In the wake of the 7Eleven scandal, The National Franchise Convention 2015 (NFC15) has focused on best practice franchising, and has highlighted the importance of franchising to Australia’s small business sector. Franchise Council of Australia chairman Michael Paul (pictured) told more than 400 delegates that franchising delivers the critical structure that “cradles and supports” Australia’s all-important small business community.
‘”We are the backbone of Australia’s small business community, 95% of franchisors and almost all franchisees fall within the definition of a “small business”, Paul said.
“Our sector employs an estimated 460,000-plus people through an estimated 79,000 independently-owned and operated franchised outlets across approximately 1180 business franchise systems in Australia.
“We generate an estimated $144Bn in turnover each year, achieving growth rates that outperform the broader small business market. This backs up the premise that as a method of doing business franchising is the optimum small business model.
“We know that the leaders of Australian franchise systems are highly skilled, ethical and committed men and women who generate national wealth, create jobs and through innovation ensure Australia keeps up with rapid, ongoing change,” he said.
Highlights of Day One of the conference on the Gold Coast included keynote presentations from advertising guru Todd Sampson, former AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou and former Best & Less CEO, Holly Kramer.
The Monday Convention program also featured sessions including Brand Protection and Reputation Management, Proposed Changes to Unfair Contracts Laws and Gaining Maximum Value from using Technology, including social media.