Franchise

FRANCHISING

Lending a helping hand turns into a viable franchise

Gayle Bryant An ever-increasing demand for home-based care was the catalyst for one entrepreneur to introduce the US franchise model, Senior Helpers, to Australia.

Franchising

Ten franchise traps to avoid at all costs

David Wilson Thinking of buying a franchise? The good news is that franchises usually work, says three-time franchise owner Jane Lombard, now a franchise consultant.

Homework key for franchise buyers

David Wilson Consumer watchdog urges would-be franchise buyers to watch out for inflated franchise-income claims.

FRANCHISING

Size up a franchise in seven easy steps

David Wilson Here's some expert intel on how to spot a legitimate franchise opportunity.

Could you cut it as a franchise owner? The top 10 traits a franchisee needs

David Wilson Franchising is a $128-billion-a-year business in Australia. Over a thousand franchise brands run across the country, covering every angle from coffee vending to in-home behavioural dog training.

FRANCHISING

Franchise whiz hit by arsonists for second time

Julie Power For the second time, one of Domino's most successful young franchisees has been attacked by arsonists.

Red Rooster joins franchise pay scheme

Fast food chain Red Rooster has signed up to a national audit to ensure its franchise store workers are not being underpaid.

Do your homework before buying a franchise

Steve Wright What to consider before parting with your hard-earned.

New or existing franchise? That's the question

Both options have their attractions. It all depends on your appetite for risk and hunger for reward.

Greenwash won't work in this franchise

David Wilson During the global financial crisis while other businesses cut back, the car-wash franchise Ecowash Mobile splashed out.

Sparks fly in franchise debate

Chalpat Sonti As recommendations to reform one of Australia's largest, and most troubled, industries move at slower than snail's pace, MPs from both sides of the political divide have re-ignited deep wounds.

Franchise with drive to succeed

A start-up has ambitions of becoming the Bunnings of hire-car services, writes Kate Lahey.

ENTREPRENEURS

From $100 in his pocket to a sprawling bun empire

Peter Cai When Simon Ip arrived in Australia 20 years ago as a pastry chef, he had just $100 and a French certificate in patisserie. Last year he and his brother sold $50 million worth of buns.

Brumby's carbon tax claims under microscope

Judith Ireland The consumer watchdog is questioning a major bakery franchise, following an internal newsletter that advised bakeries to put up prices and ''let the carbon tax take the blame''.