South Australian Excellence in Franchising Awards announced by Franchise Council of Australia

The Franchise Council of Australia reports that the franchise advisory body has announced the South Australian regional winners of the 2010 Excellence in Franchising Awards.

A number of the state's leading brands, as well as other national names, were out in force at the Sebel Playford Hotel, as results of the regional awards catergories were announced.

SA MP Tony Piccolo spoke at the awards ceremony on behalf of Consumer Affairs Minister Gail Gago, saying that the franchising sector has played an essential role in the prosperity of the state.

Mr Piccolo said the awards recognised the achievements, hard work and dedication of the franchise sector, which included some of the state's most successful retail businesses.

FCA Executive Director Steve Wright said the awards showcased the entrepreneurial spirit that is alive in franchising in SA.

The franchise advisory body particularly singled out Cartridge World, with Mr Wright saying it was “an absolute national stand-out. Born and bred in Adelaide, it is now a major global business, operating 1650 stores in 52 countries around the world.”

Mortgage Choice franchisee in Unley, Greg Campbell, took out the South Australian Franchisee Community Service Award for the second year running.

Greg contributes to the Camp Quality Charity for kids with cancer, and has trekked the Kokoda Trail in support of the cause, raising over $110,000.

More recently, he has introduced a new fund raising mechanism into his business with Camp Quality as the beneficiary.

Often more importantly, Greg gives his time to Camp Quality as a member of the committee, attending Camps as a “Companion” and mentor, and as a major participant at the Camp Quality fund raising balls.

The franchise advisory board also recognised Kylie Leopold and Karmen Wakelin from Endota Spa, awarding them with the South Australian Multi-Unit Franchisee of the Year Award.

This is the 3rd win for Karmen and Kylie at the Excellence in Franchising Awards.

Their success is maintained by working on their three franchise businesses – not in them. By hiring Business Operations Managers and Spa Managers, Karmen and Kylie have been able to focus on growing and developing their business.

Achieving consistent year-on-year growth since opening their stores, the last 12 months have seen significant growth – through increased local area marketing, store renovations, increased trading hours and increased focus on expense control.

Other winners included:

• Tim & Cassie Lewis, SafetyQuip Adelaide NW (SA Franchisee of the Year - 2 or more staff)
• Mark Carn, ActionCOACH South Australia (SA Franchisee of the Year - Less than 2 staff); and
• Vicki Prout, Sherpa Group (SA Franchise Woman of the Year).