Franchise brands around the world are going through a major period of change, and global perspectives are becoming more important than ever for Australian franchisors.

In Episode 150 - Glenn sits down with Marcel Lal, Global COO of InXpress, to explore what franchise brands in Australia can learn from what’s happening in overseas markets, including the US, Europe, and Asia. 

Drawing on his experience working across multiple regions, Marcel shares how leading franchise networks are modernising their operations, upgrading their support structures, and using technology more intelligently including AI to improve performance and scalability.

The conversation covers business modernisation, support office efficiency, people, processes, and platforms, as well as how franchise recruitment, investor behaviour, and the rise of multi-unit, multi-brand operators are shaping the future of franchising.

0:00 - Introduction

0:47 - Why global insights matter for Australian franchise brands 

2:27 -  Why AI creates urgency and the risk of being left behind 

4:04 - How global brands are upgrading support structures

5:15 - How franchise expansion differs globally

8:08 - Who Is Buying Franchises Today? Age, Investor Profiles & Market Differences 

10:37 – Why franchisors must not outgrow their support systems

11:57 – Using compliance to build a stronger franchise system 

13:09  - Key takeaways for Australian franchise brands

15:31 - Final wrap-up & closing thoughts

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