2015 News and Articles

Franchising remains one of the most powerful ways to stimulate entrepreneurship and job creation. In South Africa, franchising contributes to GDP and there is scope for the growth of this sector.

Morné Cronjé, Head of FNB Franchising says, “There’s no doubt that franchising remains an attractive prospect for businessmen and entrepreneurs. The splendour of franchising is that you’re in business for yourself but not by yourself. Today’s FNB Franchise Event in Umhlanga has been aptly themed, ‘Planning for the future’, and our headline speaker, Trevor Edwards well known SA Entrepreneur aptly presented on the topic of growing a business through the power of entrepreneurship.”

“I got into franchising at the age of 38 when I left as a senior executive in Johannesburg to start my first business, a Steers in the Durban CBD. In the next 12 years I was involved in growing many businesses including being involved in listing of two businesses on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. I’ve been involved in industries ranging from fast food , ethnic beauty, highend cosmetic packaging ,private equity and pharmaceutical ,” says serial entrepreneur, Trevor Edwards.

Franchising remains a good way to get started in business and Edwards says that in his opinion franchising is one of businesses best kept secrets to expand your business with somebody else's brand and expertise.

“I was attracted to being an entrepreneur by the thought that my scope of opportunity would only be limited by my own dreams. Entrepreneurship and franchising are some of the keys that will unlock the potential of South Africa and solve the challenges of low growth in the economy and help tackle unemployment., Government and large business also need to create and support a plan and environment that will nurture budding entrepreneurs” says Edwards.

The retired Edwards admits that business was his hobby and life, he knew that he had to give back and currently helps a number of young people with business advice and is also involved in a number of community projects.

“Franchising is a good market to be in if you’re going to go into business, however competition at the moment is very big. Everyone is playing for market share, which is becoming less and less. The consumer is becoming more price sensitive and the variety in the market means that people are spoilt for choice. If a franchisee is to succeed in the industry, it is important to know what your core business is and it is essential that you plan for the future,” concludes Cronjé.