Two Queensland-based franchise chains are stepping on to a global stage, named among the 20 worldwide winners of the International Franchise Association’s NextGen in Franchising Global Competition.

Jai Hobbs, the co-founder of Paleo Caf_, and Jacob Foster, managing director of FCF Fire and Electrical will be travelling to the IFA convention in Texas, US to attend the NextGen summit. The Franchise Council of Australia will fund the travel and accommodation.

Foster said “I am more than pleased to know that as a regional company we are able to be noticed on a global scale and to be one of two Australian representatives. This will help cement confidence and faith in our brand and to show franchisees that they have made the right decision in being part of FCF.

“On a professional level, franchise industry recognition means that all our hard work in the last five years has been validated and demonstrates that we are heading in the right direction.”

The NextGen award celebrates young innovators.

Foster started his own fire and electrical company in 2008 when he couldn’t find a business offering good service.

Jai and Marlies Hobbs (who was named the FCA Woman of the Year in 2015) set up the Paleo Caf_ business as a response to the health issues of their son.

FCA chairman, Michael Paul, said the Australian wins are proof that the franchise sector is booming here.

“The competition has proven a huge success and allows winners to discuss new concepts and innovative ways of thinking to take franchising into the future and ensure the sector in Australia continues to flourish.

“Winners also get the opportunity to learn about the latest trends in the industry and to grow both on a personal and professional level.”