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News Stories to end March 2009
- FOR THE LATEST NEWS PLEASE CLICK HERE
Edition 139 - 26.3.09
Want to win some great prizes?
Think you can survive 21 days without a bucket of chips or an oversized greasy hamburger?
IGA, is again encouraging individuals and families to abstain from fast food for 21-days, breaking the common and unhealthy habit of relying on junk food, by participating in the IGA Fast Food Blitz.
Registration is open from 1 April www.iga.net.au. Sign up for your chance to win a range of great prizes including a Red Centre BBQ from Home Timber and Hardware and IGA grocery vouchers to help stock your fridge and cupboards with fresh and healthy products. Remember, there’s no punishment for failure, it’s a personal challenge which can be taken by the whole family, with a group of friends or in the workplace.
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Retail is still a sweet business
Grocery and liquor wholesaler Metcash has not only seen its alcohol sales rise, but its confectionery sales have jumped a massive 50%.
Click here for more about this story
ANZAC Day - Public Holiday - Yes or No ?
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 Australian public holidays
ACCC NEWS
ACCC considers collective bargaining by newsagents is in public interest
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission proposes to grant authorisation to collective bargaining arrangements designed to give newsagents a greater voice in the terms and conditions they receive from publishers and distributors of newspapers and magazines.
Click here for details of this story
ACCC allows Wizard and Aussie collective bargaining
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has not objected to the collective bargaining notifications lodged by a group of franchisees of Wizard Home Loans in relation to negotiating aspects of franchise agreements with Aussie Home Loans and GE Money.
Click here for details of this story
Must See: Astonishing Police Video
Police have arrested two women believed to be part of a European pickpocket gang which has been operating in the Sydney CBD over the past two months.
Investigations are continuing into possibly even more groups targeting unsuspecting shoppers.
Click here to see the amazing police video showing an expert pickpocket in action
– you won’t believe your eyes!
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Lower interest rates and the first economic stimulus package have helped shore up jobs in the retail industry – 32,000 of them - according to an analysis of new ABS jobs data
Click here for details of this story
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The Australian Retailers Association has slammed the ACTU's push for a $21 per week minimum wage rise claiming the result would be increased job loses.
ARA Executive Director Richard Evans said the ACTU's argument that a wage rise will maintain the purchasing power of working families is outrageous and irresponsible in the current economic environment.
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A touch of green for an industry giant
Yum! Brands, the world’s largest restaurant company and parent of Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, has opened its first environmentally-friendly restaurant.
Click here for details of this story
19.3.09
Lenard’s, Australia’s largest specialty chicken retailer, has reported the average annual operating profit of each franchise rose 16 per cent in the six months ended 31 December 2008, while the average store sales were reported at just under $1 million.
Click here for more about this story
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David Jones Chief Executive, Mark McInnes has told The Australian newspaper: "We used the boom of 2006 and 2007 to prepare for the downturn, and today our company is in excellent shape." DJ’s announced a 2.4% increase in profit to for the 6 months up to January.
Click here for more about this story
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Hey Big Spenders!
Retailers are reporting a surge in the sale of household items following the recent stimulus payments.
One of the big sellers was the humble BBQ – three times the usual number of sales have been made in a week ~ presumably local butchers everywhere are smiling too!!
Click here for more about this story
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SYDNEY FRANCHISING EXPO - 20-22 March
Here are just some of the opportunities you will see at the Expo (see local guides for more information):
bb's Cafe
Brumby's
Billboard Express
Donut King
Embroidme
KwikKerb
Michel's Patisserie
Sign*a*Rama
Wendy's
Can't get to the Sydney Expo?
No problems, simply Click here to visit our website to find out about these, and many more, opportunities and locations available today
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Workplace Ombudsman Report
A Wagga retail business is backpaying more than 100 staff a total of almost $90,000 after an investigation by the Federal Workplace Ombudsman.
Click here for details of this story
Thinking Outside the Square
Here at Inside Franchising we sometimes hear about great initiatives being undertaken by a franchise, this is just one of them ...
Leases are the largest expense franchise owners incur, so one franchise has established three teams to renegotiate stores leases in accordance with current marketts, at no cost to franchise owners.
Click here for more about this story
Click here to tell us about a great business initiative that you think our readers should know about!
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The Hooters Australian franchise has closed one of its restaurants, with two others being overseen by an administrator. A creditors meeting is scheduled for next Friday.
Click here for details of this story
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Crust Gourmet Pizza Bars has been recognised in the 2009 Slimming & Health Healthy Eating awards. Crust’s Gluten Free takeaway pizzas and range of six Heart Foundation Tick approved Pizzas have been voted by readers to be winner of the Allergy-Free category, and highly commended in the New Healthy Food category respectively.
Click here to request more information about this opportunity
Edition 137 - 13.3.09
So, you think you know a lot about the economy and what makes it tick?
At your next dinner party (yes, they are back in fashion with the downturn …) be sure to ask your guests whether they know what the latest economic indicator of the impact of the global recession is.
If they guess Oil, then they would be wrong.
Housing prices? Sorry wrong again.
Click here to find the surprisingly simple answer … and see how you and your family fit in ...
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Australia's jobless rate has soared to 5.2 per cent for the first time in nearly four years after 47,100 people joined the dole queue in February.
Click here for more about this story
More than 12000 jobs on offer
Click here to see who is employing
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ARA supports calls for deferment of Award changes
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) welcomed the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association's (SDA) proposal to allow pay rises under the Modern Retail Award to be introduced over a five year period, but called for all Award rises to be deferred for at least 12 months.
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Workplace Ombudsman Report
Townsville workplace inspectors recovered $282,000 in back-pay for local workers in the 12 months to the end of January.
Click here for details of this story
Security is "employee's own responsibility"
According to a union, employees at a major convenience store have been told that they will personally have to pay for any security to protect themselves from late night drunken patrons.
Click here for more about this story
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Buyer beware
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The old adage “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is” certainly rang true for unsuspecting internet shoppers who purchased store gift cards for major retailers being offered at discounted prices on sites including eBay. A gang had sold millions of dollars worth of goods before NSW police swooped. |
Click here for more about this story
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Is the DVD rental business in Australia on shaky grounds, or will it just take some diversification to help operators ride out the current economic turmoil?
Click here for details of this story
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WESTPAC has announced its plans to become the number 1 SME lender.
Click here for more about this story
Edition 136 - 5.3.09
The Reserve Bank of Australia has left official interest rates at the current 3.25 percent despite worsening economic conditions overseas. |
RBA governor Glenn Stevens said that "On the basis of currently available information, the Australian economy has not experienced the sort of large contraction seen elsewhere."
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said the Reserve Bank's decision to leave the cash rate unchanged at 3.25 percent signalled Australia's economic conditions were stabilising.
Click here for more about this story
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The administrators of collapsed electronics retailer Strathfield Group will seek legal advice about the former board’s decision to forgive a $5.5 million loan given to its founder, Andrew Kelly. Reports indicate that the loan was due to be repaid in January last year, but after Mr Kelly threatened legal action regarding the value of the value of his Strathfield shares (which he had used as collateral), the loan was forgiven.
Click here for details of this story
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A JB Hi-Fi store reportedly sold used mobile phones as new on not one, but two separate occasions. A complaint was made to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission after the consumer found contacts and video clips created by the phones' previous owners.
Click here for the full story at the ACCC News Centre.
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New Appointment
Richard Thame has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of the Australian operation of Fastway Couriers.
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Congratulations!
Retail Food Group has announced the winners of its 2009 Franchisee of the Year competition for each of its brands.
The winners are: |
Brumby’s
Strathmore, QLD (Simon & Cherrie Arnold)
Donut King
Shell Harbour, NSW (Mark and Sandra Patton)
bb’s cafe
Werribee, VIC, (Judith and Stephen Goss)
Michel's Patisserie
Broadway, NZ (Antony Beagley)
Click here for more information about franchise opportunities available with Donut King, bb's Cafe, Michel's Patisserie and Brumby's
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Corven, a Melbourne-based research and education consultancy, has launched its 2009 Insight Program for the franchise sector. In two separate streams, Insight 2009 will examine effective new franchisee preparation and the challenges of delivering training in franchise systems.
Insight 2009 is the first of Corven’s annual research programs for the franchise sector, combining findings from Insight Forum events and online survey results. Beginning in March, Insight 2009 forum events will be held around Australia.
Click here to request more information
Telstra has beat three banks and a big retailer to top ths list of Australia’s Best Brands. The national telco added $3 billion to its branding bottom line, valued at $9.7 billion.
Click here for more about this story
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Athlete's Foot has reported a 9.2% increase in sales during the first half of this financial year, and a 20 % increase in sales during January. |
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Click here for details of this story
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Retail Food Group Limited (RFG) this week announced that retail trade performance of its franchise systems for the first two months of 2009 has witnessed a continuation of the strong performance achieved to the 31st of December 2008.
Click here for more information about franchise opportunities available with Donut King, bb's Cafe, Michel's Patisserie and Brumby's
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USA - Blockbuster has hired lawyers to explore a possible bankruptcy filing. The Blockbuster movie rental chain in Australia says it won't be affected by financial problems surrounding the US Blockbuster group.
Click here for more about this story
NZ - SureSlimNZ is the New Zealand arm of an Australian franchise that crossed the Tasman about four years ago. After initially enjoying success there it now finds 17 of its 21 diet clinics have closed their doors. (SureSlim Australia is in liquidation)
Click here for more about this story
UK - The Body Shop chain has announced expected job losses at 275 employees globally.
Click here for more about this story
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Franchise charity works
Click here for stories about the charitable projects currently being supported by franchises around the country
Edition 135 - 26.2.09
Not so happy meals
McDonald's announced plans to charge consumers more in poorer suburbs. The Happy Meal will see a price jump of 16.5% from $4.25 to $4.95.
Click here and Click here and Click here for more information
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Telstra has told Brisbane Liberal National Party candidate, John Pollard, has been told to stop his use of its logo as part of his campaign material.
Click here for more about this story
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The ATO is warning people about another email scam being circulated that claims to offer a refund from the Tax Office.
Click here for full details of how to recognise this Scam
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Telstra has terminated all of its contracts with Allphones, with all merchandise, advertising and displays being removed from the stores in past weeks.
Click here for details of this story
Also, in related news Allphones Retail Pty Limited has undertaken to the Federal Court to stop negotiations with franchisees until it has fulfilled certain obligations.
Click here for the full story at the ACCC News Centre.
Cash Converters have reported their first half profits at $7.9 million.
Click here for details of this story
Danks Holdings, incorporating Home Timber and Hardware, Plants Plus and Thrifty-Link retail banners, has released its half year results.
In its 150th year of consecutive trading, Danks's net profit is up 4.0 per cent.
Click here to request more information about Danks
Angry homeowners are demanding the parent company of a failed far north Queensland building franchise complete three unfinished homes.
Click here for details of this story
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While most businesses have reacted to the downturn by introducing discount meal-deals, Crust Gourmet Pizza Bars is heading in the other direction by introducing a new range of premium Upper Crust pizzas.
Designed to cater to people’s growing desire to cut back on costs, but still enjoy high quality, gourmet foods, the Upper Crust range comprises six new pizzas served as 15 x 9” slabs that are designed to share.
Upper Crust offers pick-up or free delivery in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Click here to request more information about Crust Pizza
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Home Hardware store provides tools to get started on the rebuild
In the aftermath of the Gippsland bushfires, Home Hardware Traralgon, located less than 10km from the fire affected area of Gippsland, has rallied together with suppliers in a practical and community-driven initiative to provide the tools to help people rebuild their homes. Click here to read about the store’s charity efforts and the difference it made to those residents, and how you can assist.
Click here for more about this story and many more charitable projects currently happening around the country
Edition 134 - 19.2.09
click here to read full newsletter or scroll down to view selected articles
$5 per hour ~ 24 hours a day?
The Workplace Ombudsman is taking a look at a Geelong franchise complaints were made about some employees being paid $5 per hour and others working 24 hour shifts.
Click here for more about this story
NZ: After more than 20 years in business a NZ building franchisee places his business in the hands of liquidators. |
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Click here for details of this story
Fast food restaurantes are cashing in, inspite of the financial crisis. Whilst it is true that people may think twice about dining at a fancy restaurant, they haven’t given up the love of ‘eating out’ or eating convenience foods.
According to a report in The Australian newspaper this week, for every dollar spent on food and non-alcoholic drink, 44c is spent on fast food -- up from 42c last year.
Click here for details of this story
2008 was a stand-out year for the demand for different mortgage products, with Mortgage Choice loan book data showing that at its peak in February 2008 fixed rate loan demand around Australia hit 36%. At its trough, in November, only 2% of all loan approvals were for fixed loans.
The latest data, for January 2009, shows fixed rate loan demand appears to have turned a corner. It now stands at 4% after rising from 3% in December. |
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Click here for information about Mortgage Choice Franchise Opportunities
In addition to the funds being raised by Wendy's to support the Red Cross Victorian Bush Fire appeal, Wendy’s stores across Queensland are also raising money to support The Salvation Army Northern Queensland Flood Appeal.
Click here for more about this story and many more charitable projects
Click here for information about Wendy's Franchise Opportunities
Retail Food Group posts 19% profit increase
Leading Australian retail food brand manager and franchisor Retail Food Group Limited (RFG) has announced 1H09 NPAT of $10.6 million, representing a 19% (or $1.7 million) increase on the previous corresponding period (pcp) and exceeding the Company’s NPAT guidance provided on 19 January 2009.
NPAT from ‘Core Operations’ amounted to $11.1 million, up 52% (or $3.8 million) compared to the result achieved in 1H08.
Basic Earnings Per Share (EPS) for the period were 10.7 cents compared to 11.2 cents in the pcp, reflecting the impact of the non-recurring gain on acquisition of Brumby’s Bakeries realised in 1H08.
EPS from ‘Core Operations’ were 11.2 cents, representing an increase of 22% over EPS from ‘Core Operations’ in 1H08.
Click here to view the Retail Food Group Franchise Opportunities
Domino’s Pizza, is lending new meaning to the term ‘convenience’ with its launch of a new range of made-to-order fresh pastas, pizzas and dessert to complement their popular existing menu.
Click here to request more information about Domino's Pizza
Fair Work to casualise workforce and cripple SME retailers
- ARA presents at Senate Inquiry hearings
Click here to view full article in newsletter
In its presentation to the Senate Inquiry into the Fair Work Bill this week, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said the Rudd Government's proposed new IR laws would force many small retailers to return to a casualisation of the workforce, creating employment uncertainty for Australian workers.
A local charity production to raise funds for women’s charities has gone ‘worldwide’ – that is, it now has the support of local printer Worldwide Online Printing Preston.
The V-Day Melbourne 2009 "Until the Violence Stops" Benefit Production of Eve Ensler's The V`gina Monologues will be held on February 21 at 8pm at the National Theatre in St Kilda. All proceeds will benefit the Women's Domestic Violence Crisis Centre and the V-Day 2009 Campaign, which supports women’s rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Click here for more information about Worldwide Online Printing Franchise Opportunities
Edition 133 - 12.2.09 - click here to read full newsletter or scroll down to view selected articles
Beware of Scammers
It seems unthinkable, but with one man already arrested, it appears that some people use disasters, such as the Victorian Bushfires, as an opportunity to take advantage of people's generosity.
The ACCC has released a statement warning people to be careful of scammers when donating monies to charitable causes.
Click here to find out what you should check before donating to any charity
Click here for details on how to donate to the Victorian Bushfires Appeal
Karen Matthews has resigned as CEO of Ella Bache after 10 years with the company to explore other opportunities. Company chairman John Hallas will act as interim CEO.
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JAXQuickfit recently turned 60 and with over 70 stores nationally and a turnover of $100 million they had plenty to celebrate! |
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Country Road has announced that this it expanding. The new store, Trenery, is set to open 3 outlets in September. The new concept will cater for the 40+ age group and will stock clothing up to size 18.
Click here for more about this story
Click here to request or more information about the Extreme Driving Franchise Opportunity
 is offering free jumping castle hires to any Church or Community Groups across the country that are raising money to help support families affected by the Bush Fire disaster in Victoria.
(Click here for contact details).
POOLWERX’s consistent growth has been recognised with another top ranking in BRW’s “Fast Franchises” for 2009, including special recognition as the leading pacesetter for the year.
PoolWerx was listed as the “16th fastest growing franchise by revenue” and the “30th fastest growing by outlets” in the latest rankings. PoolWerx CEO John O’Brien said the results were particularly pleasing given the company had been consistently ranked on BRW’s list since it was introduced in 2004.
Click here for more information about PoolWerx Franchise Opportunities
Between 4 March 2009 and 25 March 2009, Home Timber and Hardware customers will receive a scratch card for the chance to win $10,000 cash or walk away with one of the great instant prizes in stores.
This season’s ‘Proper’ promotion gives consumers the chance to win when they purchase any product from participating Home Timber and Hardware stores.
The national competition is part of Home Timber and Hardware’s celebrated annual Proper Big One Sale.
The promotion is designed to create excitement at both a national and local store level, providing an excellent vehicle for involvement for all HOME stores and their local communities ...
Click here to request or more information about Home Timber and Hardware
Edition 132 - 5.2.09 - click here to read full newsletter or scroll down to view selected articles
FREE FRANCHISE GIVE AWAY
Click here for more details
Would you like a nice juicy novel to go with that sandwich?
The Dymocks Group has purchased 80% of the Healthy Habits sandwich group and announced its expansion plans for the HH group into current Dymocks territories including include NSW, New Zealand and Hong Kong.
Katherine Sampson (Healthy Habits founder) remains a 20% stakeholder and will stay on as MD.
Click here for the full story
Woolworths looks set to be the next big player in the hardware sector. With merger talks with Mitre 10 going nowhere, Woolies is looking to take on Australia’s big boy of hardware, Bunnings (which currently holds 16% of the $38billion hardware market).
Click here for the full story
Congratulations to Anytime Fitness which opened its 1,000th Club! Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness now has clubs operating in the US, Canada and right here in Australia, serving nearly 600,000 members.
Click here for the full story
Harvey Norman's Gerry Harvey has told AAP of plans to close up to 10 underperforming stores in the second half of 2009.
The closure of all 5 Harvey Norman OFIS stores was today added to the list of closures.
Click here for the full story
and also Click here for the full story
Eagle Boys Pizza has undergone one of the most significant changes in its 22 year history with the launch of a $7 million twelve month campaign to revitalize its iconic pink logo and unveil a new range of bigger, better pizzas.
Click here to contact us for more information
Brumby's - Thinking outside the (lunch)box
Australian families looking to give their kids an advantage in the classroom should look to their lunch box to help their kids grow and stay focused at school, Brumby’s Bakery said.
“At Brumby’s, quality and freshness are key attributes of our bread. We’ve been ‘on a roll’ baking a range of fresh, healthy and delicious lunches and snacks for Aussie families for over 30 years.
“All Brumby’s bread is preservative 282 free, which means children are healthier, happier and in the best frame of mind to learn. Preservative 282 is an additive used in bread to help it last longer on the shelf, but it’s also been linked to behavioural problems in children. At Brumby’s all our bread is baked fresh daily, so we don’t need preservative 282.”
Click here for more information about the Brumby's Bakery Franchise Opportunity
Edition 131 - 29.1.09 - click here to read full newsletter or scroll down to view selected articles
Boost Juice has announced its latest franchising deal – which includes 100 new stores!
Click here to read full article
Click here for more information about Boost Juice Franchising
FREE FRANCHISE GIVE AWAY
Click here for more details
One franchise is cashing in, inspite of the financial crisis. Whilst it is true that people may think twice about dining at a fancy restaurant, they haven’t given up the love of ‘eating out’.
Click here to read full article
ALLPHONES has been banned from telling franchisees they will be given preferential treatment if they enter into a new agreement with the company.
Click here to read full article
THE receiver of the company behind the bargain retailers Go-Lo, Crazy Clark's and Sam's Warehouse is optimistic he will be able to sell all 374 stores, even those making a loss.
Click here to read full article
After entering receivership in December, the EzyDVD has been picked up by the Franchise Entertainment Group for $10 million.
Click here to read full article
Strathfield, which has around 100 outlets nationally, has announced voluntary administration. In news reports, it indicated that the move was forced by, amongst other things, poor Christmas and post-Christmas trading figures. Shares remain suspended following a trading halt earlier this month.
Click here to read full article
Australian-owned coffee brand Gloria Jean's Coffees International has appointed a master franchise partner in China. Click here to read full article
Burger King (USA) had to scrap a recent promotion which offered to give a free Whopper to anyone willing to dump 10 of their on-line friends. With a hefty quarter of a million friends unceremoniously dumped for a burger, the promotion was deemed to be a little too successful.
Click here to read full article
Pasta Hut? In what appears to be a move to attempt to regain market share of the fast-food market, Pizza Hut will open two Pasta Hut outlets in Sydney.
Click here to read full article
Aussie to Acquire Wizard Home Loans
Click here to read full article
Midas placed into administration.
Click here to read full article
ARCHIVED NEWS: 2008 EDITIONS
Edition 130 - 16.12.08 - scroll down to read articles
Quotable quote:
“ I didn't do this quietly"
Employment and Industrial Relations Minister John Mickel - today - explaining why Queenslanders do not get a public holiday for ANZAC day 2009
Click here for the full story
Memo to Australia: We have a Water Crisis
How to save 2 billion litres of water
Click here for the full story in edition 89
Click here for the full story in edition 94
Click here for more in our special green edition 112
We celebrated and congratulated just some of the many Franchises which do their part in the community.
Click here for the full story
MSNBC reported that the Hooters restaurant chain, known for its tasty wings (and scantily clad servers), was surprisingly heading to Israel.
Click here for the full story
Franchising Code of Conduct amendments came into effect on 1 March 2008.
Click here for more information
Doctors surgeries looked at franchising under a radical new health care plan. A Sydney GP division is looking to bring solo doctors in under one brand name, creating a chain of surgeries. The idea, developed by Fairfield Division of General Practice, was set to operate in the same manner as real estate agents - different GPs branded by one name and working under the same banner.
Click here for the full story
According to The Wall Street Journal Online there are big dollars to be made in the pooch poo collecting business (yes, really!). The interest in doggy doo doo is so big in fact that some operators are franchising this messy concept!
Click here for the full story
The 2020 Summit
The Government brought together 1000 plus leading Australians to the national Parliament to debate and develop long-term options for the nation.
(Let us know if you have heard anything recently about the implementation of those 'innovations' from back in April.)
Click here for the full story
Kleins, collapsed with debts of $20 million and the administrators of collapsed Kleins jewellery business looked for a buyer for the $40 million revenue business.
Click here for the full story
Choo Choo Johnny’s, an American railroad-themed restaurant franchise that features meals delivered by train, tells of its very first franchise opening and its big plans for a Dubai franchise outlet.
In May, we brought you information about the quirky US franchise, PawSpa Resort, the small animal resort business offering first choice in a luxury, full-service boarding business franchise. PawSpa Resort maintains "the ultimate goal of creating and offering a plan for a safe, fun, resort-style concept of the traditional kennel." With pet-related sales, both products and services, touching $40.8 billion in America this is certainly an interesting concept!
Click here for the full story
America's Top Franchise Brand Builders `Flip' Over Retail Niche in $20 Billion Industry
An American news article described the well known Aussie icon “the thong” as “once reserved only for poolside or beachwear, flip flops have grown to become the "global youth uniform," as well as accepted footwear for anyone ranging from surfers to high-level corporate executives.”
A group of major US franchise players (one of whom helped build Nike as a household brand name) "joined toes" in a franchise venture with powerful potential in a flip floppin' $20 billion industry.
"Flip Flop Shops is more than a store—it's a lifestyle," said Brian Curin, Flip Flop Shops President. |
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Click here to read more about this ‘high stepping' US franchise … gee what they will think of next?!
Starbucks Corp. said in a press release on its Web site that it will close approximately 600 "underperforming company-operated stores in the U.S. market."
The FCA comments on the Ketchell decision and what it means to franchising.
Click here for more about this story
Would you like a naked man with that burger?
US giant, Burger King has (not surprisingly!) parted ways with an employee who was recorded taking a soapy bath in a sink in one of the chain's US restaurants.
The nearly four-minute video, which was posted Thursday on MySpace.com, shows the unidentified employee taking the bath to celebrate his birthday.
Click here for all of the details of this story
KFC's original secret blend (handwritten by the colonel himself, on a now-yellowed piece of paper) was recently moved temporarily to an undisclosed location to make way for security improvements.
It may surprise you to know that even after all this time, the spices continue to be mixed in two parts by two different companies, a modern touch is added with a computer processing system now used to standardize the blending of the products. All of this is in place to ensure that no single entity holds the complete recipe.
> Click here for more about this story
The Australian dollar opened almost 3 cents weaker at close of trade to US70 cents for the first time since September 2004.
Click here for more about this story
And the Winners are ... the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), the MYOB Excellence in Franchising Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of hard working individuals and organisations in the growth and development of their businesses and their contribution towards franchising in Australia.
Click here for more about this story
Hell Pizza (NZ) apologised to Sir Edmund Hillary's family following another controversial promotion, this time featuring a skeletal animation of the revered New Zealander dancing on a grave.
Click here for more about this story
"FuelWatch is dead, it's dead - just forget about it
- it's all over.”
Nationals Senator, Barnaby Joyce
Click here for more about this story
Light fingered Aussies top the list
Australian retail staff have the world's greatest propensity for theft from their employer, costing the industry almost $3 billion.
> Click here for more details about this story
The Federal Parliamentary Inquiry into the operation of the franchising sector has delivered a 125 page report with 11 key recommendations being made.
Click here for more about this story
How do you get your kicks?
China daily newspaper in Zhengzhou has reported that pretty soon, it won't be necessary to go to the famed Shaolin temple in China's Henan Province to learn its famed kungfu fighting style. You'll be able to get your kicks at a franchised "offshoot" in Yunnan Province.
Under the management of Shi Yongxin, the Shaolin have already gone into film production, e-commerce and kungfu shows.
> Click here for more details about this
fascinating "franchise opportunity"!
Edition 129 - 9.12.08
BREAKING NEWS
“I’ll give you a FREE franchise”
Franchisor fights against recession.
John Newton, founder and franchisor of the award-winning franchise Jumping J-Jays Castles & Slides, is giving away one of his franchises valued at over $50,000 for FREE!
Click here for full details
ASX / MEDIA ANNOUNCEMENT -
RFG: SALE OF CMF & LONG TERM SUPPLY AGREEMENT
> Click here for more details about this story
How do you get your kicks?
China daily newspaper in Zhengzhou has reported that pretty soon, it won't be necessary to go to the famed Shaolin temple in China's Henan Province to learn its famed kungfu fighting style. You'll be able to get your kicks at a franchised "offshoot" in Yunnan Province.
Under the management of Shi Yongxin, the Shaolin have already gone into film production, e-commerce and kungfu shows.
> Click here for more details about this
fascinating "franchise opportunity"!
Sales chaos
One man was killed, and four shoppers, including a 28-year-old pregnant woman, were injured during incidents in the US post Thanksgiving Day Sales.
> Click here for more details about this story
Retail sales slump
Retailer Gerry Harvey is warning some of the stores in his Harvey Norman empire will close during the next six months because of the economic slowdown.
Sales in all key areas of the business - furniture, electrical and computers - had slumped three to four per cent in recent months, he said.
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Freaks and Virgins - Only in America ...
After consumers were filmed having a "Whopper Freakout” last year (where Burger King’s PR company removed the Whopper from the menu at several Burger King outlets just to capture the reaction of patrons, who were variously surprised, upset or shocked by its absence), Burger King have now taken the burger war to extremes by visiting Iceland, Thailand and even Transylvania.
So-called “Whopper Virgins” were selected to taste test their first Whopper up against the Big Mac with their reactions captured on film are now being used in Burger King advertising.
After the taste-tests, the participants were then flown back to their hometowns, where the rest of the villagers were also rewarded with Whoppers.
Yes, really ...
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Edition 128 - 2.12.08
BREAKING NEWS
The Federal Parliamentary inquiry into the operation of the franchising sector has delivered a 125 page report with 11 key recommendations being made.
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Turkey anyone?
Despite the economic crisis, the franchise sector has continued to grow in Turkey, where 800 brands have franchises. According to data from the Turkish Franchise Association, one in every two people wants to ‘go it alone’. |
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Kids got summer jobs? Don’t get ripped off, watchdog warns students!
Tens of thousands of flyers will be distributed at schools, shopping centres, cinemas and cafes in a bid to ensure secondary students taking summer jobs don’t get unwarily ripped off.
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Recent reports have suggested that a mobile phone retailer being prosecuted by the competition regulator, may plan to deny franchisses stock in the lead-up to Christmas unless they waive their rights to sue the company.
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The McCafe, a concept that was first introduced by the fast-food chain in Australia in 1993, has finally reached East Tennessee.
Local franchisees are attempting to grab a share of the gourmet coffee market with the Golden Arches brand of espresso-based drinks. |
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Congratulations you have won a free holiday!
(actually, no, you haven't)
Free luxury holidays to Cancun, the Caribbean, Mexico, Florida, Orlando and Daytona Beach? Sound too good to be true?
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is warning consumers to be wary of telemarketing calls promising 'free' holidays.
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Franchise News ... with the works
Pizza Capers
Melbourne’s reputation as the pizza mecca of Australia is on the line after Queensland gourmet pizza franchise Pizza Capers announced it was opening its first Victorian store.
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Eagle Boys
In the five weeks until 15 December 2008, a new Eagle Boys store will open every 39 hours as the company’s rapid growth drive continues
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Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut cuts famous "William Tell' number. PIZZA Hut is poised to dump one of the most recognised phone numbers in Australian marketing in a multi-million-dollar move. Customers will be asked to key the fast food chain's name in to their phones instead.
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Domino's
Ultimate couch potato pizza on way. Australian chain Domino's is lifting the stakes in the pizza wars with a new offering to entice more females into its stores, and a technological investment that hints at the possibility of ordering pizza via your TV remote control.
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Edition 127 - 25.11.08
Quotable quote:
“There are some predictable factors that can lead to a surge in franchise sales activity --- and many of them are pointing to a franchise boom on the horizon.”
MSNBC Report
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NZ: The Green Acres Franchise Group has welcomed news a "master franchisee" allegedly behind a multi-million dollar scam has been charged with fraud.
The Serious Fraud Office alleges $3,591,900 was obtained from about 172 mainly Chinese and Indian immigrants who were granted ironing sub-franchises from March to December 2007.
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The Australian Newspaper has reported today that TELSTRA looks set to be cornered into lodging a bid for the national broadband network without having won the conditions it wants, after the Optus-led Terria consortium and Canadian company Axia Netmedia confirmed they would put their hats in the ring.
Telstra's board is understood to be meeting tomorrow morning to decide whether to lodge a bid before the 12pm deadline. It has repeatedly warned it will not participate in the tender unless the Government guarantees not to force separation of its network and retail arms.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has refused to provide the guarantee Telstra is seeking.
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WORKPLACE OMBUDSMAN TO LOOK AT
FOOD RETAILERS
The federal workplace watchdog will audit up to 1000 food retailers to ensure their workers are properly paid. Federal Workplace Ombudsman Nicholas Wilson said the national food campaign, which will run into the new year, would randomly audit butchers, coffee shops, bakers, grocers, smallgoods stores and suppliers of poultry and seafood.
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The Counter, a rapidly expanding American burger chain that enables consumers to build their own burgers, is coming to Sydney in December.
“We’re giving the power back to the customer,” Jeff Weinstein, founder of The Counter, has claimed. “We’re putting the choice in their hands. Ultimately, they’re responsible for what goes on their burger. They own that burger. It has their name on it.”
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US Yogen Früz has entered into a development agreement with Orbiz Corporation Pty Ltd. that will expand the franchise by 30 locations into Australia over the span of the agreement, beginning with a December store opening in Brisbane and 6 more projected openings for the next 6-12 months.
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Edition 126 - 18.11.08
Quotable quote:
"FuelWatch is dead, it's dead - just forget about it - it's all over.”
Nationals Senator, Barnaby Joyce
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Unexpected Christmas Bonus for Employees
About 150 unskilled laundry workers in Sydney’s western suburbs have got an unexpected, but long-awaited Christmas bonus. An audit of the labour hire company they work for has found the workers have been underpaid for the past seven years. The Federal Workplace Ombudsman has successfully negotiated with the employer to back-pay the workers more than $85,000.
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Light fingered Aussies top the list
Australian retail staff have the world's greatest propensity for theft from their employer, costing the industry almost $3 billion.
The second annual Global Retail Theft Barometer found Australian retailers experienced the world's highest rate of employee theft and fraud.
The illegal activity cost the sector almost $3 billion over the past 12 months. |
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The cost of employee theft or “shrinkage loss'' as it is termed in the industry, is usually passed on to consumers.
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Danks an Award Winning Group
Danks Group, comprising Home Timber and Hardware, Plants Plus and Thrifty-Link Hardware, is celebrating after a fantastic 4 wins at the, with member store Bob's Home Hardware and Timber winning the title of South Australian Hardware Retailer of the Year.
This cements a great year for the Danks Group and recognises their dedication to providing excellent customer service, product support and advice and local industry knowledge.
Edition 125 - 11.11.08
The Federal Government has won tough new powers to combat predatory pricing, after the Senate accepted an important change to Australia's trade practices laws.
Predatory pricing exists where a large, powerful company uses its market strength to drive smaller competitors out of business by selling at prices below its own costs for lengthy periods.
But it has been notoriously hard to prove.
The Trade Practices Act on Monday was amended to say that corporations which supply goods or services below their own cost price for sustained periods might be breaking the law.
The change was accepted without debate.
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Changing times - Some Franchises are changing the way they do business to help their franchisees through the tough economic times.
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Hell Pizza (NZ) has apologised to Sir Edmund Hillary's family following another controversial promotion, this time featuring a skeletal animation of the revered New Zealander dancing on a grave.
The pizza company has now withdrawn the animation which depicted Sir Ed, Heath Ledger and the Queen Mother emerging from graves and dancing to Michael Jackson's song Thriller.
Hell Pizza has previously attracted complaints over its advertising, including a billboard featuring Hitler saluting with a pizza in his hand, distributing condoms to push its "Lust" pizza, and promotions that stated that people could "sell their souls" to Hell Pizza.
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Australia’s third largest pizza maker Eagle Boys Pizza has secured a new headquarters in Annerley to support its aggressive expansion plans to open more than 100 stores over the next 12 months.
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The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has instituted legal proceedings in the Federal Court, Melbourne, against Bill Express Limited (in liquidation) and Technology Business International Pty Ltd (in liquidation) for alleged contraventions of the Trade Practices Act 1974 in relation to the failed Bill EXPRESS* electronic product distribution, promotion, sales and bill payment network.
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The changes to the packaging are more aesthetic than physical. Through the new images and words, McDonald's hopes to place a greater emphasis on food quality.
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Harvey Norman Holdings says sales for the 28 days to November 2 from its franchised stores fell 0.6 per cent, from the same period in 2007.
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Edition 124 - 28.10.08
INQUIRY INTO FRANCHISE CODE
Submissions made to the Senate Joint Committee regarding the Inquiry into the Franchising Code of Conduct are now available for viewing.
> Click here to view over 100 submissions
from parties including the International Franchise Association; MTAA; 7-Eleven Stores; Franchisees Association; Eagle Boys and many others
WORKPLACE OMBUDSMAN NEWS
The sole director of a company who left Australia after his business collapsed owing one of its workers more than $10,000 has been ordered to back-pay his former employee within 28 days
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A Darwin employer who initially refused to back-pay three teenage fast-food workers less than $3000 will now pay a much higher price. The Federal Court of Australia imposed a $45,000 fine on the company.
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The Australian Newspaper has reported that national discount home loan provider, Beat Home Loans, has cut its ties with an underworld financial adviser. The alleged money launderer, ex-bankrupt and business associate of underworld identity Mick Gatto, was revealed to be operating one of Beat Home Loans' suburban agencies.
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McDonald's announces free wi-fi
The largest network of free wireless internet in Australia, will be offered in a partnership between McDonald's and Telstra. It will offer free wi-fi in 720 restaurants across Australia by March next year, with Queensland internet hotspots launching from late December onwards.
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Edition 123 - 21.10.08
The Reserve Bank of Australia expects inflation to recede in 2009, even if the consumer price index (CPI) climbed to an annual pace of five per cent in the September quarter, a level which would be well above the central bank's two to three per cent inflation target.
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According to the Australian Financial Review, MYER is the latest private equity-owned company to cull senior staff, amid speculation of cost cutting triggered by a slump in spending at its stores.They include store interface and buying finance director, Alison Smith, who joined the company two years ago from Nike, and men's wear business manager Simon Winter.
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Edition 122 - 14.10.08
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Treasurer Wayne Swan have announced the government’s $10.4 billion strategy to help boost the Australian economy. The package includes $187 million to create 56,000 new training places in 2008-09 and one-off bonus payments for some families.
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Domino Pizza, a USA based pizza delivery franchise, is set to continue its expansion in India. The company is due to open 300 locations in India by the end of 2011.
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Australia's biggest bank is set to become even bigger, with Commonwealth Bank of Australia to take over Bank of Western Australia (BankWest) and St Andrew's Australia from their UK based parent, HBOS plc, for $2.1 billion.
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Pack & Send has this month been announced the only Australian representative to be nominated as a finalist in the International Franchisor of the Year 2008 Award. Nominated on behalf of the Franchise Council of Australia, Pack & Send was chosen out of thousands of franchises to represent Australia. To become one of the six finalists, Pack & Send competed against 36 of the best franchises globally. The award winner will be announced on 17 October in Singapore.
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Restaurant and takeaway franchise, Pizza Hut has purchased the Godfather's Pizza chain and is set to take the title as the largest pizza operator in Ireland.
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Venezuela's tax body has shut all branches of McDonald's in the South American nation for 48 hours as punishment for alleged tax irregularities
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The Australian Newspaper reports that Coles liquor, convenience and supply chain boss Mick McMahon is to quit the company after being passed over by management to head the business he ran for more than a year before it was bought out by Wesfarmers.
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Edition 121 - 7.10.08
Reports that the Commonwealth Bank is in talks to buy BankWest, the Australian arm of HBOS. "Whilst discussions are continuing, the parties have not reached agreement," CBA said in a statement today.
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In related news, it seems increasingly inevitable that many of Australia's regional banks may be owned by one of the Big Four.
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Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd says sales in the two months since the end of its 2007/08 financial year have increased by 6.9 per cent against the previous corresponding period.
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The Australian dollar has today opened almost 3 cents weaker at close to US70 cents for the first time since September 2004.
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Edition 120 - 30.9.08
The Australian sharemarket was down more than five per cent shortly after opening after the US rejected a $US700b financial rescue package - triggering the biggest points fall in Wall Street history. When the market opened, banks were hard hit, with the ANZ down 5 per cent and the Commonwealth Bank down 5.1. Treasurer Wayne Swan has warned that the crisis could mean new pressures on interest rates.
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A day after it emerged that the global Krispy Kreme group was trying to turn around ts flagging sales by entering the soft-serve ice cream market, an investor in Krispy Kreme Australia (KKA) has written the value of its 24% stake down to zero.
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Queensland's NightOwl convenience store franchise is making a push into Victoria (the home-base of 7-Eleven). The 49-store NightOwl franchise has opened its first store in Mornington, south of Melbourne and says it is now looking for further opportunities in Melbourne's CBD and Victorian regional centres.
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Coles owner Wesfarmers Ltd has appointed a former McDonalds executive to head up its general merchandise retailing business Kmart.
Guy Russo, the former head of McDonalds' operations in China and Australia, will lead the revitalisation of KMart, Wesfarmers managing director Richard Goyder said.
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Edition 119 - 23.9.08
Random audits for hundreds of small retail outlets
Workplace inspectors will randomly audit hundreds of retail outlets in major Victorian shopping centres.
The federal Workplace Ombudsman will send in a team of six inspectors to ensure employers are complying with their time and wages records and pay slip obligations.
The campaign aims to educate employers about their obligations under federal workplace relations laws.
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Yogen Früz, a frozen yogurt chain with 1,100 stores in over 20 countries, announced today that it has entered into a newly signed development agreement with Orbiz Corporation Pty Ltd. that will expand the franchise by 30 locations into Australia over the span of the agreement, beginning with a December store opening in Brisbane and 6 more projected openings for the next 6-12 months.
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Telstra will slash 800 jobs as new systems reduce the need for support workers for frontline staff dealing with customers.
Australia's biggest telco plans to keep staff who face customers but axe roles in senior management, middle management and professional services, mainly in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
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American Franchise, College Hunks Hauling Junk, has found a win-win scenario in this down economy … they are helping homeowners and businesses across the country get rid of their unwanted “clutter,” and are providing some “eye candy” as they do it.
They even have a video on their website …just in case you're intersted in seeing a demonstration of their 'talents' ...
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Earlier editions
Television personality and Just Cuts spokesman, Grant Denyer, is expected to be out of action for the next few months after crushing vertebrae in his back in a monster truck accident.
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Vodafone Australia says it has reached agreement with Crazy John's widow, Patricia Ilhan, to acquire her stake in the mobile company. The sales figure is believed to value the company between $150 and $200 million.
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Slump? What slump? Despite the apparent slump in consumer confidence, Australian shoppers are expected to spend more than $100 billion on their credit cards over the next six months.
MasterCard Worldwide Index of Retail forecasts retail forecast consumer spending to grow 4.5 per cent this calendar year compared with 2007.
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2008 Australian Business Awards
Congratulations to ecowash Mobile for picking up awards for Environmental Sustainability; Service Excellence; Enterprise; and International Trade at the 2008 Australian Business Awards. Congratulations also go to franchise Xpresso Delight for their Enterprise Award.
The Awards recognise organisations that demonstrate the core values of business excellence, product excellence, sustainability and commercial success in their respective industries.
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KFC's original secret blend (handwritten by the colonel himself, on a now-yellowed piece of paper) was recently moved temporarily to an undisclosed location to make way for security improvements.
It may surprise you to know that even after all this time, the spices continue to be mixed in two parts by two different companies, a modern touch is added with a computer processing system now used to standardize the blending of the products. All of this is in place to ensure that no single entity holds the complete recipe.
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The franchising sector is in a favourable position to ride out tough economic conditions according to PKF Partner and national chairman of corporate recovery, Michael Scales.
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US Baskin-Robbins® stores are polling America's palate with Flavor Debate '08 - a limited edition release of two new Presidential Election flavors. (Yes, really!)
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There are currently 800 companies in the running to gain the first McDonald's franchise agreement for Kosovo.
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More than 270 workers have been reimbursed almost $97,000 after random audits found they were being underpaid. One business has had to back-pay 54 staff $21,000.
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Australian franchise success in the USA
ecowash mobile predicts it will have 1000 cars on the road within two years. And preeminent US franchising guru Dan Martin has described the franchise system as "tenfold anything I've seen" in the industry.
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More details about the KETCHELL decision and what it means to you available by clicking here
Mrs Fields files for Bankruptcy
but Andrew Benefield, MD of Mrs Fields Australia has said that Mrs Fields (Famous Brands in the USA) filing for bankruptcy will not impact business here.
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Hire A Hubby maintenance and home assistance business is set for overseas expansion, with its first international franchise opening in the UK.
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Hmmmmm.... are you getting sleepy?!
A hypnosis business that advertised help for people who want to lose weight, quit smoking and reduce stress has gone out of business weeks after some questions were raised about the credentials of its hypnotists and other business practices.
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Retailer put on notice
A Melbourne video outlet which paid student workers with free rental videos ...
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Pizza ... pizza ...
Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd has boosted its annual profit by 29.6 per cent ...
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... and more pizza !
Australia's third biggest pizza chain, Eagle Boys Pizza, increased full year sales ...
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Crazy John's Park
A Melbourne sports ground is being renamed in memory of Crazy John's ...
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Liquorland sale possibility
New Zealand's two big grocery businesses are keeping mum ...
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Don't call us, we'll call you!
The Do Not Call Register may be extended to include all business numbers ...
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