Foot Mechanics, the chain of podiatrics clinics founded by Tauranga-based John Miller, has adopted an innovative approach to building their business, which utilises the labour synergies between the UK and New Zealand, coupled with a unique take on franchising.
Mr Miller started the business in Tauranga 17 years ago and now has eight clinics in the North Island. His goal is to expand not only nationwide, but also in the United Kingdom - where a flagship clinic is due to open soon - and eventually in Europe.
The expansion model mixes a majority of wholly-owned branches with, to date, two franchised operations. But he's not seeking to build up a big franchise business. "We needed a career pathway for our senior podiatrists," he said.
"Normally, they would have had to leave us to do that, so we established a franchise model to enable them to have their own businesses, but remain with Foot Mechanics."
Podiatry - which treats leg ailments from the hip down - is a relatively small profession in New Zealand, with only about 300 registered practitioners, compared with about 4000 physiotherapists.