The recent Melbourne Franchising and Small Business Expo drew plenty of visitors to what was the final event in the franchising expo calendar for 2025.
Event director Tim Collett described the two day show as a “huge success”.
“There seems to be more interest in franchising than we have seen for many years,” Collett told Franchise Executives.
There was a diverse choice of brands and services on show, from Aramex to Choice Flooring, from Gong Cha to Mail Boxes Etc.
Craveable showcased its Red Rooster, Chicken Treat, Oporto and Chargrill Charlie’s brands and Foodco exhibited both its brands, Jamaica Blue and Muffin Break.
Among the exhibitors, 10 companies from Taiwan, including bubble tea, retail concepts and education.
“The new ‘Start Your Own Business’ feature is also helping to draw new people. Together the shows had a fabulous range of exhibitors and speakers,” Collett said.
“We saw a record crowd come through on Saturday – the seminars and aisles were packed all day long. Sunday was a little quieter perhaps due to large demonstrations in the city. However it was still busy and exhibitors noted the number of serious enquiries they got right through the weekend.
“We are really excited about the result and planning for even bigger shows next year,” Collett said.
Next year the Brisbane show will kick off proceedings on 21-22 March, with Sydney following on 30-31 May and Melbourne 1-2 August 2026.
