City Pacific Finance brokers takes out three places in Australia’s top 40 commercial brokers

Three City Pacific Finance brokers were recently named amongst the top 40 commercial brokers in Australia, as compiled by industry magazine Mortgage Professional Australia.

In a list that names the movers and shakers in one of the fastest growing finance sectors, and an increasingly important part of the broking industry, City Pacific Finance brokers were placed at positions 9, 20 and 22.

Greg Hearn from the Sutherland office, placed at position 9, wrote over $47.5 million in business in the 2006/2007 financial year across 20 deals.  The Mosman office came in at position 20, with Rockdale at position 22, having written $24.3 million and $21.6 million respectively.

The inclusion of these three offices in the top 40 list is testament to City Pacific Finance’s commitment to offering a wide range of finance types, which is unique in the finance franchises currently available.

An increasing number of City Pacific Finance brokers are beginning to become involved in commercial finance, through property purchase, development and construction finance and on the business side through cashflow lending and debtor finance and other business specific products.

As is being increasingly recognised by the broking industry, having this spread of finance products is more appealing to clients, and more profitable for franchisees, and helps protect against some of the volatility of the housing market.

City Pacific Finance is one of Australia’s largest finance broking companies offering residential and investment loans, commercial loans, and plant and equipment finance.

Click here for more information about becoming a City Pacific Finance franchisee

Worldwide Online Printing’s CEO Mark Manderson shares news of his Franchise’s recent success with us today: “This is a very exciting time to be a major player in Australia’s design and print sector. Our latest round of significant investment again demonstrates our confidence in the ability of our production teams, and our commitment to help our Franchise Owners grow their businesses and create wealth.”

Worldwide has underlined its crusade to capitalise on the digital printing phenomenon with the launch of a $1.5m digital-only Qld production facility.  And in New South Wales, Worldwide has doubled the capacity of its Alexandria production hub in a move which takes its investment in print technology, equipment and facilities to $4.5m this year.  The new hubs will dramatically improve design and print efficiencies of the group’s 19 NSW retail Centres and 21 Queensland retail Centres.

Worldwide Franchisee, Andrew Robertson, who owns and runs Worldwide Online Printing centres in Spring Hill and Rowes Arcade in Brisbane, is celebrating being named Australian Franchisee of the Year 2007 at the PricewaterhouseCoopers Excellence in Franchising Awards.

“I’m getting my feet back on the ground now, but I really felt lost for words when my name was called out!” Robertson said about winning the award.

Since purchasing the Worldwide Spring Hill franchise in September 2003 with no previous printing experience, Robertson and his team have increased the annual turnover more than four-fold in four years.

In his acceptance speech, Robertson said: “Worldwide’s system allowed an industry novice with no technical proficiency in printing succeed in a highly technical industry.  It is a fantastic organisation to be a part of. It’s a rising star. This award is also a testament to the franchisor team, on a state and national level, and the system itself at Worldwide.”

One of Robertson’s secrets to success, he maintains, is to focus on creating a strong team environment and a positive work culture, by investing in, recognizing, rewarding and training team members, while celebrating the team’s achievements as a whole. His approach has resulted in low staff turnover and increased employee numbers at his centres from three to fourteen.

Another of his methods for success is to make sure that the big picture isn’t obscured by details. “I set aside time to work on the businesses without interruptions,” he said. “Getting perspective is very important.

“I think almost all the achievements in my life have been part of a goal that I have set and then gone about achieving. The exact timing may have varied but the achievement itself has usually been something I’ve been working towards – sometimes for years!”

It’s been a busy year for Robertson – he and his wife Karen had a baby girl in March, just a few months before purchasing his second Worldwide centre in Rowes Arcade, Brisbane CBD, in July.

Click here for more information on becoming a Worldwide Online Printing Franchisee

Mortgage Choice is proud to announce that the all-schoolgirls team it sponsored for the 2007 World Solar Challenge (WSC) achieved its key goal - reducing a car’s greenhouse emissions by 30%. 

The 10 Annesley College students, aged 16 to 18 years, and a support team worked tirelessly over the last few months to convert a Holden Viva into a petrol/electric hybrid vehicle. Mortgage Choice branded the car with its logo, new campaign slogan ‘Simple Choice’, mascot Choosey the beagle and her pawprints – a sight to see on the sun-faded roads of the outback! The school was the only all-girl team to enter the bi-ennial event.

The WSC ran through the outback from Darwin to Adelaide from 21 to 28 October, stopping at towns including Katherine, Dunmarra, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, Marree, Coober Pedy, Glendambo and Port Augusta. It motivates research and development into harnessing solar energy and other fuel sources for future transport needs.

The Annesley car, nicknamed ‘Lissie’, drove in the WSC Greenfleet Class, which was established to showcase fuel-efficient technologies and low carbon fuels. The car averaged around 10 amps at 90 km/h, ensuring a petrol usage of around 6-7 litres per 100 kilometres (with the air conditioning on, of course).

Lissie ran well, thanks to a well thought out conversion of the petrol motor remaining in the front and an electrical system driving the rear wheels. A lithium polymer high-powered battery pack provided twice the electric power capacity at a third of the battery weight. The battery lasted around four hours and powered the electricity so the car used less petrol.

The team had a brilliant time, using instinct and knowledge earned before and during the trip (road inclines and curves, heavier or lighter pressure on the accelerator, more or less amps) to reach the ultimate precision in terms of fuel economy. They also found time to visit a number of famous landmarks along the way, such as the Devil’s Marbles.

Annesley College has participated in every WSC, excluding the inaugural race, since it began 20 years ago. This makes Annesley College the longest serving school and this year they were the only all-girl team.

The idea for the WSC originates from Danish born adventurer Hans Tholstrup. He was the first to circumnavigate the Australian continent in a 16 foot open boat. Later in life he became involved in various competitions with fuel saving cars and trucks and it was during this time that he became aware of the necessity to explore sustainable energy as a replacement for fossil fuels.

Tholstrup designed the world’s first solar car, called ‘Quiet Achiever’ and traversed the 4,052 kilometres between Sydney and Perth in 20 days – the precursor of the WSC.

Click here for more information on becoming a Mortgage Choice franchisee, and join a franchise which supports the community

Consultant Feature:

GETTING FRIENDLY IN FRANCHISING

Ordium Director, Kate Johnson, says she has found the perfect solution to businesses contemplating if franchising is for them – find a buddy!

Ordium’s new Franchise Buddy System is designed to assist individuals with a new business idea as well as established businesses who wish to obtain an understanding of franchising before committing to the franchising process.

“Committing to move from a company owned operation to a franchise system is a big leap and it shouldn’t be a leap of faith; rather a well informed decision,” says Ms Johnson.

“The transition is often misunderstood which frequently results in major gaps and errors during the process, including cashflow shortages.”

“In addition to understanding the Franchising Code of Conduct and the many legal requirements of the new business model there is a major shift in focus for the business owner; from stepping out of the day to day business and into the business of franchising and providing support to franchisees.”

Ms Johnson says there is currently a gap in education of potential Franchisors regarding the depth and complexity of their role prior to commencing down the path of franchising, resulting in misunderstanding about the cost and time involved to establish a solid franchise system.

“We need to educate start-up Franchisors about the statistics, that is, the number of franchisees it takes to be sustainable.  Many people still think franchising is a quick way to make money but the decision requires much more thought.  Correct information and more research at the outset can save thousands of dollars in costly mistakes for start-up Franchisors.”

“The Buddy System can save companies a lot of money, particularly in legal fees, if they decide not to proceed with franchising, but the bonus is that in undertaking the process they frequently improve their business systems and documentation.”

That’s largely thanks to Ordium’s thorough “Franchise Architecture”, an intricate plan outlining the key steps and milestones required to develop a successful franchise.

“I originally designed the Franchise Architecture to help entrepreneurs that wanted to see the ‘big picture’ rather than the detail.  The Franchise Architecture clearly shows what needs to be developed in order to create an efficient franchise system.”

The Franchise Buddy System also introduces prospective Franchisors to a range of Support Partners that can put into perspective the legal, accounting, marketing and operational requirements of a franchised business.

Ms Johnson says one area where potential Franchisors frequently require assistance is in the recruitment of quality franchisees.

“Start-up Franchisors need to understand how to create a profile of the exact franchisee they are trying to attract so they can find people with the right ‘fit’ for the business instead of someone simply looking to buy themselves a job.  This is crucial as unsuitable franchisees are a large hidden cost of any new franchise.”

Ms Johnson’s experience in both the franchising and the corporate arena means that the Franchise Buddy System has a comparable mentoring program for corporate business owners looking to grow their business without franchising.

For more information: Ordium Management Solutions

ACCC INVESTIGATIONS INTO FRANCHISING

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recently issued a news release on its website to explain the processes involved in handling franchising complaints, investigations and outcomes.
Approximately 1000 complaints concerning franchising are received by the ACCC each year from consumers and businesses. The ACCC will examine complaints wherever the matter falls within the scope of the Trade Practices Act and/or the Franchising Code of Conduct.

A three stage investigation process is used by the ACCC. Firstly, an “Initial Assessment” is made to verify the general information of the complaint and assess whether the complaint is substantive. At this stage of the complaint, the ACCC will usually recommend mediation to resolve the franchising dispute.
If a complaint is found to be substantive, it progresses to an “Initial Investigation”, which involves an ACCC enforcement officer investigating the allegations, for example by interviewing the parties and reviewing relevant documents.

Finally, an “In-depth Investigation” may be conducted by senior enforcement staff if the allegations can be substantiated by reliable evidence. The ACCC’s Enforcement Committee will consider such matters and take appropriate action, such as litigating the matter or resolve it by an administrative settlement.

The ACCC has investigated and taken action in several recent cases, including:
Several franchisors who were found to have made misleading and deceptive representations to franchisees and prospective franchisees about the profitability of the system;
A franchisor whose disclosure document was found to be ambiguous and potentially misleading, and a franchisor whose disclosure document was found to be incomplete and insufficient;
A franchisor who did not provide franchisees with the safeguards provided under the Code, including failing to provide a disclosure document;
A franchisor who was found to have issued notices to franchisees claiming that they had breached their franchise agreements that did not sufficiently describe the breach or the remedy required and did not give the franchisee a reasonable timeframe to remedy the breach;
Several businesses that purported to offer a “licence” but which the ACCC found was actually a franchise, and as such that the franchisors were in breach of the Code;
The outcome of such investigations varies, but may include the franchisor having to give court enforceable undertakings, the franchisor having to refund franchise fees or provide compensation to the affected franchisees, and/or the franchisor having to undergo trade practices compliance training (at their cost).

Click here to contact Wisewoulds Lawyers

Small Business Champions Have Plenty To Bark About

International franchise system, Aussie Pooch Mobile Pty Ltd, have taken out the coveted Queensland Small Business Champion Award – Service Division. Supported by Commonwealth Bank Local Business Banking, the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources and managed by Precedent Productions, the awards are designed to acknowledge the most outstanding small businesses in each state and territory.

Aussie Pooch Mobile was recognized for their success in the areas of business promotion, customer service, community involvement, staff training and motivation and overall business growth.

This business is the brainchild of Chris Taylor who started grooming dogs at just 16 years old. In true entrepreneurial spirit, Chris launched Aussie Pooch Mobile Pty Ltd in 1991 with the full support of her husband, family and friends at 21 years of age.

The Aussie Pooch Mobile was the first franchise system of its kind, and is still the largest franchised dog wash and care company in the world.

After taking Australia by storm, Chris realised a global need for her business so after more research, launched as ‘The Pooch Mobile’ overseas. There are currently Pooch Mobile franchises in the United Kingdom, Malaysia, New Zealand, New Caledonia and the USA, with a total of 175 operators worldwide.

With a slew of other awards behind her including Queensland Young Achiever of the Year for Career Achievement, Queensland's Telstra Business Woman of the Year in the Business Owner Category, and Women in Franchising 2005, Chris is certainly living by her motto. She has grown from a young girl with dream to a dynamic international business woman with a thriving business that’s going from strength to strength.

Chris hopes that this award enables her to reach out and inspire others to succeed in their chosen field. 

And for dog lovers, franchising with Aussie Pooch Mobile has a twofold benefit. You will be able to build a successful business while doing something you are passionate about, and that is what it’s all about says Chris. “To be successful first you have to fall in love with what you do.”

Trios unveils new look to entice customers

TRIOS Fresh & Tasty has recently revealed a new look at its stores as part of a brand reinvigoration campaign aimed at ensuring the healthy fast food franchise keeps abreast of changing market trends and spurs consumer interest.

Mr David Elia, Trios’ Managing Director said intensive market research was undertaken which resulted in recommendations to change signage thus enhancing the appeal of the product.   “We have enhanced our signage, invested more money in product development, increased our menu range to include both toasted and grilled wraps and improved the overall store layout,” Mr Elia said. “We want to ensure that Trios’ offers a fresh wrap experience and unique flavour profile that keeps customers coming back for more.”

 “Most of the stores have rolled out the new look and we have already seen a lift in sales levels by up to 15-20 percent which is a fantastic response and has certainly pleased franchisees.
“Our website is proving to be a hit with a 50% increase in unique website visits over the past few months and a further increase in online customer feedback.”

 “There are also plans to change the structure of the business by developing stand alone store formats that offer more opportunities to also target the breakfast and dinner market.
“In addition to the proposed renovations, our local focus will be on increasing our presence in South-East Queensland, Sydney, and Western Australia with our plans to open between six and ten new stores this financial year.

Mr Elia said the establishment of Trios coincided with the boom in the healthy fast food industry back in 2002 and was still attracting people interested in starting a business that capitalised on it.

“We want franchisees who are interested in, and already a living, a healthy lifestyle and that want to spread this message at the same time as running a successful business.”

Trios currently has 14 stores throughout Victoria and New South Wales and was founded by the Elias brothers David, Sam and Elias Elia. 

ecowash mobile wins major awards and
cracks US market

Currently saving an estimated 315,000 litres of water a week, completely waterless mobile car washing and detailing service ecowash mobile opened in its seventh country during August, while picking up two major awards during September.

On August 20 ecowash mobile Managing Director Jim Cornish, and Operations Director Stewart Nicholls, unveiled a new franchise in Las Vegas.  After opening their first international franchise in the Middle East in August last year, ecowash mobile is now in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Jordan.  Mr Cornish also unveiled Ecowash Mobile Europe in France in February this year and there are other overseas locations in the pipeline for early next year.

“It is all very exciting,” he said.

“We now have 42 franchisees across Australia and have made our first venture into the US market. To have moved into seven countries after starting out as a two car operation back in March 2004 with Stewart Nicholls is a quantum leap.”

On September 7 ecowash mobile won the 2007 Australian Business Award in the ‘Enterprise in its industry’ category. The award acknowledges the automotive industry franchise system as an industry leader and honours its contributions to the industry as a whole. This was followed up with a Franchise Council of Australia Award for Emerging Franchise System of the Year 2007 (NSW/ACT) six days later.

Unlike traditional car washing processes, an "ecowash" does not require water. The unique 2-in-1 wash and polish technique uses an exclusive polymer compound which lifts the dirt from the surface of the paint and encapsulates it in a lubricant. The dirt is then removed with a soft cloth - all without water and without a scratch.

What's left is a fine layer of polish which is removed with a clean cloth to reveal a beautifully polished and protected surface. Your car looks like new again and will stay that way for longer thanks to a protective coating which remains to guard your car from the harmful effects of the environment.

Bark Busters Franchisees on the right track

Bark Busters Australia recently held its 3 day 2007 National Conference at the Novotel in Wollongong with all Franchisees from around Australia attending. 

We also had attendees from England Taiwan and New Zealand. It is the one time each year when all Bark Busters get together and network with each other and share ideas on how to make their businesses grow.

Our objective is to always support and promote our team spirit and to help our Franchisees grow and achieve success together.  

“A champion team will always beat a team of champions”

This year’s them was “NEVER  NEVER NEVER GIVE UP” an infamous saying by Winston Churchill many years ago.

“Sometimes it is what you think you know that stops you from learning, doing and achieving more”

The three days included group mentor discussions on difficult dog cases. Converting enquires into lessons, thus improving business income.

Dealing with difficult clients. Networking within your own community. Team building exercises, which really took many out of their comfort zones!!

Exciting new training techniques were introduced and demonstrated indoors then on the final day we had numerous dogs in the park so everyone got to practice these
new techniques hands on.

We also came on board this year with providing free in home help for families with their new puppies in conjunction with Paws for Diabetics. This organisation provides dogs that will detect when the insulin level is getting too low enabling the person to take action before a Diabetic attack occurs.  It was wonderful to have them come to our conference and educate us all on Diabetics and how much our voluntary help is benefiting those families in their own homes.

Also our Award Night where those achieving not only monetary results are acknowledged, but also recognising those doing great things such as: clever new and initiative marketing, doing community “Dally Says” talk to primary school children to prevent them getting bitten by dogs, introducing a free assessments with the Sydney Staffi Rescue Shelter to make sure dogs are rehoused to the right families, talking at hospital antenatal classes on things prospective parents need to be doing with their beloved dogs before the new baby comes home.  We also announced the winner of our Australian 2006/07 Rewards Program, whom won a trip to the USA to attend their 2008 conference. A great night of dancing and laugher was had by everyone.

Click here for more information on becoming
a Bark Busters' Franchisee

Agreement to Acquire Michel’s Patisserie

Retail Food Group Limited (‘RFG’) today announced that it had entered into a conditional Scrip & Cash Terms Agreement (‘SCTA’) to acquire all the issued shares in The Michel’s Group Australia Pty Ltd (‘TMGA’). TMGA is the intellectual property owner and manager of the Michel’s Patisserie franchise system (‘Michel’s’), a well known Australian food retailer which specializes in the sale of cake, coffee and patisserie related products.

Currently Michel’s have a total of 340 franchised outlets in Australia, and a further 6 franchised outlets in New Zealand. Upon completion of the transaction and following RFG’s recent acquisition of the 321 store Brumby’s Bakeries franchise system, the total number of franchised outlets under the stewardship of RFG will exceed 1,020 outlets, making RFG one of the largest retail food franchisors in Australia and the largest by a considerable margin with respect to “home grown” retail food franchise concepts.

The acquisition is anticipated to be completed by the end of November 2007, however pursuant to the SCTA RFG will be entitled to the whole of TMGA’s FY2008 earnings (after deduction of interest on TMGA’s existing debt) from 1 July 2007.

The consideration payable to TMGA shareholders is $50 million cash and a scrip component being subject to an incentivated earn-out program based on TMGA FY2008 adjusted EBIT performance. TMGA shareholders will be entitled to be issued with RFG scrip on a pro rata basis where TMGA’s adjusted FY2008 EBIT is between $13.25 million and $18 million.

Assuming full entitlement to the earn-out the maximum value of the consideration payable is $88 million with any scrip entitlement being issued on the earlier of the finalisation of the FY2008 audited accounts or 30th October 2008.

TMGA also has debt of approximately $56 million which will either remain with the company on completion of the SCTA or be refinanced by RFG.

RFG provided FY2008 guidance on the 29th August detailing a forecast increase in EBIT of 55% to $19 million and an increase in NPAT to $9.8 million (an increase of 30%).

Prior to factoring synergies, efficiencies and integration savings which would be achievable from the incorporation of Michel’s into RFG’s management and operational service structure, RFG expects that the successful completion of the TMGA transaction would result in revised FY2008 guidance of $32 million in EBIT, an increase of approximately $20 million or 167% on FY2007.

Additionally, while RFG is confident that the TMGA acquisition will be earnings per share (EPS) accretive in FY2008, the quantum of such increase will depend upon the funding structure adopted and the scrip issue as a consequence of the earn-out.

The acquisition is subject to a number of conditions including shareholder approval, ASX not objecting to the terms of performance shares which will be issued in connection with the scrip component of the consideration and satisfactory completion of RFG’s current due diligence enquiries.

The agreement is also conditional on RFG obtaining financing on terms which are satisfactory to it. RFG has yet to determine the structure and composition of the funding of the cash component of the consideration.

John Livy, the managing director of TMGA will remain with Michel’s. John has extensive experience in multi outlet retail environments including TAB (10 years) and Regional Director of Franchising - Pepsi Co Restaurants Group (11 years). Occupying the position of Managing Director of TMGA since early 2004, John has developed and refined the franchisee service delivery systems for Michel’s as well as recruiting an extremely robust and skilled management team – all of which have agreed to go forward under RFG’s
stewardship. In addition Mr. Livy has committed to a long term involvement with the RFG senior management team, both with respect to Michel’s and RFG’s other systems.

Bruce Hancox will join the Board of RFG. Bruce has been a strategic advisor to the TMGA Board since October 2006 and has been instrumental in corporatising TMGA and developing its non-operational service systems. Bruce has over 35 years experience in corporate positions, manufacturing and retailing including 19 years with Brierley Investments (occupying the positions of director and chairman).

RFG Chairman John Cowley said “the Board is extremely excited about the proposed TMGA acquisition as it represents a fantastic opportunity for the Company to consolidate another impressive, and complementary, retail food system under its management umbrella”.

“Not only does the Michel’s Patisserie acquisition allow RFG to apply its proven expertise in managing franchise systems to another high-profile Australian brand”, he said, “it also further delivers on the strategic growth initiatives outlined in the Company’s May 2006 Prospectus”.

TMGA Managing Director John Livy said “the opportunity to partner a successful and growing public company with strong management skills and ready access to capital such as RFG will provide early access for our franchisees and stakeholders to the benefits of a larger organization”.

RFG CEO Tony Alford said “the TMGA acquisition was part of the Company’s strategy to consolidate a number of retail food franchise systems to achieve economies of scale through multi-brand ownership and leveraging of existing franchise systems.”

“Michel’s will bolster RFG’s outlet numbers to in excess of 1,020 franchised units”, Mr Alford said, “As with the recent Brumby’s acquisition, the Michel’s system will fit both strategically and synergistically with our Donut King and bb’s café systems”.

“Michel’s is a well developed and successful franchise system particularly in NSW with 195 outlets. Franchisee revenue is underpinned by its coffee and cake product offering and is of such scale and maturity that, similar to the Brumby’s system, it provides an immediate positive earnings contribution to RFG as well as providing a further platform to drive medium and long term shareholder value”, he said.

Mr Alford said “the TMGA purchase would not only benefit the franchisees of Michel’s, but also RFG’s existing Brumby’s Bakeries, Donut King and bb’s cafe franchisees by allowing further cross-pollination of products, collaborative marketing initiatives, cobranding, supply economies and leveraging of RFG’s proven franchise management systems and growing national presence to take advantage of the significantly increased scale.”

He said “Michel’s, as with Retail Food Group’s existing systems, would retain its unique and distinct branding and identity.”

Mr Alford said, “Retail Food Group would continue the development and growth of the Michel’s network across Australia and New Zealand. Indeed, Michel’s prominent brand, innovative distribution model and service systems positions the brand well for future organic growth”.

Retail Food Group is a leading Australian retail food brand manager and franchisor. It is the franchisor and intellectual property owner of the Donut King, bb’s café and Brumby’s systems.

Click here for information about Michel’s Patisserie
Click here for information about Donut King
Click here for information about bb’s café

A swag of nominations for City Pacific Finance in
top industry awards

City Pacific Finance has been named as a finalist in seven categories in the Australian Mortgage Awards, the biggest and most exciting awards night on the finance industry calendar.

Franchise Operation of the Year
• Commercial Brokerage of the Year

• Broker of the Year (Commercial Real Estate): Greg Hearn of City Pacific Finance Sutherland

• Brokerage of the Year (less than 5 staff): City Pacific Finance Mosman

• Brokerage of the Year (6-12 staff): City Pacific Finance Cairns

• New Office on the Block: City Pacific Finance Central Highlands (Emerald)

• Young Gun of the Year (Franchise): Sandi Nock, Office Manager of City Pacific Finance Central Highlands (Emerald)

The awards night was held on Friday 14th September at Luna Park Sydney, with the black tie function attracting over 800 guests from the mortgage and finance industry.

City Pacific Finance was represented at the event by management and brokers and staff from the finalist offices, who were all thrilled to be recognised by their peers in the industry at the well regarded awards.

Greg Hearn took out his category, and was surprised and very pleased to be recognised for his hard work in the specialised field of commercial finance.

At the 2005 Australian Mortgage Awards City Pacific Finance was named Franchise Operation of the Year, with two of with two of our top brokers named as Sales Manager and Salesperson of the Year. In 2006, City Pacific Finance was again a finalist at this prestigious industry event.

Click here for more information on
becoming a City Pacific Franchisee

CONTOURS TAKES GOLD FOR FASTEST GROWTH AT SMARTCOMPANY 2007 AWARDS

Contours has again proven its unrivalled success, receiving the HP Fastest Growth Award at the SmartCompany 2007 Awards this month with an incredible growth figure of 782% over the last three years.

The SmartCompany Awards discover Australia’s smartest entrepreneurs who are changing the business landscape. The awards, based on 2006-2007 revenue growth rates, recognise the best entrepreneurs of 2007.

The SmartCompany Awards compiled the SmartCompany50 – a list of 50 of Australia’s fastest growing and innovative companies that are building national and international businesses – in which Contours ranked Number 1.
Back in 2005, Contours founders David Hundt, Will Deane, Peter Hammond and Steve Sacks saw the success of express fitness franchise overseas and adopted the idea to the Australian market. Today, its innovative fitness concept continues to revolutionise the way Australian women approach exercise.

Contours’ key success factors are based on its simple, effective marketing message: Get fit in 29 minutes, three times a week, and its simple franchising model that is Australian-based and easy to manage with monthly training sessions in sales and equipment.

“Contours has had a big impact on the health and fitness industry – almost all our franchises are profitable,” says David Hundt. “Women are busier than ever and are becoming more discerning about the most efficient way to get into shape.”
Contours started in Bendigo three years ago and within 14 months the company had $1 million in revenue. Now it has 120 operating studios and more than 155 franchisees across NSW, ACT, WA, SA, Tasmania, Queensland and Victoria. The strategic goal is to have 300 studios with more than 300 members each.

Contours’ program is particularly popular among the 25-65 year-old age group, as women who are pressed for time due to family and work commitments can fit the short workout in to their busy schedule and still achieve results.
Contours uses weight bearing equipment specifically designed for women with positive and negative resistance. This ensures a far superior workout to the hydraulic equipment often used by other mainstream gyms, providing quick, sustainable results and an increase in energy levels.

NoWet Waterless Car Clean is pleased to announce that they have secured a 3 year exclusive agreement with the manufacturer for supply of all NoWet products.  This also includes the right of renewal.  A nice vote of trust and thanks from NoWet head office.

NoWet Waterless Car Clean was also invited to attend a recent National Conference of Fleet Car Managers in Brisbane.  Our people there have just won the contract to clean all Q Fleet and government cars as well as supply product.

The beauty of the NoWet system is the extra earning capacity our commercial sales gives to our Franchisees.  Our franchise system has been described as one of the fairest in the business and is
geared in favour of our franchisees, giving them choices and freedom to move.

At a recent presentation at Rydges Brisbane for the National Conference of Fleet Managers, delegates received gift packs and a demonstration on how to use the NoWet products.

At present the company is looking for a Master Franchise owner for the States of New South Wales, Canberra and Victoria/Tasmania.

After 3 years in franchising, the company has come a long way with a superior environmental product (they have the Australian EcoLabel of Excellence for both Product and Service) and are leaders in waterless technology.  Leonie Weber, Communications Manager says the results from using NoWet speak for themselves. 

Click here for more information about NoWet

Trios unveils new look to entice customers
TRIOS Fresh & Tasty has recently revealed a new look at its stores as part of a brand reinvigoration campaign aimed at ensuring the healthy fast food franchise keeps abreast of changing market trends and spurs consumer interest.

Mr David Elia, Trios’ Managing Director said intensive market research was undertaken which resulted in recommendations to change signage thus enhancing the appeal of the product. 
“We have enhanced our signage, invested more money in product development, increased our menu range to include both toasted and grilled wraps and improved the overall store layout,” Mr Elia said. “We want to ensure that Trios’ offers a fresh wrap experience and unique flavour profile that keeps customers coming back for more.”

 “Most of the stores have rolled out the new look and we have already seen a lift in sales levels by up to 15-20 percent which is a fantastic response and has certainly pleased franchisees.
“Our website is proving to be a hit with a 50% increase in unique website visits over the past few months and a further increase in online customer feedback.”

 “There are also plans to change the structure of the business by developing stand alone store formats that offer more opportunities to also target the breakfast and dinner market.
“In addition to the proposed renovations, our local focus will be on increasing our presence in South-East Queensland, Sydney, and Western Australia with our plans to open between six and ten new stores this financial year.

Mr Elia said the establishment of Trios coincided with the boom in the healthy fast food industry back in 2002 and was still attracting people interested in starting a business that capitalised on it.

“We want franchisees who are interested in, and already a living, a healthy lifestyle and that want to spread this message at the same time as running a successful business.”

Trios currently has 14 stores throughout Victoria and New South Wales and was founded by the Elias brothers David, Sam and Elias Elia. 

Click here for more information on becoming a Trios Franchisee

HydroDog was delighted to be listed in the Top 50 Smart Company and are proudly displaying their Award at Head Office. 

HydroDog was nominated and won their Award due to the following significant achievements in 2007:

Growth: 24%;
Employees: 170 plus franchisees;

Listed as the 6th Fastest growing Franchise in BRW (2006);
Listed as the fastest growing franchise in the Pet Industry in BRW (2007);

Unique and highly-visible ‘Blue Dog’ Mobile Salon
Owners: Martin and Janie Rose
Based: Head Office, Victoria
Franchisees: Australia Wide
Industry: Pet Industry/mobile services

HydroDog franchisees wash and groom over 32,000 dogs each month. Australia-wide there are 170 franchisees who earn $1,200 - $2000 per week from four sources: washing, grooming, sales on pet food and sales on accessories from their highly visible and unique mobile salons.

Australia’s best in franchising recognised in regional honours - PwC Regional Excellence in Franchising Award winners announced

Emerging franchise systems, franchisees and women in franchising across the country have been recognised during the Franchise Council of Australia’s Franchise Appreciation Week, paying tribute to the ‘best of the best’ in Australian franchising.

Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) CEO Richard Evans congratulated winners from across Australia and thanked them for contributing to the triumph of franchising as successful business model major economic and employment generator for Australia.

“Franchising has a tremendous economic impact on Australia generating sales the equivalent to 14% of Australia’s GDP each year.  Over the past few decades, franchising in Australia has developed into a powerhouse industry employing around 600,000 people. The $128 billion franchise industry bears evidence of the sector’s economic and social benefits and plays a significant role in the generation of income and prosperity for Australians,” Mr Evans said.

2007 PricewaterhouseCoopers Emerging Franchise Systems of the Year:
Western Australia: Aroma Café
South Australia: Wokinabox
Qld / NT: Mr Rental
NSW / ACT: Ecowash Mobile
Victoria /Tasmania: Hairhouse Warehouse

2007 PricewaterhouseCoopers Franchisee of the Year:
Western Australia: Jamie Gant (ANZ Mortgage Solutions)
South Australia: Jock Dean (Mr Carports)
Qld / NT: Andrew Robertson (Worldwide Online Printing)
NSW / ACT: Marc & Tania Donohue (Narellan Pools)
Victoria /Tasmania: Cameron Mactier & Margaret Whelan (Optus World)

2007 PricewaterhouseCoopers Franchise Woman Year:
Western Australia: Linda Steele (CHOOKS fresh & tasty)
South Australia: Vicki Prout (Franchise Alliance)
Qld / NT: Dianne Williams (Lenard’s)
NSW / ACT: Karen Matthews (Ella Baché)
Victoria /Tasmania: Sadhana Smiles (Hocking Stuart)

The regional winners of the state-based Franchisee of the Year and Franchise Woman of the Year awards then compete to take home the prestigious national title at the PricewaterhouseCoopers Excellence in Franchising Awards announced on 13 October 2007 at the National Franchise and Small Business Convention (NFC07) in Melbourne.

Click here to see profiles and photos of the winners!

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as we will be bringing you all of the news from NFC07!

Some of the winners

The sky’s the limit for this Bakers Delight franchise owner

A flying instructor and a bakery owner may seem worlds apart, but for Gregg Hardie, franchisee at Bakers Delight Unley, this career transition made perfect sense.

Gregg had always had an interest in flying, so when he completed high school Gregg took to the skies and received his commercial pilots licence.

“I loved flying, but studying to receive my commercial pilot's licence and becoming a flying instructor was fulfilling a childhood dream.  However, I knew it wasn’t going to be my long-term future.” explains Gregg.

So when Gregg’s mother came home with a local newspaper advertising the opportunity to study Small Business Franchising as part of a Bakers Delight traineeship, Gregg was inspired to take this up as his next challenge.

“We’d always been Bakers Delight customers so I was familiar with the brand, the bread and the bakery environment. I took on the traineeship hopeful to one day own my own Bakers Delight business,” says Gregg.

Just two years’ later, Gregg bought his first bakery in Ingle Farm.

“There was no way I could have started my own business at age 24 without Bakers Delight.  I had some experience, but I think what got me ahead was a lot of heart and determination to succeed,” explains Gregg.

“I embraced the franchising concept and accepted all the support available to me from head office.  They assisted me with the paperwork, training staff through organised training sessions, facilitating networking with other franchises, as well as general motivation and encouragement,” recalls Gregg.

“I wanted to succeed, and they wanted me to succeed, so it was a win-win situation,” says Gregg … that’s the beauty of franchising.”

Bakers Delight also provided Gregg the opportunity to meet life-long friends, and of course, his wife, Aime!

“We met through another Bakers Delight franchisee; not only is he a great source of knowledge and mentorship, but he also has great match-making skills!” laughs Gregg.

Now with two small children, Nathaniel aged two and one year-old Kyla, Gregg relishes being his own boss and the ability to spend quality time with his young family.

“I am fortunate enough to have not missed anything… except a little sleep,” he says.

For Gregg, the satisfaction of being a business owner - besides the obvious lifestyle benefits - is knowing that he is able to reap the rewards from the dedication and effort he puts into his own business.

If you would like more information about

Mortgage Choice celebrates 15 year anniversary

Mortgage Choice, Australia’s Best Mortgage Broker*, has ridden a wave of positive results since directors Rod Higgins and Peter Higgins gave birth to the idea in 1992.

Recognising Australia had become perhaps the most complex housing market in the world, the brothers decided created a business to help consumers negotiate the mortgage maze.  Their aim was to build a national franchise network of ethical and professional residential property loan advisors who local communities could trust with service and who didn’t play favourites.

Managing director, Paul Lahiff said the company still strongly believes the mortgage broker proposition is appealing to all participants - consumers, lenders and the brokers themselves.

“That’s obvious when you look at the success achieved in such a short time. As at our last financial results announcement, Mortgage Choice featured 445 franchises, 663 loan consultants, 213 retail outlets and around 100 corporate staff nationwide,” he said.

“We are the only ASX-listed specialist mortgage broker and we continue to be recognised via accolades such as: 2007 Australian Banking & Finance Awards Best Mortgage Broker, 2006 MFAA Awards Retail Mortgage Broker of the Year and inclusion on the 2006 BRW Magazine Top 500 Public Companies list.

“We are proud of our network growth and the maturity and continued innovation of our business processes. Mortgage Choice has come a long way in strengthening its position as a company worth following – due to our financial and franchising performance but most notably because of our high quality customer service and commitment to a ‘Client for Life’ philosophy.

“This milestone signifies a great deal to us because our solid market position and continual achievement means we can really take care of our franchisees, shareholders, customers and staff while strengthening lender partner relationships.

“Importantly, it also allows us to maintain our commitment to bringing onboard only the best franchisees. When it comes to expanding our network, we accept only the highest quality candidates”.

* Australian Banking & Finance Magazine Awards, May 2007.

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SAFETYQUIP WELCOMES NEW FRANCHISEES

The Australian safety services and supply sector is booming and SafetyQuip is proud to announce the expansion of the network with 2 new franchise locations.

Michael Davies and Keith Harrison have joined SafetyQuip as franchisees for the Victoria West (Geelong) region, while franchisees Mark and Suzie Beveridge will based in Newcastle.

For the past 15 years Mick has been self-employed in the transportation industry. Self-employment has kept him busy, but when he has time he enjoys a ‘bad’ game of golf, fishing and family BBQ’s with his wife and 2 children. Sports-mad Keith is a semi-professional basketball player with the ABA national champions – the Geelong Supercats.

Mark and Suzie have their hands full with four young children, but Mark still had time to earn a private pilot’s license. They enjoyed a rural lifestyle for many years before taking on the challenge of business-building in Newcastle.

SafetyQuip’s commitment to excellence was a major drawing card for these new franchisees. A franchised system since 2001, SafetyQuip has already fielded three finalists in the FCA’s national ‘Franchisee of the Year’ awards. It also gives them huge satisfaction to be in a field that prevents injury and saves lives.

CONTOURS OPENS 100TH FRANCHISE

Contours’ revolutionary new fitness concept for women proved its unrivalled success with the official opening of its 100th franchise studio on Monday 25th June 2007.

The 100th studio, which opened in North Ryde, NSW is the 63rd for 2007 and paves the way for what is expected to be another strong year of growth for the franchise. With the first studio opening in January 2005, Contours has ballooned in to one of Australia’s fastest growing and most respected franchise systems.

The official opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new North Ryde studio, with Contours director and CEO Mr Dave Hundt.

“With 100 franchises now operating and another 74 in development, Contours has cemented itself as a major player in the Australian fitness industry,” said Mr Hundt.

“Throughout the 2005/6 financial year, Contours recorded an amazing 1308% increase in group revenue, and with strong franchise sales for the 2006/7 financial year, we’re expecting similar results.”

The key to Contours’ success has been the development of a user-friendly business model and extensive studio support.

“Franchisees are attracted to Contours because their purchase gives them more than just a brand name,” said Mr Hundt. “They also acquire an entire operating system and an Australian-based team that provides set-up, training, marketing and day-to-day operational assistance.”

Contours’ innovative fitness and weight loss program is based on a quick, effective, non-intimidating 29 minute workout combining low impact aerobic activity and resistance exercise.

The program is particularly popular among the 25-65 year-old age group, as women who are pressed for time due to family and work commitments can fit the short workout in to their busy schedule and still achieve results.

Contours uses weight bearing equipment specifically designed for women with positive and negative resistance. This ensures a far superior workout to the hydraulic equipment often used by other mainstream gyms, providing quick, sustainable results and an increase in energy levels.

Click here for more information on becoming a Contours franchisee

Leading Franchisor Mortgage Choice Wins Industry Leadership Accolade

Prominent Australian mortgage broking franchisor of 13 years, Mortgage Choice has again proven it is Australia’s leading broker by recently securing the 2007 Australian Banking and Finance Award of Best Mortgage Broker for the third time in four years.

The publicly listed company outclassed a number of high profile competitors to receive the coveted prize.

Mortgage Choice is dedicated to providing professional home loan service and advice to borrowers and this has seen its loan consultants help over 200,000 customers achieve the great Australian dream of home ownership.

Through its national network of over 436 franchises (as at 31/12/07) operating within metropolitan, coastal and regional areas, th