HOW FRANCHISING CAN ADDRESS THE GENDER GAP BY EMPOWERING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS TO SUCCEED

The lack of female representation in the franchise industry mirrors a broader trend, unfortunately seen across many sectors in Australia. In 2021, the Franchise Council of Australia reported that only 29% of franchise businesses were owned by women. The gender gap in the print industry is even more pronounced, with women making up a significantly smaller percentage of leadership and ownership roles.

So, why exactly are women underrepresented in the print and franchise industries, and what can we do to encourage change?

It would be irresponsible to deny that the empowerment of women in the workforce has significantly increased over the past five years, especially among small-business owners. Female-owned businesses are celebrated in mainstream media, and stories of women breaking through the glass ceiling are frequently featured on magazine covers. We are now more empowered to take the leap society once directed us not to.

However, it's important to acknowledge that founding and maintaining a small business is no easy feat. Entrepreneurs must navigate a range of challenges without the safety net of an established model. In fact, it's validating to admit that becoming a small-business owner is tough.

From the outset, small-business owners invest considerable time and resources into developing their business ideas, building operational systems, and establishing a brand from scratch. This process demands extensive market research, relentless marketing efforts, and constant juggling of financial and operational responsibilities.

The need for a proven framework amplifies the risk of failure, as many small businesses struggle with cash flow, market competition, and unforeseen obstacles. With the benefit of an established business model or a loyal customer base, small-business owners can experience a challenging journey where success is far from guaranteed.

But here’s the secret: franchise ownership provides much more support.

Franchisees step into a proven business model, significantly reducing the risk of failure that independent small business owners often face. With established brand recognition, pre-existing customer loyalty, and a tested operational framework, the groundwork for success is already laid. This structure allows women entrepreneurs to focus on growth and management rather than the complexities of starting from scratch.

Many franchises offer flexible work schedules and ongoing support, making them particularly appealing to women balancing business ownership with personal or family commitments. By joining a franchise, women gain access to training, mentorship, and a network of fellow franchisees, empowering them to thrive in an environment that minimises risk and maximises opportunity.

As I’ve navigated the intricacies of the franchise industry, specifically in print, I’ve learned so much about the challenges of balancing creativity with business demands, the importance of efficient operations, and the critical need for adaptability in a rapidly evolving market.

I’ve also gained valuable insights into the complexities of maintaining customer relationships and the significance of staying ahead of technological advancements. Additionally, I’ve seen firsthand the barriers women face in this space, from underrepresentation to limited access to leadership opportunities.

Despite these challenges, I’ve realised that success is achievable with the right support system, like the framework offered by franchising. With access to resources, mentorship, and a network of experienced professionals, this journey has shown me the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and embracing innovation to thrive in both the print and franchise sectors.

By Sonia Shwabsky, CEO, Kwik Kopy Australia