Healthy Habits sandwich franchise and the importance of the brand

As Australians become more health conscious and the health food market goes from strength to strength, it is perhaps surprising that nobody has truly claimed the most popular and potentially most lucrative market of them all – the sandwich bar category.

However, the recent launch of the Healthy Habits franchise brand looks poised to change that as consumers demand healthier options and now want to eat fresh, nutritious ingredients that make them feel good about themselves.

“The sandwich market in Australia sold over 442 million sandwiches last year, 90 percent of which were sold through independent operators,” says the fast food franchise founder and managing director, Katherine Sampson.

“There are some fast food operators trying to fit the health image, but I believe the market is desperately waiting for a defined brand and business model that sells freshly made, nutritious ingredients. Healthy Habits aims to dominate that space.”

With over 16 years experience both working in and owning her own sandwich bars, Sampson knows what it takes to make the food franchise work.

“Consumers have now become accustomed to a consistent brand experience and are setting increasingly high standards when it comes to food quality, taste and service. I saw an opportunity to create a strong, modern brand that promotes healthy lifestyle habits, sells fresh, wholesome ingredients, delivers exceptional service and appeals to a broad market,” she says.

“The best thing about sandwiches is that they enable consumers to cater to their own tastes, which provides a distinct point of difference in a retail food market that continues to force set menus on them. Today’s consumer wants choice, and if you can’t give them what they want they won’t come back. Sandwiches give them that freedom and that is why they are undoubtedly one of the most highly consumed meals among all ages.”

Eight months since the decision to franchise, Healthy Habits has rapidly expanded to 16 stores across Victoria and Queensland, with plans to exceed 25 stores by June this year. Sampson’s goal is to establish 110 stores by mid 2007.

Healthy Habits is currently recruiting new franchisees and is looking for enthusiastic, young-minded individuals who are consumer-focused and enjoy being part of a vibrant and dynamic team.