Where the stars come out to shine

Whichever way you look at it, the Rodney Wayne franchise brand is a star performer. 

It’s where exceptional franchisees, backed by outstanding support, can continue to experience true success in their business careers. The evidence lies in the track record of this franchise, which has built and maintained an enviable market position for years and, in doing so, enhanced and enriched so many lives. 

Not surprisingly, Rodney Wayne franchisees and stylists have featured prominently in national awards over the decades. One of the most recent recipients is Rodney Wayne Creative and Education Director Newton Cook, who was recently crowned the 2024 Viva Magazine’s Beauty Awards Hairstylist of the Year. 

Newton is a key member of Rodney Wayne’s industry-leading support team, which delivers outstanding training and innovation to all of Rodney Wayne’s franchisees and stylists. He is a multi-award winner and L’Oreál colour partner who is passionate about nurturing the next generation of talented hairstylists. He regularly shares latest advancements in the hair world on social media platforms and during his regular in-salon training sessions for Rodney Wayne stylists.

Exceptional franchisees: No previous experience necessary

This year has been another stellar year for Rodney Wayne franchisees. Again, this is reflected in two of those owners being named finalists in the Retail & Hospitality Franchisee of the Year category at the prestigious 2024 Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards. They are Kathryn Darroch, the owner of Rodney Wayne Whangārei, and Gaye McLaren from Rodney Wayne Sylvia Park, who has had an amazing journey from hairdresser to business owner (featured on page 35 of the summer 2023/4 edition of Franchise New Zealand magazine). Gaye’s salon, which she owns with its associated Shampoo ‘n’ Things store, was named the Rodney Wayne Salon of the Year for 2023.

Hard work delivers real benefits

Kathryn Darroch has a military and corporate background and was recently honoured by the Rodney Wayne franchise with a Ten-Year Service pin. She purchased her Whangārei-based Rodney Wayne franchise back in December 2013, wanting to work hard and reap the rewards within a proven, popular system-driven franchise business.

Kathryn believes having solid commercial acumen and an understanding of a creative business is important for anyone who may be considering a Rodney Wayne franchise. Both the training and the marketing are major strengths of the business, she stresses, which make for total consistency and trust. “That, for me as a salon owner, is absolute gold,” she says.

Trust, she believes, is also a big factor when running a business. As such, she is proud of her hands-on management style and open-door policy with staff. “As a team, we all trust each other and rely on each other to do our best every day. 

“In a small town like Whangārei, it’s important to walk the talk, too, so local sponsorship helps to keep putting the Rodney Wayne name out there. It’s about building that authentic trust in the region’s communities.”

Another strength is the way in which success is celebrated across the whole company, says Kathryn. “If somebody achieves something, then we celebrate as a family.” 
Ongoing training opportunities are another aspect of the business she prioritises for her team, achieving this by partnering with Whangārei tertiary education provider NorthTec, among other industry specialists.

Exceptional support: Outstanding in the field

A support office backs up every Rodney Wayne franchisee, with staff dedicated to the ongoing success of every salon. It comes as no surprise that Rodney Wayne also produced a finalist for Field Manager of the Year in the recent Westpac Franchise Awards, in Tracy Kettless.

Tracy says entering the awards this year pushed her out of her comfort zone, especially when articulating on paper why she believed she should win. She says being a field manager has always been about supporting the franchisees and their managers to excel.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to watch individuals grow, develop confidence and truly shine as they reach their full potential,” she says. Tracy was a business owner prior to joining Rodney Wayne in her support role, so fully understands how challenging it can be to manage a business on your own. This puts her in tune with what franchisees are facing day-to-day.

“Joining our franchise means you have a knowledgeable and dedicated support team behind you offering guidance, resources and that competitive edge in the marketplace,” she emphasises. “Beyond that, you benefit from a community of long-standing franchisees who are happy to share their invaluable experience, making sure you never feel alone along the journey.”

An exciting future ahead

Tracy’s excited about the business opportunities that 2025 looks to be shaping up to bring. She is also looking forward to welcoming new franchisees into the Rodney Wayne family. 

“There’s so much potential ahead and I’m inspired to be part of this journey working alongside our franchisees. It’s also an incredible honour to be a finalist in the awards this year and I’m grateful for the chance to represent our support team here at Rodney Wayne.”  

See this advertorial on page 15 of Franchise New Zealand magazine Year 33 Issue 04 

Contact details for Rodney Wayne

For more information and advice on buying a franchise get your FREE copy of Franchise New Zealand magazine. 

Industry: Fitness, Health & Beauty

Contact: Julie Evans

0-9-358 4644

FANZ member: yes

investment from:
$100,000

Number:: in NZ 51+ globally 51+

View this listing

• Phone
  0-9-358 4644
• Email
  franchising@rodneywayne.co.nz
• Web
  http://www.rodneywayne.co.nz

Funding info

Pre-purchase Report

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