Purchasing an entire franchise system (not just a single outlet) can be an exciting growth move. Done well, it can give you a strong brand, a network of franchisees, and an established revenue stream from royalties and fees. But it also comes with real legal and commercial risks that need careful management.

At our firm, we often advise entrepreneurs and investors on buying, selling, and running franchise systems. One of the most common issues we see is that buyers don’t always know what to ask the seller—and miss critical risks that could affect the value of the business long after settlement.

Franchising Can Be a Powerful Way to Grow, But Only With the Right Foundations

Many business owners in Australia reach a stage where their business is profitable, their brand is growing, and the next question becomes: “How do I scale?” One of the most attractive, and misunderstood, options is franchising.

Franchising allows business owners to expand through others (franchisees), who invest in and operate new locations under the same brand and systems. This model can create rapid growth, new revenue streams, and stronger brand visibility. But it also introduces new layers of legal and operational complexity.

In this article, we explore what makes a business truly ready to franchise, the common risks that can derail even the best concepts, and how working with experienced legal and business advisors can help you build a franchise model that actually works.

From 1 April 2025, the Franchising Code of Conduct will introduce reforms to franchise agreements, disclosure protocols, and compliance requirements. Here are the key changes you should be aware of.

The Australian Government has released a draft of the new Franchising Code of Conduct, with a limited consultation period closing on October 29. The updated Code, set to replace the current version on April 1 next year, incorporates changes in response to the 2023 Schaper Review.

The aftermath of the Federal Court's ruling on the $650 million compensation claim by former Mercedes-Benz dealerships against Mercedes-Benz has resulted in a multi-dimensional examination into the non-renewal of franchise agreements and the introduction of alternative agency contracts. What’s the impact of this landmark case on the Australian franchise industry?

If you're a part of our vibrant $170 billion franchising sector, this information is for you. Minister for Small Business Julie Collins has announced an independent review of the Franchising Code of Conduct, with an opportunity for those within the franchising sector to have their say.

You may be in for a nasty surprise!

Given one of the essential assets of many businesses, even more, so those in the franchising or licensing industry, is their business’s trade name and logo/s, it cannot be underestimated how important it is to ensure the relevant name/s and logo/s have been sufficiently legally protected

The first in our new, multi-part series about how to use franchising principles to upscale your business!

There are many different reasons a business may require extra funding, such as improving your goods or services, investing in new tech, diversifying your business, expanding or even franchising. Here are some ways to help gain alternative funding for your business!

You may not know this, but all Disclosure Documents issued by franchisors on or after 1st November 2021, must be updated to reflect the new Franchising Code of Conduct changes.

The Tsunami wave of resignations, the impact in business and franchising?