Running at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre this weekend, the Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo is a one-stop shop for anyone wanting to start their own business under the wing of a tried and tested brand.
The Expo features over 75 exhibitors, including many of Australia’s most popular franchise businesses, and offers expert advice and opportunities to meet face-to-face with franchisors.
One of the success stories in recent years has been that of Yarra Valley Farms, one of Australia’s foremost providore distributors of fine fruit and vegetables.
Yarra Valley Farms was started in Victoria eleven years ago, and now operates in NSW, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania.
Sam Zaharis, director of franchising for the company, says that there’s only one basic qualification needed to become a successful franchisee.
“They have to be customer-centric, and believe in a vision of offering the best possible service to their customers,” says Zaharis.
“Many of our franchisees are not from the fruit and veg industry, but being able to communicate effectively with customers is key.”
With over 100 franchises across four states, Yarra Valley Farms is currently targeting metro areas of Melbourne and Sydney that are ripe for new franchise operations.

*For the full interview, buy a copy of tomorrow’s Neos Kosmos.