29 August 2018,
The Franchising & Business Opportunities Expo staged in Melbourne last weekend was one of the strongest shows in many years, showing that the industry remains positive and relevant despite the failure of some high-profile chains.
“We were thrilled to see the franchising industry out in force at this show and also the huge response from visitors,” says Exhibition Manager Fiona Stacey.
“Franchising has had a tough year, but the model remains the best way for everyday Australians to get into their own business. The good franchise chains know they need to get out and speak with people about how to get involved. And the expo is the ideal place to do your research.”
Held at the Melbourne Exhibition & Convention Centre from 25-26 August, the event was the fourth in a series of expos staged around Australia. It was also part of the Victorian Small Business Festival.
Exhibitors covered a huge range of industries; from food and beverage, retail and home services, to accounting and finance, tutoring, healthy living and many more. There were also legal, financial and business consultants ready to offer advice and information.
Most exhibitors were Australian, but there were also some exciting concepts from the USA, Europe and Asia. These included a national pavilion from Malaysia coordinated by the Malaysian Government and Franchise Association.
Flatpack Assembly Services was just one of many new franchise businesses launching at the show. Operations Manager Andrew Wilcox says “this is a great new brand and the expo is the best place to show that to people. I have been coming to this event for many years in various roles and this is the best one yet. We have already booked next year with a much bigger stand.”
As usual the free seminars were a highlight of the event. Fiona Stacey says, “throughout the year we have had a very strong speaker program featuring keynotes from Jim Penman from Jim’s Group, John O’Brien from Poolwerx and Mary Aldred from the Franchise Council.”
Source: Business Franchise
Full Article: https://www.businessfranchiseaustralia.com.au/latest-news/franchising-expo-big-hit-melbourne
