5 minute read
TOWARDS THE FUTURE
The Franchise Association has a busy schedule for 2024. Franchisors can play their part
After the excitement and celebrations of the 28th Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards, the Franchise Association is well into planning activities for the next 12 months.
‘The Awards were a huge success this year, with the whole sector keen to demonstrate its achievements,’ says Robyn Pickerill, the CEO of FANZ. There were over 300 attendees there on the night – a record turnout in recent times –and a good many new names among the finalists and winners. It was a delight to see the pleasure and passion from all who attended, and to hear many of the winners share their personal stories and how much the award meant to them.
‘Planning is already underway for the 2024 Awards, so start thinking about entering now.’ Key dates for entries are in the panel below.
Survey of Franchising 2024
2024 will see the next Survey of Franchising take place, which provides a snapshot of the franchise sector.
‘Despite the size and undoubted success of the sector, many people are still unaware of the massive contribution franchises make to the
New Zealand economy, or are wary of franchising as a business model,’ says FANZ Chair Brad Jacobs. ‘That’s why we conduct the Franchising New Zealand Survey every three years to put actual facts and figures in front of the people who need to know – including Government, finance providers, legislators, media and the general public.
‘Since the last Survey in 2021, the business climate has been somewhat turbulent, so it will be interesting to see how franchises have fared. We encourage every franchise brand, whether a FANZ member or not, to take part in the Survey to give the most accurate picture of the sector possible. We’ll be contacting you in early 2024 to ask for your full participation.’ The survey is being conducted once again through Massey University, and all data provided is totally confidential.
Government relations
The information gleaned from the 2021 Survey was put to good use prior to the election, when the FANZ Advocacy Team met with Government Ministers, members of the Opposition and MBIE Immigration officials to further develop our relationship and educate them on franchising.
During those meetings, the team expressed concern that the promised review of the Accredited Employers Work Visa scheme, which discriminates against franchisees, has been delayed by a year. ‘We had a very good discussion with Erica Stanford, National Party Spokesperson for Immigration, who shared our concerns,’ reports Robyn. ‘It remains to be seen how the change of Government will affect priorities in this area.’
Board expanded
With the seven-person FANZ Board continuing unchanged after the election earlier this year, Samantha Pollock of Cookie Time has been co-opted to the Board as an additional franchisor member. ‘Sam has a passion for membership growth and brings insights and enthusiasm from a millennial perspective, which is where future growth will emanate from,’ says Robyn. ‘She also provides some welcome representation from the South Island.’
As well as being one of New Zealand’s best-known brands, Cookie Time brings a wealth of experience to the table having celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2023.
New members
The Franchise Association is the only body representing franchising and setting standards for ethical franchising in New Zealand through its Code of Practice and Code of Ethics, which apply to all members. The latest members to join are:
North End Law
Two Dollar Things Plus
Conference in July
The 2024 National Franchise Conference will take place from 28-30 July 2024, and the venue will be Baypark Tauranga. Responding to feedback from delegates to conferences in recent years (including the hugely successful event in Christchurch in 2023), the aim is to provide delegates with even more opportunities to blend networking with expertise – hence the name, ConnectXperience.
‘It will be all about the power of connecting,’ says Robyn. ‘Newcomers are always amazed at how approachable everyone is, so this is your chance to engage with industry leaders, thought pioneers and like-minded professionals who bring their wealth of experience to the forefront.
‘With years of collective experience among the 200 or so delegates, each connection is an opportunity to gain valuable insights. Elevate your network, amplify your skills, and immerse yourself in the true essence of franchising. Learn how to improve and grow your network, increase returns for stakeholders and franchisees, and be part of shaping the future. Put the dates in your diary now.’
2004 Events Calendar
21 February - Auckland FANZ - Twilight Session
27 March - Auckland - FANZ Twilight Session
19 April - National Franchise Awards registrations open
8 May - Auckland - FANZ Twilight Session
14 June - National Franchise Awards registrations close
5 July - National Franchise Awards submissions close
28-30 July - Tauranga - National Franchise Conference
9 November - Auckland - Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards
The event calendar is regularly updated, so for the latest details of what’s on around the country plus online events, please visit the Franchise Association website at www.franchiseassociation.org.nz, email contact@franchise.org.nz or phone 0-9-274 2901
