Rapid expansion of the Battery World network, bolder branding and more say for franchisees in the running of the business are on the agenda for newly appointed Battery World Australia General Manager Rowan Hodge.
Battery World has enjoyed robust growth, posting strong performance in contrast to an uncertain climate. But Mr Hodge says a jumpstart will keep up the momentum of growth and brand awareness.
“Battery World is poised for a period of rapid growth. Our strong and stable rise to number one in the marketplace will be more than a strong foundation, it will be our launch pad. From here we can leverage our strong brand.” Mr Hodge said.
“The brand presents wonderful opportunities for entrepreneurial Australians looking for a growing business, fuelled by the evolution of battery technology and as the modern lifestyle trends towards continual connectivity.
“There is huge satisfaction in being your own boss. I cut my teeth in the franchise sector owning two Dominos Pizza stores in Townsville in the nineties. To this day, despite moving around the world for various roles, my proudest moment was seeing team members becoming business owners themselves.”
Mr Hodge joins the Battery World team after working most recently as General Manager of Franchise Operations for market leading Quest service Apartments. His previous franchise experience also includes a number of roles for Dominos Pizza from Franchise Operations Manager to a role as Chief Executive Officer for Dominos Pizza in Belgium.
“I love the franchise sector for the opportunities it provides as well as its critical role in Australia’s economy,” Mr Hodge said, “I have been very impressed by Battery World’s growth story and have watched as the brand has evolved and gained significant market share as a specialist battery retailer. There is such a wealth of talent within this franchisee group and we aim to draw on this intellectual capital to propel our future expansion by ensuring they are in the centre of the business.
“We have 82 stores with a further three set to swing open their doors before the end of the year. Beyond this our goal is to achieve further store growth of 25% in the next three years. We are building on a 17-year history of solid performance. In addition to welcoming new talent, we also have ample options for existing Franchisees wanting to continue their own wealth journey in the network.
“This is a great time to take the step to being your own boss. Not only is Battery World one of the most affordable franchises, but with low interest rates, capital is accessible and affordable. Combine that with landlords seeking the secure yields of long term national tenants. Put all of this together and you can see why Battery World is on a fast track for growth.
“My immediate goals as general manager are to ensure we as the franchisor offer guidance and support to all franchisees, help to raise network sales so the franchisees can make better profits and lift the value of the franchise as a business.
“While Queensland is where we started, we are set to drive the business to the enormous markets of Sydney, New South Wales country, metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.”
Mr Hodge joins the team as Battery World rolls out a world-class new RMS system, NetSuite. This will allow the individual Battery World business owners to improve the point of sale experience for customers and staff, while tailoring control of the business with superior stock, labour, cash and account capability.
“On a personal level my wife Greta is Brisbane borne and bred and has travelled patiently with me as my roles have taken me overseas and interstate,” Mr Hodge said, “I’m obviously a bit of a slow learner, but at last I’ve got the message. We’re both delighted to be back in Brisbane now for good. Happy wife – happy life!”
A self-confessed rugby fan, (he had to give up playing after breaking his leg) Mr Hodge is also a talented crime writer with his first novel published this year.