Franchise Everything

Ep135 How I Took My B2B Brand Global Through Franchising, with Doug Downer

In this episode of the Franchise Everything Podcast, Glenn catches up once again with Doug Downer, Founder of Franchise Ready, recorded at the National Franchise Convention in Melbourne. Doug shares how he transformed his side hustle into a globally expanding consulting brand — now operating in Australia, the UK, India, the Middle East, Singapore, and soon the U.S.
 
Doug explains how Franchise Ready helps businesses document their systems, financials, and operational models to become “franchise ready,” whether they plan to franchise or not. He also reveals how he grew his international footprint through LinkedIn visibility, inbound franchise partner leads, and his passion for supporting Australian brands going global.
 
He reflects on early mistakes, lessons learned in choosing franchise partners, and the importance of having boots on the ground in every market. Doug also highlights his criteria for selecting international partners — including behavioral profiling, credibility, and proven franchising experience.
 
This conversation dives into mindset, systemization, and the balance between global ambition and local presence — showing how Australian franchisors can export their intellectual property and succeed abroad.
 
0:00 Introduction
00:54 How Franchise Ready started as a side hustle in 2012
3:39 How Franchise Ready attracts clients in a niche market 
5:46 How the one-year license model worked as a try-before-you-buy franchise setup 
9:49 The turning point that accelerated Franchise Ready’s global expansion
11:52 The Franchise Ready model for supporting global partners
13:37 Choosing the right people to represent Franchise Ready globally
15:20 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y4yWnjODyyw

Ep134 Shane Birt - Seal A Fridge, Melbourne, Franchise Owner Journey

Shane Birt, franchise owner of Seal-A-Fridge Melbourne CBD and Northeast territories, shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings as a butcher to running his own successful service business.
 
In this episode, Shane talks about how a call from former mentor and Seal-A-Fridge founder Craig Foxwell reignited his career, leading him to learn the trade hands-on across Victoria. He opens up about facing a major back injury, the recovery journey that pushed him into studying accounting, and how he eventually transitioned from employee to business owner.
 
Now running two territories, Shane reflects on the mindset shift required to take the leap into entrepreneurship, the flexibility that comes with owning a franchise, and the satisfaction of providing a service that genuinely helps people and saves energy.
 
0:00 Introduction
0:26 What is Seal-A-Fridge and what franchise owners actually do
2:20 Moving around as an army kid and adjusting to new careers
4:43 The call from former mentor Craig Foxwell that changed his path
6:46 Learning the trade hands on with Craig and Michelle across Victoria
8:10 Running the Geelong–Warrnambool territory for several years
11:27 How Shane’s back surgery helped him get his life back
12:33 Transitioning from accounting to owning two Seal-A-Fridge territories
13:48 Comparing work life in accounting versus franchise ownership
14:49 The mindset shift from employee to business owner
16:49 The most satisfying part of running a Seal-A-Fridge franchise
18:10 Why customers are often grateful when he walks in the door
19:07 Wrapping up Shane’s journey
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mvb2fv4c
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/5xnef9n5
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/3fck44c7
YouTube: https://youtu.be/uRyTj2mF4Qg
 

Ep133 Bruce Billson — Franchising, Regulation & the Role of ASBFEO

In this episode, recorded live at the National Franchising Convention, Glenn speaks with Bruce Billson, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, about the evolving landscape of franchising and small business regulation in Australia.
 
Bruce unpacks the Schaper Review, recent updates to the Franchise Code of Conduct, and the introduction of a new requirement ensuring a “reasonable prospect of return” for franchisees — a concept designed to protect investors while encouraging more responsible franchising.
 
He also discusses the balance between regulation and entrepreneurial freedom, why due diligence remains critical despite tighter controls, and the growing concern that excessive compliance could push some large brands away from franchising altogether.
 
As the Ombudsman, Bruce outlines how his office supports the sector through education, dispute resolution, and advocacy, helping both franchisors and franchisees navigate an increasingly complex business environment.
 
0:00 Introduction
0:27 The pace of change in franchising regulation and the Shaper Review
2:46 Why profitability and proof of concept are core to franchising
3:31 How the “reasonable prospect” rule will likely be tested and interpreted
5:19 Australia’s highly regulated franchise sector and its implications
6:14 The risk of overregulation and why due diligence still matters
7:13 Big brands moving away from franchising and why
9:24 The danger of assuming big franchise brands guarantee success 
10:18 Why disclosure doesn’t replace real research and homework
11:46 The three core functions of the Australian Small Business Ombudsman
12:43 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3yntcx9h
Apple Podcasts: https://youtu.be/cpF-y_yi-xE
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/4vtyv2kw
YouTube: https://youtu.be/cpF-y_yi-xE

Ep132 JP Afflick – Hog’s Breath Airlie Beach | Franchise Owner Journey

JP Afflick, owner of Hog’s Breath Airlie Beach, shares his 25-year journey with the iconic Australian restaurant brand.
 
Starting out at Hog’s Breath Darwin in 1995, JP reflects on the early days of the brand’s culture, energy, and sense of family that shaped his passion for hospitality. After co-owning the Byron Bay Hog’s Breath and spending years building ventures across tech, software, and even world record motorcycle racing, JP’s story comes full circle as he returns to the Hog’s Breath family as an owner once again.
 
In this episode, JP discusses the importance of systems, service, and culture in running a successful restaurant, his hands-on approach to leadership, and the teamwork behind operating the “OG” Airlie Beach store. He also shares his vision for the future, focused on legacy, loyalty, and keeping the Hog’s Breath experience alive for years to come.
 
0:00 Introduction
0:31 Where it all began — JP’s first steps into the Hog’s Breath famil
1:53 JP’s early days working at Hog’s Breath in Darwin
2:54 JP’s first experience as a Hog’s Breath business owner in Byron Bay
4:50 JP’s career beyond Hog’s Breath and the ventures he built along the way
5:53 How JP shifted from running restaurants to starting a software business
8:44 What land speed racing taught JP about business and leadership
9:27 How JP returned to the Hog’s Breath family and became owner of Airlie Beach
11:53 JP’s hands-on approach to running the Hog’s Breath Airlie Beach store
12:36 JP’s thoughts on starting a business partnership and taking a leap of faith
13:11 The crucial role of service and hospitality in every Hog’s Breath restaurant
14:12 JP’s long-term vision for Hog’s Breath Airlie Beach and what’s next
15:33 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
Listen or Watch on;
 
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4rexjxm9
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/huyzsucp
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/bdepwhym
YouTube: https://youtu.be/ssOQ1QIYN9c
 

Ep131 Stephen Anders, CEO, Sushi Sushi - Franchise Business Leader

Sushi Sushi is one of Australia’s most recognized food franchise brands, with over 25 years of heritage in delivering fresh, authentic Japanese cuisine.
 
In this wide-ranging discussion, Stephen Anders, CEO of Sushi Sushi, shares his journey from global corporate leadership roles in finance, M&A, and marketing including time at Foster’s Group and Treasury Wine Estates to leading one of the country’s most successful QSR franchises.
 
Stephen reflects on his transition from the corporate world to franchising, the lessons learned through major global acquisitions, and how his early exposure to Japan shaped his appreciation for sushi culture and business innovation.
 
The conversation dives deep into Sushi Sushi’s post-COVID transformation, covering its renewed focus on technology-driven operations, multi-format retailing, customer loyalty programs, and franchise growth strategy. He also discusses the company’s evolving “RICE” values — respect, innovation, collaboration, and execution as a foundation for cultural and operational excellence.
 
0:00 Introduction
0:49 How Stephen Anders started in business
2:27 Why financial rigor is the common thread among franchise leaders
4:19 What corporate life was really like at Arthur Andersen 
7:03 Stephen’s journey from strategy manager to global wine executive at Foster’s
9:32 How billion-dollar mergers and acquisitions actually come together
11:58 Working across Asia during the currency crisis and discovering Japan’s business culture
16:37 First impressions of franchising after years in global corporate roles
19:17 The moment Sushi Sushi came calling and why Stephen said yes
22:21 What it’s like stepping into a private equity–backed franchise business
24:50 Resetting Sushi Sushi’s strategy after COVID
29:12 Inside a day in the life of Sushi Sushi’s CEO and what Stephen focuses on most 
32:58 Sushi Sushi’s sale process and how it impacts future expansion plans
34:43 What’s next for Sushi Sushi and its CEO over the next 3–5 years
35:23 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mry9495a
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/5bn8ca8t
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/3m3rkdu6
YouTube: https://youtu.be/_ddGtWoT3IY
 

Ep130 Taking $150k+ investment costs off a big box retail franchise, with Bedshed

Bedshed is a long-established bedroom furniture and mattress retailer with over 45 years in business and a growing national franchise network across Australia.
 
In this episode, Greg Prussia, National Business Development Manager, explains how the brand has achieved a major breakthrough in reducing store build costs saving up to 75% on key joinery components for new stores.
 
By leveraging their long-term overseas furniture manufacturing partners to produce in-store joinery, Bedshed has managed to lower franchise entry costs without compromising quality, aesthetics, or design standards.
 
The new strategy was first rolled out in the brand’s Caringbah, New South Wales store, its smallest footprint yet proving that cost efficiency and premium presentation can go hand in hand. With reduced fit-out and lighting costs, the model now makes franchise ownership more accessible while boosting multi-store growth opportunities nationwide.
 
0:00 Introduction
1:25 Introducing Bedshed’s newest store and a major cost-saving innovation
4:57 Managing longer lead times as part of Bedshed’s cost-saving strategy
5:52 Applying the 75% cost-saving strategy to Bedshed’s smallest store
8:19 Why this Bedshed franchisee waited two years for the right opportunity
10:38 The financial impact of Bedshed’s new cost-saving strategy
12:06 Rolling out the new cost-saving strategy across future Bedshed stores
13:02 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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Amazon  Music: https://tinyurl.com/58h4n9t5
YouTube: https://youtu.be/uvJgW22FzV0

Ep129 The 5 ways Roll'd franchisees have channels to make $$, with Jarrod Montigue, CEO

Roll'd is a fast-casual Vietnamese food franchise serving fresh, authentic recipes inspired by Mama Hoang’s home cooking. Founded in Melbourne 13 years ago, the brand has grown to more than 100 locations across Australia and recently expanded into New Zealand.
 
In this episode, Jarrod Montigue, CEO of Roll'd, shares how the brand continues to innovate and support its franchise partners through five distinct revenue channels from traditional in-store sales and catering, to FMCG retail products, home delivery, and the newly launched Roll'd at Schools program.
 
Jarrod also highlights how the brand’s flexible business model, focus on healthy meal solutions, and strong operational support team are helping franchisees thrive and adapt in a changing food service landscape.
 
0:00 Introduction
0:31 What's Roll'd?
1:54 Introducing the five income channels that drive Rolld’s franchise growth 
2:44 How fresh, allergen-friendly catering became their secret growth engine 
4:34 How FMCG products help franchise partners boost in-store sales
5:31 Expanding home delivery partnerships and growing nighttime trade
7:34 Launching the Roll'd at Schools program to promote healthy eating and new revenue streams
10:46 Strengthening the Roll'd at Schools rollout with central support and B2B systems
13:14 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
Listen or Watch on;
 
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yc8z43bh
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/57sdhne6
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2ykx8pcw
YouTube: https://youtu.be/nIgRUeyJ1vw
 

Ep128 Inside the New Zealand Franchise Market — with Callum Floyd

Dr Callum Floyd is Managing Director of Franchize Consultants and a long-term contributor to the Franchise Association of New Zealand.
 
Based in Auckland, Callum supports both emerging and established franchise brands with feasibility studies, system structure, performance reviews and CFE-accredited training to help franchisees and field teams thrive.
 
In this episode, he shares a clear picture of franchising in New Zealand today: a resilient and mature market with over 500 franchise systems and 25,000 franchisees across just 4.5 million people. Despite tough economic conditions, the sector remains strong powered by innovation, digital transformation, and a multicultural franchisee base.
 
Callum also breaks down key challenges like workforce shifts, access to capital, and ensuring franchisees stay profitable while explaining why franchising is uniquely powerful in New Zealand, especially in regional areas where national brands may not reach without franchise partners.
 
For Australian brands eyeing international expansion, Callum provides practical advice on entering the NZ market successfully: start small, validate the model locally, and never underestimate the nuances of Kiwi culture and expectations.
 
0:00 Introduction
1:00 Overview of Franchise Consultants NZ
2:27 Why NZ is the most franchised country per capita, 500+ systems thriving across a 4.5M population
4:25 Quality over quantity: growth in franchising should focus on better brands, not more brands
6:15 Key trends in NZ franchising right now: technology, economy and workforce challenges 
8:36 Top challenges NZ franchisors face today
10:28 Advice for Australian franchisors expanding into New Zealand
12:37 Interest from Australian franchisors entering New Zealand remains steady despite tougher economic conditions
13:17 Common pitfalls for Australian franchisors entering NZ
14:45 Why niche, specialised service concepts are finding the strongest opportunities in New Zealand’s franchise market
16:10 Brand origin isn’t a deal-breaker in NZ: quality and delivery matter more than being “Kiwi-owned"
17:17 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by: www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/y4xajdhu
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Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/522mr3xj
YouTube: https://youtu.be/KhWSuMF9Fec

Ep127 Understanding the “Reasonable Return” Provisions in Australian Franchising with Stephen Giles

Stephen Giles – Leading Australia Through a New Era of Franchise Regulation
 
Stephen Giles is one of Australia’s most respected voices in franchising — a senior partner at Norton Rose Fulbright and a long-time industry leader who has shaped franchising policy for more than two decades.
 
Having served 27 years on the Franchise Council of Australia board, Stephen has drafted countless submissions to government, worked closely with regulatory bodies, and guided franchisors through major legislative shifts.
 
In this episode, Stephen unpacks the latest and most significant change to the Franchising Code — the requirement for franchisors to ensure franchisees have a reasonable opportunity for a return on investment. He explains the intention behind the law, how it may reshape the franchise market, and why responsible business modelling and due diligence matter more than ever.
 
Stephen also discusses broader challenges facing the sector: rising compliance costs, media misconceptions, regulatory overreach, and the growing influence of auto dealer politics. Drawing from recent discussions in the United States, he highlights the stark contrast between Australia’s heavy regulatory environment and more balanced global approaches.
 
0:00 Introduction
0:59 The Franchising Code update: ROI obligations and what it means for franchise system
4:35 Prospective buyers now have easier access to online information and feedback from existing franchisees 
6:39 Why assumptions about “big brands” can mislead buyers
9:02  Why franchising often ends up in the media spotlight for the wrong reasons
12:28 Rising compliance costs forcing franchisors to choose legal fees over support
13:33 ROI provisions expected to evolve through court cases, not industry panic
16:26 The push to separate auto from franchising regulations — and the political roadblocks
17:41 What U.S. franchising reveals about regulation and shared responsibility
21:20 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
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Ep126 Inside the FCA’s Comeback: A Conversation with CEO Jay Westbury

Jay Westbury, CEO of the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), joins Glenn to reflect on a pivotal 13 months leading the organisation through transformation and renewed momentum.
 
When Jay stepped into the role, his focus was clear — stabilise the FCA, rebuild confidence, and get franchising’s “mojo” back. In this episode, he walks through how he turned a $1.5 million loss into a $264,000 profit by returning to basics, focusing on core events like the Franchise Industry Awards and the National Franchise Convention (NFC), and fostering collaboration across the industry.
 
Jay also shares insights on leadership, financial discipline, and the power of keeping things simple. With the next NFC announced for Canberra, and plans to strengthen the FCA’s national engagement, this episode captures a moment of optimism and strategic focus for the franchising community in Australia.
 
0:00 Introduction
1:34 Reflecting on his first 13 months leading the FCA and the strategy to stabilise the organisation 
3:22 The small core team that helped rebuild the organisation 
6:08 Lessons from past leadership mistakes and the importance of balancing revenue with growth
7:59 Setting the stage for the next NFC and why Canberra is the perfect location 
10:50 Highlighting the FCA’s key events for 2025, including the FIA, NFC, and state Christmas parties
13:30 Wrap up
 
Podcast Produced by:  www.franchisebusinesshub.com.au
 
Listen or Watch on;
 
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/2c6mpet9
Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3zbe26m3
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/3835v29j
YouTube: https://youtu.be/hXmhSNoiVAo