A taste of Malaysia was just one of the highlights at the Sydney Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo which ran from 27 to 29 March. There was a buzz around the venue with some national brands showcasing at the event.

Lenard’s, Zambrero’s, Endota Spa, Ella Bache, Sleepy’s and Jetts Fitness were all fresh faces at the expo, joining regulars such as The Coffee Club, PoolWerx, Pack & Send, The Cheesecake Shop and MailBoxes Etc.

A pavilion of Malaysian businesses included food franchise Arjuna Village, children’s clothing brand Poney, fingerprint analysis consultancy BrainChecker Global Group and early childhood education services BJ Kindeeland.

Visitors could experience some of the services the franchises offer: mini-facial eye-treatments were available at Ella Bache; Breo Australia was showcasing its portable head and neck massagers; G-Force Simulators revved up the atmosphere with its simulated drive around Bathurst race track; and for those seeking an ice-cold dessert, Movenpick’s food truck was the perfect stop.

Zambrero’s brought not just a Mexican flavour to the expo with its tasting plates; founder Dr Sam Prince was a popular keynote speaker who shared some personal stories with the audience and left them considering the importance of passion and drive.

Pippa Hallas heads up Ella Bache, and in her keynote speech talked about how two women, Edith Hallas and Ella Bache, set up the beauty business 60 years ago; Pippa discussed how.franchising can help women achieve their goals.

The Victorian-based Italian casual dining chain La Porchetta is celebrating 30 years of business; in a keynote address CEO Sara Pantaleo reflected on identifying what’s at the heart of a brand and what makes it unique.

The next Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo is in Brisbane, 18 to 19 July.