Metro dog-lovers’ boutique and spa, Dogue, is expanding its pawprint across the eastern coast of Australia, in particular Sydney and Melbourne.
Growth in the franchise network slowed in 2019 due to the acquisition and expansion of the Dogue Design wholesale business. But now the corporate and franchised-store network is on track for franchise growth and is poised to welcome its latest recruits in Melbourne’s Williamstown.
“We are thrilled that Andrea and Andre have joined the Dogue family and that we can now bring the Dogue experience to this special bayside community” said Margaret Hennessy, CEO, Dogue Retail Group.
This trendy dog boutique and spa typically operates in high-end shopping streets with plenty of exposure to foot traffic, cars and ample parking.
Kate Duncan, operations manager, told Inside Franchise Business, “Franchisees choose Dogue over other franchising opportunities typically because they are a passionate dog lover who shares our values and mission, and the Dogue brand and quality resonates with them.”
The Dogue team looks for potential franchisees to show passion, be entrepreneurial, have a strong work ethic and powerful drive that will help them successfully establish their Dogue store in their local communities.
Prospective franchisees can expect to pay an initial franchise fee of $50,000 plus GST. The initial set-up costs will vary depending on the size and location of the site. The average set-up cost is approximately $160,000 plus GST, which includes the initial franchise fees, training, stock, lease deposit, launch and fit-out.
Plans for 2020
In addition to outlet development, there is activity on the merchandise front thanks to the purchase of the allied design business which is expected to strengthen the boutique brand.
“It will ultimately increase margin returns to our franchisees as we control the end to end supply chain,” said Duncan. “We are keen to work with manufacturers in Australia to expand this range and our new designer bedding collection will be available very soon.”