Setting Up Shop

The retail industry is a massive, all-pervading machine that is an integral part of our everyday lives. From the corner shop and the bakers for your daily milk and bread, to the supermarket for your weekly groceries, to department stores for clothes and gift shopping – counter culture is alive and well.

Retail franchises cover a huge range of products from the rapidly multiplying food and café sector - which is beating all trends in terms of economic growth, to fashion, to house and garden needs, to pets, automotive, books, gifts, hair and beauty, the list goes on. You will find retail franchises in suburban strips, in shopping malls and centres, and on high-exposure highway sites, ranging in size from tiny kiosks to massive warehouses.

Retail is detail – that’s how the saying goes. But what does it really mean? If you are interested in owning and operating one of Australia’s hundreds of retail franchises then you need to know all the details.

From site selection, to bank finance, to shop fitting, product display, customer profiling, brand development, loyalty programs, stock control and point of sale options – there is a huge amount of detail to consider when ‘setting up shop’.

In this Retail edition of Business Franchise Australia, some of the country’s top retail franchising experts, including Phil Blain of Business Development Company, Janine Allis of Boost Juice, Brian Walker of The Retail Doctor and Anthony Windress of the Commonwealth Bank, offer their insights and provide sound advice to would-be investors on all the different aspects of running a successful retail franchise business. 

Most experts agree you have to ‘love what you do’ – so pick a product you love, do your research, find out what franchises are available in that sector, and you’ll be on your way to owning your dream businesses.

The following is a list of some of the retail franchise systems currently seeking the perfect franchisee to help sell their product to the Australian consumer.

AllSafe Energy Efficient Products While most businesses have contracted during the GFC, AllSafe Energy Efficient Products, an Australian retail ‘green business’, has managed to thrive. Partly due to the release of innovative ‘world first’ products such as its solar and wind calculator as an iPhone ‘App’ and also its expansion into the USA with the first of its 280 - 310 stores set to open early next year. The company is on-track to opening their 11th store on Australia’s east coast in the space of 18 months, with plans for 52 franchisees in Australia, providing up to 936 green jobs for the Australian economy.

bb’s café bb’s cafe franchise offers a unique blend of quality, experience, stature and flexibility. They provide fresh, fabulous and tasty gourmet breads, wraps and light meals, complimented by cakes, slices and an extensive range of hot and cold beverages, plus their signature range of muffins and scones. Each bb’s cafe outlet is designed with an ambience, style and menu offerings targeted at a cross section  of consumers with the objective of creating a ‘welcoming oasis’ for customers. All bb’s cafe franchisees attend a comprehensive training program at their dedicated National Training Academy on Queensland’s Gold Coast before they enter their store. Ongoing support continues thereafter.

Bakers Delight An Australian owned company, over the past 30 years Bakers Delight has grown to over 700 bakeries across three countries, employing more than 15,000 people and serving two million customers each week. Bakers Delight is Australia’s most successful bakery franchise. Boasting a franchise success rate of over 90 per cent and decades of experience, Bakers Delight enjoys steady growth and is expecting to reach a global turnover of approximately $600M 10/11. Bakers Delight is committed to its founding mission: Real Bread, Real People, Real Delight!

Beaumont Tiles Beaumont Tiles offers a fantastic opportunity for potential franchisees looking to enter into the building and home fashion industry. The Beaumont system is set up for franchisees to either manage a store, hands on, or run it at arm’s length as a valuable investment. With 50 per cent of all Beaumont Tiles outlets nationwide owned through franchisees and the other half run as corporate stores, the system is set up to benefit all. Both company owned and franchised stores share the same systems, product, price structure, infrastructure and marketing; every store is a profit centre and all are integral to the success of the group. Beaumont Tiles is a family owned and run business. As a franchisee, you will share in the success and growth of a business that is best described as ‘Australia’s favourite place for tiles and bathroom-ware.’

Big Dads Pies Big Dads Pies are a specialty pie retailer whose focus is on product, retail and operational excellence. The pie selection in store is complemented by a range of sausage rolls, pastries, plus a selection of cakes and slices. The beauty of the Big Dad’s Pies system lies in the consistency of quality product and the ease of operation at store level. Their pies are delivered either fresh or frozen (depending upon location) into the store. All training is provided and the ease of operation means that no bakery experience or bakers are needed.

braaap braaap manufactures, imports and retails mini motocross bikes and a range of street wear. Brad Smith, the driving force behind the brand and retail concept founded the business in 2004 when he was just 17. Initially, the business operated out of Brad’s garage but quickly outgrew that space. Since 2004, braaap has established four retail stores and is now turning its attention to establishing more than 50 stores nationally, and then internationally, through a franchise model with the help of DC Strategy.

Brumby’s Bakeries Brumby’s Bakery is a specialty bread provider whose focus is on product, retail and operational excellence. Brumby’s have developed comprehensive business tools, systems and manuals to guide you in every aspect of running your business. All bread products are baked fresh everyday on site using the traditional scratch baking method. The Brumby’s range includes breads, rolls, pies, savouries, twists and sweet pastries. No previous baking experience is required with new franchisees completing 12 weeks baking training and four weeks retail training in their home state. This is followed by constant coaching and mentoring by a field based Business Development Manager.

Carmen Steffens Since its opening in 1993, Carmen Steffens has become one of the fastest growing global fashion brands. International demand for this unique Brazilian label has led to the expansion of 180 stores world-wide, with the fashion-savvy from around the globe hooked on the sexy Brazilian Carmen Steffens style. For Carmen Steffens’ franchisees, the company supplies furniture and fit outs, images for marketing, Australian focused PR campaigns, international conventions in Brazil, staff training and everything needed to run a successful, high-end retail fashion business.

Crust Gourmet Pizza Crust Gourmet Pizza Bars launched in 2001 with a single store in Annandale, Sydney and by providing a consistently healthier, higher quality pizza, delivered on time, every time, Crust has risen to become a leader in takeaway pizza with over 63 stores across Australia and Singapore. Crust is committed to offering a healthier choice, in 2008 became the first Australian takeaway pizza business to earn the Heart Foundation Tick of approval on its Healthier Choice range. In 2010 Crust placed 14th in BRW’s Fast Franchise listing based on revenue growth and won the Australian Business Awards award for Retail Excellence.

Donut King As a treat the world over, donuts appeal to everyone, and their simple style and easy acceptability make them the cornerstone of the Donut King System. Donut King offers a range of donut products along with signature cold drinks, espresso coffee and ice creams as well as a tasty range of hot dogs. As a business package, Donut King is the ‘King’ of opportunity providing all support systems, marketing and operations manuals and training (no experience necessary!) along with ongoing field advice and coaching to assist franchisees. All Donut King franchisees attend a comprehensive training program on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Dymocks Since 1879, Dymocks has pioneered bookselling in Australia. Dymocks began franchising over 30 years ago and have built up a recognised market-leading reputation for quality, value, professionalism and customer service. Dymocks now has over 90 stores in Australia, New Zealand & Hong Kong. Their expansion has been through carefully managed growth strategies such as fit-out components, colour-corrected lighting, fast telephone ordering and computerised enquiry systems. Dymock’s franchise owners are able to infuse their business with their personal, entrepreneurial touch – yet enjoy the advantages, experience, backing and assistance of a large business operator. Owning your own Dymocks bookstore is both challenging and rewarding. If you have a love for books and reading as well as some relevant retail know-how then a Dymocks bookstore franchise has many benefits. Be your own boss and create a lucrative business backed by proven systems and support.

earthborn When you want to set your home apart by adding those all-important little touches you visit your nearest earthborn store. earthborn specialises in beautiful and unique homewares and gifts at affordable prices. earthborn customers appreciate the variety of products and affordable price points, so they come back time after time. Currently earthborn are expanding and developing their brand to create exciting retail franchise opportunities.

Howards Storage World Howards Storage World is firmly cementing its place as a leader in the homes/lifestyle market with the introduction of a number of new initiatives for customers and its stores, including the launch a new national rewards program called Inspirations which will offer a range of attractive new benefits for customers. The Howards Inspirations rewards program will offer easy in-store enrolment with customers receiving their membership card straight away after providing basic details. Howards Inspirations benefits include a $10 voucher for every $200 spent, free attendance to Howards Storage World workshops and invitations to VIP shopping events.

incube8tr in.cube8r galleries in Melbourne, Brisbane,  and soon to open in Sydney, offer craft market goods at craft market prices – but in high-end retail locations. The successful business is now franchising and is seeking creative souls who want to nurture and grow their own business, whilst at the same time, support home-grown artists and craftspeople by providing a space for them to display their wares, out of the weather, and without travel time and expense, high market fees and early morning starts.

Las Olas Las Olas Fresh Mex grill is Australia’s number one Californian-style Mexican take away franchise. It combines traditional Mexican flavour with the distinctive Californian flair. Las Olas' food is fresh, healthy, flavoursome and made to order. When it comes to Mexican food, Las Olas has it going on. They understand what Californian-style Mexican food is because the creator of the recipes grew up in California. Michael Baker lived in California most of his life and recognised the need for this style of food on a surfing trip to Australia. He opened the first Las Olas store in the small town of Torquay, Victoria, in 2001. Now with business partner Achalen Holmes, Las Olas is rapidly expanding across Australia.

Lenards Since opening its first store in Queensland in 1987, Lenard’s has served more than 200 million customers to become Australia’s largest specialty chicken retailer, selling over 13 million chickens each year. With a range of approximately 150 fresh and value added chicken products available, franchise owners select the products they sell based on their individual market and customer demand. Lenard’s remains a privately owned company  with 200 franchised stores, employing more than 2,000 staff and achieving an annual turnover of $147.8m in the 2009/10 financial year.

Lollypotz The Lollypotz concept started as part of another award winning business and then it got a life of its own. The idea was simply too good to be the junior partner. Lollypotz are chocolate bouquets which replace flowers. Lollypotz is owned and managed by Louise Curtis. Louise was the recent Australian Capital Territory Winner of the 2008 Telstra Business Women's Awards in both the Yellow™ Business Owner and Nokia Business Innovation.

Michel’s Patisserie Michel’s Patisserie specialises in the sale of specialty cakes, pastries, treats , savouries and award winning coffee - indeed Michel’s Patisserie espresso was voted the *best tasting coffee in Australia in July 2010. The franchise system was founded with a simple intention; a central bakery bakes the product and distributes to the retail outlets, which in turn displays the product and sells to the customer. Michel’s product range boasts over 200 delicious small and large cakes, flans, pastries, pies and quiche with the added value of hot and cold beverages. (*In a coffee chain - judged by the Leading Australian Consumer Advocacy Magazine.)

MIDAS Australia A MIDAS franchise is built to succeed with a complete store fit-out, including systems and support provided, all you have to do is unlock the door. $2.5 million is spent annually on marketing and advertising with a new brand campaign just launched. Other MIDAS benefits include: greater buying power from suppliers with the savings passed on to you; access to an integrated point of sale computer system; and the national franchise one-on-one support network. Midas believe in complete transparency and honesty so you’ll always know where you stand.

Pack & Send Pack & Send International is an Australian owned and operated company offering a unique one-stop packing and freighting service, specialising in transporting fragile, large, awkward and valuable goods for businesses and individuals. With a ‘no limits’ service philosophy, Pack & Send operates an international network with 110 locations in Australia, seven in New Zealand and four in the UK. Pack & Send is a business success story, generating revenues exceeding $30m and annual growth rates in excess of 10 per cent. The company services householders, eBay buyers and sellers, tourists, small to medium businesses and major blue-chip organisations.

Pet Goods Direct Superstore The business of pets is BIG business. The Pet industry is one of the fastest growing industries in Australia, and continues to prosper even through these tough economic times. Pet Goods Direct Superstore currently has over 20 stores nationwide offering over 700²m of everything Aussie pets could ever need. Call today and ask about their comprehensive training program, national marketing support, business support, huge buying power and lifestyle benefits. If you love pets and have a desire to succeed then you are an ideal candidate to become a Pet Goods Direct Superstore franchisee

Pets Paradise Pets Paradise is this country’s largest chain of retail pet stores and has been uniting Aussie families with their pets for over 30 years. Australians love their pets and have one of the highest per capita pet ownership in the world, with more than 80 per cent of homes having at least one pet. More than $4 billion is spent on pet care per year, and this figure continues to grow. With over 70 stores located throughout major shopping centres you can choose to franchise an existing store or work with the team to launch a brand new location. Enjoy the benefits of a comprehensive training program, national marketing support, business support, huge buying power and a positive team of retail professionals at your service.

Planet Chocolate Planet Chocolate was created out of the biggest driving force in business, passion, by two brothers, Greg and Darren Factor. They saw a gap in the market for dessert retail outlets. The brothers opened their first store in September 2005 at Southland Shopping Centre, Melbourne. A second store at Highpoint Shopping Centre in Melbourne’s West followed. In 2009, Planet Chocolate enlisted the help of DC Strategy to develop a franchise system and significantly grow their network. Now with five stores in Victoria, Planet Chocolate is focused on expanding further to 30 stores nationally.

Price Attack Price Attack is launching its exclusive, new hair care range ‘Salon Confidential’ this November. The range of 12 products including shampoos and conditioners, sprays, protein products and treatments, is set to be a huge hit offering professional hair care at supermarket prices. Who wouldn’t want better quality for less? Mums are bound to love these products as she can buy them for the whole family (not just herself!). Price Attack aims to give people all over Australia better hair care which means better looking hair.

Regal Mattress Outlets Innovation and value lead the way at Regal Mattress Outlets which continues to offer its customers added value with the introduction of Australia’s only lifetime spring guarantee. The spring, a continuous wire system, is exclusive to Regal and means that customers can experience the quality and benefits of buying mattresses from an innovative Australian company without having to pay high prices. Franchisees benefit by having a product that no other retailer can offer and feedback has been extremely positive. Backed up with extensive training, a Regal franchisee can offer value based sleep solutions for every customer, making the Regal proposition particularly attractive.

Schnitz Schnitz is a fast casual food franchise unlike any other. It is the first pan-cooked schnitzel franchise in Australia (and probably the world!), offering a delicious range of madeto- order schnitzels served in warm Turkish Rollz, soft Tortilla Wrapz and various Schnitz Meal Packz and Schnack Packz. If you’ve seen Schnitz in operation you’ll know that what Schnitz has to offer is a very unique business that is suited to various locations including strip shops, food courts and even fully licensed restaurants serving European beers. All menu items are made using only the finest ingredients from quality Australian suppliers. Food is prepared daily, using market fresh produce that meets the expectations of even the fussiest customers.

Snowgum Snowgum Travel & Adventurewear offers retail franchises in the exciting travel and adventure category and is the only franchisor in this segment actively franchising. The product range is diverse – outdoor and travel clothing, functional footwear, luggage, travel products and outdoor. Customers are primarily midhigh income, family oriented travel or outdoor enthusiasts. Store locations are in both high street shopping strips and premium shopping malls with 30 stores across Australia and New Zealand. Snowgum offers franchisees a rare franchising opportunity to trade in apparel, footwear and luggage, with the support of an experienced franchisor (first franchise opened in 1992). Snowgum offers a total support package including IT system, inventory management, merchandising, marketing and staffing.

Theobroma Theobroma Chocolate Lounge currently has 20 stores - nine in Melbourne, one in Sydney, five in Malaysia and five in New Zealand. Theobroma is also keen to expand in South East Asia, with a focus in Malaysia and Singapore, but with plans for other markets including China in the longer term. Theobroma now offers more than 100 different types of handmade boutique chocolates, including a unique range of coloured chocolate, which is produced locally. The outlets offer customers chocolate desserts, chocolate drizzled waffles, hot and cold beverages as well as a savoury menu and beverages with the chocolate drinks as the mainstay. It also offers gourmet coffee and premium teas.

Trios Trios has positioned itself as the ‘people’s brand’. Extensive customer research has shown that Trios’ customers are looking for fast, casual dining, catering for the after 5pm market and providing value-packed meals that are full of flavour. Trios provides franchisees with a strong brand name, international growth, a unique ‘eating out of home’ consumer offering and strong operational support. We’re young, we’re stylish and we’re serious about great tastes that make you feel good.

United Petroleum United Petroleum has become one of the largest independent fuel companies in Australia with over 240 convenience retail sites operating across every state. In 2007, once firmly cemented and recognised within the petrol and convenience sector, United Petroleum turned its attentions towards becoming a leading franchisor. Along with this decision also came an increased focus on the United retail store offering, investing in retail innovations and site upgrades to further support this new direction. A key initiative has been the development of our Café Up program – a more premium foodservice offering that helps to maximise overall store performance, appearance and profit.

Villa & Hut How’ya Bean Brews Success at Villa & Hut. There is coffee, there is really good coffee and then there is coffee excellence - something that our barista team at Villa & Hut strive to achieve with every cup that is put in front of you. Coffee isn't just a fuel, it's our passion. We love serving excellent coffee - love it! Our exclusive How'ya Bean blend is 5 star rated, endorsed as an ethical and sustainable bean and certified Fair Trade.

Wild With over $32 million in annual turnover Wild is Australia’s largest and fastest growing card and gift group. Proven systems and our Franchisee First ethos means they offer the BEST opportunity to participate in this high margin industry. Wild Cards & Gifts utilises an evolving and highly customisable product mix to ensure relevance for every marketplace. Combined with leading advertising and promotional campaigns Wild ensure their franchisees are best placed to succeed in their business.

Wray Organic Deborah Wray and Gary Davis decided to open an organic grocery store for a number of reasons. Firstly, they noticed that so many of the organic or ‘health food’ shops they visited stocked their shelves full of vitamin pills and supplements and not much else. Secondly, they were frustrated with the poor quality organic fruit and vegetable that was available and literally dying on the shelf. Thirdly, they were appalled at how expensive organic produce was. Fourthly, they knew people wanted to buy at their convenience rather  han load up with a weekly shop at a market where you need to get up at some ‘ungodly hour’ in order to not miss out! And lastly, they wanted to create a one stop organic store where you could do your whole shop under one roof. Deborah and Gary are committed to offering the best possible price for their organic produce. They want this extraordinarily clean and nutritious food to be available every day and at an affordable price for everyone.