2023 Franchise Conference speakers named

The multiple challenges of economy, climate and pandemic recovery have affected businesses all over the country. Just as franchisees find strength in coming together, so the National Franchise Conference brings franchisors and franchise specialists under one roof to learn from each other, discuss issues and share ideas and solutions.

In 2023, the Conference will take place from 27-29 August and, for the first time ever, will be held in Christchurch. As always, the format includes keynote speakers, international insights, workshops, interactive discussion forums and networking opportunities. Last year’s conference was attended by over 200 people.

While speakers are still being confirmed (see latest updates here), some key highlights are expected to be:

Bruce Cotterill. Bruce is a ‘transformation leader’ with extensive experience across a range of industries including real estate, media, financial services, professional services, technology and retail. As a CEO, he led real estate group Colliers in both New Zealand and Australia, Kerry Packer’s ACP Magazines, and iconic New Zealand sportswear company Canterbury International. He became a specialist at ‘fixing broken businesses and business models,’ and is regarded as one of Australasia’s leading keynote speakers.

Peter Holt. Peter will be flying in from the USA, where he is President and CEO of The Joint Corp – a health industry franchise with 850 clinics. He has over 30 years operational experience with brands such as Tasti D-Lite, 24Seven Vending, Mail Boxes Etc. and the International Franchise Association. Peter also worked with a Boston-based private equity firm, where he was responsible for identifying, qualifying and assisting in the due diligence process of potential franchisor acquisitions. Peter’s vast experience will make him a speaker not to be missed.

Bryn Harrison. Bryn is CEO of The Interiors Group which includes Curtain Studio and Carpet Court – one of the most successful retail brands in New Zealand, having won Readers Digest Quality Service Awards for the last six years running, and being the reigning Home & Lifestyle Franchise System of the Year. Since its creation in the 1960s, Carpet Court has successfully navigated massive changes – hear how they constantly stay relevant and successful.

Abbas Nazari. Abbas epitomises triumph over adversity. An Afghan refugee who fled the Taliban, he was one of the asylum seekers rescued by the MV Tampa in 2001. Having arrived here as an eight-year-old with no English, Abbas went on to be third in the New Zealand Spelling Bee a few years later, play representative rugby, and graduate from the University of Canterbury with a Bachelor degree in Diplomacy and International Relations. The closing speaker, Abbas will share his journey, his experiences of thriving in a foreign country, and lessons learned along the way.

In addition to the speakers, there will also be panels and concurrent sessions on a variety of topics, including:

• Franchising trends & opportunities – leaders’ perspectives
• Expanding your franchise network
• Marketing & branding
• Motivation and drivers for franchisees
• The ever-popular Legal Power Hour

More keynote speakers and topics will be announced in the coming weeks – go to https://conference.franchiseassociation.org.nz/ for more details. Earlybird rates close 16 June.

Transformation leader Bruce Cotterill

USA franchise veteran Peter Holt

Award-winning NZ franchisor Bryn Harrison

Lessons learned from thriving in a foreign country: Abbas Nazari

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