As franchisee owners with Provender in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, we have experienced firsthand the transformative power of a community-driven business. Since joining the Provender network in 2012, our journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to our community.
Managing a fleet of vending machines and three thriving Micro Markets, we have witnessed the importance of collaboration within our franchise network. Our experience has shown us that connecting with fellow franchisees can provide invaluable insights and support, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. By actively engaging with others and sharing strategies, we have not only navigated difficulties but also enhanced our operations.
The introduction of Micro Markets into our business model has been a game-changer, allowing us to diversify our portfolio of offerings and enhance customer convenience by providing a wider variety of fresh, healthy options available 24/7 – ultimately driving sales and improving overall customer satisfaction. We were among the first franchisees to embrace this innovation, learning and evolving along the way.
Adding a personal touch to our Micro Markets has allowed us to infuse warmth and creativity into our offerings. Hosting events and sampling opportunities, which we have been implementing into our strategy since starting out with our vending machines, helps create an atmosphere where people feel welcomed and valued. This approach not only enhances our sales but also builds a sense of community around our brand, making each visit to our Micro Markets an enjoyable experience. Fostering a culture that encourages people to come together and share the little moments of their day is essential.
Our journey continually reminds us why we got into franchising – it’s not solely about profit; it’s about bringing people together. This philosophy extends beyond our vending business to our ready-made meal company, Spoonful Kitchen, where we focus on sharing the joy of food.What began as an initiative to provide convenient, healthy home-cooked meals has evolved into a successful supplier for Provender Micro Markets across numerous franchises.
In our view, successful franchise ownership thrives on flexibility, a strong support network, and a shared commitment to community. We are proud to be part of the Provender family, where every connection strengthens our mission to make a positive impact in our community and beyond.
Jeffrey Deng & Ivon Tio are franchisee owners at Provender.