Former Nando’s New Zealand executive, Garth Parker is joining pool service franchise, Poolwerx, as the first master franchise partner, at a time when the brand announces plans to grow to 40 stores in the next 10 years.
Over the last 12 months, New Zealand sales have increased by 50% year-on-year with two new store openings on the North Island slated for the coming months.
Parker will oversee local market growth, responsible for franchise development, growing the capacity of current franchise partners, identifying potential acquisitions, growing commercial presence on both islands and managing brand compliance.
He is also set to open his first retail store on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula on the North Island later this year.
Parker brings a strong franchising background, having spent the last five years as general manager and director of Nando’s New Zealand – a brand he took from out of the red and into the black by doubling sales in five years. Prior to this, he held a range of managerial positions with fast food brands Red Rooster and Oporto, and health products retail chains Healthzone and Healthy Life in Sydney.
Poolwerx global CEO John O’Brien said this first master franchise agreement marked a significant step in the brand’s expansion plan.
“It was important for us to have a Kiwi owning our New Zealand master franchise. It’s a significant commitment to the growth and success of our brand in New Zealand, coming off the back of phenomenal growth in the last 12 months,” he said.
“Garth’s experience as a multi-site franchise partner and manager and director roles across a range of franchising brands has seen him build considerable knowledge across all areas of franchising and business functions. We’re excited to welcome Garth on board and can’t wait to support him to grow the region in the years to come.”