This partnership started with a couple of credit cards and a passion to succeed. Franchising led to rapid expansion and winning an award, now even snow-clad mountains don’t daunt their plans to climb higher. By Cameron Bayley.

Want to buy a franchise? Track record is only a guide to the future, it doesn’t underwrite it. Dennis Mattiske explains pitfalls and options, and how to research, plan, and find the best mix for financing the venture.

Kerry Ryan and Maija Kerry outline crucial legal issues involved in establishing a franchising agreement, and making the business work for all parties.

Prime Minister John Howard has announced plans for a new workplace relations system and it’s important that all employers are alert to the implications. Richard Bunting outlines what the proposed changes could mean for business owners.

Are you already running a successful franchise, but want to grow the business further? Rebecca Spicer explores the benefits and issues of exporting your franchise, and gets the inside scoop on a franchise that has taken this leap successfully.

Making the switch from scientist to business owner was daunting for Karen Woolley, and her husband Mark. But after rewriting a medical report Karen’s company had paid someone to write, they realised there was a gap in the market for a medical communications business, and it suddenly became a natural step.

New Products for September 2005

The liquor store industry has stuck to tradition, and independents are holding their own by grouping together - But as Rebecca Spicer found out, it’s one of the most competitive industries with plenty of pressure from complex regulation and the determination of retail giants to take the market.

If your approach to market research is casual or haphazard, you’ll probably get a matching result. Rob Hall explains how well-designed and targeted research is valuable but not necessarily expensive.