New Hybrid Fuel Cell franchise launches

OctaFuel’s environmental fuel-saving Hybrid Fuel Cell retro-fits to 99.9% of all vehicles – provides up to 40% savings at the pump.

At a time when motorists are seriously tired of escalating petrol prices, OctaFuel’s timing couldn’t be better, suggests Michael Fresnel, General Manager, OctaFuel New Zealand.

“Research shows the $2 mark is the tipping point when 21% of consumers will change their behaviour – and here we are, through that barrier. That same research suggests the next barrier is just around the corner at $2.20 – when 51% of consumers will be ready for change. The OctaFuel alternative is the obvious choice.”

And it’s not just fuel savings that attract New Zealanders to the OctaFuel Hybrid Fuel Cell, Michael says.

“A recent survey suggests 82% of New Zealanders can’t name a company known for being ‘green’ – and that 11% of Kiwi consumers would install an OctaFuel Hybrid Fuel Cell solely according to environmental values. That’s certainly OctaFuel’s target audience.”

It goes without saying that bringing a product like the OctaFuel Hybrid Fuel Cell to market is all about the right marketing mix – and in regards to the marketing, says Michael: “You won’t be disappointed”.

“Let’s just say there is a very high-profile cross-media campaign planned for 2008 – and beyond – ready for potential franchisees to take a look at on application.”

Mike is looking to appoint nine franchisees across the country by 01 October 2008, to cover territories, each spanning approximately 230,000 people. He says this is a positive opportunity for quality franchise applicants, as there is a demand for OctaFuel right now – units are already selling well.

“We’re selling more units than Head Office can currently manage on its own – without any marketing at all. So we need quality franchisees on board as soon as possible to keep up with demand.”

Despite the demand, OctaFuel still has a solid and rigorous approach to bringing on new franchisees – it’s quality, not quantity, says Michael.

“Who would have thought, a year ago, that fuel prices would top $2.00? This has really brought the OctaFuel franchise opportunity into sharp focus, and the level of interest from potential franchisees is high. But it’s not enough to just have the initial capital required to establish an OctaFuel franchise – it’s about attracting the right candidate. And the right candidate would never get involved with OctaFuel without first investigating the OctaFuel opportunity thoroughly.”

To manage this, while also ensuring potential applicants complete a full due diligence (a very important requirement as far as OctaFuel is concerned), Mike brings seasoned franchisor Warren Mills on board to advise and mentor both OctaFuel and Franchisees going forward. Warren created the highly successful Small Business Accounting (SBA) franchise and is focused on developing highly profitable and sustainable franchisees. “I cannot recall seeing a system that is so determined to ensure franchisee success, like OctaFuel,” says Warren. “Franchisees receive a tremendous amount of support.”

An OctaFuel franchise requires a minimum investment of $175,000. Franchisees will install the fuel cells themselves – a 2-3 hour process – so they need to be practical people. But as their business grows they will employ staff.

Says Michael: “Rarely is there an opportunity of this calibre available in New Zealand. The business is ready to go, as is a national marketing strategy of up to $1m per annum. If you’re a business-minded person who can work inside a franchise system, and are ready to hit the ground running, make that call.”

Ends.

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