Business

Anytime Fitness fake sign-up

Anytime Fitness investigates fake signature sign-up complaints

The gym chain is reviewing documentation, systems and processes to establish the facts.
El Jannah launches lunch
El Jannah launches lunch menu focused on single meal deals
El Jannah's lunch menu includes chicken wraps with chips and a drink for $14.00.
Music licensing brand legal
Music licensing is shifting from a legal obligation to a brand virtue
There's a growing expectation that businesses operate ethically and within the law.

Growth & Innovation

Sport Star Academy US

Sport Star Academy to kick off US launch with soccer program

The first location will be in Boca Raton, Florida.
Barbeques Galore Acom CEO
Acom International acquires Barbeques Galore, names CEO
Barbeques Galore will include independent stores, expanded distribution and online sales.
Strong Pilates Poland deal
Strong Pilates targets Central Europe with Poland deal
Xtreme Brands operates the Xtreme Fitness Gyms chain, which has 181 sites.

Industry & policy

Yum China KFC Pizza

Yum China bets big on expansion as KFC and Pizza Hut thrive

Yum China expects to surpass 20,000 stores by the end of 2026.
Domino's losses CEO closures
Domino’s flags store closures and losses, prioritises franchisee profits
Same-store sales are down as a result of a focus on profitable, sustainable sales growth.
IGA franchisee court underpayments
IGA franchisee faces court for alleged underpayments
A Nepalese visa holder was allegedly underpaid more than $90,000.

People & HR

Mad Mex GM operations Andrew Shalala

Mad Mex promotions boost operations leadership team

Mad Mex strengthens restaurant support with two new leadership roles.
Hip Pocket CEO exits Peter Fiasco (2)
Hip Pocket Workwear & Safety CEO exits
Fiasco was the first CEO for the Bendigo-born retail chain which has 57 stores.
Bakers Delight COO Fiona Donnellan (1)
Bakers Delight appoints chief retail operations officer
Fiona Donnellan brings 14 years of experience with Aldi to her new role.

Franchise recruitment

Banjo's school students program

Banjo’s Bakery gives school students a taste of business ownership

The pilot is an adaptation of the business ownership Self Raising Program.
Susana Hands selling franchises
Why most franchisors struggle to sell and how to fix it
Sales training for franchisors needs to be different from generic sales training.
ACCC transparency franchise recruitment Mick Keogh
ACCC’s Mick Keogh urges transparency in franchise recruitment
Quick sale tactics in franchise recruitment can rebound, Mick Keogh suggests.