Crowds of inspired entrepreneurs flocked to the Victorian capital over the weekend, eager to find a new future at the Melbourne Franchising Expo.
Held on the banks of Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River, the two-day event played host to a range of fresh franchising models and tried and tested favourites.
“We were thrilled to see so many people wanting to find out more about taking the plunge into owning a business,” said exhibition Director Tim Collett. “And with over 100 brands at the show there were plenty of concepts to choose from, whatever your passion or budget.”
In a positive swing, attendance was greatly improved on previous years, with Collett noting long queues prior to the event opening.
“It was one of the most well-attended expos we’ve had for many, many years. There were almost 100 people standing there waiting at 10am to come in, it was amazing to see.”
Kevin Lacey, national franchising manager for Snap Print & Design agreed, revealing that this year’s expo had been one of the model’s most successful in recent memory.
“I was really surprised by how ready visitors were to talk business, I have two new recruits who are ready to go,” he said.
Models on offer at the Melbourne Franchising Expo
Among the wealth of industry favourites such as Poolwerx, Battery World and Fastway Couriers, a number of fresh franchising systems were on display.
Quick Service Restaurant chains New York Minute Burger and The Great Greek made a big impression on the crowd, as did Kool Kidz Childcare and Harrington Homes.
Additionally, the Melbourne Franchising Expo was also the third event featuring a contingent of companies from Taiwan. The group is seeking Australian franchisees, as well as interest in other international, national and local brands.
Anthony Grice, CEO of heritage Australian franchise Clark Rubber said the expo offered the perfect opportunity for brands to showcase their models to prospective franchisees looking to break into the market.
“Being at the Expo is a critical part of our marketing plan, we are aiming to sell 10 franchises from this show, and we’ll reach our target, I have no doubt about that,” he said.
Next year
The Melbourne Franchising Expo is the last of the franchisee-focused events for the year, with organiser Fiona Stacey revealing that a number of changes were in the works for 2020.
“Next year we are refreshing the Expo with a vibrant new look,” Stacey said. “We are also responding to exhibitor and visitor demand by changing the show days to Friday and Saturday in the east coast cities.”
In 2020 there will be four Franchising & Business Opportunities Expos, at ICC Sydney in March, at Crown Perth in May, at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre in June and again at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre in August.