Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at 1:16AM 
Ice cream franchise Ben & Jerry's has launched a Random Acts of Kindness campaign, which is seeing its mascot cow 'Woody' giving out free ice cream, hugs and shoe shines.
According to Mumbrella, the campaign will run in Sydney and Melbourne until the weekend and is also asking the public to nominate a friend's act of kindness, for their chance to win a year's supply of Ben & Jerry's ice cream.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 12:28AM From Smart Company: For many of Australia’s 69,000 franchisee operators, franchising is all about a delicate balance of power.
For most of the last decade, as the sector enjoyed explosive growth, the franchisors held the power – and were prepared to use it.
But in the last 12 months, the franchisees have tried to take the power back.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at 4:29AM 
From Smart Company: Conflict can occur in any relationship, and franchising is no different.
Franchisees seek to grow profitable businesses in their relationship with the franchisor, and franchisors seek to maximise their market coverage in their relationship with franchisees.
Both parties are drawn to the relationship for different reasons.
Monday, November 21, 2011 at 9:45PM 
From Franchise.net.au: Sergio's Cake Shops has signed up its first two franchisees with plans to open Sydney outlets early in 2012 in Marrickville and the Western suburbs.
Franchisee Phil Philippou has the Marrickville store lease finalised, the shop drawings completed and is due to start on fitout shortly for a February unveiling.
Co-owner and franchisor of Sergio's, Peter Christou, said
"Phil is enthusiastic and passionate about our brand and someone who we believe is going to be a great franchisee.
"We are delighted that he has come on board in these early days of franchising."
The second franchise outlet will be opened by Penny and George Stefanou who are searching for an appropriate site.
Penny Stefanou said
"I can't wait to get started, we are so excited about our decision to buy a Sergio's Cake Shop franchise and are so looking forward to having our own store up running."
Friday, November 4, 2011 at 4:40AM From Smart Company: Franchisees have tentatively welcomed the passage of the small business commissioner's bill in South Australia, saying it will help small businesses stand up to unscrupulous franchisors.
However, the backlash from franchisors themselves has continued, with the Franchise Council of Australia telling its members that the bill goes "way beyond" the reach of powers given to small business commissioners in other states.