Queenslanders dreaming about running their own business will find plenty of motivation to make it happen, at the Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo next month.
Held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre at South Bank 22-23 July, the Brisbane Franchising Expo will showcase more than 80 brands looking for franchisees. There will also be free seminars covering all aspects of owning a small business, as well as legal, financial and entrepreneurial advice.
“Anyone investing in a small business is taking a risk, however franchised businesses have high rates of longevity and success, with greater brand recognition and the benefit of proven systems,” says Exhibition Manager Fiona Stacey. “Basically you’re in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”
Franchising is a successful and fast growing part of Australia’s small business landscape. According to the Franchise Council of Australia’s (FCA) most recent data, the sector is worth an estimated $144 billion in sales across 79,000 franchise units, and employs around 460,000 people.
At the Brisbane Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo, visitors can see a wide range of concepts, with investment levels ranging from $10,000 to over $500,000.
“There really is something for everyone, whatever your experience or interest,” says Stacey. “Many people come to see traditional franchise formats in the fast food, home services or retail sectors, but there are also some more unconventional business ideas such as pilates and massage, drone photography and children’s sports.
The Brisbane show will feature a high number of opportunities in the food and beverage industry, with exhibitors such as Lenard’s Chicken, Love Pollo, Bakers Delight, Fogo Brazilia, Banjo’s Bakery Café, Liv-eat, Spudbar and Lava Coffee; plus Craveable Brands’ renowned franchises Oporto and Red Rooster.
New player Franchise Retail Brands will be showcasing its stable of food offerings including Sabatini’s, 1582 Coffee, Doughnut Time, New York Slice, Dessert House, Crave Ice Creamery, Lord of the Fries, Shingle Inn, St Burger and Hombre Mexican Cantina; while Retail Food Group will feature established brands such as Gloria Jean’s, Michel’s Patisserie, Crust Gourmet Pizza, Brumby’s Bakery, Pizza Capers, The Coffee Guy and Donut King.
Stacey says one of the highlights of the Expo is always the free seminar program, with sessions running throughout the two days of the show. The strong lineup of experienced and knowledgeable franchisors, franchisees and service providers includes keynote speakers John O’Brien from Poolwerx and Damian Paull, CEO of the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), plus special presentations from business coach Claire Wilson from The Alternative Board and Love Pollo’s CEO Chris Caldwell.
There will be a special panel session featuring successful businesswomen Kim O’Donnell, owner of Gecko Sports alongside Kate Hopley, co-owner of Spudbar and 2016’s Franchising Woman of the Year for Victoria and Tasmania, discussing what it takes to succeed in franchising.
In addition the FCA will host a Franchisee Success panel series, where successful franchisees and franchisors from different systems will discuss their journeys and reasons behind selecting their chosen businesses.
While the free seminars and panel discussions are all strong drawcards, Stacey says visitors will gain most from meeting representatives from a wide range of businesses, so they can compare the opportunities on offer.
“Some visitors come with specific businesses in mind, while others are open to new ideas, in industries they had never previously considered,” she says. “We also attract entrepreneurs wishing to grow their business through the franchising model. They come because the Franchising Expo is the country’s leading event to find information and inspiration to start, build or grow your own business.”
Pre-register online at franchisingexpo.com.au for discounted tickets.
Brisbane Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo
Saturday 22 July – Sunday 23 July, 10am-5pm
Hall 1, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Next show:
Melbourne Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo
Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 August, 10am-5pm
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre