 studio locations across the globe, the FIT House of Brands includes: • F45 Training: A functional training method designed for everyone, no matter your fitness level. As a global leader in fitness, the 45-minute workouts combine strength, cardio, and scientifically backed programming that is results driven in an efficient, fun, and energising way that has been delivering membership fitness results for more than 10 years.

• FS8: Not just another Pilates workout, this concept is a unique fusion of Pilates, Tone, and Yoga, built on eight sciencebacked elements for a low-impact, highenergy experience. Combining functional

movement (F) and a unique style (S), FS8 is designed to build physical strength while supporting mental well-being. With a community-driven approach, FS8 helps you move better, and feel stronger, building confidence in and out of the studio. FS8 stands alone with a new approach to Pilates training.

• VAURA Pilates: VAURA fuses the precision of reformer Pilates with the dynamic power of athletic training. Classes are designed to energize every cell of your body with neon lights, mirrored ceilings, upbeat music and empowering instructors.

This is a refined Pilates workout experience unmatched anywhere in the world.

The announcement of FIT comes on the heels of a highly successful year for the global fitness leader, during which FIT celebrated record-setting development and achievements. These achievements included 12.4% growth in global average unit volumes for F45 Training, 23.9% for FS8 and 51.1% for VAURA Pilates. With 75 new studio openings across its portfolio of brands in 2024, FIT continues to solidify its dominant position as the leader in the boutique fitness category, redefining its offerings and setting new standards in the health and fitness space.

FIT aspires to change lives and communities through fitness, wellness, and recovery – all anchored in three core brand pillars: • The Power of Movement: FIT believes that every workout, every recovery session, and every moment inside our studios has the power to transform lives. Whether it’s pushing your limits in a functional workout, strength in a Pilates session, or accelerating recovery through wellness innovations, FIT provides the tools to achieve outstanding results and longlasting wellness.

• The Strength of Community: FIT goes beyond individual transformation.

It’s about creating healthier, stronger communities. The level of enthusiasm and involvement we have created over the last 10 years with our large members sets a new standard others in our category are envious of. From local franchise owners to members in every class, FIT builds spaces where people push themselves, support each other, and improve together.

• The Future of Wellness: At the heart of FIT is a business model that drives impact. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur opening a franchise or a member stepping into a class, FIT is designed to elevate lives - helping people reach their full potential physically, mentally, and socially. This repositioning sends a strong message that we are committed to each of our current and future modalities as we continue to grow and evolve.

Additionally, FIT has strategic partnerships

with leading recovery solutions allowing franchisees to provide members with a wide breadth of services designed to complement any fitness journey by optimising performance and wellbeing. Services are available at select studios and include: • Cold Plunges: Experience the ultimate in recovery by reducing inflammation and improving circulation while boosting energy and mental focus.

• Infrared Saunas: Detoxify and rejuvenate with infrared sauna therapy, promoting relaxation and muscle recovery.

• Percussion Therapies: Hyperice enhances the warm-up and recovery process with percussion, compression, and vibration massage technologies, helping to reduce muscle stiffness and soreness, improve circulation, and enhance range of motion.

For more information regarding FIT, please visit www. functionalinspiredtraining.com. business franchise MAGAZINE 53

expert advice: Sam Rees | Senior Partner | IP Partnership Lawyers

DO ALL FRANCHISED BUSINESSES NOW COME WITH A GUARANTEED ROI AS A RESULT OF THE 2025 FRANCHISE CODE OF CONDUCT AMENDMENTS? The Queensland Law Society (QLS) stated, “the process [for franchise recruitment] has now become too complicated and the documentation too extensive. The extent of documentation that a franchisee has to review can be overwhelming”.

Dr Schaper clarified his recommendation is not that the disclosure document be shortened or removed, however the Report clearly states in its findings “any further attempt to address concerns by mandating greater disclosure is likely to be counterproductive”. Where he recommended additional helpful information be included, it was in the Franchise Disclosure Register (FDR) (which to date has been a flop / unutilised tool).

As you would be aware, the Franchise Code of Conduct (‘Code’) has been amended, again, and by the time you are reading this article the new Code is now in force.

I will try and summarise the changes, very crudely, in 5 points: 1. No more Key Facts Sheet. Repetitive and not helpful.

2. Fines, fines, fines! Numerous Code provisions now have fines for noncompliance.

3. More auditing and more admin! Fees paid for a specific purpose (i.e.. technology fees etc) are now treated like a Marketing Fund.

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4. More disclosure and Franchise Agreement amendments. …nothing life changing, but re-drafting required.

5. Guaranteed ROI for franchised businesses AND compensation for early termination. …hold on, what?

I concede, the ‘guaranteed ROI’ headline is bit click-baity but that is what we are going to do a deep dive into.

A bit of background, Dr Michael Schaper in 2024 was tasked to carry out a review of the Australian franchise industry (‘Schaper Review’). Dr Schaper said the disclosure document did not need more information, however notwithstanding this, we ended up getting more information in the Disclosure Document. I will briefly touch on one of those new items, but we are staying focussed on the new ROI provision here.

Before we dive into the ROI change, let’s take a quick look at one example of a new addition to the Disclosure Document. This item applies to Disclosure Documents issued from 1 April 2025. Evidently, this amendment is so important that it could not even wait until franchisors update their disclosure document at EOFY. This new item in the Code, is the following question: “will Franchisees face competition from businesses not associated with the franchisor.”

The answer to this Item (dare I say by 100% of franchisors) will simply be ‘Yes, derrrr’. Is that seriously a question that needed to increase the size of the disclosure document? Even more frustrating, is that the Government considered this question so urgently needed to be answered that franchisors had to amend their disclosure document in April before the EOFY update to include this question. I am convinced it was an error by the public servants in Canberra to put franchisors in the position of needing to make amendments to their disclosure document and franchise agreement in April and then a few months later update their documents for EOFY and make further amendments to the disclosure document and franchise agreement.

Let’s stay focussed here, ROI.

New ROI Section From 1 November 2025 the Code has been amended to state franchisees, across all industries, must have a reasonable opportunity to make a return, during the term of the agreement, on any investment required by the Franchisor as part of entering into the agreement.

Dr Schaper’s findings were that “no major concerns were raised about the current provisions of the Code which directly regulated the terms of franchise agreements.”

So that makes me wonder, if it wasn’t broke why did we fix it?

The Australian Association of Franchisees (AAF) argued the ROI section (and the section requiring compensation for early termination if a franchisor leaves Australia or bails on franchising which we will not go into) should apply to the entire franchising sector. Dr Schaper obviously agreed including in his report the following statement, “franchising is a form of capital raising by franchisors, and franchisees should be treated like shareholders or other types of investors.”

The argument is that these sections were introduced to the Automobile Franchise industry without any hiccup. The concern however is that car dealers are a different beast, and by introducing it, without clarification, to all sectors will it open the floodgates of litigation against franchisors when franchisees are not making a return on investment, regardless of the circumstances.

How does the new ROI clause impact Franchisors?

The Explanatory Statement issued by authority of the Minister for Small Business, states: What is considered a reasonable opportunity would be specific to the terms of each franchise agreement, the costs paid by the franchisee and the length of the agreement. Franchisors are not expected to provide a contractual guarantee of profit or the success of the franchisee’s business.

It is not intended to remove the risks of running a business, but it is intended to ensure that the term of the Franchise Agreement is consistent with the level of investment required.

The above is not all that helpful, so the $198,000.00 question (which is the fine for noncompliance) is what’s a ‘reasonable opportunity to make a return on investment’?

The Code does not define ‘reasonable opportunity’ or ‘return’ so we are left to speculate as to whether reasonable opportunity simply means granting a franchisee a reasonable length term, and further speculate as to what a reasonable term

Sam Rees is the Senior Partner of IP Partnership Lawyers, a firm that specialises in Franchising, business law, and Intellectual Property law. Sam has acted for Franchisors and business owners for over ten years and works with a team of commercial solicitors who act for business owners located all over Australia and Internationally.

The firm was established on the Gold Coast, Queensland, in 1995 and the firm’s reputation for consistent, prompt delivery of legal services and care has spread nationwide with clients from all major cities across Australia.

is. Is 5 + 5 a reasonable term? Fortunately, the Explanatory Statement clarifies that the new provision of the Code does “not require franchisors to guarantee a profit or success of the franchisee’s business”. But that’s odd…

So, if ‘return on investment’ does not mean the franchised business needs to be successful or profitable, what exactly is a franchisor required to do here?

what a reasonable opportunity is. The BCA suggested that tenure be included as a factor when considering whether a reasonable opportunity was provided. The FCA asked for specific indicators based on franchisees’ investment and term. The AAF wanted the provision to require minimum term lengths in franchise agreements relative to the amount a franchisee invests.

It’s problematic. So that got me thinking, did the Government listen to recommendations from the broader franchising sector, representing voices of franchisors, and business owners, prior to making these 2025 Code changes?

The FCA’s suggested modification, verbatim, was to “link the issue specifically to tenure and include a specific condition that a franchise Agreement with a duration of 5 years or more would satisfy [the] requirement.”

Was the Franchise Industry heard?

Many submissions were made to the Government on the issue, and I must give credit to the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) and, full disclosure, our firm has been a member of the FCA for almost 2 decades, however I was curious to read their submissions (and submissions of others). The FCA recommended the proposed ROI section should be “deferred until a later amendment pack, to allow for the comprehensive consultation with the franchise community” and “if this cant be done, it should be amended [not simply cut and paste from the car dealership section of the Code] to avoid creating regulatory uncertainty”.

The proposed sections were criticised by associations representing both franchisors and franchisees. Both the FCA and the Business Council of Australia (BCA), made submissions that the section should not be the same as it is in the car dealers’ part of the Code, and rather a specific definition of ‘return’ would be helpful to allow franchisors to gauge what kind of return would be reasonable. The AAF, on the other hand, submitted that the term ‘reasonable opportunity’ was simply too vague.

The above-mentioned associations all sought clarity regarding whether the term of a franchise agreement could be a potential yardstick to assist franchisors with measuring

The submissions were obviously ignored by the Government, and the ROI clause is now firmly a part of the new Code – and it’s a copy and paste job from the new vehicle dealership agreements (NVDAs) section of the old franchising code of conduct; Broad and ambiguous - a litigation lawyers dream.

It makes sense for Car Dealerships but not for the whole Franchising sector So the sentiment is, “hey guys, the Motor Vehicle dealerships have had these sections and they aren’t complaining, so the rest of you will be fine”.

The FCA, rightly, submitted, “the automotive industry is very different to the broader franchise sector – all [motor vehicle] franchisors are major foreign corporations, the duration of the agreements are substantially shorter than a typical franchise agreement and there are often substantial capital investment requirements imposed on dealers”.

Both the FCA and Craveable Brands submitted to the Government, NVDAs are entirely different beasts from general franchise agreements. Most NVDAs are for far shorter terms, sometimes lasting for as little as one year. Franchisees often must invest a significant amount of capital upfront and do not have a lot of time to recover that investment. The requirement for franchisors to ensure a franchisee has a reasonable business franchise MAGAZINE 55

expert advice: Sam Rees | Senior Partner | IP Partnership Lawyers

franchisees are succeeding - particularly those franchisees who may lack some of the requisite business acumen to operate a business on their own (and potentially should have stayed an employee rather than owning a business).

The problem is that whilst other business owners, when times are tough, only have themselves to blame, here, if a franchised business fails, we can blame the franchisor.

Poor performing franchisees (that is, franchisees without the necessary business acumen, motivation or desire to follow an operations manual) now have a section of the franchising code of conduct that they can point to, when they want out or their money back, and say “this franchise agreement did not give me a reasonable opportunity to make a return on my investment”. opportunity to make a return on their investment for car dealerships is logical.

The FCA’s comments were: “Clauses 46A and 46B [the sections dealing with ROI and compensation for early termination] were introduced as an urgent Government response to concerns expressed by Australian dealers following the announcement

by General Motors of the retirement of the Holden brand and closure of the Holder dealer network. Honda announced future network rationalisation and (with Mercedes) moved to an agency model.”

In contrast, outside of car dealerships, franchise agreements are usually for long terms - anywhere from seven to ten years plus. Non NVDA franchise agreements also do not require the same high initial investment at the outset as is ordinarily required to operate a New Vehicle Dealership.

What’s the risk: Are all franchised businesses now guaranteed ROI purchases?

My concern is that this Code change, will provide franchisees looking to avoid their contractual obligations under their franchise agreement with the argument: ‘the terms of the franchise agreement are such that the franchisee had no reasonable opportunity to make a return on the investment’. How is a franchisor expected to refute such allegations and what evidence is a franchisor required to provide to prove a franchisee did have a reasonable opportunity to make a reasonable return on investment? The amended Code provides no help here.

I disagree with the submissions in the Schaper Report that franchisees are akin to 56 business franchise MAGAZINE

shareholders of the franchisor and need to be treated as such. Franchisees are independent business owners utilising the intellectual property developed by the franchisor; there is a benefit for the franchisee to utilise that IP as it comes with brand recognition by consumers, and expectation that the services or goods offered under a brand will be of a certain quality, standard or experience. This allows a franchisee to operate a business without needing to start from the ground up on their own. It is a mutually beneficial and collaborative relationship between business owners, each running their own independent businesses (albeit using the same brand); a franchisee is not a shareholder, they are a business owner and this comes with a certain degree of accountability that should not be shelved on to franchisors.

Whilst the Explanatory Notes of the Code state the new ROI section is “not intended to remove the inherent risks of running a business” in my opinion, that is precisely what it is at risk of doing.

Now, at this juncture you might think, ‘Sam, why are you so concerned about this section that ensures franchisees make an ROI? Is it not reasonable that franchisees should always make an ROI? Here is my point - of course franchisees should be making an ROI. I would go so far to say that our firm would not be prepared to act for a franchisor who purported to sell a franchised business with no reasonable possibility of a franchisee having the opportunity to make an ROI. My concern is that this section, with so much uncertainty in its drafting, brings a high risk of litigation into an industry where franchisors already face so much pressure to ensure their

So where to from here?

Two things for franchisors: 1. You need to carefully consider the length of the terms of your franchise agreements and consider whether franchisees have a reasonable opportunity to make an ROI. I honestly believe, in most cases, this will not be an issue for franchisors; and 2. Franchisors will want to proceed with caution when recruiting franchisees, to avoid getting caught in the crosshairs of this new provision. Ensure franchisee selection includes thorough due diligence on the candidate to ensure they are capable of operating a business.

Ultimately, it is now more important than ever to tighten up franchisee selection criteria. As mentioned above, franchisors are not required to guarantee that franchisees make a profit from the franchised business or guarantee the success of the franchisee’s business, but the new clause is open to interpretation, which means disgruntled franchisees’ solicitors will certainly be relying on it.

If you are a franchisor and have any queries about the changes to the franchising code of conduct or require your franchise agreement and disclosure document be reviewed to ensure you are code compliant please do not hesitate to reach out to IP Partnership Lawyers. If you are a franchisee and believe your franchise agreement does not provide you with a reasonable opportunity to make a return on your investment into a franchised business (and you are reading this after November 2025) please also reach out to one of our experienced franchised lawyers at IP Partnership. v

franchises available The restaurant offers approachable westernized Japanese cuisine that is masterfully delivered by your own Teppan Chef, right at your table.

Freshly grilled steaks, great quality seafood and large selection of creatively crafted staple Japanese dishes are testament to brand’s 60 years of legacy in bringing exciting culinary experiences.

“Where Strangers Become Friends, Meals Become Celebrations, and Celebrations Become Cherished Memories” Benihana is versatile: it can be a perfect place to celebrate special occasions, a relaxing bar to gather with friends around unique cocktails and sushi or a venue offering convenient and affordable lunch from à la carte menu.

in benihana “Our Kitchen is Your Table” For more information on franchising opportunities with Benihana or any of Minor Food Group’s other brands, please reach out to: minorfoodfranchise@minor.com.

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women in franchising: Tereza Murray | Leading Franchise & Business Consultant and CEO | Tereza Murray Franchising (TMF)

The franchise model holds strong, with strong leadership still key

About TEREZA MURRAY: Tereza Murray is a leading Franchise and Business Consultant with over 20 years of experience in the franchising industry as both a consultant and franchisor, along with a track record of success running some of Australia and New Zealand’s most well-known brands (franchised and independent). With a background spanning over 30 years in business development across B2B and B2C, Tereza works with businesses ranging from start-ups to established companies ready for serious growth.

In 2025, franchising is still one of the most effective business models for those looking to grow. While not for everyone, the franchise model does enable entrepreneurs to scale their business efficiently, while providing franchisees the opportunity to operate with a system that’s been tried and tested.

Having worked with business owners across Australia and New Zealand to help turn their success into long term sustainability, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to franchising. My own experience in running both franchised and independent companies has helped me understand the 58 business franchise MAGAZINE

fears, pain points and strategic solutions for those looking to franchise and grow.

What makes a successful franchise?

Not every entrepreneur who franchises has ambitions of market domination – most of the businesses I work with simply want to meet their increasing demand or expand to new locations without the challenges and logistics of managing remote teams.

One of the benefits of franchising is the ability for business owners to partner with invested individuals who share their vision

for the brand. The flexibility of the model allows franchisors to open just a couple of new locations to meet existing demand or scale significantly to expand their footprint and grow market share, depending on their business goals.

However, for the model to be successful, both objectives still require franchisors to implement the right strategies and provide adequate support for franchisees. Rapid expansion should be approached with caution, and the most successful franchise networks know that prioritising quality over quantity is essential.

can result in wasted time, resources and finances.

But selecting the right franchisee is only one piece of the puzzle. Providing ongoing support and training shouldn’t be overlooked.

Without consistent operational guidance and marketing support from above, franchisees may struggle to maintain passion and profitability.

I’ve seen this time and time again with larger franchise brands that have evolved into ‘franchise businesses’, rather than companies that are focused on delivering great service or a much-needed product. When this happens, the primary business becomes about selling franchises, which isn’t what the model was developed for.

The importance of strong leadership Successful franchise networks provide hands on support, foster collaboration and value strong relationships between franchisors and franchisees. Franchising shouldn’t be seen as a ‘set and forget’ growth model and thrives on strong financial oversight and proactive intervention.

This might include operational guidance, regular individual and network check-ins and constructive feedback loops. Strong leadership is the key to ensuring franchisees feel supported and engaged, ultimately resulting in a sustainable and profitable business.

A successful franchise sets realistic growth targets and ensures that each location is strategically placed with ongoing support and mentorship. Before expanding into new areas, a strong foundation, including thorough market research and financial modelling, should not be overlooked.

Fundamentals for long-term growth You don’t need to have been running your business for a long time when thinking about franchising, but there are a few key factors to assess your readiness that need to be considered before taking the next step.

The first question to ask is whether there is consistent demand for the product or service.

Regardless of location, having a steady stream of customers is needed for long-term viability.

Factors such as seasonality, economic trends, or shifting consumer preferences can impact demand, and franchisees need confidence

that they’re investing in a business model with real market potential.

Outside of demand, assessing whether the business or financial modelling demonstrates consistent profitability is crucial. Strong profit margins provide confidence for both the franchisor and future franchisees that the model is sustainable. Franchising shouldn’t be seen as a solution if the business is barely breaking even, as it will only multiply inefficiencies.

Mistakes to avoid Even still, having a strong brand or proven operational system doesn’t automatically guarantee that a franchise will be a success.

Franchisors also need to ensure they have a thorough and rigorous recruitment process that ensures potential franchisees are financially capable, while also being aligned with the brand’s vision and values. Failing to properly assess whether a candidate is suitable

The franchise model continues to hold strong Franchising isn’t just about replicating a profitable business; it’s about creating a structure that attracts the right franchisees, fosters collaboration, and sets the foundation for long-term growth.

The best franchise leaders actively seek feedback from franchisees and customers to help in identifying opportunities for refinement, and those that embrace technology and adapt to market trends can implement changes to keep locations competitive and resilient.

While franchising isn’t the right fit for all businesses, it can be a game changer for those who have proven systems and are committed to providing the right support for franchisees.

By understanding the fundamentals for longterm growth and knowing the role being a strong leader plays in the success of franchise locations, entrepreneurs will continue to build profitable and sustainable franchise networks. v business franchise MAGAZINE 59

expert advice: Peta Lonergan | Assistant Commissioner for Risk and Strategy Employer Obligations | ATO

Getting obligations right this fringe benefits tax year We started a new fringe benefits tax (FBT) year on April 1. To set yourself up for future success, I’m sharing some important information for employers, including some of the key changes that may impact your FBT obligations.

Let’s start with a quick refresher on FBT. FBT is a tax paid by employers on certain non-cash benefits provided to their employees, or to their employees’ family or other associates.

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If you’re wondering what may be considered a fringe benefit, here are some common types:

April 2024 and 31 March 2025, you need to work out if you have an FBT liability.

• a work car used for private purposes

If you lodge your own return, or use a tax professional who lodges by paper, you must lodge your FBT return and pay the amount owned by 21 May 2025.

• gym membership • providing entertainment to employees • a benefit offered under salary sacrifice arrangement.

Make a note of your due date

If you use a tax professional who lodges electronically on your behalf, you may have until 25 June 2025. If this is your first time lodging through a tax professional, ensure you’re on your agents FBT client list by 21 May to be eligible for a concessional due date.

If you provided certain benefits to your staff in addition to salary and wages between 1

It’s important for employers to meet these deadlines if they have an FBT liability, as

You can find an overview of how FBT works at ato.gov.au/howFBTworks.

Peta Lonergan is the Assistant Commissioner for Risk and Strategy Employer Obligations at the ATO. An experienced tax professional with over 20 years’ experience, Peta started out as a tax accountant before joining the ATO and received her CPA in 2002. Peta has extensive experience across a number of diverse roles in the ATO. Starting out as a frontline business auditor and tax technical specialist, she then progressed onto strategic programs.

She is passionate about supporting and educating employers to help them comply with their tax and super obligations.

Pay the FBT owed by the due date 4) Keep records – that support your calculations and FBT position If you don’t have an FBT liability for the FBT year and you’re registered for FBT, you should send us a completed notice of non-lodgment. If you’re lodging a ‘nil’ return you first need to identify the fringe benefits provided and determine their taxable value to ensure you’re reporting and calculating FBT correctly. Taking the time to do this will help avoid mistakes.

We do see some employers lodging nil returns when they haven’t taken the steps to identify whether they have provided a benefit. This is an issue the ATO are focused on addressing as part of our compliance program.

You can lodge your FBT return: • electronically using Standard Business Reporting (SBR) enabled software • through your agent, or • by posting a paper FBT return to the ATO. Make sure you leave plenty of time to submit. both lodgments and payments need to reach the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) by the due dates to avoid any interest and penalties.

How to lodge on time & get it right To get your FBT reporting right, don’t skip these steps: 1) Identify – are you providing benefits and what type?

2) Determine – the taxable value of each fringe benefit 3) Lodge, report and pay Lodge an FBT return (if you have an FBT liability or paid FBT instalments through your activity statements).

Report the grossed-up amount of each employee’s reportable fringe benefits through Single Touch Payroll and on their payment summary (if the total taxable value is more than $2,000)

benefit so you can correctly report your FBT liabilities.

You can find more information, including whether the fringe benefits you’re offering are eligible for alternative record keeping options, at ato.gov.au/fbtaltrecordkeeping

End of the PHEV exemption The FBT exemption for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) ended 31 March 2025. Employers can continue to apply the exemption if you meet these requirements: • The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle was used, or available for use, before 1 April 2025 (and that use, or availability for use, was exempt).

• You have a financially binding commitment to continue providing private use of the vehicle, or availability for use, of the car for private purposes on and after 1 April 2025 (but any optional extension of the agreement is not considered binding).

To get started, visit ato.gov.au/fbtlodgment

If there is a change to the pre-existing commitment on or after 1 April 2025, the FBT exemption for the PHEV will no longer apply.

Record keeping options

For more information, see ato.gov.au/ fbtphev

Good record keeping is essential to making sure everything runs smoothly whether you lodge yourself, or through a tax professional.

Help and support

This is the first FBT year you have the choice to rely on existing corporate records for some fringe benefits.

If you used existing records instead of travel diaries and declarations for benefits you offered, they need to meet the minimum required information at the time of lodging your FBT return. For example, instead of using a travel diary an employer may have a copy of an employees’ work calendar that has kept all travel information.

We have lots of information and helpful resources available on the ATO website, including a free online learning hub for small businesses. Check out smallbusiness. taxsuperandyou.gov.au I’d also encourage you to subscribe to the ATO newsletters and follow our social channels to keep up to date on tax and super information.

You can continue to use the approved forms, and for eligible benefits, you can also use a combination of both methods for each employee for each benefit.

We want to help you get it right the first time. If you’ve made a mistake with your FBT return you can amend it. If you are experiencing difficulties that make it hard to meet your obligations, you can contact us before the due date to discuss your circumstances.

Keeping the right records enables you to correctly calculate the taxable value of the

For more information visit ato.gov.au/FBT. business franchise MAGAZINE 61

have your say: Scott Bush | CEO | The Cheesecake Shop

For those aspiring to invest in, or run, their own business, a franchise model is the logical first step. It requires passion, dedication and an entrepreneurial mindset to sustain and grow a franchise, but franchise owners are not alone – their hard work is combined with the support and backing of a well- established, well-connected and recognised brand.

Industry leader Scott Bush started his career in franchising – working his way up from delivery driver to franchise owner at one of Australia’s largest pizza delivery companies.

Fueled by ambition, Scott purchased his first franchise at the company and expanded his network to eighteen locations across Australia, within a decade. Scott’s growth and success in franchising took him international, with company leadership roles across New Zealand, Ireland and the UK. Now, Scott Bush is the Chief Executive Officer at iconic dessert brand, The Cheesecake Shop, working with the 250-store franchise network across Australia and New Zealand.

Scott Bush shares his five insights on finding that *sweet spot* between sustaining and growing a successful franchise business model in today’s climate.

1

Brand Consistency

The Cheesecake Shop CEO’s hot tips to growing (and sustaining) a successful franchise model 62 business franchise MAGAZINE

A rudimentary yet integral step to growing a successful franchise is maintaining brand consistency across your stores. This is a constant challenge in the franchise industry, but working with your franchise owners to invest in your vision can make all the difference.

When investing in an established brand, franchisees acquire untapped access to an existing customer base, a recognised brand and established products that have been tried-and-tested with market success. Tapping into a known entity – and using it to their advantage – will help franchisees flourish and expand.

This brand consistency goes hand-in-hand with service consistency. Providing a reliable, high-quality experience to meet customer needs should be priority for your franchise model, no matter the location.

At The Cheesecake Shop, we actively collaborate with our Franchise Partners to ensure we’re maintaining a consistent level of service and brand integrity, so customers

3

Remain Competitive

“

At The Cheesecake Shop, we actively collaborate with our Franchise Partners to ensure we’re maintaining a consistent level of service and brand integrity, so customers – new and old – keep coming back for more sweet treats!

”

– new and old – keep coming back for more sweet treats!

2

Customer Experience

Your next slice is the customer experience – investing in the shopping experience, both in-store and online, can make an invaluable difference to growing (and maintaining) your customer base.

In 2023, The Cheesecake Shop invested in a results-focused rebrand, which included a commitment to redesigning our bakery shopfronts that whisk together brand nostalgia with modern fixtures to meet evolving customer needs.

Extensive research found that while loyal customers valued The Cheesecake Shop for its known products and nostalgia, lapsed or prospective customers found the brand was ready for a change, which resulted in a new bakery design that drove a 32 per cent increase in perceptions of modernity and a 26 per cent uplift in bakery attractiveness – addressing the need to modernise and constantly evolve to ensure our customer’s experience is a positive one.

Now, The Cheesecake Shop stores feature curved glass cabinets to display the cakes, pricing boards to improve accessibility, clickand-collect counters for convenience and an open kitchen where customers could see the desserts baked, whipped and decorated.

This in-store experience extends to the online experience, too. We’re constantly reviewing our e- commerce experience at The Cheesecake Shop, and working towards online enhancements that will “cake” our customers happy!

Remaining competitive in the market enables franchisees to show value to existing and prospective customers, while increasing market share. The quick service restaurant (QSR) industry is rapidly evolving, and franchisees need to maintain a competitive edge, or risk failure.

This is where product innovation and diversification can help you stay competitive – adopting this strategic approach has seen incredible success at The Cheesecake Shop.

Amid The Cheesecake Shop’s rebrand, we conducted extensive audience research to further understand our customer base, as well as evolving industry standards. Our research, coupled with business data that indicates a growing demand for smaller products that align with dietary needs, found the younger demographic wanted snackable dessert options. We discovered that our existing customer base was seeking simpler products too. We always knew our products were perfect for celebrations, but customers revealed they craved them for everyday indulgence too. They wanted single serve treats and options that they could enjoy alone at home, or treats that could be shared at picnics, morning teas, or intimate gatherings with family and friends To meet and drive this demand, and ultimately remain competitive in market, we launched The Cheesecake Shop’s Daily Treats Range – offering tailored single serve products that customers can indulge in various forms or occasions. Or for no reason at all – they are the perfect solution to the everyday indulgence. A sweet treat is never amiss!

4

Invest In Your Franchisees

Franchise owners will remain the backbone of your business – empowering and investing in existing and incoming franchisees is integral to success. Franchise owners are not only hard-working and determined to succeed, but they’re the face and entrepreneurial minds behind your stores.

We work closely with our Franchise Partners at The Cheesecake Shop by offering professional development opportunities and a considerable support network for ongoing guidance and business expertise. We recently introduced a new communication model to support franchisee collaboration, including weekly newsletters, monthly webinars and biannual roadshows where our Leadership Team visits each state. The Cheesecake Shop’s Annual Conference was also introduced to drive transparency and collaboration, as we

About Scott Bush: Scott Bush was appointed CEO of The Cheesecake Shop in Australia in 2022, eager to reignite passion for the nostalgic brand as he and his team pursue ambitious expansion plans for the business across Australia and New Zealand.

The versatile and dynamic business leader joined The Cheesecake Shop after two decades with Domino’s, where he oversaw operations inside the brand, most recently as CEO of Domino’s in Ireland.

Scott brings his appetite for the franchise industry to his role as CEO, alongside an innate ability to build connections, innovate and lead franchise teams to success. With exceptional leadership skills and business acumen, Scott is focused on growing The Cheesecake Shop’s sales and improving company and franchisee profits. invite our Franchise Partners across Australia and New Zealand to get amongst industry leaders, innovators and decision makers for a dynamic exchange of ideas, networking and collaboration.

At The Cheesecake Shop, we see our Franchise Partners as the delicious layers in a multi-tier cake, with our Support Office team as the icing and cherry on top! Their success is our success.

5

Operations & Digital Enhancements

Digital and operational advancement speaks for itself – in a digital world, integrating technology into your business strategy is nonnegotiable.

More than 17 million Australians shopped online in 2024, which accounts for approximately 63% of the country’s population and shows a 45% increase from 20201. Additionally, e-commerce accounts for 16.8% of total retail sales, which is a significant increase on the pre-COVID retail landscape at 10%2.

It will be imperative for franchises to invest in e-commerce moving forward, particularly as the younger demographic that prioritises this retail format mature, and will soon make up a high percentage of prospective customers.

The Cheesecake Shop will be hyper-focused on e-commerce investment as we expand – making our online shopping experience seamless, and a piece of cake! business franchise MAGAZINE 63

snapshot: Jetts Fitness

Australia’s leading fitness brand,

Jetts Fitness, expands

into India with ambitious growth plans

Leading global fitness brand, Jetts Fitness, today announces its expansion into India, introducing their signature model of flexible, high-quality training facilities.

Born and bred in Australia and with a strong presence in New Zealand, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Netherlands already, this expansion marks a significant milestone for the gym’s international growth.

As India’s fitness industry undergoes rapid transformation—driven by a growing ecosystem of health-conscious consumers, service and equipment providers, complementary industries, and government initiatives—more Indians are prioritising their health and daily lifestyle choices1.

In fact, the industry is projected to reach US$32 billion, with gyms and slimming centres contributing approximately US$6.6 billion1. Jetts Fitness’ expansion into India will introduce its signature customer centric offering with no lock-in contracts, flexible access, and value-for-money membership options, offering a fresh and accessible approach to fitness in one of the world’s fastest-growing health-conscious markets.

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Elaine Jobson, MD & CEO of Jetts Fitness says, “India represents a tremendous opportunity for us. With increasing awareness of health and fitness, our model of convenience and accessibility aligns perfectly with the lifestyle of today’s consumers.”

full-service, larger concept clubs, expert coaching, and a vibrant fitness community.

The company’s commitment to innovation and member experience aligns with India’s increasing focus on health, wellness, and active lifestyles.

Spearheading this expansion are Jetts India Master Franchisees Nishant Singh, Ashish Malik, and Rahul Raghuvanshi - a team of seasoned industry leaders with extensive experience in fitness, franchising, and business operations. Their expertise and strategic vision will play a crucial role in establishing the company as a leading fitness brand in India, delivering world-class training environments and a customer-first approach.

The gym’s franchise model offers a proven and profitable business opportunity for entrepreneurs, providing comprehensive training, operational support, and marketing assistance. This approach has been instrumental in the gym’s global success, ensuring consistency in service quality while allowing franchise partners to thrive in their respective markets.

“Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where members can train on their terms, whether they are new to fitness or seasoned athletes,” continues Ms Jobson. “We are excited to bring Jetts to India and build a strong community of health-conscious individuals. Our Master Franchisee team in India have ambitious plans for expansion through franchising and are committed to making high-quality fitness more accessible, as well as becoming India’s most loved training gym.”

The expansion into India will see the launch of multiple locations across key cities, providing state-of-the-art equipment,

Beyond India, the company is also outlining an aggressive five-year international expansion plan, targeting key markets across the Americas, Europe, and Southeast Asia. This global growth strategy will focus on strategic partnerships, state-of-theart facilities, and an enhanced member experience, solidifying Jetts as a leading fitness brand worldwide.

With over 250 clubs across the globe, Jetts continues to set new benchmarks in the fitness industry. The move into India reinforces the gym’s dedication to making fitness accessible, enjoyable, and resultsdriven for all.

For more information, please visit www.jetts.com.au

business franchise MAGAZINE 65

profile: Franchising Expo

e l b i ss o P s ’ t a h W r e v o o p Disc x E g n i s i h anc r F e h t at Sydney Aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike are gearing up for the Sydney Franchising Expo, returning to ICC Sydney from Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 May 2025.

Recognised as Australia’s leading franchise event, the Expo is the ultimate place to explore proven business opportunities, meet industry leaders face-to-face, and get expert guidance on how to grow or launch your own business.

“Many people are searching for more freedom and flexibility in their careers, and franchising is an excellent way to achieve that with the backing of an established brand,” says Exhibition Manager Fiona Stacey. “The Expo gives you access to the right people, the right information, and a wide variety of ideas to help you take the next step.”

This year’s show will feature a dynamic mix of long-standing and emerging franchise brands across food & beverage, health & fitness, education, logistics, home services and business solutions. Exhibitors include: The Cheesecake Shop, Craveable Brands, SolBowl, OSAN Ability, Dream Doors Kitchens, FAT Brands, TaxAssist Direct Australia, CFO On Call, InXpress, Poolwerx, Kumon, Piccolo Me, Red Rooster and many more.

Concepts exhibiting for the first time in Sydney include: Churros1500, Global Art Australia, Bop Till You Drop, Joy In Movement, befree Global, Ladybug Academy, Miguelitos Icecream and Santorini Gyros Bar. The Expo also features a free seminar series packed with practical tools and real-world insights. Hear directly from franchisors, franchisees, business coaches and financial experts on everything from getting started to scaling successfully. These sessions are designed to help you understand the different franchise models, find the right fit for your goals, and gain the knowledge you need to take the next step with confidence.

Visitors can also explore the Start Your Own Business feature, a streamlined space designed to showcase essential startup services and advice for those looking to build something from the ground up. This addition complements the main expo and adds further value for new and aspiring business owners.

Tickets are just $14 with our early bird offer, and all seminars are included in the entry price.

Gain the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss—backed by the support of an established brand. Visit the show to explore a wide variety of franchises, advisors and business opportunities, all under one roof.

For more information on visiting or exhibiting, please email Fiona at fiona@specialisedevents.com.au or visit www.franchisingexpo.com.au.

Reader Special: Register to visit any Franchising Expo for half price at www.franchisingexpo.com.au by using promo code CGB

66 business franchise MAGAZINE

franchising expo2025 Looking to work for yourself ?

• Meet exhibitors face-to-face • Attend workshops and daily seminars • Free tips and advice from industry experts

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hot tOpics

The ACCC has also recently updated information on its website to provide guidance to franchisors on what new elements of the Code apply from April 1, and what applies from November 1 after the end of the transition period. The ACCC’s Franchising Code guidance can be found online.

Confusion follows announcement of more regulation A lack of detail has created confusion in the franchise sector about proposed additional changes to Unfair Contract Terms and Unfair Trading Practices legislation to be extended to include franchising, as the new Franchising Code of Conduct takes effect.

behind the

headlines Jason Gehrke is the Director of the Franchise Advisory Centre and has been involved in franchising for more than 30 years at franchisee, franchisor and advisor level. He advises both existing and potential franchisors and franchisees, and conducts regular education courses for franchisors in Australia and overseas.

He has been awarded for his franchise achievements, and publishes Franchise News, Australia’s only fortnightly electronic news bulletin on franchising issues. www.franchiseadvice.com.au

Disclosure Register offline as new Code starts The Australian Government’s Franchise Disclosure website was offline for several days as the new Franchising Code of Conduct came into effect on April 1.

All businesses that offer franchises in Australia are required by both the previous and new Codes to be listed on the Franchise Disclosure Register at www. franchisedisclosure.gov.au, however the website itself was offline from at least March 31 up to about April 3.

In a separate email by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to its Franchising Information Network sent on March 28, the ACCC noted that new fields were being added to the Franchise Disclosure Register, and that previously uploaded Key Facts Sheets and Disclosure Documents would no longer be visible to the public from April 1, nor can new versions of these document be uploaded, however did not indicate that the Disclosure 68 business franchise MAGAZINE

Register website would be offline.

No explanation for the site’s downtime can be found on the site itself, however it does feature a brief note on the top of the home page unrelated to the new Franchising Code which states that “The government is following Guidance on Caretaker Conventions while we wait for the 2025 federal election results”. Visit Franchise Disclosure Register.

New Code guidance materials now available Guidance materials to help franchisors comply with their obligations under the new Franchising Code of Conduct which came into effect on April 1 are now available.

On March 11, just three weeks before the commencement of the new Code, the federal government’s Treasury department released a Table of Key Changes summary despite the Code being legislated three months earlier in December 2024.

Last month, Federal Small Business Minister Julie Collins flagged the further regulation of the sector before new the Code had even commenced on April 1 in a media release to announce an additional $7.1 million in funding over two years to strengthen the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) enforcement of the Franchising Code.

According to the Minister, Unfair Contract Terms and Unfair Trading Practice reforms will help address the power imbalance that franchisees may face, and improve the fairness of relationships between franchisees and franchisors.

A consultation process on the proposed reforms is expected to commence later this year.

Food chain wins Lord of the Rings trademark battle Australian vegan fast food chain Lord of the Flies has won a trademark battle against the rights owners of JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, according to a decision of the Australian Registrar of Trade Marks.

The trademark battle commenced when Middle-earth Enterprises LLC, a United States company which owns the international literary and film rights to Tolkien’s iconic books opposed a trademark application filed in September 2022 by Lord of the Fries to register a word trademark for “Lord of the” to promote its macaroni and cheese.

Middle-earth Enterprises unsuccessfully claimed in its opposition to the application that the trademark was deceptively similar to The Lord of the Rings, despite Lord of the Fries using its trademark since 2004 and acknowledging it was initially inspired by an altogether different book called Lord of the Flies, a 1954 novel about schoolboys stranded on an uninhabited island. Read more here or click here to read the full trademark decision.

Holden franchisees lose class action against franchisor A class action by former Holden franchisees against their franchisor for failing to act in good faith following the brand’s decision to exit the Australian market has been unsuccessful according to court documents.

In a judgement handed down in the Supreme Court of Victoria on March 20, General Motors Holden Australia was found not to have acted in bad faith in failing to continue to provide vehicles to its dealer network for the balance of their franchise terms after the brand had exited the Australian market. It was also found not to have breached its duty of good faith in its allocation of remaining vehicles to the network after the decision to exit was made and the production facility which supplied the vehicles had been sold.

In a rare development, the lead plaintiff in the case had settled their own claim against Holden in 2023, but continued to the lead the case on behalf of other dealers.

Amendments to the Franchising Code of Conduct in 2021 and new changes about to be introduced on April 1 this year include changes regarding capital expenditure and requirements for franchisees to be given a reasonable opportunity for a return on their investment, as well as new end of term arrangements regarding stock, equipment and other items are understood to have been inspired by Holden’s exit from the Australian market and other multi-national auto franchisors operating in Australia.

Franchise CEO sacked for political activism The parent company of international icecream chain Ben & Jerry’s, has sacked the brand’s chief executive for political activism, according to a media report.

Ben & Jerry’s is famous for its activism which has involved the brand in social issues such as gun control in the United States, the war in Ukraine, and its boycott of sales in Israelioccupied Palestinian territories.

CEO David Stever was sacked by Ben and Jerry’s owner, UK-based multinational company Unilever, which Ben and Jerry’s has claimed in documents filed in a United States court was because Stever refused to “oversee the dismantling” of the ice cream chain’s progressive values.

Stever joined Ben and Jerry’s as a tour guide in 1998 and rose to the role of CEO. A condition of Unilever’s acquisition of Ben & Jerry’s in 2000 was the establishment of an independent board to protect the brand’s mission and stance on social issues. In response to Stever’s sacking, Ben & Jerry’s

has lodged a submission to the US district court accusing Unilever of wanting to stop Stever from making political statements and defending the brand’s social mission.

The latest conflict between the two entities follows more recent accusations of Unilever demanding Ben & Jerry’s stop publicly criticising Donald Trump and, in November 2024, the launching of legal action by the icecream brand against its parent accusing the company of trying to block it from making public statements supporting Palestinian refugees in the Gaza conflict.

In response to Ben & Jerry’s most recent complaint against it, Unilever has stated that while it continues to support the brand’s social advocacy work, it is concerned that it has become too controversial and puts the safety of employees from both companies is at risk. Read more

Chinese brand becomes world's largest franchise Chinese milk tea and ice-cream chain Mixue has become the world’s largest franchise with more than 45,000 franchised stores across China and in 11 other countries, according to a media report.

By store count, Mixue has moved from fourth place to first in the last 12 months ahead of McDonald’s (43,000), Starbucks (40,199), and Subway (35982). In terms of sales, Mixue remains in fourth position at $6.5 billion, behind Starbucks ($55.5 billion), Inspire Brands ($14.9 billion), and Tim Hortons ($7.5 billion).

In China, Mixue operates around 37,000 Mixue branded stores and 2,900 Lucky Cup branded outlets, with another 4,792 franchises in operation across 11 countries including Indonesia and Vietnam. Despite 99% of Mixue stores being franchised, franchise fees made up just 2.4% of total revenue for the first three-quarters of 2024, rather the bulk of Mixue’s revenue was generated from the sale of merchandise and equipment to franchisees who must source these items from Mixue.

According to a regulatory filing, Mixue Group has started bookbuilding, seeking to raise HKD $3.45 billion in a Hong Kong initial public offering.

New franchise Information Statement now available A new Information Statement for prospective franchisees is now available on the ACCC website.

The Information Statement is a standard government document that must be provided to potential franchisees as soon as possible,

but not later than seven days after a potential franchisee has expressed interest in joining a brand. It must also be given to the potential franchisee before giving them any other documents, such as the franchise agreement or disclosure document.

Coffee chain customer awarded $79m for genital scalding Coffee giant Starbucks has been ordered to pay USD $50 million to a customer whose genitals were scalded by hot tea at a drivethrough in the United States in February 2020, according to a media report.

The incident occurred when the customer, a delivery driver tasked with picking up three venti-sized Medicine Ball hot teas from a California drive-through, sustained second and third degree burns to his hands, stomach, thighs, and genitalia when one of the drinks spilled in his lap. The customer has undergone multiple skin grafts and other procedures and now lives with a disfigurement, dysfunction, and psychological harm that court documents allege has been life changing.

The customer’s negligence lawsuit was based on an allegation that the Starbucks’ employee did not wedge the scalding-hot tea firmly enough in the takeout tray. Starbucks’ initially offered USD $30 million but insisted on confidentiality. The plaintiff was open to accepting that figure without confidentiality, insisting Starbucks should publicly apologise and change its policies to ensure such spills could not happen again.

Free brunch for Melbourne franchisors on May 1 A free brunch event for franchise executives in Melbourne on Thursday May 1 will explore the top franchise challenges and opportunities for franchisors in the year ahead, including the new Franchising Code of Conduct, franchise recruitment, and customer acquisition and retention.

The free franchisors-only morning event, which includes brunch and mimosas, will provide Victorian franchisors a learning and networking opportunity as well as critical insights to assist with franchise recruitment, marketing and network planning.

Speakers include Franchise Advisory Centre director and Franchise News publisher Jason Gehrke, and digital marketing expert and Constant Contact Asia-Pacific vice president Renee Chaplin.

The free Franchise Outlook Brunch and Learn will be held from 9am to 11am at Melbourne’s Harbour Kitchen at Docklands on Thursday, May 1. To register, email: bianca.blades@constantcontact.com business franchise MAGAZINE 69

professional services listings

Your external inhouse legal team specialising in Commercial, Franchise and Intellectual Property Law since 1995.

Impressu are Trusted Printers in the Franchise and Network industry.

When you work with Impressu you know you’re working with Australia’s most knowledgeable team of printing experts for retail, franchise and branch network printing. Impressu partners with many of the country’s leading franchise networks including Domino’s, Michael Hill Jeweller, Highgrove Bathrooms, TJM, Eyecare Plus, Fitstop and more.

We deliver a complete range of print, kitting, storage and distribution services for these brands in Australia, New Zealand, and as far away as Canada. Every week Impressu prints more than 2.5 million posters, brochures, letterbox leaflets, point of sale items just for these brands.

• Australian & International Trade Marks • Intellectual Property Licence & Transfer Agreements • Creation of Franchise Systems • Review and advice on Franchise Documentation • Business purchases and sales • Commercial Leases • Distribution & Supply Agreements • Shareholders Agreements • Business Structuring sr@ippartnership.com.au | (07) 5591 2522 | www.ippartnership.com.au

For franchise and network businesses aiming to attract customers, our point-of-sale printing solutions are the perfect choice. At Impressu, we collaborate with you as a strategic partner to ensure your brand is accurately represented and your store presence is impactful.

P 07 3817 6200 Contact Sheena Davis E marketing@impressu.com.au W www.impressu.com.au

Franchise Lawyers in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom P 1300 544 755 Contact Corinne Whelan E info@legalvision.com.au W legalvision.com.au

LegalVision has a dedicated franchising team with extensive experience advising clients on franchise network setups and growth strategies.

We advise over 100 franchise networks across a range of industries, particularly food, retail, wellness, professional services, support services, cleaning, education and events. Our clients include some of Australia and New Zealand’s largest franchise networks as well as small franchise systems.

Our lawyers have significant expertise in developing franchise systems, including drafting and updating franchise documentation, business structuring, brand management, dispute resolution and regulatory compliance.

Our focus is on providing technically excellent and commercially pragmatic advice, that allows our clients to meet their commercial objectives in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Our franchising team regularly works with our other specialist legal teams including intellectual property and trade marks, employment, corporate and commercial, leasing, regulatory and dispute resolution. This ensures our franchise clients have expert assistance for all their legal needs.

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You’ll •• Bathurst enjoy the and freedom to grow your own business, thriving home care industry.

You’ll enjoy the freedom to grow yourown ownbusiness, business, • Bathurst enjoy your with thethe fullfreedom supportto ofgrow a quality, national withthe the fullsupport supportof ofaaquality, quality,national national with home carefull brand delivering domestic support, home care brand delivering domestic support, home care brand delivering domestic support, personal care, skilled nursing, and allied health personalcare, care,skilled skillednursing, nursing,and andallied alliedhealth health personal services. services. services.

The foundation of becoming a successful Right Thefoundation foundationof ofbecoming becomingaasuccessful successfulRight Right atThe Home business owner is a deep passion atHome Home businessowner ownerisisaadeep deeppassion passion at for lookingbusiness after people and a commitment to for looking after people and a commitment to for looking after people and a commitment providing high-quality care. You do not haveto to providinghigh-quality high-quality care.You Youdo donot nothave haveto to providing have previous home or care. health care experience. haveprevious previoushome homeor orhealth healthcare careexperience. experience. have We provide you with the necessary training We provide you with the necessary trainingto to We provide you with the necessary training to ensure your services are delivered at the highest ensureyour yourservices servicesare aredelivered deliveredat atthe thehighest highest ensure standard. standard. standard.

The home care market The home care marketisisisguaranteed guaranteedto togrow grow The home care market guaranteed to grow forfor the next 20 years.

The entry costs and thenext next20 20years. years.The Theentry entrycosts costsand and for the overheads are very low compared with overheadsare arevery verylow lowcompared comparedwith withmost most overheads most businesses. businesses. businesses.

With 5353 established offices With established officesand andcounting, counting,Right Right With 53 established offices and counting, Right at at Home has available territories ininregional Home has available territories regional at Home has available territories in regional New South Wales including New South Wales includingthe theNew NewSouth South New South Wales including the New South Wales north coast, regional Wales north coast, regionalVictoria, Victoria,Melbourne, Melbourne, Wales north coast, regional Victoria, Melbourne, Adelaide, regional South Australia, Northern Adelaide, regional South Australia, Northern Adelaide, regional South Australia, Northern Territory, and Tasmania.

Territory, and Tasmania.

Territory, and Tasmania.

Call us on 1300 363802 802or oremail email Call us on 1300 363 Call us on 1300 363 802 or email franchise@rightathome.com.au todiscuss discuss franchise@rightathome.com.au franchise@rightathome.com.au to to discuss your home care franchiseopportunity opportunitytoday. today. your home care franchise your home care franchise opportunity today.

1300363 363802 802 1300 1300 802 1300363 363 802

franchise@rightathome.com.au franchise@rightathome.com.au franchise@rightathome.com.au www.rightathomefranchise.com.au www.rightathomefranchise.com.au www.rightathomefranchise.com.au www.rightathomefranchise.com.au business franchise MAGAZINE 71

franchise listings FRANCHISE Amber 2 Aristida Close Kemps Creek, NSW 2178 Ph: 1300 139 868 Email: franchising@ambertiles.com.au Website: ambertiles.com.au

ARAMEX Level 9, 491 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Email: (AU) recruitment.au@aramex.com (NZ) Recruitment.nz@aramex.com Website: www.aramex.com.au www.aramex.co.nz

Benihana Asia Pte Ltd 80 Robinson Road, #02-00 Singapore 068898 Ph: +66-652916178 Email: minorfoodfranchise@minor.com Website: www.benihanainternational.com/international

Chargrill Charlie’s Level 12, 12 Help Street, Chatswood, NSW, 2067 Email: qsrhfranchising@craveablebrands.com Website: www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-chargrill-charlies

Chicken Treat Level 12, 12 Help Street, Chatswood, NSW, 2067 Email: qsrhfranchising@craveablebrands.com Website: www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-chicken-treat

COFFEETREAT 64 Liebig Street, Warrnambool, VIC Ph: 0421 786 008 Email: enquiries@coffeetreat.com.au Website: www.coffeetreat.com.au

InXpress Level 5/116 Adelaide Street, Brisbane QLD 4509 Ph: 1300 469 765 Email: Kellie.cranch@inxpress.com Website: au.inxpress.com, nz.inxpress.com

KEEP IT MOOVIN’ 9 Bay street Southport QLD 4215 Ph: 1800 854 080 Email: sales@keepitmoovin.com.au Website: https://keepitmoovin.com.au/

Kwik Kopy Australia Pty Ltd Level 9, 50 Berry Street, North Sydney NSW 2060 Ph: (02) 9967 5500 Email: franchise@kwikkopy.com.au Website: www.kwikkopy.com.au/franchise-opportunities

KUMON EDUCATION PO Box 5363, West Chatswood, NSW 1515 Ph: 02 9467 2200 Email: info-au@kumon.com.au Website: kumoninstructors.com.au/Franchise

MINDCHAMPS EARLY LEARNING AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Suite 1, Ground Floor 92-94 Norton Street, Leichhardt, New South Wales 2040 Ph: 1300 646 324 Email: tinat@mindchamps.org Website: au.mindchamps.org

Mobile App City, Pty. Ltd. Level 1, 162 Grand Boulevard, Joondalup, WA 6027 Ph: +61 8 6385 8052 Website: Mobileappcity.com

MyHome 104 Auburn Rd, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122 Ph: 0455 589 448 Email: franchising@myhomeclean.com.au Website: https://myhomefranchise.com.au/business-franchise/

Oporto Level 12, 12 Help Street, Chatswood, NSW, 2067 Email: qsrhfranchising@craveablebrands.com Website: www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-oporto

PACK & SEND Unit 3C Mfive Business Park, 1 Moorebank Ave, Moorebank, NSW 2170 Phone: 0447 711 353 Email: francise@packsend.co.nz & franchise@packsend.com.au Website: www.packsend.co.nz & www.packsend.com.au

PETBARN MOBILE DOGWASH (Formerly City Farmers Dogwash) Quarter One, Level 2, 1 Epping Road, North Ryde, NSW 2113 Ph: 0402 902 620 Email: scott.mcintosh@cityfarmers.com.au Website: www.petbarn.com.au/mobiledogwash

POOLWERX 10 Camford St, Milton QLD 4064 Ph: +61 7 3173 7300 Free call AU: 1800 245 447 Free call NZ: 0800 543 419 Email: Joinourteam@poolwerx.com.au Website: www.poolwerx.com.au/franchising

red rooster Level 12, 12 Help Street, Chatswood, NSW, 2067 Email: qsrhfranchising@craveablebrands.com Website: www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-red-rooster

Right at Home Unit 4, 16-36 Nile Street, Woollongabba QLD 4102 Phone: 07 3177 9906 Email: daryl.s@rightathome.com.au Website: https://rightathomefranchise.com.au

SNAP-ON TOOLS PO Box 6077, Blacktown NSW 2148 Ph: Aus: 1800 762 766 NZ: 0800 762 766 Email: sota.franchise@snapon.com Website: www.snapontools.com.au

Soul Origin 580 Parramatta Rd, Petersham, 2049 Ph: 0439 611 962 Email: KarlaS@soulorigin.com.au Website: https://www.soulorigin.com.au/

Stagecoach Performing Arts 12th Floor, Export House, Wolsey Walk, Woking, Surrey GU21 6QX Ph: +44 (0)1483 247 400 Email: franchiserecruitment@stagecoach.global Website: australia.stagecoachfranchise.com

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NATURE OF BUSINESS

OUTLETS

ASSOC MEMBER

INITIAL FEE

MIN INVEST

Home Renovation Products & Materials

27

TLA (The Landscape Association)

Available upon application

Subject to location and showroom size

FREIGHT & LOGISTICS/ COURIER

28 (AUS) 18 (NZ)

FCA

Available upon application

Dependant on Territory

Restaurants

100

-

AUD $200,000

AUD $1,000,000

Hospitality QSR

24

Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)

Available upon application

$900k

Hospitality QSR

64

Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)

Available upon application

$400k

Takeaway Café

2

-

$1,000

$160,000

Shipping, Freight and Logistics

46

-

$85,000

$85,000

Removals & Delivery Services

-

-

-

-

Kwik Kopy – Print Design Signage

90

Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) & Visual Media Association (VMA)

-

-

AFTER SCHOOL TUITION

322

FCA

$5000

$5,000 - $30,000

Early Childhood Education Services

21

FCA

-

-

Mobile

182

-

$20,000

$25,000

Premium Home Cleaning Services

23 (Melbourne)

-

$75,000

$89,000

Hospitality QSR

212

Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)

Available upon application

$450k

LEADING PARCEL & FREIGHT RESELLER

20+ NZ & 130+ AU

FANZ & FCA

$70,500 (NZ) ex GST

From $190,000 (NZ) ex GST

DogWash

18

FCA

$30,000

$40,000

Swimming Pool & Spa servicing, equipment & retail sales

161 Retail Stores

FCA & SPASA

-

$90,000 + GST + Van

Hospitality QSR

325

Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)

Available upon application

$450k

IN-HOME CARE FOR SENIORS, DISABILITY SUPPORT AND IN HOME NURSING SERVICES

55

FCA and ACCPA

$120,000

$200,000

MOBILE TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT FRANCHISE

180+

FCA / FANZ

$43,000

Varies

Fresh Food and killer Coffee

150

FCA

$60,00

$320k-$450k + GST

Children’s Performing Arts Education Franchise

350

-

$20,000

$17,000

Your promise. Our Business

You bring the ambition – we provide the expertise and user-friendly, cutting-edge technology to empower you as a logistics consultant making a real impact.

Join our award winning franchise network now for the low cost investment of $85,000 + GST

CONTACT US

Level 5, 116 Adelaide Street Brisbane 4000

+61 401 058 607 kellie.cranch@inxpress.com business franchise MAGAZINE 73

A-Z franchise directory

business franchise australia and new zealand

For more information call 03 9787 8077

A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business,

speak to one of our Sales Executives or go to

giving you a presence within our publication and also

www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au or

the Business Franchise website.

www.businessfranchisenz.co.nz

Amber

existing locations and exciting new territories are available. Franchisees operate their own businesses. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to maximise opportunities and ensure success.

Amber provides home renovation product solutions to retail and trade customers, with a core business in floor tiles, wall tiles, natural stone, pavers, wall cladding, bathroomware, retaining walls, synthetic grass and more.

With over 50 years’ experience, Amber has established a strong marketing presence, with successful Franchisees in NSW, ACT and QLD. Amber currently has 27 retail stores supported by e-commerce online. Currently, both prime

Aramex Put yourself in the driver’s seat of success when you join Aramex, a leading global provider of transport, logistics and courier services.

In Australia and New Zealand, more than 1,000 courier franchisees and 46 regional franchisees benefit from the award-winning Aramex franchise system that has been honed by more than 40 years of success.

Aramex offers courier franchisees the training,

benihana Benihana is a world-renowned teppanyaki restaurant brand, delivering an unforgettable dining experience where expert chefs prepare flavorful Japanese-inspired cuisine right at your table.

Lay the foundations for your own success with Amber today.

Call 1300 139 868, email franchising@ambertiles.com.au or visit ambertiles.com.au/franchise-opportunities.

support and technology they need to run their own rewarding franchise business in their local communities. No prior experience is needed.

Find out more and apply to join the network that delivers.

For more information contact: AUS: recruitment.au@aramex.com www.aramex.com.au NZ: Recruitment.nz@aramex.com www.aramex.co.nz

From its humble beginnings to a global presence of over 100 locations, including more than 20 owned or franchised by Benihana Holdings Pte. Ltd., the brand remains committed to quality, hospitality, and innovation. At Benihana, “Our Kitchen Is Your Table,” ensuring every meal is as engaging as it is delicious.

With over 55 years of excellence, Benihana blends culinary artistry with interactive entertainment, making it the most iconic food-to-table experience of its kind.

For more information contact Archit Rakheja at: Phone: +66-652916178 Email: minorfoodfranchise@minor.com

Chargrill Charlie’s

and a passionate team that keeps people coming back. It’s no

Gourmet food at its best - Since 1989. At Chargrill Charlie’s, we’ve been serving up homestyle cooking that brings people together; families, friends, and communities. What began as a humble kitchen feeding those closest to us has grown into a beloved brand with 24 stores across Sydney and Melbourne. And we’re just getting started, with bold plans to double our footprint over the next three years and exciting expansion into the Queensland market.

chicken shop. We stay true to what we do best: creating delicious,

When you step into Chargrill Charlie’s, you’re more than a customer, you’re family. That philosophy extends to our loyal customers, our dedicated staff, and our valued Franchise Partners.

We’re built on genuine relationships, an unwavering work ethic,

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(or +61 3 9787 8077 from outside of Australia) and

www.benihanainternational.com/international

wonder we’ve earned our place as Australia’s most extraordinary wholesome food made from scratch daily using real ingredients and a whole lot of love. We don’t follow fleeting trends, we honour tradition with thoughtful, crafted meals that feel like home.

As a Chargrill Charlie’s Franchise Partner, you’ll have the backing of Craveable Brands—home to Chicken Treat, Oporto and Red Rooster—with 600+ restaurants and 180 experts supporting your success. www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-chargrill-charlies

Chicken Treat At Chicken Treat, we’re on a mission to share our craveworthy chicken with more people across the country.

Whether it’s our golden, crispy fried chicken or our juicy, slow-roasted rotisserie, we serve up the best of both worlds, making it deliciously hard for our loyal customers to choose.

Proudly Australian and founded in 1976, Chicken Treat is a true WA icon, with over 64 stores across the state.

Now, we’re taking things to the next level. With an ambitious growth strategy underway, we’re expanding through new store openings, modern refurbishments,

COFFEETREAT COFFEETREAT is a unique Hole In Wall Takeaway Cafe and is owned and operated by the Proprietor, Chelsea Hayward. The business commenced trading in January 2016 in Country Seaside Warrnambool Victoria.

It is a family owned business providing it’s customers “A Hole In Wall Coffee Experience”.

We specialize in the sales of Coffee, Iced Beverages, Toasties, Melts, Cakes & Pastries.

“At COFFEETREAT our mission is to deliver an exceptional takeaway coffee experience to our customers, one cup at a time”.

inxpress InXpress is a global leader in shipping and logistics, offering tailored freight solutions to businesses of all sizes.

As a trusted third-party logistics provider (3PL), we leverage strong partnerships with major carriers— including DHL, FedEx, TNT, UPS, StarTrack, and other domestic providers, to deliver competitive shipping rates with exceptional customer service.

Our cutting-edge technology platform simplifies the shipping process, allowing businesses to book

KEEP IT MOOVIN’ Keep It MOOVIN is a small removals and same-day delivery service based in Australia that specializes in workplace relocations, white goods transportation, and furniture transportation. The business guarantees dependable, on-demand transportation with complete public liability insurance through its expanding network of owner-operator drivers.

Customers may easily scan, schedule, and receive their deliveries using their special QR Code same-day delivery system. Additionally, Keep It MOOVIN offers

Kwik Kopy Australia Pty Ltd Start your franchising journey with Kwik Kopy, the leading provider of Design, Print, and Signage throughout Australia.

Kwik Kopy offers a flexible franchise model, where each Centre is fully equipped to create high-quality services on-site. Owning a B2B franchise means operating business hours Monday to Friday so you’ll enjoy a work-life balance, be your own boss and be part of a supportive community committed to success.

and exciting menu innovations, all while staying focused on delivering an exceptional customer experience. After more than 40 years of satisfying chicken cravings, the demand is growing—and we’re looking for passionate Franchise Partners to help us meet it.

As a Chicken Treat Franchise Partner, you’ll be backed by Craveable Brands, the force behind Chargrill Charlie’s, Oporto and Red Rooster. With a network of over 600 restaurants and 180 industry experts, we’re here to support you every step of the way. www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-chicken-treat

We make no apology for our aim - to offer quality products combined with an unforgettable service experience to each and every customer who visits our stores in Australia and beyond.

Our aim is to become the preferred destination for takeaway coffee lovers worldwide, known for our outstanding quality, exceptional service, and genuine commitment to making a positive impact on coffee communities and the environment.

For more info contact Chelsea Hayward at: Phone: 0421 786 008 Email: enquiries@coffeetreat.com.au Web: www.coffeetreat.com.au

and manage their freight with ease. Whether it’s domestic or international shipping, our innovative solutions help companies streamline logistics, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency. With a commitment to personalised support and industry-leading technology, InXpress empowers businesses to take control of their shipping needs with confidence.

For more information contact Kellie Cranch at: Phone: 1300 469 765 Email: Kellie.cranch@inxpress.com au.inxpress.com, nz.inxpress.com

licensed area opportunities for those looking to join Australia’s fastest-growing small removalist network, backed by 24/7 call center support and Google advertising.

Throughout Australia, Keep It MOOVIN offers effective and reasonably priced solutions for everything from a single item pickup to a complete office transfer.

For more informarion: Phone: 1800 854 080 Email: sales@keepitmoovin.com.au Website: https://keepitmoovin.com.au/

You’ll also receive all the training you require, so no prior print or design experience is necessary.

A Kwik Kopy franchisee is young at heart with business experience, entrepreneurial flair, and most of all – an absolute passion for customer service. We have both existing and new locations for sale throughout Australia.

At Kwik Kopy, your business is our purpose.

For more information plese contact Peter Fiasco at: Phone: (02) 9967 5500 Email: franchise@kwikkopy.com.au Web: www.kwikkopy.com.au/franchise-opportunities

business franchise MAGAZINE 75

A-Z franchise directory

KUMON EDUCATION Owning and operating a Kumon franchise is the perfect opportunity for people who would love working with children, their community, and who want to make a difference.

Kumon is the world’s largest after-school education programme with more than 4 million students in over 60 countries. As a franchisee you will become part of a connected team, with strong local support and a worldwide network of associates all working to develop ‘life skills’ in children through education.

Kumon provides an individualised programme that

We invite you to attend our next information meeting to learn about our extensive training and support, generous subsidies, low start-up costs, and potential earnings.

Join us to make a difference for children in your local community!

For details and to register, visit https://www.kumoninstructors.com.au/Franchise.

Or, contact our recruitment team at: info-au@kumon.com.au.

mindchamps

We are also the only early learning organisation to have the world

Be part of a brand that is transforming the early education space globally.

Royal Society and founder of the Centre for the Mind at the University

Hailed as THE education movement of the 21st Century by New York Times & Wall St Journal No. 1 bestselling Author Dr Joseph A. Michelli, MindChamps has over 80 Early Learning and Preschool centres across Australia, Singapore, the Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia and the USA .

Chair of Research.

MindChamps Early Learning and Preschool is the only early learning organisation worldwide to develop its own unique research based curriculum. Backed by the work of award-winning, world-leading experts in the 4 Domains of Education, Psychology, Neuroscience and Theatre, our 3-Mind model of education nurtures children with the skills, flexibility, and Champion Mindset to flourish and thrive in a unpredictable future.

popularity with Australian families. The strength of our brand name

Mobile App City, Pty. Ltd. Mobile App City (MAC) is an mobile app and digital marketing agency that operates with a Partner License model (like a franchise but without the downside of a franchise).

This enables us to empower entrepreneurs (just like you) to establish your own mobile app and digital marketing agency business - so that you can provide a whole range of high-

renowned neuroscientist Emeritus Professor Allan Snyder, Fellow of the of Sydney and the Australian National University, as our Chancellor and

As a multi-award-winning early learning Franchisor, MindChamps is committed to your success. Our extensive list of international awards speaks volumes about the quality of our educational approach and its is synonymous with solid scientific research, quality early learning strategiesand a caring, child-centred environment.

To discover why owning a MindChamps Early Learning & Preschool centre is your dream business, visit: au.mindchamps.org or call 1300 646 324.

demand technologies to business owners, without needing any technical knowledge.

You’ll make both upfront income and ongoing passive income with each client.

Full training and continual, ongoing support, no royalty fees.

For more info contact Richard Giannini at: Phone: +61 8 6385 8052 Web: Mobileappcity.com

business franchise australia and new zealand

For more information call 03 9787 8077

A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business,

speak to one of our Sales Executives or go to

giving you a presence within our publication and also

www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au or

the Business Franchise website.

www.businessfranchisenz.co.nz

myhome For over 15 years, MyHome has stood alone as the premium home cleaning business in the Australian market, revolutionising the industry with its highly systemized and digitally-led management franchise.

This is an exceptional management franchise opportunity, a turn-key business with huge potential. MyHome offers its owners an unprecedented work life balance and more time for the things they value most.

With a low-cost entry, extensive centralised support, including central call centres, and digital innovations, empowering owners to manage much of their business from a mobile or tablet.

76 business franchise MAGAZINE

develops students’ self-learning ability through the study of mathematics and English worksheets. Students progress at their own pace, developing fundamental reading comprehension and calculation skills for confidence in the classroom and everyday life.

(or +61 3 9787 8077 from outside of Australia) and

MyHome owners are not cleaners, they come from various backgrounds and are skilled individuals who efficiently manage and cultivate thriving residential cleaning enterprises.

They aspire to run their own businesses while benefiting from the experience and proven framework offered by MyHome’s established model.

MyHome are now awarding a limited number of management franchises covering Melbourne’s finest suburbs. If you aspire to a work life balance with great financial rewards, take the first step by visiting https://myhomefranchise. com.au/business-franchise/.

oporto Oporto is one of Australia’s most recognisable quick-service restaurant brands, bringing the vibrant flavours of Portuguese-inspired flame-grilled chicken and burgers to customers across the country. With its upbeat, contemporary branding, and vibrant, modern menu, Oporto has carved a unique space in the QSR industry, standing out as the home of Portuguese inspired flavours.

Right now, Oporto is in a period of rapid growth, with a network of 212 restaurants across Australia and forecasted to grow to 250+ in next 3 years. Oporto is driven by strong customer demand and a relentless

PACK & SEND PACK & SEND is New Zealand’s and Australia’s Leading ‘No limits’ Freight Reseller Business, tapping into the eCommerce parcel market. We are a network of entrepreneurial franchise partners providing award-winning services to the high-growth parcel, freight, logistics, and eCommerce fulfillment markets. Our franchise system is a High-Profit return business model that is scalable to a ‘multi-store’, multi-million sales revenue enterprise.

What sets us apart

focus on fresh, flavoursome Portuguese inspired food. Australians can’t get enough of our signature Portuguese flame-grilled chicken, and burgers, including the iconic Bondi Burger and we need more passionate Franchise Partners to help us expand into key locations across the country.

Oporto is a proud member of Craveable Brands, alongside Chargrill Charlie’s, Chicken Treat and Red Rooster, supported by a dedicated team ready to help franchise partners succeed. Join us and be part of the Oporto legacy, delicious food, a fun experience, and the chance to make a real difference! www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-oporto

• • • • • • • • •

Extensive national network (and growing) Every day is different Business-friendly opening hours (5 ½ days) Multiple revenue streams Comprehensive 4-week Induction Training Program (incl. 1 week at Sydney THQ) In-house Business Sales Training Program Customer’s love us, over 2,000 5-Star reviews! (NZ) Multiple award-winning brand Asset light business model – no need for a fleet of vans or a warehouse Part of the $3 billion+ parcel industry (NZ) 2023 Top 10 AU Franchise system as rated by 10 Thousand Feet

You don’t need any freight, logistics, or parcel industry experience with our franchise system. Our comprehensive training program has been designed for you. All you need is to be a go-getter who loves providing 5-star service to your customers!

• Exceptional award-winning customer service • Innovation and adaptability

• •

PETBARN MOBILE DOG WASH

• Initial & ongoing training & support. Be part of a team of like-minded

Be part of the Petbarn Mobile Dogwash franchise system with all the support that comes with it, it allows you to concentrate on your business; • Work your own hours • Group marketing power to support your business • Managed website including optimized search engine listing and adwords • 24/7 call centre • Social media management and support • Lead generation

Contact us today to learn more about our multi-award winning franchise business model. www.packsend.co.nz & www.packsend.com.au

franchisees. We also have back-up equipment should you have a breakdown you can use to keep you working, including a spare van!

• Take a holiday knowing your fellow franchisees can help look after your customers when your away and they are still yours on your return • Group buying power for equipment and consumables saving you $ that no independent operator could ever receive.

• We use a van, not a cumbersome trailer. The hydrobath comes out of the van so the dog is washed in its yard and is more relaxed. The van is much easier to drive and reverse than a trailer too!

• LARGE EXCLUSIVE TERRITORY – ALL LEADS COME TO YOU with NO COST PER LEAD FEE

For more information call Scott McIntosh on 0402 902 620 or visit

• Lowest franchisee fee in this market

www.petbarn.com.au/mobiledogwash.

poolwerx

with multiple vans and a retail outlet serving residential and commercial clients. Independent retailers can also elevate their business and join the Poolwerx family.

Join Poolwerx to build your business dream.

Benefit from our 30+ years of experience, including comprehensive training, marketing, technology and robust business systems; no prior experience is needed.

The pool industry is resilient and in demand, with Poolwerx Australasia sales reaching $170.1 million in FY 2022-2023.

Enjoy multiple revenue streams and a scalable business model. Choose from new mobile businesses starting at $90K + GST + van* or acquire an established franchise

red rooster Red Rooster is one of Australia’s most iconic food franchises, blending over 50 years of experience with modern tastes and customer-centric technology. With a network of 325 stores across Australia, Red Rooster has become a household name.

Founded in the 1970’s and Australian owned, it’s a roast and fried chicken franchise offering vast opportunities for aspiring Franchise Partners. For generations, Australians have turned to Red Rooster to satisfy their chicken cravings.

As Australia’s first and favourite chicken shop, and the only fast-food company that truly specialises in both roast and

Partner with an award-winning business – Poolwerx is Australasia’s largest and most trusted pool and spa maintenance network. We put people first!

For more information go to: www.poolwerx.com.au/franchising or call AU 1800 245 447 or NZ 0800 543 419 *Leasing or financing options are available for an LDV Van G10 from $35K + GST.

fried chicken, we have earned a special place in the hearts of Aussie customers. But while our history is built on tradition, our future is driven by innovation and customer demand.

Red Rooster’s parent company, Craveable Brands, operates more than 580 restaurants with 13,000 employees across four chicken brands, serving over 1 million customers weekly. Our Franchise Partners benefit from our customer focused approach and innovative technology, including online delivery, app-led services, catering, and contactless service. When you join Craveable Brands, you’ll have a team of experts by your side, supporting you every step of the way. www.craveablebrands.com/franchising-red-rooster

business franchise MAGAZINE 77

A-Z franchise directory

right at home Right at Home is Australia’s leading provider of quality support at home and in-home care. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those we serve™ ensuring the Right Care, Right at Home™.

Right at Home was one of the first companies to enter in-home aged care and is now a global industry leader. We support people living with complex and post-operative care needs, dementia and cognitive decline, older Australians, and adults living with a disability including NDIS participants.

With 53 established offices and counting, Right at Home has available territories in regional New South Wales including the

SNAP-ON TOOLS Snap-on Tools Australia & New Zealand leads the way in innovation to providing technicians, engineers and other professional tool users the gold standard in tools, tool storage, equipment, diagnostics, repairs information and management systems.

Adelaide, regional South Australia, Northern Territory, and Tasmania.

If you are passionate about supporting the most vulnerable members of your community, our caregiving management franchise system is an incredible opportunity to own your own business. Right at Home’s quality systems and processes provide a framework to launch your business in the highly regulated home care industry.

We are the Right People, providing the Right Care, the Right Way, for the Right Reasons.

We are a complete retail mobile showroom that brings high quality tools and equipment to customers at their place of work. Our highly targeted marketing techniques promotes our Snap-on Tools brand so it reaches your customers. Each month, we develop specials to give customers a reason to buy immediately.

With extensive training and ongoing support,

Snap-on Tools continues to grow and perform with a network of over 180 franchisees across Australia and New Zealand.

Join the world’s largest tool franchise and drive your own success

soul origin

fresh food will continue to inspire changes in the fast-food industry. As they grow, they bring with them a promise that nutritious food should be accessible to all.

Soul Origin is not just a brand; it is a friend to Aussie food lovers. Back in 2011, they set out on a mission, to shake up the fast-food industry and create a space where people could grab food that is not just quick but also fresh, wholesome, and delicious. Now, with 150 stores across the country, they have become the go-to spot for foodies looking for quality food on the go. And guess what? They are just getting started.

Soul Origin has set its sights on further expansion and innovation. Their commitment to providing healthy,

Stagecoach Performing Arts At Stagecoach Performing Arts we are all about performance – on stage, in life and in business.

We are here to inspire children and provide them with the confidence to be themselves.

The demand for extra-curricular performing arts opportunities for children continues to increase.

Stagecoach’s unique model of running three disciplines (singing, dancing and acting) simultaneously, means its franchisees are well placed to capitalise on this demand.

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New South Wales north coast, regional Victoria, Melbourne,

www.snapontools.com.au

Take the next step and join a Food and Coffee Franchise with Soul Origin!

For more information contact: Karla Shand 0439 611 962 KarlaS@soulorigin.com.au https://www.soulorigin.com.au/

is pinned around skills development for each stage of learning. Stagecoach enriches the lives of 60,000 students worldwide, each week.

As a Stagecoach franchisee, you are responsible for driving and growing your business and managing a team of talented teachers. You will not be required to teach any classes yourself, but our model actively encourages you to put your own stamp on the creative process.

From marketing to recruiting and retaining teachers, Stagecoach will provide you with the guidance and support you need, when you need it.

Stagecoach developed Educational Framework which

australia.stagecoachfranchise.com

business franchise australia and new zealand

For more information call 03 9787 8077

A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business,

speak to one of our Sales Executives or go to

giving you a presence within our publication and also

www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au or

the Business Franchise website.

www.businessfranchisenz.co.nz

(or +61 3 9787 8077 from outside of Australia) and

Make Performance Your Business Business Make Performance Your With potential profits of up to and above $54,000* With potential profits of up to and above $54,000*

SingleUnit Unitand and Single MasterOpportunities Opportunities Master

Initial Fee Fee from Initial from $40,000 plus $40,000 plus VAT VAT

Start StartUp UpCost Costfrom from $11,000 $11,000

Investing in a Stagecoach franchise gives you the opportunity to combine a love Investing in a Stagecoach franchise gives you the opportunity to combine a love of the arts and children’s services with a business that truly performs. of the arts and children’s services with a business that truly performs.

Own a Performing Arts School Own a Performing Arts School

ore find ouuttmm ore find o

australia.stagecoachfranchise.com australia.stagecoachfranchise.com *Potential earnings over second year of trading with full school of +122 students. *Potential earnings over second year of trading with full school of +122 students.

Creative Courage ® For LifeMAGAZINE business business franchise franchise MAGAZINE 79 79 Creative Courage ®

MAKING FRANCHISE LAW BLACK AND WHITE Morgan Mac Lawyers specialises in Business Law, Franchise Law, Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution.

We have been assisting franchisors and franchisees in areas including franchise dispute resolution strategies, business sales, leasing and franchise documentation, and legal and regulatory compliance.

Commercial Litigation and franchising are complex areas of law. We help our clients to resolve or navigate legal matters and obligations, and recommend strategies to minimise and manage the risks of legal non-compliance and legal disputes.

We work with our clients to achieve their commercial objectives and the best possible outcome for our clients.

07 3221 2221 info@morganmac.com.au www.morganmac.com.au 80 business franchise MAGAZINE

Suite 27, Level 6 The Astor Centre, 445 Upper Edward Street Spring Hill QLD 4000