New Zealand Franchise Overview
On a per capita basis, New Zealand is the most franchised country in the world. Although 71% of the franchise models in New Zealand are born locally many master holders have exported their successful model, and sometimes invested in local corporate offices in Australia, the UK, and the USA. Within New Zealand franchisees represent almost 600 brands and the industry contributes $26.7 billion to the country’s economy, about 12% of GDP.
U.S. brands established in New Zealand account for about 12% of the industry and largely tend to be in the food and beverage sector, but also a few service sectors such as property management and health and fitness. U.S. brands account for a significantly larger proportion of the revenue credited to the sector simply due to their size and brand awareness. Familiar names include Starbucks, McDonalds, and Pizza Hut to name a few, while Dominos, which has grown strongly in recent years, now has 150 stores in the country with more planned.
Market entry is considered easier than for most westernized countries with no specific franchise laws laid down by Government. Relevant laws are focused on fair trading, local commerce, and employment.
The industry is very well represented by The Franchise Association of New Zealand (FANZ), in place to protect franchise holders and lobby policy where it is deemed necessary and ensure a FANZ code of conduct is adhered to, but membership is optional. Other related support sectors include a selection of highly regarded law firms representing the industry both in New Zealand and in the United States and a well-established finance support structure through local banks that include cash-flow funding for overseas established and proven models.
The work ethic of New Zealanders blends well for franchise opportunities with many locals seeing the opportunity to work for themselves supported by positive and well proven models. New Zealand welcomes models from the United States in all sectors with service industry sectors considered in short supply.
For more information please contact the U.S. Commercial Service in Auckland, New Zealand: Office.NewZealand@trade.gov or reach out to your local U.S. Commercial Service office.