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Franchises are hugely popular in Australia. On almost every main street, you are bound to find a sea of fast-food chains, retail outlets, and other restaurants. In fact, the Franchise Council of Australia estimates that there are more franchises per capita in Australia than in any other country on the globe, with 1,160 franchise brands and over 79,000 franchise units for a population of 23 million people.
But it’s not all about the American companies that have invaded Australia over time. Recent statistics show that the most successful franchises in Australia are actually those with Aussie roots,making up 86% of all top-performing franchises in the country. How’s that for an Australian success story?
While it 's hard to predict what the perfect next big opportunity for Australian franchises is, some industries and brands are on the rise and have a proven track record of remaining profitable and in a state of expansion. Below (in no particular order) are five franchises that are in positions of growth for the future and are worth considering:
Mad Mex is a fast-casual Mexican food chain that has taken Australia by storm over the last few years. Their goal is to open ten new stores every year, and at one point opened 35 new stores in a 16-month period— talk about expansion! Their menu is geared towards those looking for a fresh alternative to traditional, greasy Mexican fast food establishments. This is a good choice because not only are Mexican restaurants on the rise in Australia, so are fast-casual restaurants!
Awarded Australia’s Top Franchiser in 2013 by the Franchise Council of Australia, Specsavers is an eyeglass retail chain that provides customers with quality glasses along with top-notch optometrist services. The company has recorded continual growth since it landed in Australia in 2008 and they say they're just getting started. In addition to being named the Top Franchiser in Australia, Specsavers has also been recognized as Australia's Retail Employer of the Year for 2013. Happy employees make happy customers, and if you're looking for a franchise outside of food, this might be a solid choice.
If you want a franchisor that provides continual support and outstanding training, Foodco offers an excellent opportunity with its café franchises Muffin Break, Dreamy Donuts, and Jamaica Blue. The Franchise Council of Australia’s General Manager Kim de Britt has praised them for their employee training practices and their organization systems. If you want a franchisor that is more involved and provides you with the recipe for success, Foodco is worth looking into further.
A home-grown franchise, The Coffee Club is a flexible franchise option that provides you with three different options to choose from. They offer the CBR, a full-fledged café, bar, and restaurant that features a full dining room with table service and an extended menu to keep guests satisfied. The second option is the Club, a smaller traditional-style café with light meals and counter service for guests. They also have a compact Kiosk type option that is meant more for shopping malls that allow guests to get a quick cup of coffee when on-the-go. If you aren't sure the size of business you want, The Coffee Club is here with options.
Another popular franchise outside of the food industry, Kwik Kerb offers a unique take on the franchising system and is a great option for self-starters that want the flexibility and freedom of operating their own business with the support and power of an established brand. Kwik Kerb specializes in continuous concrete edging and has been an Australian success story for 30 years. They don't require ongoing franchise fees after the initial investment; however, they will provide franchisees with training programs and marketing support.
Hopefully, this list has helped get your mental gears turning as you search out franchising opportunities in your area. There are thousands of franchises currently operating in Australia and the perfect fit for you might not be on this list. Do your research into the type of industry you would like to work and seek out information from brands that look promising. There is no “one size fits all” franchise in any country. Different people are looking for different benefits from a franchise, and it all comes down to which franchise opportunity is right for you.
If you haven't had the chance, read our frequently asked questions for franchisees here.
