Looking to buy a franchise? The 2012 Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre March 23 to 25 is expecting a big turnout from Sydneysiders keen to start their own business.
A survey of 2011 Sydney Expo attendees found that 65 percent were interested in purchasing a franchise, 58 percent sought to start a business and 32 percent looked for other investment opportunities.
Food and beverage was the most popular business type to invest in (46.2 percent) followed by business services (28.9 percent).
Respondents clearly viewed franchise ownership as a means to grow their personal wealth, with 49 percent indicating they were shopping for a business Ôto increase personal incomeÕ and Ôsecuring financial futureÕ the next most popular answer.
Why you should attend
Exhibition director Gaye Murray said the 2012 Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo is a must attend event for anyone considering business ownership.
“From expert advice, opportunities to meet face-to-face with franchisors and speak with successful franchisees plus all of the great seminars and our Franchise Advice Centre, the 2012 Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo will assist you in taking the next step in owning your own business,” she said.
“The brand new Franchisee Success Club Seminars will provide a forum for people to ask the tough questions direct to franchisees, without input from the franchisor themselves. We believe this will be a very honest representation of the leading franchise brands.”
Visitors will also have the chance to discuss potential business opportunities with qualified specialist franchise and small business bankers and lawyers at the expoÕs Franchise Advice Centre.
“On top of that, entry is free for anyone who registers online, so thereÕs no reason not to check out what the expo has on offer,” said Murray.
Why franchising works
Franchise Council of Australia executive director Steve Wright said franchised businesses were attractive options for many people in the current economic conditions.
“With several thousand jobs already slashed by major employers and more cuts on the way, thousands of skilled people are understandably considering working for themselves,” he said.
“For those people, especially those who have never operated a business before, franchising offers important business systems, recognised branding and marketing expertise that would be unavailable to independent small business owners and itÕs often easier for individuals to secure bank finance when seeking to purchase a franchise as opposed to starting up their own small business.
Getting the finance
Darryn McAuliffe, national manager franchise banking for National Australia Bank said buyers should carefully consider their options when shopping for a business.
“Due diligence checks are vital and you should speak with existing franchisees in the business and get a feel for their experience as well as sitting down with the franchisor and discussing your goals and expectations. You also need to be sure you are entering franchising for the right reasons and that you fully understand the lifestyle and income implications of your decision.
“You need to ensure you have adequate borrowing capacity including working capital and you should seek financial advice as soon as possible to determine what franchise options are within your price range.”
Expo details
The Sydney Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo is on at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Friday March 23 until Sunday March 25.
Get online tickets for FREE.