Franchise seminar a hit in the west

PERTH: Entrepreneurs and business owners capitalised on over 140 combined years of franchising experience at the recent ‘Turn Your Business into a Franchise’ one-day seminar.

Sponsored by Franchise Alliance , Downings Legal, Bank West and Baynham Ross, and featuring case studies of franchises such as Ranger Camping and Kleenheat Gas House – as well as up-and-coming franchisor VIVA Life Photography – the free seminar was held at the Hyatt Regency Perth and covered everything from official process to finance options, legal issues, branding and marketing tips.

‘Begin with the end in mind’ was the official theme of the day, with Franchise Alliance WA state manager, Leon Pike, emphasising that seeking expert advice before, during and after the franchising process is absolutely vital.

Veronica Jumeaux, a partner at Downings Legal heading up the firm’s franchising and property team, reinforced the point, stating: “Changing the structure of a business can have so many hidden costs, from stamp duty to capital gains tax. Taking the time to perfect the best structure for your business before franchising will help protect your assets, safeguard intellectual property and minimise your tax bill.”

Recent franchisor Vic Natoli, of VIVA Life Photography , said he was determined to avoid potential pitfalls by seeking professional advice from day one.

“It is so worthwhile to take the time, spend the money and plan and document your business properly,” he said.

The seminar is traditionally held twice a year, and is designed as an educational platform for potential franchisors. It has identified seven major areas for a successful franchise system: strategy, brand, model, support, team, finance and culture.

“It is important that businesses understand franchising before committing to it,” says Franchise Alliance chairman, John Brown. “The aim is to educate, dispel myths, provide accurate and valuable information and, most importantly, to ascertain whether franchising is a viable option for people and their business.”

The Franchise Council of Australia is a not for profit membership organisation that is the peak body representing the franchising sector in Australia.