One of the disadvantages of buying a franchise is the lack of independence or autonomy in operating the franchise, and the restrictions on decision-making [The advantages and disadvantages of franchising]. How much autonomy a franchisee has in operating their franchise business, will depend on the franchisor, the business operation that the franchisee is wanting to do differently and the reasons why the franchisee is wanting to depart from the franchise offering. While there is a case to be made for some franchisee autonomy, this needs to be balanced with brand consistency . 

What is franchise autonomy?
Can Franchisees adapt operational procedures?
Are Franchisees able to introduce new products or services?
What level of autonomy do Franchisees have in local marketing?
Can Franchisees negotiate with suppliers independently?
Challenges of Franchisee autonomy
Strategies for balancing autonomy and consistency
The future of Franchisee autonomy 

Restraint of trade clauses are common in franchise agreements and are designed to protect the franchisor's legitimate business interests.

It is important for franchisees to carefully review and understand the restraint of trade clauses in their franchise agreements to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues.

On 8 February 2024, the Minister for Small Business, the Hon Julie Collins MP, released the Independent Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct by Dr Michael Schaper. In this article we consider the key findings and recommendations of the Independent Review.

In this guide we consider the franchise disclosure document, the importance of franchise disclosure document compliance, and best practices to ensure compliance as a franchisor in Australia.

The Importance of Franchise Disclosure Documents

Key Components of Franchise Disclosure Documents

Common Disclosure Document Issues for Australian Franchisors

Best Practices for Franchise Disclosure Document Management

What happens when a franchisee is not living up to expectations? In this article we explore the challenges of poorly performing franchisees and how they can impact the overall success of a franchise.

On 23 August 2023, the Government released the Consultation Paper for the 2023 review of the Franchising Code of Conduct. 

In November 2023, the 12-month transition period for the Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022 ("the Act") comes to a close. As we reflect on the impact of this act, it becomes even more crucial to understand the ins and outs of standard form contracts and in particular to understand "What is a standard form contract?". 

Standard Form Contracts
ACCC reference to Standard Form Contracts
What is a Standard Form Contract under the ACL?
What does the Explanatory Memorandum say about Standard Form Contracts?
Takeaways

standard form contractS

A standard form contract is generally referred to as a contract that has pre-drafted terms and conditions that can be easily adapted to different transactions or agreements. This eliminates the need for extensive negotiations and allows parties to quickly and efficiently enter into contracts.

Examples of standard form contracts include software licence user agreements where you tick a box to indicate that you agree to the terms and conditions of use.

The growth strategy for your business will ultimately be determined by the nature of your business and your business objectives. In this article, we have outlined 5 strategies for growing a business in Australia.

1 - Understanding the Australian Business Landscape
2 - Building a Strong Brand Presence
3 - Marketing Effectively for Growth
4 - Product Development
5 - Licensing or Franchising

The regulation of Unfair Contract Terms is about to change. In November 2023 the 12 month transition period for the Treasury Laws Amendment (More Competition, Better Prices) Act 2022 (the Act) will come to an end.