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2009 - News Stories
from April 2009 to date
Edition 51 - 25.6.09
TRIOS – HOT OFF THE INTERNATIONAL PRESS
Australian franchise, Trios, has been enjoying some international press coverage, so we thought we would share a news story review plucked hot off the press in Houston, Texas:
“This is really a first for the U.S. and the first in Houston,” says Na Chan, general manager of Trios Downunder. “It is a franchise that was started by three brothers in Australia. It’s flavorful but healthy fast food made with laffé, an Australian flat bread which we make into wraps. We also serve salads and spuds. We source only local products and use only 100 percent fresh ingredients. The group behind this venture is planning 15 more in Houston. They also own the rights to the franchises in the U.S. and China.”
We tried one of the falafel wraps with a hummus dressing, as well as a hot Portuguese chicken wrap and a chicken schnitzel spud, all of which were very tasty and, according to the in-store nutrition facts, quite healthy too.” Café Bites, Houston, Texas
Click here for more information about
Trios franchise opportunities
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Franchisor pays for no discount rule
7-Eleven Japan has agreed to pay a percentage of its franchisees costs for expired food which needs to be thrown away. The company had banned the discounting of items close to their used-by date and the payment was agreed to after the FTC in Japan warned the company that it should not stop its store operators from offering discounts.
Click here for more about this story
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FRANCHISING CODE OF CONDUCT OPTIONS PAPER
OUT FOR COMMENT
PTIONS PAPER OUT FOR COMMENT
As the next step in its response to the report of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services inquiry into franchising, the Government has released an options paper inviting final comment from relevant parties and the broader community.
The purpose of the options paper is to seek written comment on the amendments to the Franchising Code of Conduct discussed in the Joint Committee’s report.
The options paper builds on the consultation process undertaken to date and seeks new or additional information to that already provided in submissions to the Joint Committee.
This options paper requests comment against a series of very specific questions which clarify and fine tune the feedback we have received to date.
The Government is particularly interested in any potential change to the code that may affect costs and risks faced by franchisors and franchisees.
In order to keep the consultation process moving forward, any parties wishing to provide comment on some or all of the questions contained in the options paper are requested to do so by no later than close of business on 10 July 2009.
Click here to view the options paper and for information on how to submit comments
FRANCHISE_______________ G
Six franchises to be given away !
ChildsPlay Marketing CEO, Daniel Rechnitzer, has announced that he will give away six of his franchises, each valued at more than $35,000. Entries close 30th June.
Click here for more about this story
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FRANCHISE_______________ G
ACCC News Centre
$100 gift voucher for some customers
A $100 gift voucher will be available to a number of customers of a national bedding and furniture retailer after Australian Competition and Consumer Commission intervention.
Click here for the full story
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC?
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
New look catalogues drive sales HOME
Catalogues, the most traditional tool in the retail marketing mix, have been given a new lease of life by the national hardware retail group, Home Timber & Hardware, as it introduces changes guaranteed to drive business growth for its stores and the brand.
Consumer research conducted by Home Timber & Hardware reveals its catalogues work on various levels to add significant value to the brand and its member promotional activity.
“Our recent research revealed that our catalogues have the most impact when it comes to advertising our products and they stay in households longer than any other media, “said Andrew Senyard, Danks National Marketing Manager.
“We’ve even been told stories of parents who give their kids a catalogue and find they are entertained for hours; they really do engage and inspire customers of all ages and we have proof of that.”
Referred to fondly as ‘Dogalogues’ to link to the brand’s mascots, Rusty and Sandy, the catalogues are an integral part of the support provided to Home Timber & Hardware members, over 200 independently-owned timber and hardware stores nationwide. The Dogalogues are used by retailers to drive sales as well as build store and brand awareness during the seasonal promotions, with their large reach complemented by in-store point of sale and national marketing activity, including TVCs, sponsorships, online and a loyalty reward program.
“With this in mind, it was important for us to listen to our stores’ feedback and work with them on the changes to ensure the Dogalogues continue to provide the best value to their business and drive traffic in-store,” said Mr Senyard.
Armed with its consumer research and the store’s feedback, Home Timber & Hardware developed a fresh look and content for the Dogalogue, optimising its potential as an in-store promotional tool while building on the existing connection with consumers through stronger, familiar branding and witty imagery of the nationally recognised Rusty and Sandy characters.
The content of the new look Dogalogue was driven strongly by a shift in Home Timber and Hardware’s target consumers and their attitudes. Continuously evolving, Home Timber & Hardware now has an appeal that spans beyond the traditional handyman to the everyday consumer, and it was essential the catalogue reflected this move.
“The previous product selections were focused strongly on hardware and tools, so we refreshed the content to include a broader range of lifestyle products, meeting our audience’s needs and continued focus on DIY,” said Senyard.
“We also incorporated design features, such as bright colour coding and pointers enabling customers to easily identify and select products, whether they’re looking for tools, gardening products or environmentally friendly solutions.”
With the Dogalogue identified as a key communication vehicle, the design needed to enable Home Timber and Hardware to talk to the consumer about new products and services with the ability to duplicate the offering strongly in store.
And this is all wrapped up in a fresh, contemporary design with bold, consistent branding incorporating ‘proper’ DIY and tool tips from Rusty and Sandy.
According to Senyard, the introduction of the revamped Dogalogue has been greeted with enthusiasm by both Home Timber & Hardware stores and suppliers, who will benefit from enhanced product positioning and imagery.
“At the end of the day, the aim of the catalogue is to engage the reader and keep them reading right through to the end, inspired by the ideas, products and images they see. As a result of the changes, we believe it provides greater value as a communication vehicle for our stores and the brand.”
Click here to contact us to request more information
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Pizza Hut Sale
Restaurant owner group, Restaurant Brands, is set to sell up to 10 of its stores in the next year to owner-operators, under a new arrangement with Yum! Restaurants International.
Click here for more about this story
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New Eagle Boys store opens every 19 hours
Eagle Boys Pizza will open one new store every 19 hours during the last eight days of the financial year, capping off 12 months of strong store growth and sales.
Between 22 and 30 June 2009, Eagle Boys will open 10 new stores across the company’s Standard, Micro, Local and Express store models. The new stores are located in Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia.
It comes as Eagle Boys expects to overtake Pizza Hut as the nation’s second biggest pizza chain within the next 12 months. The company is on track to have 400 stores operating by 2011.
Click here to contact us to request more information
ODD SP _______________OT NEWS
Two women struggled to give police a good description of a man who ran through a drive-thru and snatched a meal from the attendant. A police APB was put out for a “naked man in his 20’s” with little else to go on.
Click here for more about this funny story
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WIN GREAT SKI TRIP
Win a Trip for Two to Threadbow
with Ella Bache
Click here for information on how you can win this cool prize
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Edition 150 - 18.6.09
Job Security Concerns Causing Flight to Franchising
Mortgage Choice, Australia’s largest independently-owned mortgage broker, has discovered that close to half of all Australians planning on purchasing a franchise in the next three years have been motivated by the difficult economic climate.
Its third annual Potential Franchisee Survey also revealed a renewed desire for income potential above all other outcomes that can be achieved by running your own business.
Of the 680 respondents looking to move into franchising by June 2012 11% had been retrenched during the past 12 months and a surprisingly high 41% said the economic downturn had influenced their decision to buy a franchise.
The most prevalent responses as to why the downturn had influenced them were:
48% - It seems safer to run my own business than have my job in someone else’s hands
40% - I believe I will be better paid by myself as boss rather than someone else
30% - My job is looking very shaky thanks to the downturn
This year, potential for earnings had risen in importance. In order of preference, the top three reasons for wanting to be a business owner were:
54% - Income potential (48% last year)
46% - Job satisfaction: looking for stimulation, challenge and personal achievement (54%)
44% - Flexibility: ability to control your own time/movements/etc (50%)
In some good news for the unemployed, the vast majority of respondents (92%) will hire staff in the first year after commencing business operations. 30% will hire one to two employees, 41% will hire three to five, 16% will hire six to 10, 5% will hire somewhere between 11 to 50.
52% of respondents will buy a new franchise while 48% will buy an existing one, and only 50% of survey respondents plan to enter into a franchise with a spouse or romantic partner.
Overall, the most appealing aspects of being part of a franchise system were:
Established franchisor brand recognition
Established business model for franchisees to follow
Higher likelihood of success in comparison to operating a small business
Level of support provided by the franchisor
Supplier relationships already established
Working within a collaborative franchise network
Level of advertising that can be achieved
Level of media coverage that can be achieved
Click here for more information about Mortgage Choice Franchise Opportunities
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Win a Trip for Two to Threadbow
with Ella Bache
Click here for information on how you can win
this cool prize
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Think you know Australia's favourite brands?
In a recent poll Aussies were asked to name the "Most Australian Icon". Think you can bet who won the title? Did you guess Qantas? Maybe Australia Post? Nope, ironically both of these Australian-owned brands were beaten by Arnott's Biscuits (now owned by American Company, Campbell's).
In the same poll, a UK-based confectioner was given the title of Most Trusted Brand in Australia.
Go figure !
Click here for more about this story
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ATO Targets
Sales and marketing managers, electricians, truck drivers are amongst the groups which have been highlighted by the ATO as being part of their hit list for the 2009/10 tax year.
Click here for more about this story
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ODD SPOT NEWS
What does a shoe have to do with a job application?
Well, it seems that including a shoe with your resume is just one of the many 'clever' ways that potential employees are using to get their foot in the door when vying for attention in the all important job application and interview process.
Click here for this quirky story which includes some other unique ideas for getting your job application noticed
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Six franchises to be given away !
ChildsPlay Marketing CEO, Daniel Rechnitzer, has announced that he will give away six of his franchises, each valued at more than $35,000. Entries close 30th June.
Click here for more about this story
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Top Franchises Named
After feedback from over 1,000 franchisees from 65 systems across Australia, Top Franchise’s quarterly review into the Australian industry reveals the latest Top 10.
Some of the franchises which made the Top 10 list are:
Click here for the full list and more about this story
or Click on a franchise logo for more information about available franchising opportunities
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ACCC News Centre
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC?
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
LATEST FRANCHISE FOR SALE AND BUSINESS FOR SALE CLASSIFIED ADS - UPDATED WEEKLY
Click here to view the latest opportunities
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Donut King has exported its first shipment of roasted coffee to mainland China, as part of its growing presence in that country.
Due to arrive in Shanghai in early July, the 288kgs of DK Royal Bean coffee blend will be used by the 4 Donut King stores in Shanghai. |
The DK Royal Bean coffee has been specifically developed at Retail Food Group’s dedicated coffee roasting facility in Sydney, called Caffe Coffee. It is used in all Donut King outlets and features a unique blend of international beans.
The first shipment will provide more than 23,000 shots of espresso, with more shipments expected to follow later this year. More than 20 Donut King outlets are expected to be open in China by 2014.
Click here for more information about Donut King Franchise Opportunities
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KFC Grilled Chicken Launch
After a successful launch in America, KFC has announced that it will soon be offering Australians their new grilled chicken options.
Click here for more about this story
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THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO EWWWW...
From today at total of 1,086 offences in 647 food outlets are listed on the Food Authority website for offences.
You might want to check the list before making that dinner reservation ...
Click here to see the latest businesses added to the
name and shame list and what they did to get there
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WHAT'S ON ...
Seminar:
Franchising Seminar
……. invest wisely – know the rules
Join the ACCC and others for a practical presentation on what you need to know about franchising.
Presenters:
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Inta Tumuls, Small Business and Rural Outreach Manager, ACCC
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Steve Wright, Executive Director, Franchising Council of Australia
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Craig O’Halloran, Director of Business Services, Department of Business and Employment
Bookings Essential
When: Thursday, 18 June at 5.15pm for a 5.30pm start, ending at 7.30pm
Where: Darwin Airport Resort
Contact: Elise Burr on 8946 9610 to register or for further information
Light Refreshments will be provided
Click here for more information
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Seminar:
Franchise Council of Australia Seminar
Friday 19th June 2009, Siobhan O’Gara of the ACCC will be speaking at an FCA educational seminar in Perth, aimed at people who are looking to buy a franchise.
The seminar aims to ensure that prospective franchisees go into a commitment with ‘eyes wide open’ and runs from 9:30am to 12:30pm. There is a cost of $25 to attend and will be held at the Chooks Fresh & Tasty, Encouragement Centre – Unit 15 Stirling Axis, Frederic Street, Stirling.
For more information or to register, please contact Catherine Hayes at the FCA on 1300 669 030 or info@franchise.org.au.
Edition 149 - 11.6.09
BRAND NEW FEATURE:
FRANCHISE FOR SALE AND BUSINESS FOR SALE CLASSIFIED ADS - UPDATED WEEKLY
Click here to view
Recent reports indicate that the current economic climate has people looking for creative alternative sources of income by starting a business from scratch, buying an existing business
or buying a franchise.
Click here for more about this story
The ATO is offering a series of tax relief options for businesses with sales of less than $2 million per year. Interest-free payments and deferrals are available for businesses struggling with tax debts.
Click here for more about this news story
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Win a Trip for Two to Threadbow with Ella Bache
Click here for information on how you can win
this cool prize
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Murder Burgers New Zealand – The burger joint with a ‘different’ approach to business, which includes staff wearing t-shirts emblazoned with the words “Meat is Murder” and a menu which highly recommends you order the beef, avocado and bacon burger "because we make good money from this burger", has found popularity not only with customers but as an on-line 'place to go'. Only in New Zealand … but the world beckons!
Click here for more about this story
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National recruitment drive
Australia’s third largest pizza chain, Eagle Boys Pizza, today launched a National Jobs Drive to fill more than 1,000 new jobs now available at its stores across the country.
With the opening of new stores, continued strong demand for pizza and growing market share, the average Eagle Boys Pizza store is looking for up to four new team members. The jobs that are available range from pizza maker through to delivery driver.
Click here to request more information
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Legal News
Lenards’ Chicken Franchisee found guilty of murder
Click here for more about this news story
Naked Rabbit Copyright Sought
Emotions are running high as a well-known worldwide franchise has launched a court appeal to trademark a “naked” chocolate bunny and its stable mate - a reindeer (that looks like a bunny). The question is – what can you trademark and who owns what?
Click here for more about this news story
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Have you seen "Tony", the well-dressed pizza man who has fleeced businesses throughout Mona Vale, Miranda and Paddington? Police are hunting a conman, who offers a fake gold watch and the promise of a pizza and pasta feast to scam unsuspecting employees out of cash. Police urged business owners to watch out for the scam.
Anyone with information can contact Dee Why Police Station via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Click here for more about this story
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Nominations are now open for the ARA Australian Retail Awards which celebrate the best major retailers, smaller owner-operated stores and retail innovation, as well as the achievements of young retail talent across the country. Last year’s winner was Supercheap Auto, with IGA the only food retailer to earn an award (for innovation). Australian Retail Association (ARA) Executive Director Richard Evans said there were two categories currently open for nomination - the ARA Young Retailer of the Year and Independent Retailer of the Year.
Click here for more information about the nomination process
WHAT'S ON ...
Course: Franchising course at Griffith University for franchisor corporate office staff, franchisees and franchising professionals.
Click here for more information
Edition 148 - 5.6.09
Sometimes it is easy being green
Selected Oporto outlets are now offering customers the opportunity to recycle their bottles and cans with the trial installation of new in-store recycling bins.
Click here for more about this story
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ODD SPOT !
A masked man entered a store recently armed with a baseball bat with the intention of robbing the place. But, rather than call police, the store owner took pity on the man who explained that he was unable to provide for his family. The would-be thief left with a charitable handout of $40 cash and a loaf of bread, compliments of the owner.
Click here to link to this story
and the accompanying video
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WHAT'S ON ...
Course: Franchising course at Griffith University for franchisor corporate office staff, franchisees and franchising professionals.
Click here for more information
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Event: Drink in the opportunities at the Westpac WIF High Tea!
WIF (Women in Franchising) invites you to attend our upcoming WESTPAC WIF High Tea Series. So help us get the word out and forward this invitation to all your fellow franchisors, franchisees, suppliers and other women in the franchising industry!
For any enquiries, please phone the Franchise Council of Australia
on 1300 669 030
or Click here to email
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ACCC News Centre
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC?
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
Idol sponsorship deal sealed
KFC has signed up to be one of the sponsors for the next series of Australian Idol.
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Franchisees trading as usual
Creditors met with administrators this week to discuss the future of the five companies of a collapsed wholesale business which is $2.2 million in debt. The franchisees attached to the wholesale companies are not in administration and are still trading as usual.
Click here for more about this story
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Franchising Report Comment
Small Business Minister Craig Emerson has made some long-awaited comments regarding the franchising report which was tabled in Parliament almost six months ago.
We welcome Jason Gerkhe from the Franchise Advisory Centre with his comments regarding the Minister's announcement:
"Ever since the inquiry recommendations were reported in December, there has been a lot of anticipation and speculation about the implications for the franchise sector. The Minister's announcement is some news for the stakeholders involved in the inquiry, although details of the nature and extent of the targetted consultation to be undertaken are yet to be revealed.
Whatever consultation will be done will occur in a short timeframe given the announcement that the Minister expects consultations to start in the next few weeks, and a final response will be tabled in late July.
I'm looking forward to seeing more details."
Click here to visit the Franchisory Advisory Centre
Click here for more about this news story
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Edition 147 - 28.5.09
The Food Police are headed your way …
The NSW Health Authority have advised that operators of food outlets in NSW will most certainly be the subject of a random health inspection this year. Those which are not up to scratch will find themselves added to the ever-growing list on the Authority’s ‘name and shame’ website. You might be surprised to see who is on the list, and why …
Click here to see the latest businesses added to the
name and shame list and what they did to get there
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Add a little O3 to your daily bread choice
Brumby’s Bakeries has become the first retail bakery chain in Australia to launch a freshly-baked Omega 3 wholemeal loaf catering to health conscious consumers.
While some breads featuring Omega 3 are available on supermarket shelves, this will be the first time consumers can access preservative-free Omega 3 wholemeal loaves direct from a bakery which are baked fresh daily.
Research has found that Omega 3 can reduce the risk of heart disease, asthma, allergies, blood clotting, and helps maintain a low blood pressure. In babies and children, Omega 3 can aid the development of brain, eye and heart functions.
Click here to request more information about this story or for Brumby's Bakeries Franchising Opportunities
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No Kids Allowed
A Mackay shopping centre has been criticized for banning young people through its doors after 7pm, unless they are shopping or accompanied by an adult.
Click here for more about this story
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Kleenmaid director tries to jump debt queue
After offering his sympathies to those who lost money with Kleenmaid, director Andrew Young then made his move to jump the creditors’ queue by lodging a $9 million proof of debt via one of his other companies. However, it is unlikely that Young, or any of the other creditors will ever see a cent of the monies owed. The company is in debt to the tune of more than $100 million.
Click here for more about this story
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Mortgage and Finance body given greenlight
The ACCC has announced that a mortgage and finance body is able to discipline members engaging in misconduct.
Click here for more about this story
NEW CLASSIFIEDS SECTION
NEXT WEEK!
Be sure to get in touch with for details on how to place your ad in our classifieds section.
Click here to contact us
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Fancy a little extra cash?
Is anyone really sure that they have picked up every cent that may be out there owing to them?
Did you know that it is very easy to find out whether you have some unclaimed money owing to you possibly from an old bank account, share acquisitions or life policies?
Click here to find out if your name is on a money list - you never know, this may be the little windfall you have been hoping for!
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Business closed due to Swine Flu
A franchise in Epping Plaza in Melbourne's north has been closed after a 17-year-old staff member contracted the swine flu.
Click here for more about this story
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ODD SPOT !
According to a scientific report, retailers everywhere are selling a popular product that contains traces of cocaine. The report has seen the product banned in Norway, Denmark, Uruguay and Germany ... but it is still on the shelves here in Australia.
Click here to find out which product may find itself disappearing off of shelves worldwide
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ACCC may block Caltex Mobil purchase
There is speculation that the $300 million purchase of 302 Mobil service stations by Caltex may be blocked by the ACCC. The deal would increase Caltex’s share of the retail market and reduce the number of major fuel retailers from four to five.
Click here for more about this story
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Workplace Ombudsman Report
A Gold Coast mortgage broker will face court for allegedly failing to pay three financial consultants any wages for almost two months' work.
Click here for more about this story
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Award winner
Congratulations to Trampoline, which has had five of its products recognised at the Dairy Product Awards 2009.
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Going green
Crust Gourmet Pizza Bars will reduce energy usage across the entire network by an average 30% by installing ‘green’ ovens in all stores over the next two years.
Edition 146 - 21.5.09
Donut King & Brumby’s GO! move into service stations
Australian food retailers Donut King and Brumby’s GO! will open new stores in the lucrative service station food retail market as part of its ongoing expansion strategy, owner Retail Food Group announced today.
ASX-listed Retail Food Group (RFG) is Australia’s leading retail food brand manager and franchisor, owning the Donut King, Brumby’s Bakeries, Michel’s Patisserie and bb’s cafe franchise systems.
The first outlet of RFG’s franchise systems to open in a service station was a Donut King at Allendale, Cessnock in late 2008.
RFG has confirmed two new outlet openings in New South Wales and potentially a further five in South Australia in the next 12 months.
Click here for RFG Opportunities
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Trusts on ATO hit list
The Australian Taxation Office has launched an investigation into the administration of trusts, which are seen as complicated and arcane, according to tax experts.
Click here for more about this story
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Peak retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has bagged Planet Ark's plea for Australians to sign an online petition to ban plastic check out bags, calling it an overly simple solution to the complex issue of litter management.
"The issue is not about plastic bags, it is about the national consideration and litter management of all sorts of disposable packaging and goods - including the 60 million 'green' bags now in circulation that are made from non-biodegradable textiles," Evans said.
In related news:
The Federal Government is said to be considering extending the drink container deposit system Australia-wide.
Click here for more about this story
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New rules for calorie counting - are we next?
Massachusetts is expected to announce some very tough rules for food labeling in the USA. It is anticipated that fast food restaurants will be required to list the number of calories in each food item. If the new rules are passed, they will be the toughest yet in the US. It will be interesting to see if this new trend catches on here in Australia.
Click here for more about this story
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Workplace Ombudsman Report
The estate of a Perth woman who claimed to have been underpaid - but died before her case was settled - will get almost $6000 following a lengthy and complex investigation by the Federal Workplace Ombudsman
Click here for more about this story
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Kleenmaid
Whilst Kleenmaid went into voluntary administration last month, new allegations have been raised that the company may have been insolvent since 2007. Should this be the case, the founders may be held personally accountable for unpaid debts.
Click here for more about this story
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Electricity Price Rise
Consumers are warned to be prepared to budget an extra $300 for your electricity bill this year.
Click here for more about this story
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Billabong still in hot water
Billabong has seen the sharpest fall this year in its share price, which is down more than 20%.
Click here for more about this story
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ACCC News
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC, including details of a hair replacement ex-franchise who has been fined for providing false and misleading information.
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
NEW CLASSIFIEDS SECTION
COMING SOON!
We are adding a Franchise for Sale column to our weekly e-newsletter, so if you have a location for sale that you would like our readers to know about
Click here to get in touch with us for
all of the details for listing *`
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Salt: It's a killer
"Bread, processed meats and cheese are all high salt products so combining them into one meal eaten in fairly large amounts as a pizza is deadly. Government action is needed to ensure that the food industry is held to account,” said Jacqui Webster, Coordinator of the Australian Division of World Action on Salt and Health at The George Institute.
Click here to see what may be in store for
the food industry
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New eco-friendly range launched
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Howards Storage World is helping you embrace environmental living with a brand new range of eco friendly bamboo products that are kind to the planet and the eye. |
Click here for more information about Howards Storage products, locations and franchise opportunities
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Free Chicken Chaos
What do you get if you mix a little Oprah with a lot of free KFC? Well, apparently the answer is a KFC meltdown.
Click here for more about this story
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Trading haulted during bomb scare
Retailers in Alice Springs were forced to close their doors for several hours as police cordoned off a shopping mall for several hours as they negotiated with a man carrying a sword, and two devices expected to be explosives.
Click here for more about this story
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Scam Watch
Here are Inside Franchising we have received countless emails purporting to be from the Commonwealth Bank asking us to do surveys and win prizes, amongst other things. They look authentic enough – with bank logos and names of real employees being used. Bank customers are reporting the increase in similar bogus emails. Read here to see how you can pick a fake from the real thing.
Click here to read the tips on
picking a fake
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Lenard's murder trial commences
Evidence has been given at a Perth murder trial that a Lenard’s chicken franchisee confessed to murdering his business partner.
Click here for more about this story
Edition 145 - 14.5.09
30% of new franchisees
recruited online
Results from the 2008 Franchisor Expansion Study by 10 Thousand Feet into the Australian franchising industry reports the following:
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Just 10 per cent of Australian franchisors reported negative growth in 2008
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Despite this, the $40 million plus franchisors spend on marketing each year to attract new franchisees will be significantly cut in 2009
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Newspaper ad revenues will be one of the areas to suffer most, with just 11 per cent of new franchise leads generated through this medium in 2008 – down from 18 per cent in 2007.
In contrast, online and word of mouth recruitment strategies are set to grow with 29 per cent of new franchisees were recruited via word of mouth in 2008, and
30 per cent of new franchisees recruited via online avenues!
Click here to contact us for information on how
we can help you with your online advertising
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FRANCHISES THAT THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX
Pizza Franchise + Convenience Store Success
Franchises are increasingly looking to expand their bottom line by incorporating other businesses within their own.
NightOwl Mackay (Victoria Street) recently expanded their successful convenience retail business by opening an Eagle Boys Express store to provide customers with quality pizza on the go.
The Express Store is an Eagle Boys initiative that can operate in a space as small as six square metres. It makes use of new technology allowing pizzas to be prepared in-store in a third of the time as traditional pizzas.
Since opening an Eagle Boys Express Store in December 2008, NightOwl Mackay now sells up to 800 pizzas a week to hungry customers.
Click here to request more information about
Eagle Boys Pizza
Click here to let us know about a franchise which is doing things a little differently to
increase its bottom line
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For sale, or not for sale: that is the question ...
A major household goods chain has denied that it is in talks with rival companies about a possible sale of its business after a fall of more than 15% in operating results this year.
Click here for more about this story
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Workplace Ombudsman Report
Inspectors from the Federal Workplace Ombudsman's Bunbury office have recovered $260,000 in back-pay for 280 workers at 105 businesses during the past 12 months.
Click here for more about this story
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Kleenmaid
The Administrators of Kleenmaid are optimistic that they may be able to sell the repairs and spare parts operations of the business.
A second creditors' meeting will be held on May 25 at a venue to be decided.
Click here for more about this story
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NEW CLASSIFIEDS SECTION
COMING SOON!
We are adding a Franchise for Sale column to our weekly e-newsletter, so if you have a location for sale that you would like our readers to know about
Click here to get in touch with us for
all of the details for listing *`
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Thank you for Fire Heroes
Local firemen hopped aboard their Country Fire Authority tanker and a pumper truck used in talking the recent Victorian bushfires to accept Cold Rock Ice Creamery’s invitation to visit the Cranbourne store as a thank you gesture by Cold Rock on behalf of their community.
Cold Rock Ice Creamery, raised $35,000 for the Bushfire Appeal from franchisees and staff contributions at eight of its Victorian stores.
Click here to request more information about
Cold Rock Ice Creamery
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Scam Watch
Consumers are being warned about a sneaky new scam which is stealing bank account details right from your desktop!
Click here for more about this story and how to avoid being trapped
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Police seek witnesses
Detectives are appealing to the public for information about the armed robbery of a takeaway pizza outlet in Shellharbour, south of Wollongong, on Sunday night.
Click here for more about this story
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Things that make you go EWWW !!!
A man regretted changing his side order from fries to vegetables after finding something icky lurking in his broccoli.
Click here for more about this story,
which includes a truly bizarre image
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Date claimer:
Please mark 16 October 2009 in your diary for the “Coffee Club, Journey to The Wild, Charity Ball”
more information to follow ...
Edition 144 - 7.5.09
Australian Pharmaceuticals Industries has lifted its interim net profit by 8.7 per cent to $6.7 million despite a difficult retail climate. API's retail business, under the Priceline banner, "encountered a volatile and fluctuating market but was able to maintain very good like-for-like growth", managing director Stephen Roche told the Australian.
The 320 Priceline stores, which sell toiletries, and hair and beauty products, had strong comparable store revenue growth of 5.7 per cent, but margins were lower.
Despite the economic contraction, the brand added 16 new franchised stores in the first half.
Click here for more about this story
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Westpac's interim numbers show a sharp increase in small business loans that have started to sour, particularly in cases where the lending is worth $2 million to $15 million.
Click here for more about this story
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Peak retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said the 2.2 percent growth in retail turnover for March was in line with predictions and showed signs of slow recovery as cashed-up consumers re-entered the market without guilt.
ARA Executive Director Richard Evans warned against an over-reaction to the March retail trade figures (NSW 1.2%, VIC 2.7%, QLD 3.2%, SA 2.4%, WA 2.2%, TAS 2.2% NT 4.2%, ACT -0.1%) that were a result of economic stimuli from late last year.
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Brisbane retail rents top list
"Brisbane retail space is regarded as amongst the most expensive in the world" according to a recent report.
Click here for more about this story
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Apples anyone?
Apple are set to open their fourth Australian retail store on the Gold Coast.
Click here for more about this story
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ACCC News
Information to help business and consumers to understand the 'Clarity in pricing' amendments to the Trade Practices Act 1974 has been issued by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
The amendments, which take effect on 25 May, require if businesses choose to advertise a part of the price of a particular product or service, they must also provide a single figure that reflects the total price to be paid.
Click here for more about this story
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC, including details of a hair replacement ex-franchise who has been fined for providing false and misleading information.
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
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Do you know: Which food and beverage firm has the most impact in Asia Pacific?
Click here for the answer
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USA - Denny's Corp. is continuing its plan to increase its percentage of franchise-owned units, which should result in new-restaurant growth, executives said at the company’s first quarter conference.
Click here for more about this story
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Kleenmaid - According to an exclusive report in the Courier Mail, the son of Kleenmaid founder Andrew Young is claiming $300,000 against his father's company, saying the collapse of the appliance retailer has left him "financially screwed".
Click here for more about this story
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Gerry Harvey said he had no idea why Harvey Norman's share price jumped almost 13 per cent in three days.
Click here for more about this story
In related news:
Slowing consumer spending in uncertain economic times will increase the risk associated with Harvey Norman shares, analysts say.
They also say Harvey Norman may exit the Irish market, where its stores have underperformed.
Click here for more about this story
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Treasurer, Wayne Swan has been buoyed by new data showing Australians are returning to the shops as he prepares to deliver a tough federal Budget.
Official retail sales figures out yesterday show recession-wary Australians spent a record $19.3 billion in March as the Rudd Government began rolling out its one-off $900 cash bonuses.
The spending was 2.2 per cent higher than February's sales figures and four times more than economists had predicted.
Click here for more about this story
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Westfield says it has Australian shoppers to thank after they collectively helped to offset a disastrous result from its overseas operations.
Click here for more about this story
Edition 143 - 30.4.09
Plastic bags on the way out
South Australia's plastic bag ban is to start as of next Monday. Supermarket staff will be wearing special badges to advise customers of the change and to ask for their understanding on the no-bag policy.
Click here for more about this story
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Expansion re-think for logistics provider
Linfox Logistics is to review its expansion plans after a slump in logistics contracts. The company indicated that the global economic situation has seen many of its customers simplifying their needs. The company will cease acquisitions and delay its expansion into India for at least two years.
More details to be available shortly about this story
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Peak retail industry body the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has called for the Rudd Government to focus on jobs and strategies to keep prices low in the Federal Budget in May.
ARA Executive Director Richard Evans said employment stability is the key to domestic economic recovery and the Rudd Government's second budget must provide leadership and strategy to encourage employers to maintain and grow their workforce.
Visit ARA's website for more information or contact us at webmaster@insidefranchising.com.au
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Workplace Ombudsman Report
A large Brisbane-based retail company has back-paid more than 70 workers a total of $25,000 following an investigation by the Federal Workplace Ombudsman.
Click here for full details of this story
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A recent audit has found that price scanners are 91% accurate.
Click here to find out which stores were the best and the worst performers, and which states had the highest error rates
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ACCC News
Collective bargaining by newsagents
is in the public interest: ACCC
Newsagents have been granted authorisation to enable them to collectively negotiate certain terms and conditions of their contracts with major publishers and distributors of newspapers and magazines.
Click here for more about this story
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC, including details of a hair replacement ex-franchise who has been fined for providing false and misleading information.
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
Donuts are a "No-Vo" Zone
After threatening legal action, Kristy Kreme Donuts has today backed down after Arnott’s, Australia’s largest biscuit supplier, took them to task over allegedly violating their Iced Vo-Vo trademark.
Krispy Kreme have today agree to cease the use of the "Iced Dough-Vo" name for one of its donut flavours.
Click here for more about this story
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McCurry is still on the menu for one Malaysian business owner
In Malaysia, McDonald's Restaurants have failed in their lawsuit against a local restaurant called "McCurry". The owners of the curry house argued that their business name is short for Malaysian Chicken Curry, and their logo of a smiling and waving red chicken could not be mistaken for a McDonald's restaurant. The Court of Appeal agreed.
Click here for more about this story
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Tick of approval for Pizza chain
Crust Gourmet Pizza Bars’ six Heart Foundation Tick approved pizzas have been named the 15th most innovative product in Australia in Australian Anthill’s inaugural SMART 100 index.
The SMART 100 index recognises the 100 most innovative products in Australia, and ranks Crust’s Tick approved pizzas first amongst food products.
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HWT: "Stella's troubles won't hurt us here"
Whilst the Stella company, which operates Breakfree, Peppers and Mantra Hotels in Australia, are also the parent company of Harvey World Travel, HWT have stated that it would have no exposure to any financial troubles of Stella.
HWT have taken out newspaper advertisements that its stores are independently owned and operated businesses and that Stella losing millions of dollars over the past 12 months would have no impact here.
Click here for details of this story
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Edition 142 - 22.4.09
Fancy a little extra cash?
Is anyone really sure that they have picked up every cent that may be out there waiting for them?
Did you know that it is very easy to find out whether you have some unclaimed money owing to you possibly from an old bank account, share acquisitions or life policies?
click here to find out if your name is on a money list - you never know, this may be the little windfall you have been hoping for!
Retail staff levels expected to increase
Retailers have been forced to lay off staff over the past three months as the global recession hit hard in Australia, but they are confident things are about to pick up.
Click here for more about this story
Property staffing 'heading south'
The exit of foreign lenders could force 50,000 workers to be sacked from the broader Australian property market.
Click here for more about this story
Workplace Ombudsman Report - 10 years, no holidays and $25,000 in leave entitlements!
A Queensland company director is facing court action after his company allegedly refused to pay an employee more than $25,000 in annual leave entitlements accrued over more than a decade.
Click here for full details of this story
Trampoline Gelato, in addition to celebrating its 5th Birthday this month, has just opened its eighth store in Camberwell VIC on 11 April and is announcing plans to launch interstate within the next 12 months.
Click here to request more details about this franchise
Fairtrade on the rise
A global survey released last week has demonstrated that support for Fairtrade is on the rise. Ahead of World Fair Trade Day on 9 May, the survey on Fairtrade discovered that shoppers increasingly expect companies to be more accountable and fair in dealing with producers in developing countries.
Click here for more about this story
ACCC News
Allphones could be forced to pay millions of dollars in damages after the corporate watchdog agreed to represent more than 100 franchisees pursuing allegedly withheld commissions.
Click here for more about this story
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC, including what it had to say about the recent Coca Cola ads ...
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
Australia's most valuable brand
Guess which brand has been named Australia’s most valuable brand in a global survey of the world’s top 500 consumer names?
Click here for the answer
Strange but true ...
Apparently some tattoo parlour owners have designed tattoos for those partrons who have indicated their desire for a tribute to our PM to celebrate their stimulus payments.
So ... where will your K. Rudd be ... ?!
Click here for more about this story
ANZAC Day - Public Holiday
As we mentioned in an earlier edition of The Insider, there is some confusion about whether there is a public holiday for ANZAC day.
The answer, it seems, all depends upon where you live:
Western Australia - public holiday Monday 27 April
ACT - public holiday Monday 27 April
However, if you live anywhere else in the country, ANZAC day will be held on Saturday 25 April - with no public holiday.
Click here for details of all public holidays
Kleenmaid Collapse
With $73 million owing, including $27 million of deposits from 6,000 customers who may never receive the items they bought, Kleenmaid has called in administrators.
The company has 20 retail outlets in Queensland, NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia with a turnover of $90 million in the year to June 2008. Some franchise owners are "bordering on broke". (It is reported that the company was still offering franchises for sale in February.)
The first creditors' meeting is being held today in Brisbane.
Click here and click here and click here for details of this story
Top 10 Job Opportunities
The Daily Telegraph reports that since we are officially in a recession, now is the best time to start up a business - so long as you pick the right segment.
According to industry research group IBISWorld, there is good money to be made by those who can see the opportunities and are prepared to take the risk.
Click here for the Top 10 Job Opportunities List
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Edition 141 - 8.4.09
Bakers Delight’s ‘Bundraiser’ Day on Sat 28 March, where Bakers Delight’s bakeries raised over $111,000 to benefit children’s hospitals across the country.
Over 630 bakeries across Australia participated, raising funds from the sale of hot cross buns as well as donations to collection tins. While the initiative has been active in WA for the last 10 years and SA for the last two, this is the first time that Bakers Delight has rolled out ‘Bundraiser’ Day across its entire network- with great success.
Click here for more information about the Bakers Delight Franchising Opportunities Available Today
$50,000 payout for fast food franchise
A fast-food franchise in Perth’s CBD has been forced to back-pay many of its teenage workers $50,000 following investigations by the Federal Workplace Ombudsman. Workplace Ombudsman Western Australian Director Leigh Quealy advised that, after checking employment records, inspectors discovered 33 young staff had been short-changed an average $1500 each
Click here for more about this story
The cheques are in the mail
Companies are scrambling to attract consumers to spend their stimulus payments at their stores - even the Victorian Government is having its say on where they want you to spend your bonus dollars.
Click here and click here for more about this story
Bold Broadband move announced by PrimeMinister
Click here and click here to see what analysts are saying
Another major retailer offers online shopping
The weekly shop will become easier with another retail giant announcing plans to start offering online shopping in southeast Queensland.
Click here for more about this story
ACCC News
Interested in all the latest news from the ACCC, including what it had to say about the recent Coca Cola ads ...
> Click here to visit the ACCC News Centre.
Free Pizza !
Domino’s Pizza (US) has provided their own “bailout” package to their customers, albeit after an internet error, which led to outlets providing nearly 11,000 free pizzas in a single day.
Click here for details of this story
Guess who ???
Guess whose memoirs were marked down to just $5 (for the hardcopy!) in a city bookshop last week ...
Click here for details of this story
1300 Real Estate
Raine & Horne SA has become the first real estate group in Australia to introduce a free 24-hour 1300 call service to respond to consumer real estate sales and finance enquiries.
Designed to ensure that customers have access to the information they want, when they want it, Raine & Horne’s 1300 number reflects the need for time poor workers to have access to after-hours service.
Raine & Horne SA CEO Kevin Magee said the service had been extremely successful since its launch in March – with vendors, buyers and staff benefiting from efficient and personalised customer service.
Date claimer:
Please mark 16 October 2009 in your diary for the “Coffee Club, Journey to The Wild, Charity Ball”
more information to follow ...
New laws for retailers
CIGARETTES will no longer be allowed to be displayed behind shop counters under tough new anti-smoking regulations to be introduced from July.
Bank of Queensland shake-up on the cards
Click here for details of this story
Edition 140 - 2.4.09
Bye, Bye Baby Girl ... ?
A Tasmanian company director will face court for allegedly telling her teenage employees it would be "bye, bye baby girl" if they did not sign workplace agreements which reduced their salaries.
Click here for more about this story
Like to earn an extra $1 million ... step one: buy a suit and tie ...
Recent studies have shown that Australian women can expect to earn about $1 million less than men over their working lives. Think a tertiary might lessen the gap? Think again !
Click here for more about this story
I'll drink to that!
In the space of 12 months, turnover at liquor stores has increased almost 20 per cent, with $697 million spent buying alcohol in February alone. Consumers are staying home more often, 'cocooning', and liquor shops and take-away outlets are among the winners.
Click here for details of this story
This year marks the 150th anniversary of John Danks and Son Pty Ltd, Australia’s leading hardware and garden centre group.
Since opening the business is 1859, the Danks name has been synonymous with local expertise, innovation and customer focus. Today, Danks is Australia’s leading distributor of hardware and garden products, comprising three thriving retail brands - Home Timber and Hardware, Thrifty-Link Hardware and Plants Plus Garden Centres - with membership of more than 600 independent hardware retailers throughout Australia.
Click here to request more information about Danks
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Buyer Beware !
In an an interview with The Daily Telegraph, ACCC deputy chairman Michael Schaper has warned:
"As times get tougher, you find that there are a number of cowboys who emerge out of the woodwork and starting selling franchises that no one has heard about before."
Click here for more on this story
Before you sign anything, be sure to undertake due diligence, ask advice from experts.
Franchise Advisory Council's Jason Gerhke, joined us recently with his advice when looking at franchising:
"For a $100,000 business, that’s 100 hours of research, or about two and half weeks full-time work. That might sound like a lot of research, but a bit of time invested up front can save a franchisee from the devastating consequences of hasty and ill-considered investment decision." Jason says.
Click here to view full article in a recent newsletter
(Edition 135)
Find out which retailers are selling food which is 'not quite right' ... would you like some extra vermin with that?
Did you know that there is a website which lists all the latest food businesses to be named and shamed? Well, there is!
So if you want to know which businesses to avoid if you don’t like vermin, cigarettes or other dodgy things in your food, then be sure to Click here for details of this story
Experts say that the $900 stimulus payments will be delivered – one way or another !
Click here for more about this story
Dining out still in the household budget
According to a leading industry analyst, even an economic crisis won't change the eating habits of Australians. We still include a night out as part of our regular spending ~ how often and where we go, however, is another matter altogether ...
Click here to see where the average Aussie is spending their money
"No thanks, I'm just browsing"
The Australian Newspaper reports that women's fashion retailers have borne the brunt of a fall in retail spending in February.
Official figures this week showed retail sales fell 2 per cent in February, traditionally a poor month for the industry, but one that was made worse by the tough economic conditions.
Click here for details of this story
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