Empowering under-represented groups in franchising is key to Kwik Kopy success

INSIGHT  By Sonia Shwabsky >>

IN A COUNTRY as proudly multicultural as Australia, the diversity of lived experience across our workforce is one of our greatest national assets.

At Kwik Kopy, I’ve seen first-hand how individuals from all walks of life – different cultures, career backgrounds, genders and life stages – can thrive as franchise owners when given the right support and opportunity.

While debates on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) continue to swirl globally – fuelled by recent policy shifts in the US – in Australia, the numbers speak for themselves.

Over 40% of franchisees are born overseas, and close to 30% of franchise businesses are owned by women.

These aren’t just statistics; they’re proof that underrepresented groups are already driving success in franchising, and the smart money is on amplifying that momentum. 

The business case for inclusion

We don’t view DEI as a tick-box exercise– it’s an enabler of growth. Research from the Australian HR Institute shows a troubling gap between intent and action in corporate DEI strategies.

Just 50% of HR professionals believe their leaders treat DEI as a priority, despite clear evidence that diversity drives business performance.

At Kwik Kopy, our “can do” culture empowers people to take the leap into business ownership, regardless of background or prior experience. We back ambition with structured support, and the results speak volumes: higher retention, broader innovation, stronger team culture and a more representative business landscape.

As a woman who has built her career in male-dominated industries, I understand the barriers – and the importance of breaking them down. My journey wasn’t linear, but with resilience, mentorship, and opportunity, I found my path to leadership.

Now, I’m committed to helping others do the same.

Making franchising accessible – for everyone

One of the biggest myths about franchising is that you need prior industry experience to succeed. At Kwik Kopy, we bust that myth every day.

Our onboarding program includes up to four weeks of comprehensive training across operations, marketing, technology and sales – delivered in-person, online, and on-site. We continue that support through regional meet-ups, national conventions, peer connection and continuous learning via our Kwik Kopy Academy.

Just as important as the technical training is the human support. Our team works alongside every franchisee, not only to help them launch and grow their business, but to foster collaboration through feedback loops, peer learning and national campaigns.

Whether it’s HR support, marketing strategies, or tools like CRM and e-commerce systems, we equip our franchisees with everything they need to succeed – no matter where they start.

Celebrating migrant success stories

One standout example is Kervin Merchant, who joined Kwik Kopy Blacktown in 2018 after moving from New Jersey with roots in India. Seeking a new career that aligned with his lifestyle and values, Kervin embraced the opportunity and now leads a million-dollar business.

His story is far from unique – many migrants bring adaptability, ambition and grit that make them natural entrepreneurs. But the key to their success lies in access to the right systems and mentorship.

Research from the Centre for Policy Development confirms this: refugees are the most entrepreneurial of all migrant groups in Australia. Yet, too often, they’re overlooked in mainstream business channels.

As leaders, we have a responsibility to change that – not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s smart business.

Building the future of franchising

Creating a truly inclusive franchising environment means more than just opening the door – it means walking alongside new owners, providing tailored training, clear pathways to leadership, and fostering a community where people feel they belong.

At Kwik Kopy, that means structured support for work-life balance, flexible ownership models, leadership development opportunities, and tools to build confidence in marketing, sales, and customer experience. We’re not just growing businesses; we’re growing people.

Australia’s diversity is a competitive advantage we’re only beginning to unlock. With more than 7 million people born overseas, there’s an untapped well of talent, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit ready to contribute to our economy.

It’s up to us – as business owners, mentors, and leaders – to recognise that potential, offer the platform, and back it with the training and belief people need to succeed.

Franchising, at its core, is about empowering individuals to own their future. And when we bring everyone to the table – women, migrants, career changers and those who’ve been historically overlooked – we don’t just build better businesses. We build a better, more inclusive economy.

Driving change through leadership and representation

True inclusion is also about visibility. When aspiring business owners see people who look like them and share similar backgrounds or life experiences succeed in leadership roles, it sends a powerful message: “You belong here.”

That’s why representation matters at every level of franchising, from frontline operations to boardrooms and strategic leadership. At Kwik Kopy, we actively work to elevate diverse voices through mentoring programs, leadership pipelines, and inclusive recruitment strategies that challenge the status quo.

We also know that financial barriers can often stand in the way of underrepresented groups entering the franchising space. That’s why we explore flexible entry options, funding partnerships, and support structures to help people overcome the initial hurdles of business ownership.

Affordability should never be the gatekeeper to talent and drive.

Inclusion isn’t a final destination – it’s an ongoing commitment. It means listening with empathy, staying open to feedback, and continually evolving our systems to meet the needs of our franchisees.

As the business landscape shifts, so too must our approach. The future of franchising will be shaped by those willing to challenge conventions, embrace diversity in all its forms, and create business ecosystems where everyone has a fair shot at success.

When we empower more people to participate fully in the business world, we don’t just strengthen our own networks – we help build a more resilient, innovative, and future-ready economy for Australia.

And that’s a win for all of us.

About the author

Sonia Shwabsky is the CEO of Kwik Kopy Australia. Ms Shwabsky won the role based upon her leadership experience across a range of industries, including 10 years transforming the iconic Australian King Gee workwear and uniform business. She joined Kwik Kopy from the role of chief growth officer at rival franchise operation Snap Print and Design. Ms Shwabsky has also founded two businesses and been a franchisee, bringing hands-on experience and understanding of how to create and build successful small businesses for Kwik Kopy’s franchisees. Ms Shwabsky has also recognised for her ability to incorporate innovative management techniques and people skills to create enhanced business practices, increased productivity and profits. www.kwikkopy.com.au

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