The Cheesecake Shop is set to open 15 more stores across Australia and New Zealand in predominantly metropolitan areas. 

“In the next financial year, we have about 15 areas we are looking to open stores,” said Nick Avgerinos, national franchise development manager.

Within Australia, the dessert chain will be mainly targeting metropolitan sites in Western Australia, South Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, Northern Territory, and New South Wales. New Zealand opportunities comprise of Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington.

“Our key demographic are (located in) areas with young families,” said Avgerinos.

Avgerinos said that the end of the mining boom has been a contributor to expressions of interest from ex-miners in Western Australia.

“Perth inquiries were significantly high this year (which amounted to) 15 percent higher year on year.”

Ideal franchisees in his view come from all walks of life, but there are a higher proportion of female franchisees.

Franchisees are those with “people skills (and) a little bit of an artistic side.”

The initial investment cost of a franchise is $350,000. Find out more about owning a franchise with The Cheesecake Shop.