:59 am
health, fitness & beauty
VOL 14 ISSUE 01 nov/dec 2019
home caring
A perfect partnership Health, Fitness and Beauty
hot sectors in franchising
the ato
Supporting Your Wellbeing Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 39
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
c ov er sto ry: H ome Caring
A perfect partnership Home Caring has been providing top-quality home care services in Australia since 2015. Committed to helping those in need by offering them access to a range of unique services built around their needs, Home Caring cares for its clients with passion, respect, empathy and accountability. Jon Kontopos, the founder of the company, is passionate about improving Australia’s home care industry and brings over seven years of experience in working with seniors in the care industry. Michaela Brown – the Home Caring Group Operations Manager - oversees the entire business and brings a wealth of experience with her. With well over 10 years working in the care industry, there’s nothing Michaela hasn’t encountered. Claire Zhang has always been interested in being a business owner and is a passionate Home Caring franchisee partner. With over 12 years of nursing experience, Claire has gone from nurse to business-woman. Home Caring understands that everyone is different. The dedicated team ensures that customers receive trustworthy, compassionate and reliable services which are
aligned with their needs. The business values feedback and actively monitors changes in circumstances to ensure they are consistently providing customers with the support they require. Home Caring aims to provide the highest standards of personalised in-home care with clinical expertise. Business Franchise magazine spoke with the team at Home Caring to find out more their unique service.
Can you tell us about the Home Caring mission? “Our mission is very straightforward; we are dedicated to providing professional and reliable care and support services to all clients,” says Jon. “It’s common to assume that providing home care is easy,” says Jon, “surely all you have to do is look after people for a few hours – how hard is that?” In reality, the best home care is far more thoughtful than this, and Home Caring take everything into account when caring for each individual, ensuring that all their requirements are met and that they retain their dignity. “The way we see it, home care should be about helping people to feel comfortable and confident at home. They should have a sense of independence and not feel as though
“It’s the perfect partnership,” says Jon, “Claire has gone from nurse to business-woman and has achieved incredible results with Home Caring.”
40 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
they’re on their own. With our innovative approach, we’ve bought smiles to over 900 faces in just a few years,” explains Jon.
How does the mission translate into the everyday operation? “Everything we do is focused on our mission statement,” says Michaela, “all of our services and home care packages are designed to be as professional and reliable as can be. No matter who the client is – or what problems they might have – we are always going to be there to help, and there will always be professional support from trained specialist carers.” “Unfortunately, many home care services in Australia are set up to make money – understandably, a business needs to make a profit, but this shouldn’t be at the expense of patient care,” says Michaela. “With Home Caring, we always put the client first. We listen to their needs and develop home care plans to suit their specific needs,” explains Michaela. “As a result, it means clients only pay for a plan that suits them. You never have to pay for things you don’t need, making our services affordable and accessible. Care and support for clients come first, above everything else!”
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises Tell us about your franchisee partnerships “The business launched in 2015 and started franchising in 2018 with the first franchisee appointed in December of that year,” says Jon. “Our franchisee system is a partnershipbased model, so we partner with, nurture and empower our nurses,” says Jon. “The Home Caring business model is unique and offers a 50/50 joint venture, reducing startup costs and promoting strong collaboration between the Home Caring brand and our franchisee partners.” “I first got involved with Home Caring in October last year. It was the Home Caring franchisee online advertisement that drew my attention,” says Claire, “when I compared Home Caring’s advertisement with other companies that offer a similar business opportunity, I found Home Caring has a more reasonable and detailed plan for the franchisee, in terms of offering 50/50 joint venture structure.” “I was always interested in business and wanted to be a business owner, but I never thought my nursing career would help me
“Our franchisee system is a partnership-based model, so we partner with, nurture and empower our nurses,” says Jon. “The Home Caring business model is unique and offers a 50/50 joint venture, reducing startup costs and promoting strong collaboration between the Home Caring brand and our franchisee partners.”
with owning my own,” says Claire, “but after starting Home Caring Campbelltown, I soon realised my experience has actually helped me a lot, not only my clinical knowledge and skills but also skills in leadership and management that I have learnt over my time working in the health care industry.” “The most rewarding part of my job is to help my clients to achieve their care goal and support their families and carers. The other rewarding part is to see my employees happy by providing ongoing training and offering them a secure job with a stable income,” says Claire. “It’s the perfect partnership,” says Jon, “Claire has gone from nurse to businesswoman and has achieved incredible results with Home Caring.”
Why choose Home Caring? “Franchisees receive full support in the operation of the business, from initial induction training to marketing activities and compliance processes. Regular meetings are held for franchisees, and the operations team regularly visit the franchisees in their locations to lead and guide them on a one on one basis” explains Michaela. Home Caring is on the lookout for passionate, dedicated and communityminded franchisees who want to experience the rewards of running a business. For more information on the Home Caring franchise partnership model, please visit www.homecaring.com.au
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 41
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
FE AT U R E A R T I C L E
Health, Fitness and Beauty Franchises:
Feel Good Franchising Keeping in shape, staying healthy and even having our hair done, is considered a necessity of personal maintenance rather than a luxury in today’s society. Likewise, owning a customer-focused franchise that helps to promote a sense of well-being and happiness can be just as rewarding for the business owner. In today’s busy world, finding a career that you love means you might not ever have to work a day in your life again. The health, fitness and beauty industry is booming, with franchise opportunities ranging from gyms and weight-loss centres, to hairdressers, beauty therapists and laser and cosmetics centres.
Booming aesthetics industry Despite our love for the outdoors and relaxed lifestyle, Australian consumers spend more on skincare, make-up and cosmetic procedures than those in other developed countries and is ranked in the top five markets in the world. Due to high disposable
incomes, Australian consumers can spend highly on beauty and personal care. It’s easy to see why a franchise in the beauty industry could be a highly lucrative business opportunity. According to the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, each year, Australians spend approximately $1 billion on cosmetic treatments and annually consume more than $350 million worth of wrinkle reduction procedures with products like Botox. Business Franchise magazine took a look at some successful beauty franchise systems available across Australia and New Zealand. Having conquered some of the latest beauty treatments and technologies, Nirvana Beauty Laser Clinics presents a huge investment opportunity for people wishing to enter the beauty industry. As a franchise owner with Nirvana Beauty Laser Clinics, you will experience the satisfaction of working in a booming sector and offering customers a wide range of skincare, body sculpting, injectables and laser hair removal procedures. Ella Baché is Australia’s only national skincare franchise. Ella Baché is a leader in skin care products and education in Australia. As a franchise owner, you can
expect the ongoing support and training you need to create the vibrant lifestyle you want. Salon owners have come from all walks of life; from retail positions, graduates, people from non-beauty industries and many salon clients, who have dreamt of running a small business. Laser Clinics Australia has carved a niche in the cosmetic treatment industry, offering a wide range of affordable and accessible procedures and treatments at over 105 clinics across Australia and New Zealand. Laser Clinics Australia offers every franchisee partner a unique franchise business opportunity. Each location opened will be a 50/50 partnership between the franchisee partner and Laser Clinics Australia. The success of Essential Beauty is due primarily to adapting to changing market conditions and being innovative with its products and services. Initially providing traditional beauty services such as nails and waxing, it has increased its clientele to include other beauty services, such as cosmetic injectables and laser hair removal. Years of experience has produced a franchise business model with a proven formula for the establishment and operation of successful salons.
42 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
Regular physical activity and a healthy diet are essential factors in maintaining a healthy weight, and there are a growing number of health and fitness franchise systems available across Australia and New Zealand.
“If being healthy, looking great and keeping fit is something that will get you out of bed every day, then perhaps a franchise in the health, fitness and beauty industry is the right fit for you.”
Australia’s rising health consciousness Demand for personal training, fitness groups and gym memberships have been fuelled by rising health consciousness in Australia and a growing interest in weight-loss programs and fitness regimes. Australia’s high obesity rates are projected to contribute to industry growth well into the future.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, excess weight, especially obesity, is a significant risk factor for a range of diseases including cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes, some musculoskeletal conditions and several cancers. As the level of excess weight increases, so does the risk of developing and managing these conditions. Some of the most concerning
Established in 2004, Listen to Your Body (LTYB) achieved its long term goal to develop a unique group personalised training model into a franchise system. LTYB franchised the operation to provide a business model that more members across Australia can access. The LTYB model differentiates from other systems due to the unique individualised service offering to members. Studios are appointment only with each member having a personal trainer in every session. The 9Round fitness franchise opportunity is breaking the mould in the fitness industry — the business model simple and the entry cost low. With a proven business model, a network of dedicated support staff, and hundreds of other franchisees, 9Round owners always have somewhere to turn for support and direction. Snap Fitness is the world’s premier gym dedicated to providing results to members through 24/7 access to high intensity interval training. Starting from humble origins, Snap Fitness has grown over these past 15 years to become a well-respected international brand, boasting over one million members around the world. The Australian fitness industry is now worth $2.4 billion — and a massive chunk of that is attributed to the fastest growing fitness chain, F45. F45’s popular training method and highly systemised business model has seen this fitness brand explode across the globe, with over 1750 franchises across 45+ countries in only six years. And now F45’s
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 43
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
statistics include that two in three adults were overweight or obese in 2017/2018, and one in four adolescents ages two to 17 were overweight or obese in 2017-2018.
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
FE AT U R E A R T I C L E
sights are set on further domination with the launch of its newest model, Prodigy — a specially designed high interval training (HIT) program for kids between 11-17 years of age. Plus Fitness is an award winning 24 hour gym franchise network and offers conveniently located, low cost, high quality fitness facilities to its growing membership. As a franchisor, Plus Fitness is committed to franchisee success and offers high levels of initial and ongoing support. Plus Fitness has sold over 250 franchises across Australia and New Zealand and continues to grow at a rapid rate, recently announcing the opening of its first gym in Singapore making it the fourth country for the gym chain to establish in. Vision Personal Training is a one-on-one specialist training service. Vision Personal Training has been operating since August 1999 and franchising since 2004. The all-inclusive investment of a franchise includes leasing, studio fit-out and equipment, initial training fees and all other charges. When compared to other popular
franchises, Vision Personal Training is a very cost-effective opportunity.
A necessity of personal grooming Having your hair styled, coloured and cut is considered a necessity of personal grooming and because hair never stops growing, neither does demand. Australia’s Hairdressing sector includes a range of hair-related services, such as hair cutting, colouring and styling, as well as facial hair grooming. According to the Australian Industry an and Skills Committee, as of May 2017, 54,400 people were employed as hairdressers in Australia, with that number expected to grow to 58,200 by May 2022. With 224 salons across Australia New Zealand, Just Cuts is the largest and most loved family hairdressing company in the Southern Hemisphere. Just Cuts offers a successful and proven system for hairdressing, where there is constant
“Keeping in shape, staying healthy and even having our hair done, is considered a necessity of personal maintenance rather than a luxury in today’s society.”
demand. Franchisees are not required to be hairdressers but should be motivated, committed, capable and genuinely interested in people. Just Cuts offers franchisees the choice of two options: a turn-key package where everything is taken care of by the franchisor; or a more hands-on approach, which allows for on-the-job training. Over the past four decades, the Franck Provost business model has been refined and optimised to run successfully. With 14 salons across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, Franck Provost is now looking for partners that share its passion and vision to grow the network. There are flexible franchise opportunities available at a number of key locations around Australia and the expert franchise partnerships team will be happy to help you through every step to find the most suitable site for you. Hairhouse is both a retail and service business, your one-stop-shop for everything hair, make-up, skin, and much more! Franchisees enjoy national advertising exposure across large mediums and receive ongoing support in generating awareness and sales at a local level. With a simple turn-key operation, Hairhouse stores keep on multiplying. With over 125 stores and salons nationwide, they aim to be the largest privately owned hair and beauty retailer in Australia. With years of experience, Hairhouse has developed a proven operating system and is looking for passionate and devoted individuals to become franchisees. If being healthy, looking great and keeping fit is something that will get you out of bed every day, then perhaps a franchise in the health, fitness and beauty industry is the right fit for you.
44 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
Don’t miss an issue
Get the App C OV ER STO RY: Fra n c k P rovo st
environment, being part of a vibrant and creative industry, and getting the latest trends and know-how from Paris, the capital of fashion,” says Jean-François. “Owning and running a hair salon also provides an important role and status in the local community, allowing you to meet all kinds of people. It allows you to have a strong impact on peoples’ lives by making them look and feel beautiful, and influence the way they interact with others both personally and professionally.”
MAKE A BEAUTIFUL BUSINESS CHOICE WITH
FRANCK PROVOST
“At Franck Provost Australia we have heavily invested in a full head office structure and support team, which includes a Head of Education and Talent Management who delivers ongoing training on the Franck Provost concept and customer experience, as well as exclusive hair cutting and colouring techniques. We also provide all the proven tools and systems, as well as a comprehensive operations manual, to help optimise business performance and success,” says Jean-François.
When Franck Provost opened his first salon in Paris back in 1975, he probably never dreamt that a few decades later there would be more than 600 Franck Provost salons in 30 countries around the world!
Eleven years later, the Franck Provost Australian network already counts 14 salons, with an ambition to become the country’s leading high-end hairdressing franchise. Business Franchise magazine spoke with the team at Franck Provost Australia about their unique brand, their vision and what it’s like being a part of the Franck Provost family.
“The existing Franck Provost salons are currently growing by about five per cent compared with last year on average, which sits well above the median 1.4 per cent growth in the hair and beauty industry in general. We believe there is probably room for around 40 to 60 Franck Provost salons across all major Australian cities. This is still quite conservative compared to the nearly 500 Franck Provost salons there are in France!” Says Jean-François.
How does your service benefit franchisees/franchisors? Why outsource these activities?
A glamorous environment, an exciting lifestyle, a supportive family… Open the doors to a thrilling future by becoming a Franck Provost franchise owner-operator.
In 2008, inspired by the outstanding success story of this self-made man, Jean-François Carré reached out to Franck Provost with an offer to develop his venture in Australia. They instantly connected and soon a master franchise was granted to Jean-François for Australia.
What potential for growth do you see for individual salons and also the Franck Provost brand in Australia?
Why did you bring the Franck Provost brand to Australia? “Following much research, I chose Franck Provost as it ticked many boxes: it’s a beautiful brand and industry, a world leader yet still a family business with great corporate culture. Plus, I saw an opportunity for the Australian market, as there was a lot less competition in terms of high-end hair salon franchises compared to Europe. I also thought the
10 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
glamorous brand image and its accessible luxury positioning were perfectly fitted for Australia,” says Jean-François.
What do you think is unique about the Franck Provost brand when it comes to a franchise partner offering? “Being a Franck Provost franchise entrepreneur means working in a glamorous
“And on top of the Franck Provost franchise, we have also launched supplementary optional support services, where we can additionally look after bookkeeping, accounting, financial reports, payroll, HR, and also help with recruitment and local marketing.”
What qualities do you look for in a prospective franchise partner? “We are looking for individuals who share a positive, entrepreneurial mindset and a genuine commitment to making their salon grow and prosper. Franck Provost provides full training in professional hair salon management, so no hairdressing experience is necessary.”
“We are looking for individuals who share a positive, entrepreneurial mindset and a genuine commitment to making their salon grow and prosper.”
Your career was outside the hair industry, so what made you open your own Franck Provost hairdressing salon? “I decided to take the plunge and operate my own business by opening a Franck Provost hair salon. I knew the Franck Provost brand very well as I am French; it is a very popular hairdressing name in France. Moreover, I am actually from the town where Franck Provost opened his first salon in 1975, so I felt there was a connection,” says Virginie Henriet, Franck Provost’s Mosman franchisee.
SP
EC Only IAL: $4.95
us with the tools and advice we needed to get going. The ongoing support to date has still been great, the office and head management team are always there for support when we need it,” says Sonya Wilson, Franck Provost’s Chatswood franchisee.
VOL 14 ISSUE 01 NOV/DEC 2019
What is your favourite part about SPECIAL FEATURE
HEALTH, FITNESS & BEAUTY FRANCHISES
“I really like working in the luxury beauty industry; it is a great sector of services. Franck Provost is a well-positioned brand in that it is high end, yet accessible, so there is no elitism. The good thing is that you can always change and improve it because it is your own business.”
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Franck Provost family? “Where do I Start? Firstly, I think the support from Head Office and the other franchise partners is great. Being our first business and not having much insight into what it takes to start a business, the franchise was heavily involved in getting us started and providing
owning a Franck Provost salon?
“Having the Franck Provost Academy in Sydney is fantastic because our team is always being trained in the latest trends and techniques coming out of Paris. When your job is to give your clients a luxury experience, quality and consistent education are absolutely essential,” explains Freddy Pinzon, Franck Provost’s Paddington franchisee.
Want to own a little piece of Paris? Franck Provost has flexible franchise opportunities available at a number of key locations around Australia and the expert franchise partnerships team will be happy to help you through every step to find the most suitable site for you. For more information 02 9331 5147 partnerships@franckprovost.com.au franchise.franckprovost.com.au
TURNING CUSTOMERS INTO RAVING FANS
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 11
MAKE A BEAUTIFUL BUSINESS CHOICE WITH A
Franck Provost
FRANCHISE
$4.95 (AUD), $7.95 (NZ) inc. GST.
www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 45
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
pr o file : Pl u s F i tn e s s
A True Turn-Key Franchise Plus Fitness is an awardwinning Australian owned company that has been operating since 1996. Having launched its 24-hour gym franchise model in 2011, Plus Fitness has sold over 300 franchises with gyms located in Australia, New Zealand, India and most recently Singapore. The network offers conveniently located, low cost, high-quality fitness facilities to its growing membership base. As a franchisor, Plus Fitness is committed to the success of its franchisees and offers a high level of ongoing training and support.
manager who works closely with the franchisee on an ongoing basis, with monthly structured calls, site visits and unlimited contact to assist them in driving maximum success from their franchise.
Plus Fitness provide its members with the latest, world class, cutting edge gym equipment and the team of passionate personal trainers and fitness instructors provide every member with the option of a tailored fitness program to assist them in achieving their desired results.
The Plus Fitness field management team are all gurus of the fitness industry and are a formidable team in terms of their experience and depth of knowledge. As well as this, franchisees and their staff have access to thousands of business tools, an online training portal and an online marketing system which ensures their business succeeds.
All services and support provided
The benefits of a Plus Fitness franchise
The Plus Fitness franchise support structure and resources are extensive, from the franchisee’s initial establishment through to the open and then ongoing support, plus there is a team of franchisee support specialists on call covering every aspect of the franchise business.
• Initial investment $250k to $500k dependent on the size of premises
Each franchisee is also allocated a field
• Unrivalled franchise support, training
• All gym equipment included in your franchise cost! • Exclusive franchise territories • Low staffing costs
46 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
and resources meaning that no industry experience is required • Comprehensive sales and retention systems • Australian owned • Winner of the FCA’s coveted ‘Emerging Franchisor of the Year’ and Smart Company’ Top Franchise’ awards
Here’s how easy it is to get started A Plus Fitness Franchise will cost you from as little as $250k including all of your gym equipment, aesthetic fit-out, signage, access control, marketing, training and franchisee support. The Plus Fitness 24/7 franchise model offers low staffing in a fast-growing and sustainable industry and is a true turnkey franchise. If you would like to find out more about a Plus Fitness 24/7 franchise, then send an email to franchising@plusfitness.com.au or head to our website and click on ‘Own A Gym’.
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
e x pert adv i c e
Ensuring You Get a Healthy Return on a Franchise Investment Looking the part is something more, and more Australians are increasingly prioritising; and health, fitness and beauty franchises have become the beneficiaries of this growing trend. The most recent National Health Survey, conducted in 2018 by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), found that a staggering two-thirds of all Australians are overweight or obese. Maintaining an active lifestyle is a remedy that many people are now adopting to combat bulging waistlines.
“Current market trends indicate that the health, fitness and beauty industries are certainly ones that can generate good returns on investment. Australians do seem to have become more conscious of the need to proactively maintain a healthy lifestyle, while also looking to utilise services that make sure one is looking sharp and at their best.”
However, increasing one’s fitness does not only improve physical fitness; it is also great for combatting stress levels and maintaining good mental health. That’s why the Australian fitness industry is now estimated by IbisWorld to be worth a whopping 2.4 billion dollars thanks to franchise chains such as F45 and Jett Fitness. Meanwhile, beauty franchises are also on the rise, encompassing services ranging
48 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
from hairdressing, beauticians, tanning, cosmetics, teeth whitening and much more. Again, according to IbisWorld, the beauty industry in Australia has boomed to be worth 6.5 billion dollars, with personal grooming services withstanding the sluggish economic conditions. However, while the health, fitness and beauty sector is performing strongly, finding the right franchise is easier said than done
The first thing you should consider is the strength of the franchise brand. The fitness market, in particular at the moment is incredibly competitive with several different brands jostling for clients. While the high demand is proof that the sector has the potential to deliver a good return on investment, picking the right franchisor is essential. One of the benefits of entering the franchise game is that you don’t have to spend years establishing a name for yourself. Particularly if you’re entering a saturated market, such as the health, fitness & beauty sectors, selecting a business with extensive brand awareness means you’re not starting behind the eight ball in attracting customers. By nature, a business with a reliable brand has a reputation within the market for delivering services that cater to the wants and needs of consumers. Investing in a business that is seen to have a positive track record of success goes a long way to ensuring that you’re not lacking a healthy clientele level. Moreover, do your due diligence on the prospective franchisor, ranging from the business model they operate through to the way they interact with their franchisees. For instance, in fitness, there are a variety of different types of services varying from personal training, yoga, strength training and many more. All of these appeal to different demographics and attract different proportions of market share, so if you’re looking to become a fitness franchisee study which trend you believe will deliver you success. The same goes for the beauty sector, where the industry has expanded well beyond barbershops and beauty therapists, with both men and women increasingly purchasing products and services in this space. Doing your research also involves the obvious, but crucial question of whether you can afford it. Becoming a franchisee is one of the most significant financial investments you can make, and it’s vital that you can buy into a business while also juggling other commitments such as a mortgage, raising a family and affording a decent standard of living. This may well mean that some of the more prominent franchise brands are out
“While the high demand is proof that the sector has the potential to deliver a good return on investment, picking the right franchisor is essential.”
“Looking the part is something more, and more Australians are increasingly prioritising. And health, fitness and beauty franchises have become the beneficiaries of this growing trend.” Lindsay Carroll | Legal Practice Director & Deputy CEO National Retail Association
of your price range, but it’s certainly worth taking the time to get the balance right between a well-known business and what is cost-effective. Also, do background research on how the franchisor operates and how they engage with existing franchisees. Of course, the franchisor is going to tell you that they’re wonderful to deal with but to gauge an accurate understanding reach out to some of their franchisees to determine the sort of relationship you can expect. A partnership that balances providing the necessary levels of support while not being an overzealous supervisor is something that some franchisors do better than others. Make sure that you’re confident that your chosen franchisor has a proven set of systems in place that will assist your business in succeeding and that you’re fully across all rules and requirements that you would need to comply with. One final piece of advice is perhaps the most simple of the lot – make sure that you’re passionate about the business you’re getting into. As the old saying goes ‘find your obsession, make it your profession, and you’ll never work a day in your life’. If you’re only looking to get into the health, fitness or beauty industry because you think the market is strong and there’s an opportunity to earn some quick money you’ll quickly find yourself struggling with the grind of owning a small business. Being a franchisee involves long hours, learning to manage staff, frequently working weekends and ensuring that your services meet the standards of both your clientele and franchisor. If you don’t love what you do, there’s every chance you won’t get either the enjoyment nor the return on the investment required to enjoy success. All professions have their moments, and everyone has days where they’d rather sleep in than go to work, but having the necessary level of commitment is
often the difference between struggling and thriving in the franchise game. Current market trends indicate that the health, fitness and beauty industries are certainly ones that can generate good returns on investment. Australians do seem to have become more conscious of the need to proactively maintain a healthy lifestyle, while also looking to utilise services that make sure one is looking sharp and at their best. However, no sector is fail-proof and running any business comes with a variety of challenges. Don’t dive into a franchise agreement headfirst - do your research, add up the sums and ensure that you have the drive to succeed and withstand the challenges. Just like with your customers, keeping your business fit, healthy and looking the part doesn’t come without effort. At the NRA, Lindsay oversees the largest in-house team of workplace relations advisors and lawyers orientated to the retail industry. She is a leading workplace relations specialist with extensive legal experience. The National Retail Association is Australia’s largest and most diverse industry association. Its mission is to support, inform, protect and represent the interests of retailers and fast food businesses, providing advice on issues such as employment law, industrial relations, training information, workplace health and safety issues, event details, advocacy and policy updates, HR advice and migration and visa issues. For more information please contact Lindsay Carroll, Deputy CEO, Legal Practice Director NRA Legal 1800 RETAIL (738 245) www.nra.net.au
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 49
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
if you’re looking to enter this market. A quick google search will provide plenty of examples of disgruntled franchisees across numerous sectors who did not enjoy the best relationship with their franchisor. However, it’s also worth remembering that the many success stories of franchisee/franchisor partnerships seldom get reported, for the simple reason that’s it’s just not newsworthy.
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
fran c h is o r in dep t h : N u r s e N ex t D o o r
Build A Home Care Business With Heart
businesses from scratch, the serial entrepreneurs were on the lookout for a new challenge. Identifying that an ageing population was creating compelling business opportunities, they decided to investigate Nurse Next Door further, discovering not only a highly regarded home healthcare provider in Canada and the USA but also a very successful franchise system looking to expand into Australia by way of a master franchisor licence.
Amber Biesse & Matt Fitton Founders of Nurse Next Door Australia
With the population ageing at a rapid rate, the home care industry in Australia is about to explode. In 2016 Amber Biesse and Matt Fitton were living in Vancouver, Canada when they noticed one of Nurse Next Door’s pink cars driving around their local neighbourhood. Having built and run several successful
“As parents of a child with special needs,” Amber explains, “Nurse Next Door’s core purpose of making lives better resonated deeply with Matt and I. We also recognised the enormous potential of bringing a home care brand to Australia that combined this core purpose, and its associated values, with world-class processes and operational excellence, honed over years of best practice.” A rigorous process of research and investigation into the opportunity ensued. Living in Vancouver provided a unique set of circumstances as regular meetings were held at HeartQuarters over many months allowing an in-depth working knowledge of the culture, values, brand and Nurse Next Door’s systems. Australia became Nurse Next Door’s first
50 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
global partner when Matt and Amber were awarded the Australian master franchisor licence in September 2018. The corporately owned location commenced business in Melbourne a couple of months later and Matt says, “At the rate at which Nurse Next Door Melbourne has been able to penetrate the home care market and build a growing number of raving fans, the success of the brand in North America is being quickly replicated in Australia,” The level of initial inquiry from people interested in the opportunity of becoming a partner in the Nurse Next Door family is further evidence for the couple that this bold pink brand is in the right place at the right time.
The silver tsunami As the population continues to age, more people desire options. Instead of moving into a nursing home once they are no longer independent, older Australians, and their family members want choices. The statistics speak for themselves. Almost 90 per cent of all older people say that they want to age at home. In Australia, home care is a multi-billion dollar industry, and as baby boomers age, it’s poised to grow exponentially. Today the over 65s make up around 15 per cent of the population (one in
explains. “There’s nothing sombre or timid about it — a bold, brassy pink that grabs you by the lapels and urges you to get out there and enjoy life!”
“On a beautiful crisp, bright morning in April, Bronwen climbed aboard with one of Nurse Next Door’s Care Designers and sailed across the skies of Melbourne. “Bucket list!” she declared on landing.”
It gets the franchise partners noticed, too. Often, people encounter Nurse Next Door for the first time when they spot one of the pink wrapped cars. “Pink reflects the energy and spirit Nurse Next Door wants to pass on to its clients, who deserve to feel enthusiastic and happy about their lives.”
Doing what you love seven). Forecasts project that this cohort will make up 18 per cent in 2027 (one in six) and by 2047 one in five Australians (20 per cent) will be aged over 65. Even with substantial growth in the last decade, the home care industry is still trying to catch up to an ever-growing demand that will last for at least the next generation, if not beyond.
Making lives better Baby boomers aside, the home care market in Australia also provides an excellent option for those living with a disability. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has revolutionised disability services and gives people living with a disability more choice and control about when, where and how to get the support they need, allowing them to continue living independently in their own homes, on their terms. “We believe people can stay at home. We believe in Happier Ageing. We believe in possibility, rather than disability. We believe in making lives better,” says Amber. Despite its continued growth, the home care industry has resisted significant changes over generations. But it’s no secret that this is an industry in the midst of some major disruption, and the companies that will thrive in the new world are those that embrace change. Thanks to Nurse Next Door’s philosophy of care centred around happier ageing and making lives better — a unique experience designed to get older Australians and people requiring disability support back to doing what they love - no matter what their age or circumstance - the business stands out amongst other home care companies.
Traditional companies arrange care around basic tasks — meal preparation, cleaning, medication management, assistance with bathing and dressing. But they miss a grand opportunity to meet clients’ emotional and personal needs, which are just as important, if not more so, than the physical ones. Nurse Next Door builds care on the foundation of each individual’s needs, desires and personality and arranges the care plan around the person instead of trying to plug the person into the package. Matt and Amber reject — emphatically — the notion that people need to surrender their enjoyment of life because they’ve reached retirement age. “They’ve lived full lives,” Amber says, “and gathered volumes of wisdom and experience. It’s a cause for celebration! Likewise, we’re always looking for the possibilities in life for people who are challenged by disability. They are some of the most inspiring people on our planet.”
Warning: Friendly people inside Nurse Next Door firmly believes culture is better when it’s the product of design rather than an accident. It’s no surprise, therefore that the company is widely recognised and awarded for its culture, built around the central theme of making lives better. From there, the business is built on four core values: Admire People, WOW Customer Experience, Find a Better Way, and Passionate About Making a Difference. Franchise partners adopt the tone: bright, cheerful, happy, professional and hardworking but fun! “It’s why Nurse Next Door chose a particular shade of pink as its primary colour,” Matt
In a society traditionally viewing care as a set of tasks or responsibilities, here’s how Nurse Next Door does home care; they take people ballooning! Well, that’s just one example - Bronwen had always wanted to soar over Melbourne in one of the hot air balloons she regularly saw from her backyard in Melbourne’s inner eastern suburbs. The problem was that none of her friends or family was interested. So, when she had the opportunity to enter Nurse Next Door’s Happier Ageing Dreams competition in March 2019, she jumped at the chance, and Nurse Next Door was happy to help out. On a beautiful crisp, bright morning in April, Bronwen climbed aboard with one of Nurse Next Door’s Care Designers and sailed across the skies of Melbourne. “Bucket list!” she declared on landing. There’s Donald, who had a love of hobby planes but stopped flying due to failing health until his carer stepped in and helped him get back out in the field. Eleanor hadn’t swum for 20 years after her diagnosis of Alzheimers, and so her caregiver spent the whole summer getting her back in the water at the local pool, gradually building up stamina until, eventually, she was able to swim in her local lake. The stories of happier ageing and making lives better are endless, and Matt and Amber say no matter how small or simple when care focuses on the individual emotional and psychological needs of the client it can make all the difference in the world. “The trust between the caregiver and client is the essence of the service and commitment by Nurse Next Door,” says Amber. “Changing the perception of ageing
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 51
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
“We believe people can stay at home. We believe in Happier Ageing. We believe in possibility, rather than disability. We believe in making lives better,” says Amber.
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
fran c h is o r in dep t h : N u r s e N ex t D o o r
“Even with substantial growth in the last decade, the home care industry is still trying to catch up to an ever-growing demand that will last for at least the next generation, if not beyond.”
from one of loss and sadness to a time of celebration and happiness starts with one simple question: : “What did you use to love to do, that you no longer do?”
Taking care of business Of course, none of this — great culture, caring and happy employees, revolutionary service, pink cars — would mean a thing if Nurse Next Door didn’t work as a business. As Matt says: “It doesn’t just work. It thrives.” Minimising the administrative aspects of the business — especially scheduling, the most complicated and time-consuming duty — is a significant drawcard for Nurse Next Door franchise partners, drastically reducing burnout and allowing partners to focus on growing their business. An around-the-clock Care Services Centre manages all intakes and scheduling requirements to ensure clients, caregivers and franchise partners have 24/7 support. The Care Services Specialists are experts at speaking compassionately about the Nurse Next Door services. From fielding incoming calls to handling caregiver scheduling, setting up appointments and ensuring scheduling changes don’t disrupt client care, they talk regularly with franchise partners to coordinate care and are ready for anything, 24/7. Given the company’s commitment to exceeding expectations, it comes as no surprise that their Net Promoter Score is on par with such renowned brands as Amazon and Apple. “Most importantly,’’ says Matt, “The Care
Services Centre saves our franchise partners a tremendous amount of time and energy that they can spend on building connections in the community.”
Unparalleled opportunity Nurse Next Door is one of North America’s fastest growing home care franchise systems and represents an exciting opportunity to become part of this successful, proven brand as it expands in Australia. With no requirement for a medical or health care background, Matt and Amber say the ideal Nurse Next Door Franchise Partner has a tender touch and the tenacity of a bulldog. Its territories provide a protected area for each partner to establish their business. The geographical size of the metropolitan area doesn’t matter much; Nurse Next Door has found that the key statistic is the number of people aged over 65 years. Each territory in Australia averages between 30,000 - 35,000 seniors. Regional markets, while often large geographically, can be great locations for Nurse Next Door because they’re usually made up of tightly knit local communities. Training and support start with a Franchise Opener program which covers everything from insurance to wrapping the Nurse Next Door car to setting up the marketing and sales systems. Franchise partners also undertake a full week of Franchise Partner Training at HeartQuarters in Melbourne, walking away with a clear, written plan to get started. During the week, various members of Nurse Next Door HeartQuarters team provide interactive training sessions so information can be absorbed and retained easily. They leave
52 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
training with a solid understanding of the finances and metrics behind the business. For the critical first six to eight months, an assigned coach guides each partner through the inevitable rough spots. “The coaches”, Matt says, “are part counsellor, part cheerleader, part business consultant”, and the entire HeartQuarters team is available for as long or as often as needed. Understanding that sometimes the hardest part is getting started Nurse Next Door has developed tools such as a 16-week plan to help new franchise partners find their footing and ensure they’re set up for success from the beginning. This is a franchise opportunity that provides a return on investment, both financially and emotionally. As Amber says: “Franchise partners are not just selling ice cream or sandwiches, they’re helping people find the care to continue living life on their terms.” She notes the calls and letters received from clients are unparalleled to any other feeling experienced in another industry. From the brand’s bold pink colour to images of people celebrating ageing, Nurse Next Door is disruptive and a thought leader in the home care industry. It’s one of the main reasons why Matt and Amber believe Nurse Next Door is uniquely positioned for long-term, year-over-year growth that’s unparalleled in the franchise industry. Want to build a home care business with heart? Contact Matt Fitton 1300 010 247 matt.fitton@nursenextdoor.com.au www.nursenextdoorfranchise.com.au
WANT TO STAY ON TOP OF THE LATEST NEWS AND WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE FOREFRONT OF FRANCHISING?
Franchise BUSINESS
AU S TR A LI A A N D N E W Z E A L A N D
SUBSCRIBE TO Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand’s newsletter and receive all the latest franchising news delivered straight to your inbox!
To subscribe visit: www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
e x pert adv i c e
Health, Fitness and Beauty
Hot Sectors in Franchising
Any franchise business that works in the health, fitness or beauty sector is operating in an intensely personal space offering both opportunities and risks. I have watched as all of these sectors have grown strongly over the past five years, fuelled by rising health consciousness in Australia, a growing interest in weight-loss programs and fitness regimes, an aging population prepared to invest in a fitter, healthier life and a scientific community that is providing revolutionary therapies in the area of beauty. Wearable technology has put personalised biometric health statistics at people’s fingertips, while social media, with its insatiable appetite for personal photos and the rise of vloggers, has driven a generation of people who are far more aware of their personal style. Also, these sectors are becoming more and more important in professional development, with top motivational coaches, including fitness and personal presentation as non-negotiables in their success plans. Franchising is an excellent business model in these areas. A good franchisor will provide the systems, manuals, documentation and training while you provide the vital ingredients – expertise and passion. But how, out of the myriad of franchise offerings in this sector, do you select a great franchise model to hook your future to? First, work out where your passion fits. Is it for a dynamic fitness gym, a customised group training scenario, high-end scientific beauty procedures or maybe a traditional salon offering? Work out which model aligns with your skills and experience and emotional commitment. Once you’ve done that, then you need to evaluate all the
“Do your homework, always over-estimate your financial outlay, add your passion then enjoy the challenges of being a business owner with that additional comfort of expertise on tap from your franchisor.” Corina Vucic | Director | FC Business Solutions
franchise offerings in that narrowed sector very carefully. It is often a juggle between your finances - how much you can afford to pay to set up a franchise - and the quality of the brand. However, there are great franchise organisations at all financial entry levels. Some have already succeeded, and some are on the way up, offering unique opportunities for those who join them early. If you are looking for a business that is close to home, then you’ll need to research your local competition — no point in going headto-head with multiple solidly established businesses in your backyard. Either move further afield or revise the kind of offering you want to provide.
“A lot of blood, sweat and tears goes Bridge, into making a business a Selina success, if you have passion CEO of KXand Pilates what you areand doing, makes “A for lot of blood, sweat tears itgoes into it easier to investa all that effort.” making a business success, and if you have passion forCEO whatofyou doing, it Selina Bridge, KX are Pilates makes it easier to invest all that effort.”
54 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
Look at brands that have been established and growing for over five years. These businesses have the runs on the board. Their processes and systems are robust, and they are a proven business model. Talk to existing franchisees of brands that attract your interest. How do they evaluate the support they get from the franchisor? What’s the supply chain like? Are there good deals in place for consumables? Do they provide all of the compliance documentation that is so vital for the health, fitness and beauty industries? Ask the franchisor to provide you with a list of all the forecast financial outgoings so you can plug them into an excel spreadsheet
Jason Smith, Founder and CEO, Back in Motion “Franchising a service as opposed to a product is very different as the goodwill is with the practitioner.”
Spend time on social media looking at the posts on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn of those franchises that interest you. Are they engaged with their community, is their content appealing, how do they handle controversial comments and feedback? Success in these sectors requires honed relationship skills for you and your staff. The ability to read your clients and deliver the messages they need to hear in a palatable, sensitive manner is key to your business and your reputation. Does the franchise offer training to help you give these skills to your team? Over my years in the franchise support area, I have worked with a lot of good, well-established brands. I asked a few of the people who are experts in the health, fitness and beauty field what their advice was for people considering joining a franchise, and how to choose a good one. Selina Bridge, CEO of KX Pilates, advises you to bring passion to the business. “A lot of blood, sweat and tears goes into making a business a success, and if you have passion for what you are doing, it makes it easier to invest all that effort.” Asked for advice on choosing a franchise, Selina replied “Choose a brand that is aligned with your values. If community involvement is important to you, look for a brand that does this. A well-respected franchised brand may have tight controls around how their brand is used and how you deliver your services. It’s important to do your due diligence and consider whether you believe in the brand and trust the system as these will influence the future of your business.”
Jason Smith, Founder and CEO, Back in Motion says that franchising a service as opposed to a product is very different as the goodwill is with the practitioner. “It’s imperative that you keep consistency in services, support and structure. Healthcare services are personal with all sorts of accompanying sensitivities, so you must have guidelines and protocols around decision making.” Ben Fletcher, Founder and CEO of Listen To Your Body, agrees that passion is imperative for success. “When looking at a potential franchise model, make sure you align your passion to the type of offering – group fitness, gyms, Pilates, outdoor, etc. and you will have a greater chance of success.” Ben advises that when you are evaluating franchisees offering this model. “Look at the level of support – talk to existing franchisees about their experiences. Look at the financial viability of the model.” Deb Farnworth-Wood, an expert in the aesthetics industry and founder Australian Skin Clinics Franchise, believes the beauty industry has made a quantum leap in the past few years. “It’s now a scientific-based offering which lends itself well to franchising. A good franchisor should provide support for all areas of your business as well as advice and training on those newly critical areas of medical ethics and confidentiality.” She says that it is essential to keep records – notes on medical issues, consent to treatment, proof that clients have been informed of the possible implications of treatment, etc. “A good franchisor will have the systems in place to make this easy for you.” Craig Arnold, Managing Director of Core9, says “Be passionate about fitness or be passionate about business success. Having
both is the ultimate combination. The benefit of joining a franchise is that there is a community of like-minded people already in existence.” When looking for a good franchise, Craig says to look for the problem their product or service is solving. What unique selling point (USP) do they offer? “If they don’t have a USP, then you are likely to have to spend a lot more on marketing for penetration, and that can become an expensive way to run a business.” He advises to look at the longevity of the franchise. In conclusion, if you are looking at joining a franchise in the health, fitness and beauty sector, there are some well-established, innovative franchises to choose from. Do your homework, always over-estimate your financial outlay, add your passion then enjoy the challenges of being a business owner with that additional comfort of expertise on tap from your franchisor. Corina Vucic is the Director of FC Business Solutions. With over 20 years in the franchise industry, and extensive operational and management experience, she works closely with leaders to take their business to the next level. Whatever their goals, Corina coaches, mentors and supports business owners and executives to maximise success and minimise risk for long-term business prosperity and security. To discuss how Corina’s expertise can help take your business to new heights, contact: 03 9533 0028 cv@fcbs.com.au www.fcbs.com.au
Ben Fletcher, Founder and CEO of Listen To Your Body
Deb Farnworth-Wood, Founder Australian Skin Clinics
Craig Arnold, Managing Director of Core9
“Passion is imperative for success. “When looking at a potential franchise model, make sure you align your passion to the type of offering.”
“A good franchisor should provide support for all areas of your business as well as advice and training on those newly critical areas of medical ethics and confidentiality.”
“Be passionate about fitness or be passionate about business success. Having both is the ultimate combination.”
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 55
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
and work out how quickly you can become profitable. Also, check out the technology that underpins the product or service.
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
e x pert adv i c e
Manual Handling and Repetitive Tasks in Health-Related Franchise Businesses
Hazards in health, fitness and beauty franchises Beauty Within the beauty industry, several health and safety hazards face franchisees, and generally, these hazards stem from working with both hazardous substances and people (clients) in what is typically a small working environment. These hazards are: • Hazardous chemicals including irritation and inhalation • Manual, repetitive tasks • Lifting heavy objects SafeWork NSW has some tips on managing those health and safety hazards in a hair, personal services and beauty business.
“Given that the health, fitness and beauty industry rely on its workers to perform manual handling and repetitive tasks for most of the time they are working, the likelihood of an injury related to these actions is higher than in many other industries.” Chris Beasley | Managing Director | Safety Navigator
Over the past few issues of this publication, we’ve discussed some of the critical health and safety hazards and tips for mitigating those risks for franchise businesses in general.
We’ve also looked at the case study of Anytime Fitness using a cloud-based system and support to reduce the risk of a workplace incident occurring within one of their 500 plus clubs in Australia. In this issue, we discuss the key health and safety risks in health, fitness and beauty franchise businesses. Specifically, we will address the number one health and safety hazard facing each of those industry segments and what may be done about it.
56 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
Those tips can be found on SafeWork NSW’s website at the following link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/yourindustry/other-services
General health and fitness The general health and fitness industry segment is made up of a group or individual training, and fitness businesses - either personal training or cross fit-style sessions or gyms/clubs that are either staffed or not and many now have 24/7 opening hours. The hazards faced by these businesses are as follows: • Working alone • Manual, repetitive tasks • Lifting heavy objects • Client aggression • Use of contractors (i.e. personal trainers and the like)
According to SafeWork Australia, the number one hazard facing all businesses in this industry is manual handling/repetitive tasks. Fifty-Seven per cent of all workplace incidents that resulted in a serious claim that occurred in 2017/18 were either joint/ muscle/tendon injuries or muscular-skeletal/ connective tissue injuries - both caused as a direct result of either heavy lifting or repetitive strain tasks — equating to 60,525 incidents resulting in serious workers compensation claims in Australian businesses each year. In addition to the above, those in the health, fitness and beauty franchise industry (and more broadly, the community and personal service industry) equate to 17 per cent of all serious workers compensation claims each year. SafeWork Australia link: www. safeworkaustralia.gov.au/book/work-relatedinjury-and-disease-key-whs-statisticsaustralia-2018#serious-claims-by-nature-ofinjurydisease1 Some examples of these manual handling and repetitive tasks are: moving equipment around, moving/massaging clients, using instruments such as scissors for long periods, repeatedly demonstrating exercises, loading and unloading exercise equipment
Manual handling and repetitive tasks hazard - What to do about it When assessing then controlling the risk of any health and safety hazard, we look to several factors, but none more so than: • The likelihood of the hazard causing a person harm
“According to SafeWork Australia, the number one hazard facing all businesses in this industry is manual handling/repetitive tasks.” • The consequences; the degree of injury the hazard would cause a person Given that the health, fitness and beauty industry rely on its workers to perform manual handling and repetitive tasks for most of the time they are working, the likelihood of an injury related to these actions is higher than in many other industries. When looking to mitigate the risk of an injury occurring relating to these work tasks, franchisors, franchisees and their workers, should look to the following: • Acknowledge the risk: It may sound obvious, but possibly the most critical risk mitigation strategy in this instance is acknowledging the risk. Including discussing this with staff and asking for their feedback, posting some useful manual handling tips on staff noticeboards and sharing information between franchisors and franchisees. • Manual Handling training: A quick general manual handling training session for all staff not only assists staff to acknowledge the issue, but it also gives them tips on how to undertake key manual handling tasks in the safest manner possible. • Job Design: Where possible, staff should be rotated within the workplace to ensure any one individual has minimised ongoing exposure to a repetitive task. Likewise, job design should detail the number and length of breaks between tasks staff should be taking • Staying ‘warm’: Again, this may be obvious given the industry we’re looking at, but staff should always stay warm
by stretching just before any manual or repetitive task is undertaken, rather than for example, moving from a desk task directly to a manual or repetitive task where the body is ‘cold’. In many industries, technology is rapidly replacing worker, primarily where manual or repetitive tasks are undertaken. The health, fitness and beauty industry, however, is more of an outlier to this trend, where the very nature of the sector, i.e. offering personal services to clients means just that - the worker and the client interfacing for that service to be rendered and this means exposure to the hazard remains high. Again, possibly the most critical risk mitigation strategy to reduce the number of workplace incidents relating to manual or repetitive tasks is acknowledging the risk itself. This means facing the stark reality that exposure to this hazard is higher for workers in this industry than in most others. Franchisors, franchisees and their workers, need to keep open lines of communication to identify any manual handling or repetitive tasks and how those can be better managed to reduce the risk of an incident. Moreover, where gaps are identified, such as incorrect techniques being used, they need to be addressed in the most appropriate manner, in this case - manual handling training. Chris Beasley is Managing Director of Safety Navigator, a cloud-based WHS system with over 10,000 Australian and New Zealand business customers, many of whom are Franchise Organisations chris.beasley@safetynavigator.com.au www.safetynavigator.com.au
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 57
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
The number one hazard in health, fitness and beauty franchises
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
e x pert adv i c e
The ATO supporting your wellbeing
At the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), we understand that small business owners have a lot on their plate. With everyday pressures, unexpected life circumstances, and blurring boundaries between work and family, your wellbeing may be affected. There is a range of support available for small businesses at ato.gov.au, including tools and services to help you stay on track, or get back
on track if you are behind or having trouble with your tax and super obligations. Even with the right tools in place, sometimes running a business is stressful, and you need some further assistance. Contact us, or speak to your tax advisor as early as possible so we can work with you to find a solution based on your circumstances. We can provide you with the following support:
Deferring your lodgment and payment deadlines If you feel you are getting behind you may be able to apply for a deferral of lodgment payment of your BAS, reports and returns. You can call us on 13 11 42 to discuss your circumstances.
58 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
Your tax advisor can also apply for a deferral online via the ATO’s online services for agents.
Accepting a payment plan Finding out you have a tax debt can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure how you will be able to pay. If you can’t pay a tax debt by the due date, you may be able to set up a payment plan to pay your tax bill using instalments. You can access help with paying online, including our automated phone service. While online and automated phone payment services are convenient, you may prefer to speak with us, especially if you have a complex situation. If this is the case you can call us on 13 11 42.
Fast-tracking your tax refund
“You can access help with paying online, including our automated phone service. While online and automated phone payment services are convenient, you may prefer to speak with us, especially if you have a complex situation.”
If you think your circumstances put you under financial difficulties or serious hardship, you can ask us to process your return as a priority. You can apply for priority processing which will allow your return to be fast tracked and received earlier; however this does not guarantee that you will receive a refund. We will need documents from you that demonstrate you are experiencing financial difficulties or serious hardship. The ATO website has further details about requesting priority processing.
Accessing your superannuation early Compassionate release of superannuation allows people in certain circumstances to access their super early. These circumstances are very limited and mainly related to specific medical conditions or severe financial hardship to help you pay for: • Medical treatment for yourself or a dependant. • Loan repayments to prevent you from losing your home. • Modifying your home or vehicle for the special needs of yourself or a dependant because of a severe disability.
Andrew Watson | Assistant Commissioner – Small Business Australian Taxation Office
• Expenses associated with a dependant’s death, funeral or burial. • Palliative care expenses because of your, or your dependant’s, terminal illness.
Speak with us You can always call and speak with us about your situation on one of our phone services or you can: • Nominate someone to speak to us on your behalf by nominating them as a representative, or confirming they can speak on your behalf when you verify your identity when you call. • Book an after-hours call back service, at a time that suits you, which you can access by completing our online form.
Seeking further help The Department of Health’s Head to Health website connects Australians with vital
online and phone mental health services, information and resources. The site links users to a range of government-funded services and information that is either low cost or free. It contains hundreds of useful websites, apps, online programs and community forums, as well as phone, chat and email services. Andrew Watson is an Assistant Commissioner in the Small Business line, and is currently responsible for understanding how small businesses engage with the tax and super systems, collaborating with small businesses, industry groups and government agencies to shape the client experience and drive improved digital services, helping small businesses manage cashflow so sustainable and viable businesses can thrive, and advocating for small businesses within the ATO.
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 59
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
“Finding out you have a tax debt can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure how you will be able to pay. If you can’t pay a tax debt by the due date, you may be able to set up a payment plan to pay your tax bill using instalments.”
FE ATUR E : H e a lt h, Fi t n ess & B e au t y Fr a nch ises
sna ps h ot: J u s t C u ts
“Everything is packaged up when you become a Just Cuts franchisee, providing you with the fundamentals you need to get your business up and running smoothly.”
A Cut
Above the Rest Have you ever dreamt of owning your own business? You can turn your dreams into reality with Just Cuts. Regardless of the economy, hair never stops growing, and people are always on the hunt for a high-quality haircut at a reasonable price. The hair and beauty industry is booming, and with 224 salons across Australia New Zealand, Just Cuts is the largest and most loved family hairdressing company in the Southern Hemisphere. Just Cuts offers a successful and proven system for hairdressing, where there is constant demand. Experts agree that franchise businesses have a better chance of success than independent small businesses. The reason is simple – with a franchise like Just Cuts, you’re partnering with a recognised brand and retail product offering, and when you join the owner community, you’re never on your own.
A tried and tested model Over the past 28 years in New Zealand, the highly successful Just Cuts franchise system has been tried and tested. The model has also been fully digitalised with a range of support available online, including an e-learning
platform, print marketing ordering system, retail reward program and point of sales tools.
The Just Cuts technology allows owners to remain on the pulse of the business remotely. The dedicated Academy Team will also guide and support franchisees throughout the whole process of opening your salon, including training, business and management advice, a comprehensive operations manual and a bespoke grand opening marketing campaign. On top of this, franchisees receive ongoing support from the Just Cuts team, including any business, operational and marketing guidance required once up and running.
The brand has grown to 224 salons across Australia and New Zealand, and most recently a third salon has been opened in the United Kingdom. The network includes over 3,500 qualified stylists and serves over 100,000 happy clients every week.
With Just Cuts, the royalty payment is a transparent, fixed flat fee, so earning potential is never restricted. As a franchise owner, you’ll always know upfront what your franchise fees will be. Plus, the trusted range of professional haircare and styling products, JUSTICE Professional, provides franchisees with a second tier of earning potential.
Set your own pace
Where to now?
Just Cuts franchise owners come from all walks of life, and hairdressing experience is not necessary.
Just Cuts turnkey approach means franchisees don’t need to worry about how to get salon doors open or how to best develop a system to ensure customers leave satisfied. Franchisees don’t need to worry about creating training programs for staff, or nailing down operational processes for accounts and stock inventory.
If you want increased flexibility and a great work-life balance, the average Just Cuts franchise owner spends approximately 20 hours working on their business per week. As a business owner, you also have the potential to easily expand into multiple salons – in fact, over half of the franchise owners own two or more salons. With Just Cuts you can set your own pace. The more your salon’s client numbers and retailing sales grow the more earning potential increases.
What makes Just Cuts so different to other franchise systems?
60 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
Everything is packaged up when you become a Just Cuts franchisee, providing you with the fundamentals you need to get your business up and running smoothly. Add to this the great lifestyle benefits you’ll receive, and it’s easy to see why buying into the Just Cuts family will be the smartest business decision you make. To find out more about joining the Just Cuts team visit www.justcuts.com/franchising
Darryl Morris
36& 1DWLRQDO )UDQFKLVH ,QVXUDQFH %URNHUV 3W\ /WG $%1 LV DQ DXWKRULVHG UHSUHVHQWDWLYH $5/1 RI 3URIHVVLRQDO 6HUYLFHV &RUSRUDWLRQ 3W\ /WG $&1 $)6/
Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand 61