The Franchise Council of Australia has been shining a light on the franchising sector and its potential as a career choice for retrenched workers. Shell Australia invited the FCA to participate in a Careers Opportunity Expo last week for the 500 employees and contractors set to lose their jobs because of the oil giant’s decision to cease refining at its Clyde Refinery in Sydney next year.

FCA chairman, Stephen Giles believes that franchising can be a good option for those leaving employment who are looking for their next challenge.

“Business ownership under the franchise model can be less daunting, and lower risk, than trying to set up a business from scratch.

“For most people the payout they receive is not enough to provide a meaningful investment income. Franchising allows a person to use the payout and the skills and experience they obtained during their employment to create future income security and build wealth.”

As well as providing information on the benefits of franchising, the FCA stand represented selected FCA member systems.

Attendees were invited to sign up for a free ticket to upcoming Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo in their state. The Eyes Wide Open Seminar, a half day educational program run by the FCA for people who are considering buying a franchise was also promoted.

Joining the FCA were 40 exhibitors from a wide cross section of industries including mining, energy and manufacturing.

As part of the FCAÕs drive to assist franchisors to recruit franchisees the Victorian, New South Wales and South Australia chapters are running breakfast panels in March with the topic of effective franchisee recruitment.