Earlier this month, Franchise Direct launched its latest franchise portal—this one serving the continent of Australia.
With the addition of FranchiseDirect.com.au,the company’s 15th franchise portal, the Franchise Direct network now has a presence on every continent (excepting Antarctica)! Since 1998, Franchise Direct has established itself as a leader of worldwide franchise lead generation, and we are excited to use our over 20 years of expertise to benefit franchisors and prospective franchisees in the Australian market.
Why Australia?
The following are five key reasons for investing in Australia from the Australia Benchmark Report:
- Robust economy
- Dynamic industries
- Innovation and skills
- Global ties
- Strong foundations
On the work front, Australia’s economy is the world’s 14th largest with a stable outlook by all three global rating agencies, and is forecasted for an average GDP growth of 2.7% over the next five years. According to the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, “The country’s strong regulatory institutions, ability to respond to global changes, and diversified, services-based economy underpin its steady growth.”
On the play front, Australia is renowned for an excellent quality of life. Three Australian cities—Melbourne (2), Sydney (3) and Adelaide (10)—are ranked in the top 10 of The Economist Intelligence Unit’s annual Global Liveability Index, which measures the “most livable cities in the world.” The cities are ranked using metrics such as crime rates, healthcare quality, infrastructure, education, and levels of corruption.
The Australian Franchise Industry
The Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), which began in 1982, represents franchisees, franchisors and service providers operating within the Australian franchise industry. The overall governing authority for the Australian franchise industry is the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC).
While some franchises were in business before then, franchising in Australia by most accounts didn’t take off until the late 1960s and early 1970s. American influence was instrumental in the boom of Australian franchising via fast food franchises KFC, Pizza Hut, and McDonalds, which commenced operations there in the early 1970s.
But over time, franchising has become much more domesticated. According to the FCA, “Franchising in Australia may have initially provided a means for Australians to benefit from foreign products and systems, but it now is the chosen format for many Australian entrepreneurs to expand and develop their business. The great majority of franchise systems operating in Australia are [now] home grown, and increasing numbers of Australian franchise systems are successfully taking their systems overseas.”
The current condition of the Australian franchise industry is strong. Over 1,300 franchise brands operate there and the Australian franchise market is worth an estimated $182 billion (or 8% of the GDP). The most recent data from the International Trade Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, states that “the most popular opportunities for franchising in Australia are in the non-food retail industry, which accounts for over 25% of franchise systems.” The administration also notes that home building, carpet cleaning, repair systems, waste management, and financial planning are among the franchise sectors that have enjoyed growth recently.
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Whether you are a franchisor looking to expand your business into or across Australia, or an entrepreneur in Australia searching for the perfect franchise or business opportunity, Franchise Direct can help.
Browse the amazing range of Australian franchise opportunities available on the new Franchise Direct Australia TODAY!