8:00am

Registrations Open

8:45am – 9:00am

Opening Remarks

9:00am – 10:00am

Unveiling Opportunities: Economic and Franchising Data Insights for Strategic Growth

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, staying informed about economic trends and franchising data is essential for making informed strategic decisions and capitalising on emerging opportunities. Join us for an illuminating session that combines economic analysis with franchising insights to equip participants with actionable intelligence for driving growth and success.

Led by  Adelaide Timbrell, ANZ Bank senior economist and Darryn McAuliffe, this session provides a deep dive into the latest economic data and trends impacting the franchising sector. Participants will gain valuable insights into key economic indicators, market dynamics, and industry benchmarks that can inform their strategic planning and decision-making processes..

10:00am – 10:45am

How Leading Brands View the Economy, Market Dynamics, and Strategic Risk

Senior franchise leaders will examine the current economic environment, emerging market conditions, and the strategic risks and opportunities shaping the sector.

Grounded in operational and commercial experience, the discussion will explore shifts in consumer behaviour, responses to inflation and cost pressures, and the broader economic factors influencing business investment and network performance. The session will also address how established brands are adjusting their models and decision-making frameworks in response to ongoing market change

12:00pm – 1:00pm

How ROI and AI could combine to change the face of Australian franchising

Franchising law and policy expert Stephen Giles and Technology Futurist and AI expert Nick Abrahams will discuss the strategic use of AI to create significant competitive advantage.  Joining the chat will be FCA CEO Jay Westbury, who will discuss how ROI and AI could combine to change the face of Australian franchising – dramatically altering the regulatory framework, changing how prospective franchisees make investment decisions, revolutionising regulatory intervention and potentially altering the outcomes of franchising disputes!

2:00pm – 2:45pm

Strengthening Brand, Culture, and Franchisee Alignment for Growth:

As franchise networks scale, maintaining alignment between brand, culture, and franchisees becomes increasingly complex. This session examines how brand positioning, internal culture, marketing, and reputation management intersect to support sustainable growth.

Speakers will discuss approaches to leading network-wide change, managing transition periods, and maintaining brand integrity under pressure. The discussion will also explore strategies to reinforce cultural alignment and support franchisees as they navigate competitive and evolving market conditions.

2:45pm – 3:25pm

Quiet Conversations

Step into Quiet Conversations offers franchise executives the opportunity to engage in focused, small-group discussions on the strategic and operational challenges shaping the future of franchising. Each delegate will join one of 12 table discussions, each led by an experienced industry facilitator.

Highlighted topics include: Unlocking Enterprise Value through Private Equity, AI – Servant Turned Tyrant?, Crisis Management, Implementing Change Programs, Geopolitical Risks, Improving Access to Finance, Driving Franchising Policy Reform, and Succession Planning.

Designed for candid, peer-to-peer dialogue in an informal environment, this session encourages leaders to exchange ideas, share experiences, and walk away with fresh insights to strengthen their brands and leadership impact.

3:40pm – 4:25pm

Achieving and Maintaining Prominence in Constantly Evolving Markets

Keynote by Diana Grosman, Senior Director of Franchising, McDonald’s Australia

In a world where brands are challenged to stay relevant, responsive, and trusted, sustaining long-term prominence requires more than a great product — it demands a culture of adaptability, innovation, and operational excellence.

In this keynote, Diana Grosman will share how McDonald’s continues to evolve alongside changing consumer expectations, harness technology to enhance experiences, and unlock efficiency across diverse markets. She will explore how leading brands balance innovation with consistency, empower people at every level, and build resilience through times of disruption and transformation.

Offering practical lessons and strategic insight from one of the world’s most recognised franchise networks, this keynote is a must-attend highlight for leaders focused on maintaining brand strength, driving performance, and achieving sustainable growth in a constantly shifting market.

4:25pm – 4:30pm

Closing Remarks