The Healthy Habits brand of sandwich, salad and juice bars has been acquired by a food-focused franchise group.

Franchised Food Company (FFCO) and the the owners of Healthy Habits, the Dymocks Group, have finalised an agreement that will see the Healthy Habits franchise business trading under the control of FFCO as of 1 July, 2016.

FFCO’s CEO Stan Gordon said “It is gratifying to be able to acquire Healthy Habits, which has been recognised throughout the fast- food industry as a leader in providing great tasting, healthy food; I firmly believe its introduction to the our stable will prove a valuable addition to all the FFCO brands.”

Dymocks bought the Healthy Habits business from founder Kathryn Sampson in 2009

The most recent managing director, Mark Buckland, has held the reins for three year during which the brand has undergone a period of rapid change to its products and its ecommerce capability to position it for the future.

Buckland explained the divestment.

“The Dymocks Group operates diverse businesses from book retailing, confectionery manufacturing, commercial property and farming. After doing so much to develop and position the Healthy Habits business, the board decided that for the brand to grow to the next level it would need to be part of a larger food franchise.

“The sale to FFCO which successfully operates multiple brands was seen as a natural fit. The divestment into FFCOs capable hands also positions the Dymocks Group well as it continues to develop and exploit opportunities for its other businesses which have experienced significant growth both organically and recently through acquisitions.”

The FFCO group includes Cold Rock Ice Creamery, Mr Whippy, Trampoline, Pretzel World, Europa Coffee and Nutshack.

Stan Gordon, CEO said “We’ve seen dramatic changes in how Australians want to consume fast food. While there is always an appetite for an occasional treat, generally Australians are now much more health conscious. So we’re really excited to be able to cater to our customers on even more occasions with sandwiches, salads and fresh juices.”

Gordon believes FFCO ownership will ultimately benefit Healthy Habits franchisees.

“The immediate focus for FFCO is to ensure the transition to the new ownership occurs seamlessly and without disruption to customers and staff. Key business systems such as POS and rewards will remain unchanged post-transaction, as will key supplier relationships, to ensure all franchisees will be able to continue without interruption to their businesses.