The future of franchise - thriving through technology

With one outlet per 186 people, New Zealand holds the record for the most franchised country in the world and there's no sign of things slowing. In fact, franchises are expected to grow an extra 5.4% on last year.

Technology can help franchisees gain a competitive advantage by focusing on growing their business - not running it.

Smartening up solutions

Solid support systems and sector-relevant technology creates seamless interactions for busy franchisees. Real-time smartphone payment and verification facilities allow immediate payments, while cloud based systems give on-the-go access to clients, jobs and cloud-based accounting software. It all adds up to improved workflow, better customer service and enhanced mobility.

As New Zealand's largest home and commercial services business, Green Acres is leading the way in transforming the way their people work.

"Using a cloud-based job management app, Green Acres streamlines 15 communications channels down to three and migrates bookings and payments online for customer convenience. It's given franchisees real-time mobile access to clients, jobs, training modules, maps and much more," says Vodafone New Zealand Head of Small Business Lee Maddox.

And from wireless ordering, to guest WiFi and phone systems that route customers to their nearest provider technology is streamlining the customer experience too.

Fast forward for franchisees

Whether it's providing sophisticated internal communications, online stock information or simply texting between staff members, there's no doubt that technology helps build a reputable and reliable franchise offering. The first step is to understand which technologies work best for your franchise model and implement them effectively. The more intelligently franchise owners can use this technology, the more the business will be ready for tomorrow.

To find out how Vodafone can help you become a Ready Business, visit vodafone.co.nz/readybusiness