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Industry spotlight: Casual dining

Nick Hall

The resurgence of casual chain restaurants in Australia is helping bolster the thriving local franchising sector.

Table service in a casual, family friendly atmosphere positions chain restaurants somewhere between traditional offerings and fast-food services.

The concept has proved successful in Australia, and, according to the IBISWorld Industry Report, Chain Restaurants in Australia released in July this year, that success is likely to continue.

Revenue within the sector is expected to grow at an annualised 1.3 per cent over the next five years to reach $389 million.

So which brands are driving the chain restaurant and casual dining sector in Australia?

Shingle Inn Cafes

The retail caf_ franchise has been providing patrons with indulgent cakes and superior coffee since 1936.

With luxurious high-back chairs, warm rich colours and decorative lamps coupled with the brand’s signature sandwich selection, Shingle Inn has carved out an impressive reputation for sector success.

For franchisees, the opportunity presents an chance to enter a market-leading business backed by the brand’s strong history of franchise success, in addition to a comprehensive six-week pre-opening training program.

Mad Mex Fresh Mexican Grill

Since its inception in 2007, Mad Mex Fresh Mexican Grill has been perfecting is Baja-style burritos and it seems to be paying off.

The casual dining Mexican restaurant brand now operates more than 60 restaurants both in Australia and New Zealand, servicing over 70,000 customers every week.

With a franchise model that offers prospective partners comprehensive support including a six-week training program, coordinated marketing efforts focused on local-area campaigns and a detailed overview of the Mad Mex business operations, franchisees are supported from day one.

La Porchetta

Aussies love fresh Italian cuisine, and La Porchetta has been serving the nation since 1985.

The a-la-carte restaurant was born in Melbourne’s thriving Italian food district, Carlton before expansion saw the brand travel across the country and into New Zealand.

Franchisees can expect strong support from the brand throughout opening and training, making sure all sites maintain the same sense of community and atmosphere the chain has become synonymous with.

The Future

Spending is regaining traction as consumer confidence returns to the sector, positioning chain restaurants as franchise opportunities with strong return on investment and secure processes from which first-time business owners can base operations on.