The Franchising & Start Your Own Business Expos for 2026 kicked off on 21 March in Brisbane, with Queensland’s Minister for Small Business, Steve Minnikin, officially opening the two-day event.
Event director Tim Collett told Franchise Executives, “It’s always great to be in Brisbane; it’s a market that’s growing in size and sophistication. And with so many people moving to the state, there’s naturally an increase in people wanting to start a business, buy a franchise, and work for themselves.”
Food and drinks brands Gong Cha, LeWrap, Graze Craze, Hello Harry Burger Joint , Yo Way Frozen Yoghurt, Pepper Lunch, I Love Dumplings Express were all showcasing their brands at the expo.
First time exhibitor LeWrap reported a strong first day at the expo. GM of franchising, Manal Haydar, said “It was absolutely amazing. I was blown away, actually, I didn’t expect such a good turnout. We were so busy and there was a good mix of people.”
Sydney-based LeWrap has one store in Chermside and is looking to expand into southeast Queensland.
“We are definitely tapping into the Brisbane territory. This is our big growth strategy so we are working to position our brand, and find the hotspot areas,” Haydar said.
Brisbane expo attracted engaged visitors
Hair care retailer and salon chain Price Attack is celebrating its 40th year this year, and was another newbie exhibitor at the show.
CEO John Pascoe said “We’re throwing the net out, we haven’t ever done it before; our franchise recruitment has always been word of mouth.
“I’ve been pleasantly surprised, I didn’t know what to expect and we’ve had good leads. We’ve got some good locations to fill,” he said.
Three brands in the education space participated in the expo: Kip McGrath Education Centre, Kumon and Mathnasisum.
Kumon section leader Sam Opt’Land said the expo was very positive.
“We’ve had a lot of very strong leads come through for some really crucial locations for us, and we’ve got high hopes that we can get some good follow up from this.
“People seem really engaged and willing to hear about what we’re offering and to move forward in the application process,” Opt’Land said.
Two seminar theatres ran free seminar programs throughout the two days, attracting visitors keen to hear first-hand from franchisees, and business and franchising experts.
The next Franchising & Start Your Own Business Expo is on 30 and 31 May at the ICC in Sydney.
