The New Zealand master franchise agreement for The Cheesecake Shop has expired, bringing to an end the gradual restructure of the Australian bakery chain.

Over the past four years as master franchise agreements have expired they have been replaced by a field team of franchise support executives at The Cheesecake Shop.

The 198 franchised bakeries across Australia and New Zealand now deal directly with the franchisor.

Warwick Konopacki, managing director, said “In the early years of rapid expansion and limited head office resources, the master franchise structure made sense. However, now that we are a mature and experienced franchisor we can achieve improved standards, efficiency and better marketing through a direct relationship with our franchisees.”

Auckland based general manager Colin Mellar [pictured left] will manage the 16 outlets in New Zealand, assisted by David Reid, an experienced former franchisee.

Mellar was formerly a senior executive with McDonalds, Hell Pizza and Pizza Haven.

The Tauranga shop, operated by the franchisor, is to become a franchised outlet and is being refurbished in readiness for franchisee recruitment.