From e m P loyee to e ntre Preneur: Sna P -on Fran C hi S ee m itC h h in D late S t newS franchises on the road
mo B ile F ran C hi S e S are exC iting o n the r oa D to Su CC e SS: u n D er S tan D ing your m o B ile Fran C hi S e oPP ortunity
36 Snap On Tools: from employee to entrepreneur snap On franchisee Mitch hind
40 Nic Brill: shaping the future of franchising
38 Tony Meredith: On The road to success: understanding your Mobile franchise Opportunity
42 Robert Toth: On The road again: Mobile Vs fixed site
44 Brian & Prue Keen: Dealing With uncertainty - again
46 Stewart Germann: ranchises are exciting
From e m Ployee to e ntre Preneur
national snap-on Franchisee of the year
Arguably one of the most successful franchise business models in the world, Snap-on is a leading innovator and manufacturer of tool, diagnostic and equipment solutions for professional tool users (mechanics and technicians). A global brand that has been operating in Australia since 1988, Snap-on is one of the longest running and successful franchises in Australia and New Zealand. In Australia alone, there are over 180 Snap-on
franchisees, with signs of significant future growth for the brand.
Success in franchising requires dedication, resilience, and a commitment to growth. Few embody these qualities as strongly as Hind, who was recently named Snap-on’s National Franchisee of the Year for 2024—a title he also won in 2022. His journey from employee to a thriving franchise owner is a testament to the power of persistence and strategic business expansion. Mitch has had a remarkable growth trajectory in the two years since we spoke with him last. Supported by his wife
Amanda, who he credits for his success, the franchise business has expanded from one franchise to include three routes and three employees, significantly increasing both the reach and customer base of the business.
Mitch’s relationship with Snap-on began before he even owned a franchise. As an employee, where he was a Sales Development Manager, he gained an in-depth understanding of the brand’s world-class tools, exceptional customer service model and franchise system. Mitch always had an entrepreneurial spirit. The idea of running his own business appealed to him. Inspired by the success of other franchisees, he made the decision in 2018, alongside his wife Amanda, to take the leap and invest in his own Snapon franchise in the Central Coast region. In just 7 years, the business has increased three-fold.
From the outset, Mitch approached his business with a clear vision: to build a thriving and sustainable franchise that not only met sales targets but also created
s
meaningful relationships with customers and build a community brand, one where he could also give back. His strategy focused on consistency, customer service, and adaptability, principles that have guided him throughout his journey to expand and grow his footprint in the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Lower Hunter Valley, Newcastle and Port Stephens.
From apprentice to entrepreneur
Mitch started in the automotive industry when he left school, however, his journey wasn’t linear. Building a successful franchise is never without challenges and Mitch’s path was no exception. As an apprentice mechanic his early days were spent honing his skills, learning the intricacies of engines, and developing a deep appreciation for the tools of the trade. It was during these early years that Mitch first encountered Snap-on, a brand he instantly equated with quality and reliability. However, his ability to pivot and adapt to
the demands of running a mobile business was crucial. Mitch believes that being able to cultivate strong customer relationships has played a significant role in this growth. His background as a mechanic gave him a unique advantage—he understood his customers’ needs but it’s how he utilises the infrastructure in the Snap-on network to his advantage that has really propelled the growth of his business forward.
One of the key factors behind Mitch’s success has been his willingness to innovate and adapt. Mitch embraces technology to enhance his operations. From leveraging social media to connect with customers to implementing efficient inventory management systems.
building the business
By fostering trust and providing an outstanding service experience, he ensured that customers remained loyal to the Snap-on brand. It also helps that he has an unwavering belief in the quality of the product. “I remember the first time I held a Snap-on ratchet. It just felt different—solid, precise and built to last,” Mitch recalls.
When asked about his advice for aspiring franchisees, Mitch keeps it simple yet powerful:
“Commit to and believe in the franchise model, use the tools and guidance provided and with the right work ethic, success will follow.” His unwavering dedication to the Snap-on system has proven that with the right mindset and work ethic, the franchise model can be a pathway to long-term success. This has led him to hire employees, of which he now has three, along with investing in an additional two franchise routes, marking a major milestone in his expansion plans. Mitch is far from slowing down. His goal is to continue scaling his business while maintaining the customer-first approach.
commitment to community & giving back
Mitch’s success is not just about numbers and year on year growth —it’s also about impact. He has actively engaged in community initiatives supported by the broader brand, reinforcing Snap-on’s commitment to making a difference. Most recently, is his involvement in the “Socket to Breast Cancer” campaign, a partnership between Snap-on and the McGrath Foundation. As part of this initiative, Mitch (with his Snap-on team) raised over $20,000 to support breast cancer awareness (overall, as a group, Snap-on raised over $214,000).
Supporting this initiative was important for Mitch, as it allowed him to leverage his business to drive awareness and contribute to a cause bigger than himself.
“Awards are great, but the real reward is knowing you’ve made a difference in your customers’ and employee’s lives. Now I also get a lot of fulfilment coaching and watching my staff developing and growing the skill sets required to run the businesses they operate. That’s what drives me every day” Mitch says.
“There’s no greater satisfaction than building something of your own and seeing it thrive and then supporting others to do the same. We have an incredible network of Snapon franchisees in the territory in which we operate, so the award is also a reflection of the success of the overall network” says Hind.
In the world of franchising, Mitch Hind stands out as a shining example of what’s possible. His journey with Snap-on is not just a success story—it’s a roadmap for others looking to drive their own success.
If you are interested in learning more about the Snap-on franchise model, please contact Franchise Manager Andrew Li0408 071 044.
Main image: ajit Ponnambalam, russell hafey, Mitch Chin, Mitch hind, s am l alor, Paul lynch, ella Beere, riley fitzsimmons.
econd image: s am l alor, Mitch hind, Mitch Chin
o n the r oad to s uccess: u nderstanding your Mo Bile franchise oPP ortunity
The franchise industry is evolving rapidly and offers diverse opportunities for aspiring business owners. In Australia and New Zealand, mobile franchising is not only growing, but also reshaping how businesses operate and serve customers. The question for prospective franchise owners is not, "Should I buy a franchise?" but rather, "Should I take my business on the road or establish a permanent location?"
Both models have distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your goals, lifestyle, and long-term vision. Let’s explore
the benefits and challenges of mobile versus static-site franchising to help you determine which path aligns best with your ambitions.
Why Mobile Franchises are thriving
Imagine a business that doesn’t wait for customers to come to it, instead it goes to the customers. Mobile franchises are an increasingly popular model across Australia and New Zealand, offering flexibility, cost efficiency, and unique customer engagement opportunities. Here’s why they’re gaining traction:
1Lower startup and operating costs
One of the biggest advantages of mobile franchising is affordability. Unlike static locations, you’re not paying for expensive
retail space or long-term lease agreements. Instead, your investment goes into a vehicle equipped to deliver your services, whether that’s a coffee van, mobile pest control service, or food truck. This makes mobile franchises an accessible entry point for aspiring business owners.
2access to Untapped Markets
A fixed location limits your reach. Conversely, with a mobile franchise, you can go where the demand is. Regional and suburban areas often lack access to specialty services, presenting huge opportunities for mobile franchises. Your ability to relocate and adapt gives you a competitive edge when you target business districts, local events, or hightraffic community areas.
3Flexibility and seasonal adaptability
Unlike traditional storefronts, mobile franchises aren’t tied to a single location. This allows you to shift strategies based on seasonality, market trends, and customer demand. You can take your business to festivals, markets, corporate offices, or schools to maximise revenue opportunities.
4direct customer engagement
A mobile franchise fosters stronger personal connections with customers. Being present in multiple locations means more face-to-face interactions, which leads to increased loyalty and trust.
potential challenges to consider
While mobile franchising offers exciting opportunities, it also comes with unique challenges, including:
• Vehicle maintenance and fuel costs: Operating on the road means ongoing expenses for upkeep.
• Weather-dependent operations: Rain or extreme heat can impact outdoor franchises.
• Limited branding and visibility: Unlike a static site, a mobile unit doesn’t have a permanent presence in one location.
If agility, variety, and market expansion excite you, then a mobile franchise may be the right fit. Alternatively, if you prefer a stable, location-based business, a static site might be a better option.
the stability of static site Franchises
A physical storefront offers security, consistency, and brand recognition. While mobile franchises thrive on adaptability, static sites focus on community presence and longterm growth.
1built-In Foot traffic
A prime retail location ensures a steady flow of potential customers. Being in a shopping centre, high street, or business district means your target market is constantly exposed to your brand. This can create a predictable revenue stream over time.
2space For growth and expansion
A physical location allows more room for scaling, whether through additional
tony Meredith Coaching focuses on helping business owners Grow Sales, Increase Profits, and Regain Time. Tony Meredith Coaching started in 2018 and works with hundreds of small-medium businesses across Australia, in the areas of Franchising, Retail, Services, Manufacturing, and Trades.
Tony has over 25 years’ experience working for some of the world’s largest corporations in a variety of senior sales and leadership roles. Contact Tony and his team if you want to grow an outstanding franchise business. info@tonymeredithcoaching.com.au https://tonymeredithcoaching.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-meredith-coach/ https://www.facebook.com/tonymeredithcoaching
products, services, or seating capacity. This is particularly beneficial in hospitality, retail, or fitness industries, where ambience and customer experience play a crucial role.
3strong community presence
Having a fixed location makes it easier to establish local credibility and brand awareness. Customers know where to find you, and a well-located franchise can become a trusted fixture in the community.
4simplified operations Management
Unlike a mobile franchise, where you’re constantly on the move, a static site follows structured routines.
• No daily equipment relocation
• No variable operating conditions
• Easier inventory and staffing management
For franchisees who value consistency, stability, and a long-term customer base, a static franchise offers a solid foundation.
key considerations For choosing your Franchise Model
The decision between a mobile or static franchise is not about which is better, instead it’s about what suits you best. Consider the following factors before making your choice:
• Lifestyle Preference: Do you enjoy being on the move, or do you prefer a fixed work environment?
• Audience Reach: Do your customers have to frequent a specific location, or are they spread across different areas?
• Financial Goals: Mobile franchises have lower upfront costs, while static sites may offer steadier long-term revenue.
• Scalability: Mobile franchises expand by adding vehicles, while static sites grow through additional locations or space.
The key is choosing the franchise model that aligns with your vision, as both models require hard work, planning, and business acumen.
sUccess stor Ies: Mobile Franchises thriving in australia
Some of Australia’s most successful franchises have leveraged mobility to build powerful brands:
• Jim’s Pool Care: With almost 150 franchisees across Australia, offering comprehensive pool maintenance and equipment services directly to customers' homes.
• Mr. Whippy: A household name in mobile food franchising, capitalising on eventdriven sales and strategic location shifts.
• Mobile Tyre Shop: On-site tyre replacement services, providing convenience for customers by servicing their vehicles at home or work.
These franchises thrive on flexibility, direct customer engagement, and demand-driven operations, highlighting the strong potential of mobile franchising.
Final thoughts
Success in franchising isn’t about mobile vs. static, it’s about alignment. Alignment with your goals, lifestyle, and long-term vision.
A mobile franchise offers freedom, flexibility, and direct customer engagement, allowing you to take your business where demand is strongest. Meanwhile, a static-site franchise provides stability, community presence, and a predictable revenue stream.
Neither model is inherently better than the other, hence the best choice is the one that fits your ambitions. Whether you’re drawn to the agility of the open road or the security of a fixed location, success ultimately depends on your ability to plan, adapt, and execute your vision effectively.
The real question isn’t, “Should I go mobile or static?”. The real question is, “Where do I want this journey to take me?”
Whichever road you take, commit to it, embrace the challenges, and make it happen. v
Sha Ping the Future o F Fran C hi S ing
key takeaways
• 2025 presents an opportunity to reset after a tough few years
• Continuous innovation in both mindset and product is critical to future success
• Rise of multi-unit franchising reflects a shift to enterprise building vs ‘buying a job’
• Demand for sustainable product merges cost-efficiency with value alignment
The economic headwinds over the past few years have eroded confidence and margins for many businesses - but few models are better positioned to weather the storm than franchises. Adversity often breeds opportunity and as we step into 2025, there’s
a sense of renewed possibility for franchising. For forward-thinking businesses, this year presents an inflection point - an opportunity to innovate from the inside out, maximising talent and technology to deliver newlydefined value to clients.
Innovation
The business world is moving faster than ever before, and with that comes the need to continuously innovate. Despite economic growth expected to improve, there remains an air of vulnerability and uncertainty amid ongoing cost pressures and the flow-on impact on consumer behaviour. The pressure is on businesses to learn quickly about their client’s wants versus their needs,
and adapt quickly to remain ahead of the competition. For the past 18 months, we have seen an increase in the ‘repair-first’ mindset as consumers seek to maintain rather than replace their assets - such as robotic cleaners, filters and equipment. But as financial strain eases, we expect consumer priorities to shift from repairing to replacing. It’s vital for franchisors to remain agile to the changing needs of their client and continuously redefine how to deliver value.
Technology and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to reshape the workforce, but ultimately, franchisors can’t afford to ignore their value in modern business operations.
Poolwerx has leaned into automation to maximise efficiencies, allowing our team to focus more on high-value client services to enhance the overall client experience. Staying ahead of the curve with the opportunities AI offers will be both a challenge and an opportunity to remain committed to finding a better way. We are already exploring ways to leverage AI’s capabilities for team upskilling, training and development.
However, with this increased digitisation comes a renewed perception of the traditional workforce. It’s estimated Generation Z accounts for 27 per cent of the workforce, and we can continue to expect their influence to reshape workplace expectations. Franchisors need to adapt to these new dynamics, or risk being left behind for more evolved working models.
Poolwerx’ ‘hub and spoke’ operation model uniquely positions us to deliver strong commercial outcomes while fostering adaptable work structures for our retail and service operators. By balancing structured operations with innovative flexibility, our Franchise Partners are redefining work arrangements to meet the evolving expectations of today’s workforce. Early results highlight significant improvements in staff wellbeing, paired with enhanced business performance - a win-win for both employees and franchise partners.
the changing face of franchising
For Poolwerx, innovation isn’t just about tools; it’s about mindset. Our alignment with growth-minded talent who consistently lean into new ways of doing business and incorporate cutting-edge technologies enables us to move faster and remain competitive.
Franchising has always been about creating opportunities, but the profile of those opportunities is evolving. The rise of
multi-unit franchising reflects a shift in mindset - from ‘buying a job’ to building an enterprise. Today’s franchise partners aren’t just operators; they’re business professionals with growth mindsets, looking to increase enterprise value and achieve greater returns than their traditional roles might offer.
In the last year, 95% of our prospective franchise partners were seeking multi-unit operations, compared to just 70% five years ago. This is largely being driven by former C-Suite Executives. In the last four years, Poolwerx has observed a significant increase (90%) in tertiary-qualified candidates looking to buy a franchise, and almost half are departing high-level corporate roles.
These buyers are investing up to 17 times more capital to buy an existing operation rather than invest in a brand-new franchise territory. It’s a direct reflection of franchising's capacity to offer a proven and accelerated pathway to wealth creation compared to traditional employment. Franchising provides the proven business models and proven brands that these business-savvy individuals know they can back with peace of mind that their investment is sound.
Leading the green agenda
Sustainability has been progressively rising to the forefront of the consumer agenda, but the cost-of-living has accelerated the desire for energy-saving tools. Today, clients are looking for solutions that save money and align with their values.
The pool care industry has evolved rapidly in response to these demands. Poolwerx was the first to market with a 7-star energy-rated pump that maximised energy savings and reduced operating costs for pool owners.
Today, the underlying basis of our products is focused on helping our clients preserve the health of their aquatic environments for year-round enjoyment. We’re also responding to the growing demand for natural, lowchemical pools that promote wellness and create a sanctuary for families. These innovations not only meet today’s needs but also position us as leaders in the sustainable future of pool and spa care.
Franchising beyond 2025
The evolving landscape of franchising - marked by innovation, a shift toward enterprise-building, and a growing green
aBout n ic Brill:
For almost 20 years, Nic has served in key leadership roles for global and national brands including Donut King, Gloria Jeans, King Island Dairy, Nescafé and Vitasoy. His demonstrated history as a business leader in the franchising and retail industries has equipped Nic with critical insights into understanding the core values of the Australian small business owner.
Nic has developed a breadth of knowledge at a strategic and operational level and his international experience drew him to Poolwerx as the company continues to bolster its reputation as the world’s largest global franchise pool service brand across Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
agenda - presents immense potential for those ready to embrace it.
Franchises have proven their resilience by navigating economic challenges and reemerging stronger. For aspiring franchise partners, this presents an opportunity to step into a well-supported, future-focused model as it gears up for a new chapter of innovation. For those well-established in the space, it’s a chance to sharpen strategies, challenge outdated schools of thought, and lead the way in creating sustainable, meaningful value for clients and communities. v
on the roaD again - mo B ile
v
F ixe D S ite
F ran C hi S e S
Ahh mobile franchises, that feeling of freedom not tied to an office or retail store, off to the next appointment, wind in your hair, dog in tow, no need to pay exorbitant rent and staff costs.
Mobile franchises are a great option and mean you can work as hard or as little as you like.
They are a low-cost option compared to a full retail franchise and can still deliver a reasonable return on your effort and hours worked due to the lower overheads.
They may not suit everyone and there is an emergence of mobile franchises on the market to choose from, but you still need to choose wisely.
I can get my lawns cut, my hedge trimmed, my car repaired, house cleaned, and dinner and groceries delivered to the door.
For any business taking your business to the consumer is a great way to generate work without carrying the huge overheads of a fixed site and provides convenience to overworked families and people working from home under work pressure.
the benefits of mobile franchises
Mobile franchises require much smaller up front capital investment and are generally more affordable.
They also offer greater lifestyle and work life flexibility than a traditional site-based franchise.
They are generally owner operated so you do not have staff costs and having to manage staff and of the add on costs of employees. The franchise fee for a mobile franchise is usually the biggest cost apart from the need to lease a vehicle, branding and equipment
costs whereas for a fixed site franchise the franchise fee is usually the lowest cost and the investment in stock and shop fit out, lease costs, staff costs and insurance can be considerable. On top of that you need more working capital.
The ongoing operational costs are also generally much lower with a mobile franchise depending on the nature of the business.
Mobile work may not however suit everyone as not everyone likes to be “on the road” travelling around from one suburb to another.
Even though a mobile franchise has less up front cost (which means less risk) that may also mean a smaller income or return.
A typical fixed site franchise may require investment of anything between $350,000 to $800,000, of which the franchise fee may be $40,000 to $60,000 whereas a mobile franchise investment all up may be around the $60,000 to $100,000 mark.
robert toth is Special Counsel and Franchise Specialist at Sanicki Lawyers with over 35 years of experience in franchise, licensing and distribution law.
Robert is also an Accredited Commercial Law Specialist and regularly publishes articles on franchising in Australia and overseas journals and acts for a number of overseas, local and master franchisors and acts in dispute resolution and mediations.
contact robert@sanickilawyers.com.au or even call him on mobile 0412 67 37 57 www.sanickilawyers.com.au
“ For any business taking your business to the consumer is a great way to generate work without carrying the huge overheads of a fixed site and provides convenience to overworked families and people working from home under work pressure.”
opposed to a fixed site franchise. The stock has to be funded up front and the working capital for a fixed site franchise over the first six or twelve months of operation will be much greater.
What to consider when looking at a mobile franchise
Here are some key things to consider:
a. Will you get an exclusive territory or can the franchisor or other franchisees compete in your territory.
b. What is the franchisors “on line” policy as far as directing leads to you, in your territory?
up a mobile franchise you will be doing nothing more than taking a salary and there may be no or very little goodwill at the end.
training and support
You should ensure that the franchisor provides adequate training up front and ongoing training and support and they have the latest booking and CRM software for ease of bookings and payment.
There is really no excuse these days for outdated systems and software.
Some mobile franchises elect to charge a fixed monthly royalty rather than a royalty based on the gross turnover of the business, which can be positive if the business is successful and growing but a fixed monthly royalty can become just a debt owed to the franchisor if the business is not successful.
Fixed site franchises generally charge a royalty based on the turnover of the business of between 4% to 10% of gross turnover (revenue) and a marketing fund contribution of around 2% to 5% per cent and with a mobile franchise it may be a higher royalty on the gross revenue with just obligations to do some local area marketing.
A mobile franchise may still charge an up front franchise fee of $20,000 to $30,000, plus the cost of the vehicle and equipment. The vehicle and equipment can usually be leased, thus reducing the capital outlay.
The other key issue is that generally a mobile franchise will have limited stock holding as
c. Is the territory allocated close to or where you live ? You may not want to be travelling across town to service your area?
d. Do you have to travel long distances within your territory to service clients for a small fee in which there may be little profit?
e. Can you still take time off and have a break without impacting on the business if you are a sole trader?
do the numbers
Even though it may be a lower entry cost you should still talk to other franchisees in the system to gain feedback and do your own financial due diligence and cash flows with the assistance of your accountant and financial advisor to see if the business is sufficiently viable to at least pay you a reasonable salary.
If the numbers don’t work, then don’t commit, as mobile franchises can be di fficult to sell.
You may also need to accept that by taking
Does the franchisor have a social media presence and are they on Instagram and other social media promoting the business and brand compared to the competition?
your exit plan
One thing with all franchises is that they have a “life span” after which you will want to sell and exit.
Most mobile franchises have a limited life span of maybe 3 to 5 years so you need to look at the transfer or assignment costs when you sell, restrictions on selling the franchise and the non-compete clauses that may restrict you from setting up in competition.
If things don’t go to plan it can be di fficult to get out and sell a mobile franchise and you may still crystallize a loss if you walk away during the franchise term.
So, before you “get on the road again” like Willie Nelson did back in the 60’s, do your analysis and get advice from your Specialist Franchise Lawyer and financial advisor to limit your risk and you can make an informed decision before you commit. v
d ealing with uncertainty –again?
As every year starts, we move into it with hope and excitement feeding plans for the great things we are going to do this year. But again, since COVID hit our shores, business is facing the future with no certain parameters to guide a suite of decisions.
As I was thinking about this, an email dropped into my inbox from Ideagen – a large UK-based organisation supplying software to over 11,400 corporates –outlining the trends they see clouding our future. This is the list of issues they see we face adding to the confusion:
A different world with increasing political and economic uncertainty, Trump being the least of it.
A different consumer with shifting demands for service and delivery.
Different technology moving at warp speed fed by AI making business management harder.
Different ways of working with new work models and a workforce with changing demands.
different crime with evolving cyber threats.
Different climate , changing faster than we thought possible bringing increased hardship and a need to change in response.
It’s the list we’ve been facing for some time, and I’ve touched on the topic before, only this year the pressure’s increasing. exacerbated because it’s impossible to see where or how it’s all going to pan out and what’s needed to cope.
For some of us, this means opportunity whilst others will find business life tougher – especially where we are unable to make the changes needed to cope.
As Franchisors, responsible not only for our business but the businesses of our franchise partners, life is going to have to be flexible - ready to make the changes as we get to know exactly how things are going to move forwards – not something franchise groups are necessarily set up to be.
Here are some of the things we think are essential in any business going forward today if they are going to deal with continued change and the current uncertainty. 2025 may not be the year that business must change but it certainly is the year it needs to prepare for difference, modification,
transformation even which will be needed in the not-too-distant future.
Here are some areas we believe need to be considered.
World view
Unfortunately, we are going to have to keep an eye on Trump, our impending election, climate, social change and all things materialising which make keeping up with the news so depressing today. What is the impact going to be on economy, trade, supply lines, production breaks and losses, business regulation – both opportunities and challenges. Knowing gives us the power to be in front.
digital literacy and management
It’s no accident this trends report came out from Ideagen, they are a software company after all, helping corporates and governments internationally manage the tricky environment of change in so many areas which is demanding business, all business, big or small, becomes more digital.
digital is now king…
What this means is, no longer can franchisors and their managers plead digital ignorance and rely entirely on their experts. That is a recipe for disaster. Management must at least understand what is needed and how software can be adopted so it is flexible enough to accommodate future change, integrated enough so one system deals with as many needs as possible (security, accounting, operations, logistics, POS, rosters, CRM… the list goes on) and simple enough for everyone to use as required. So hard when the digital responses are changing and developing accordingly, resulting in a bewildering array of software and apps available to help. And to add to the list of woes, as Ideagen note, there is a severe shortage of a skilled software workforce across the board which is a shame because management need experts to help put these systems in and manage them. Look after your IT staff and upskill the rest.
the human interface
I don’t have to tell you society has changed beyond measure even in the past five years or so and our societal changes are not slowing down. While digital business is king, never ever forget it is people who work these systems, and our customers are people too. Digital systems are put in to help and serve the people we interact with every day.
Brian and prue Keen
Brian Keen has been involved in the franchise industry for more than 30 years and prue has been involved with systems and business for as long. Together they founded Franchise Simply, Systems2Grow and Microloan Foundation Australia. Brian’s on-the-ground business experience as a multi-unit franchisee, franchisor and consultant helping many of the big names create their own franchise systems and growth over the years combined with Prue’s structured approach has been fed into Franchise Simply, helping today’s SMEs and Franchisors grow their business by franchising.
www.franchisesimply.com.au | www.systems2grow.com
Our workers are demanding different working conditions, and we are imposing changes too in that we are offering more and more part-time work rather than traditional 9-5 in the office. What this means our employees are demanding the ability to manage more than one job and needing to manage their family and other responsibilities and wants as well.
Our customers are buying differently too, budgets are not going so far these days, but this doesn’t mean price is the only determining factor – value and great service are things our millennial and gen Z customers cherish more. What this means is they’ll abandon us very fast if we don’t get the balance right – yes, they want a fast streamlined digital platform but one suited to them personally with human interaction where its important. It enhances the human service and their experience – not replaces it.
everything else
Climate, sustainability, equality in people management and opportunity, purpose which recognises a giving culture, are all becoming more important, but the playing field is shifting. Some aspects are regulated and expected to become more so (climate in particular) but what is going to happen with changing politics at home and internationally. Franchisors in particular cannot ignore their HR responsibilities, and these are only going to increase.
So, to conclude, 2025 is a year to plan for growth but prepare for change because it’s going to come and sooner than most of us expect. v
M o Bile franchises are exciting
The number of mobile franchises in Australia and New Zealand has expanded considerably over recent years. By mobile I mean where the business is conducted from a van.
There are franchises that are mobile because they have to be. For example, there are pool valet services, electrical or plumbing services, couriers, and cleaning. There is Laser Electrical, Laser Plumbing, Aramex and Poolwerx. There are also mobile businesses which can deliver products and services to customers. For example, carpet retailing, carpet cleaning, car tuning and coffee.
Some of the most popular franchises in recent years have been those which take their products or services out to their customers. They come in two forms being those that are mobile because they have to be and those that are mobile businesses which take a traditional product or service such as coffee, car tuning or carpet retailing to new customers in their homes.
Both offer the benefits of getting out and about rather than waiting for customers to come to you. Expensive premises are eliminated but you will need to purchase a properly equipped vehicle.
If you are looking to invest in a mobile franchise then you must do your due diligence. Apart from talking to the franchisor and asking a lot of questions, it is essential to talk to mobile franchisees who are already running their own businesses to see if they like it, what pitfalls they have discovered, and the operating costs. In addition to the normal expenses to operate a business you will have petrol or diesel costs, maintenance costs for the vehicle, annual registration fee, and insurance.
The franchise agreement between the franchisor or owner of the intellectual property for the business system and the franchisee will contain some unique clauses including the use of the trade marks and colour schemes, specifications of the type of motor vehicle and territorial restrictions. Can the mobile van drive anywhere? If the answer is no then the franchisor must think carefully about the division of territories, the population base, and how to distribute a territory fairly among franchisees. A courier
stewart g ermann founded Stewart Germann Law Office (SGL) in 1993 as a boutique law firm at Auckland, New Zealand, specialising in franchising, licensing and business law.
Stewart has over 40 years’ experience in franchising law and acts for franchisors in New Zealand, Australia, USA and the UK. SGL also acts for franchisees and provides legal advice. Stewart has spoken at franchising conferences in New Zealand, Australia, Italy, South Korea and USA and he was on the Board of the Supplier Forum of the International Franchise Association (“IFA”) for 6 years until March 2007. email: stewart@germann.co.nz | Web: www.germann.co.nz
van is an interesting case study. We all see couriers driving everywhere but even the courier/franchisee should have a specified area or territory. For example, Auckland is such a large city in land area so it would be hopeless to allow a courier to drive from West Auckland to East Auckland delivering parcels. The same would apply to Sydney or Melbourne so careful thought and research must be undertaken in relation to territories.
A mobile franchisor must assess its existing systems which are required to run smoothly. You must consider what software you will use as it needs to manage customers, inventory, and accounting and invoicing. A franchisor must have a robust training plan, a good communications system and geographical boundaries must be considered to be fair to all franchisees.
It is also important for mobile franchisees to comply with all relevant legislation and regulations. In New Zealand, if you drive a diesel or another type of non-petrol fuelled vehicle, you need to pay Road User Charges (RUC). These charges go towards maintaining and improving the roading network. Petrol vehicles contribute towards these costs through an excise tax on petrol. There is no tax on diesel which is why these vehicles need to pay RUC instead. RUC is charged according to how many kilometres a vehicle travels, and its type and weight.
Finally, it is important for a potential mobile franchisee to do careful due diligence, to read the franchise agreement in full and to take independent advice from a franchising lawyer and accountant. The number of mobile franchises is certain to increase so watch out for new brands appearing from time to time. v
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Keep It Moovin – Your Trusted Freight Solutions Partner!
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The business guarantees dependable, on-demand transportation with complete public liability insurance through its expanding network
Our Services Include:
Same-Day Delivery Service: Keep It Moovin provides a QR code-based system for same-day deliveries. Customers can scan the QR code in-store or online to book a delivery, ensuring fast and reliable service.
Same-Day Delivery Service: Keep It Moovin provides a QR code-based system for same-day deliveries. Customers can scan the QR code in-store or online to book a delivery, ensuring fast and reliable service.
Small Retail Removals: Moving big items can be a hassle, but we make it simple. Whether itʼs a sofa, bed, or that fridge that just wonʼt fit in a standard car, weʼll pick it up and deliver it to where you need it. Our small retail removals service ensures that your goods get to their new home
Small Retail Removals: Moving big items can be a hassle, but we make it simple. Whether itʼs a sofa, bed, or that fridge that just wonʼt fit in a standard car, weʼll pick it up and deliver it to where you need it. Our small retail removals service ensures that your goods get to their new home
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Weʼve got you covered! From transporting floorboards to carrying tiles, gardening supplies, and more, we help make your renovation journey easier. Instead of worrying about renting a truck, just call us, and we'll provide an affordable, hassle-free transport solution.
Renovation Assistance: Tackling a home renovation? Weʼve got you covered! From transporting floorboards to carrying tiles, gardening supplies, and more, we help make your renovation journey easier. Instead of worrying about renting a truck, just call us, and we'll provide an affordable, hassle-free transport solution.
