Lenard Poulter is back – and, in keeping with the innovation that made Lenard’s Chicken a nationwide success, he’s pumping exciting new ideas for growth into the business.
Over 33 years, Poulter built a chain of over 200 stores across Australia. Then, in 2010, personal circumstances forced him to sell part of his shareholding and move away from the day to day operation of the business and franchisees began to move on. Now he’s bought back the shares he sold in the company that bears his name – and he’s determined to take it to even greater heights.
“This is an exciting opportunity for our 30 current franchisees and anyone wanting to avail themselves of our proven track record and the well-established, much-loved Lenard’s Chicken brand,” he says.
So what’s new at Lenard’s Chicken?
Poulter’s vision includes a range of fresh opportunities for current and new franchisees.
Hub and Spoke Ready To Go stores
This new model is available to both current and new franchisees. Instead of buying an outlet, franchisees will be able to invest in a particular region or area and set up a hub store (a Lenard’s deli/serve over outlet) with a production area, this then supplies the ‘spoke’ Ready To Go stores. The new Ready To Go stores feature self-service fridges and a modern design, and offer the Lenard’s traditional range as well as new ready to heat frozen meals. Lenard has already set up four Ready To Go stores in Brisbane (Capalaba, Fairfield, Lutwyche and Mitchelton) and the Townsville franchisee has opened the first Ready to Go outside Brisbane at Fairfield Central.
Rotisserie stores
Launched in late 2019, this family favourite offers rotisserie chickens, gourmet salads, home-style meals and Lenard’s own products.
“Covid-19 has had a big impact on our stores, with people wanting quick and easy, grab and go products they can enjoy at home, so the Rotisserie concept has proved very valuable,” Poulter says.
“It also allowed us to gain valuable insights and feedback from customers. Our frozen products in our Ready To Go stores have also been a win-win as they introduced more flexibility into the business as well as being very popular with customers. We now plan to put more focus on oven-ready meals, to build this new business concept nationally and to enhance it with home delivery in the near future.”
“We’re currently seeking leasing opportunities this year for the Ready To Go concept,” he says. “We’re also aiming to replicate the Rotisserie concept in different locations throughout the country and seeking expressions of interest from those who wish to form a partnership.”
Poulter is focusing on building the business and he will also continue selling into 700 Supa IGA and IGA outlets around Australia.
“We’re still committed to providing our customers with convenience and high-quality products at affordable prices so this is a great opportunity for investors to get in on the ground floor.”
For more information on franchising opportunities contact Lenard’s at info@lenards.com.au