A Lot To CELEBRATE

Katrina Cooke (second left) with her husband Richard (centre) receiving the award from the Cookie Time team

Cookie Time celebrates 40 years with long-term franchisees and multiple awards

Katrina Cooke has plenty to be happy about. She’s just been named Franchisee of the Year by one of New Zealand’s truly iconic companies – Cookie Time Limited. And, to make it even more special, the company has celebrated its 40th birthday with its flagship Cookie Time brand being named in the top 10 in the annual Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand Awards.

Cookie Time is a proudly family-owned company with a portfolio of some of New Zealand’s top treat and snacking brands, including Cookie Time, One Square Meal, Bumper and Em’s Power Cookies and Bars. The Trusted Brands top ten placement is just one of many awards Cookie Time has won recently for everything from product quality to administration support.

Not that the company is resting on its laurels – it released three 40th birthday celebration products: a supersized cookie, a 1kg Cookie Bake pack and two new Cookie Time Cookie Sandwiches, breaking into a new treat category in partnership with Appleby Farms and Unilever/Streets. All products are proudly made in New Zealand.

‘It’s never been a better time to be a Cookie Time franchisee,’ says franchise manager Dawn Cleary. ‘Franchisees distribute products to retail outlets and earn a margin on every product sold. ‘You grow your business and sales by increasing the range, securing new outlets, lifting promotional awareness of our products in the trade and delighting customers,’ she explains.

‘We’ll train you in everything you need to know, so what we want is effective communicators with a growth mindset and a passion for delivering smiles everywhere you go.’

I can do that!

Katrina is a perfect example, having spotted an advert for franchisees while working in a Blenheim supermarket. ‘I immediately thought, “I can do that!” I didn’t know much about franchising, but I did know the product and how well it sold. I’ve since built a successful and profitable business of my own. I love talking to people, and I love working for myself.

‘The key is to concentrate on customer relationships and have a positive attitude – the more you put in, the more you’ll get out. I’m based in Blenheim and cover the Marlborough region, visiting stores and outlets regularly to ensure they are fully-stocked.’

For the last four years, Katrina has been among Cookie Time’s top five franchisees, and in 2023 she achieved her ambition of being named Franchisee of the Year. ‘My aim is to improve by 10 percent every month and I analyse my sales constantly to keep a close track on how things are running.’

While Katrina concentrates on sales and service, the support from Cookie Time makes it an easy business to run. ‘I put in an order once a week, which is delivered next day,’ she explains. ‘The Cookie Time team are great – we can ask any questions at any time of the day, send emails or just phone for a chat. They always have our very best interests at heart, and there are always rewards or competitions on the go.

‘Like me, many franchisees have been with Cookie Time long-term. It’s not surprising, because this is a terrific company with great products that gives you a great lifestyle. All you need is a van and a garage or storage facility; to enjoy talking to people; and be prepared give it your all.’

Rare opportunities available

Dawn Cleary says that Cookie Time’s iconic status means opportunities to join the company are relatively rare. However, it is always keen to hear from prospective franchisees and currently has runs available in Bay of Plenty, Gisborne and Northland.

‘All these areas have loyal fans and even more growth potential. We have strong systems, much-loved products and a great reputation in a stable industry. Investment levels vary according to location, but are typically from $100-150,000, including goodwill, a one-off admin fee, purchase of a suitable van, home office equipment and uniform.

‘If, like Katrina, you have the right attitude and want to build your own future, give me a call to learn more about Cookie Time.

Advertiser Info

Cookie Time

www.cookietime.co.nz

Contact Dawn Cleary

P 0-3-349 6161 M 027 235 0835

dawn.cleary@cookietime.co.nz