Back to Previous

Franchisors named in top female entrepreneur list

Sarah Stowe

Six franchisors who have established and built their businesses are among a top 30 list of female entrepreneurs. The ranking is according to revenue.

Lesley Gillespie is at number four on the SmartCompany list, with the Bakers Delight business bringing in an annual revenue of $585m. Gillespie started the business with husband Roger, and the couple still own and manage about 30 outlets within the network.

Janine Allis is seventh on the list as the founder of Retail Zoo, which has Boost Juice, Salsa’s Fresh Mex, Cibo Espresso and Chicken Hatch in its portfolio. Retail Zoo has more than $350m annual revenue, as estimated by SmartCompany.

At number 15 is Diana Williams who established women-only gym chain Fernwood Fitness in 1989. Today annual revenue for the business sits at $106m. There are 69 gyms nationally.

Lilly Haikin takes the 23rd slot on the list; with husband Tom she established the Australian arm of the Israeli chocolate shop chain Max Brenner, which has an estimated revenue of $50m. 

Kikki K founder Kristina Karlsson (number 25) has a mix of company owned and franchised stores across Australia, New Zealand and south-east Asia – most recently opening in Hong Kong. Revenue is estimated at $37m.

At number 30 is Bark Busters co-founder Sylvia Wilson who heads up the dog obedience business that has 37 franchises in Australia, and is now in seven countries. The company’s revenue is estimated at $250m.

What are the four signs of a successful franchisor? Check out this video interview with Janine Allis: