The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission today launched the latest in its series of Competing Fairly Forums, Franchising, Is it right for You?
An ACCC Commissioner, Mr John Martin, launched the eighth CFF presentation at the annual Franchising Council of Australia annual conference. The forums, which are presented in video and CD format, have an important role in providing information and education to small business in their dealings with the Trade Practices Act 1974.
"Franchising in Australia continues to enjoy strong growth and is attracting a large number of businesses as prospective franchisees to the sector", Mr Martin said. "Business relationships in franchising are regulated by a mandatory Code of Conduct administered by the ACCC.
"The code sets out a framework of fair trading to regulate the relationship between franchisors and franchisees.
"The latest forum examines topical issues in franchising that have been raised with the ACCC. It includes practical information for franchisees and franchisors in identifying the right franchise system for franchisees and preventing and resolving disputes by focussing on a problem-solving approach".
The latest forum is a panel discussion moderated by Ms Emma Alberici and involves ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel; Ms Pippa Colman, mediator, Office of the Mediation; Mr Richard Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Franchise Council of Australia; Mr Matthew Penfold, CEO, Kwik Kopy, franchisor; and Mr Scott Roworth, Baker's Delight, franchisee.
The forum is available throughout Australia by webstreaming on the ACCC website and can be presented to interested groups. It is also available for sale from the ACCC in video or CD format for $10 for a single copy. For more information please contact the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502.