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Battery World hosts international affair

Sarah Stowe

For the first time in its 16-year history, Battery World rewarded its franchisees by taking its national conference overseas despite the tough economic climate.

More than 240 Australian franchisees, management and suppliers gathered at the annual event in Phuket, Thailand to recognise top performers and achievements.

Husband and wife duo, Ruthie and Howdie Farrar, owners of Battery World Ipswich set a company record by winning Franchisee of the Year for the third consecutive time.

It is also noted by the Franchise Council of Australia, that the couple could be the only franchisees in any franchise organisation to win the award three years in a row, in Australia and overseas.

Former Australian Defence Force employees, Ruthie and Howdie said they have never looked back since taking up the opportunity to own their own business.

The pair also picked up an award for Marketing Excellence (individual) along with Battery World Townsville.

Larry Hargreave, who owns the Rothwell and Morayfield locations was inducted into the company’s Hall of Fame (initiated in 2012) and recognises franchisees that go “above and beyond” to commit to the brand and dedicate themselves to the Battery World team.

By establishing strong relationships with its local community, particularly through charity work and green initiatives, Erina’s owners, Greg Sweeney and Jason Heron was voted the most improved franchise in the network.

Battery World Australia general manager, John Pascoe said all wins were based on key criteria including store presentation, the adoption of its recycling program, a mystery shopper satisfaction rating of above 95 per cent and the stocking of all core and promotional products.

“As a company we see the national conference as intrinsic to team building,” Pascoe said.

“Everyone has to buy a battery: while we have been a grudge purchase in the past we are now becoming our customers first choice in batteries and related products.” he added.

The conference is also an opportunity for the company to build on its commitment to social responsibility with delegates visiting a nearby orphanage set up to help victims of the 2004 tsunami and donating $5000.

Adding to this, delegates, management and suppliers raised $74,000 for kids’ cancer charity Camp Quality at the traditional charity auction.

“Philanthropy is core to the Battery World personality: our stores do this every day through recycling and community engagement,” Pascoe said.

“Battery World recognises everyone cannot be a winner at the awards but all our stores make significant wins every day – whether that is solving customers power issue or helping a school put up shade in a play area through recycling monies.”

Other winners in Battery World’s national conference:

Best New Franchisee of the Year

Battery World Morphett

Operational Excellence Award

Battery World Geelong

Community Recycler of the Year

Battery World Townsville

Marketing Excellence (Group)

Western Australia, New South Wales and South Australia