Shaping Australia's future with sustainable franchising

Sustainability? It's not just the latest buzzword; it's the new black in business. As the world sips from reusable coffee cups and zips around in EVs, the franchise industry is hopping on the eco-train, making green the new gold standard.

 

Going green: the big picture

 

A fresh report from the Franchise Council of Australia paints the franchise scene in vibrant green hues. With a whopping A$174 billion value, 1,267 franchise systems and over 94,000 individual franchise units, the sector is bustling with nearly 600,000 employees.

 

That's a whole lot of green power!

 

Franchisors: the green architects

 

Franchisors are the masterminds, setting the eco-blueprint (aka vision, strategy and standards) for their networks. Here's how they're turning their franchises into greenhouses:

 

• Harnessing renewable energy: Maccas, for instance, uses LED lighting, solar panels and heat recovery water systems in its restaurants. We're lovin’ it! 
• Waging war on waste: Boost Juice is giving a nod to eco-warriors, offering discounts to customers who bring their own cups. Reduce, reuse, refresh!
• Going local and ethical: Dopa Don and Milk Bar is all about that organic, ethically sourced goodness. Healthy for you, happy for the planet!
• Championing social causes: Zambrero's Plate 4 Plate initiative is pure heart – buy a burrito, and someone in need gets a meal. Talk about a win-win!

 

Franchisees: the green ground troops

 

Franchisees are the boots on the ground, turning the green vision into reality. Here's how they're making waves:

 

• Boosting health and safety: Post-pandemic fitness studios are upping their game with temperature checks, sanitising and more. Safety first, people!
• Tech-ing up operations: Poolwerx's smart pool system is the future – monitoring water quality and energy consumption with a tap on the app.
• Building loyalty: Today's consumers are all about values. Franchises that wear their green hearts on their sleeves are winning big time.
• Crafting unique offerings: It's not just about quality anymore; it's about aligning with customer values. Green franchises are the new magnets for loyalty and brand love.

 

The green perks

 

Going green isn’t just good for the planet; it's good for business. Sustainable franchises often see reduced costs over time thanks to practices like reducing waste and energy consumption. Moreover, they enjoy a sparkling brand image and often find themselves ahead of regulatory curveballs.

 

Franchising’s green future

 

As the world continues to go green, sustainable franchising in Australia is expected to flourish and thrive. Our crystal ball predicts:

 

• Essential services on the rise: Think health, fitness, and food. Especially in our unpredictable times (yes, COVID, we're side-eyeing you).
• Digital domination: Online platforms, apps, and data analytics are the new norm.
• Embracing global goals: Aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals? That's the gold standard.
• Eyes on international expansion: New markets, new innovations, and new revenue streams are on the horizon.
   

In a nutshell, green franchising isn't just a fad; it's the future. And it's not just about saving the planet; it's about thriving in business. Who's ready to ride the green wave?