Dymocks Group of Companies has acquired an 80 per cent equity stake in the Healthy Habits sandwich bar franchise, with founder and owner, Katherine Sampson, retaining 20 per cent of the company and remaining as managing director.
Dymocks CEO Don Grover points out that the acquisition comes at a time when Dymocks is actively looking to diversify and acquire businesses in other retail growth sectors.
“Dymocks has witnessed numerous economic downturns over its 130 years and contrary to the doom and gloom in the market, we see some great investment opportunities. It is our intention to pursue these.”
“Besides our organic growth through our bookselling business in existing markets as well as examining opportunities in new international markets, we have actively been looking to grow assets through acquiring other growth businesses.
“In Healthy Habits we have found such a partner. Melbourne entrepreneur Katherine
Sampson started it in 1992 and has grown the business to 30 outlets since then, 26 of them since 2004.
“It was recently ranked the eighth fastest growing franchise in Australia by BRW magazine.”
Healthy Habits has a strong Victorian and Queensland presence. Grover said there were plans for a minimum of 10 new store openings this year and the company is particularly keen to expand the business in New South Wales.
“Whether you are eight or 80, there is an increasing demand for healthy eating alternatives and I don’t believe anyone has done it as well as Healthy Habits. Katherine and her team have created a strong, modern brand which promotes healthy lifestyle habits and backs it up with truly fresh, wholesome ingredients,” said Grover.
Sampson said Dymocks has a wealth of retail and franchise experience which will assist in accelerating Healthy Habits’ aggressive expansion plans.
“Our ability to tap their expertise as well as access their tried and trusted processes and systems will mean greater support and improved efficiencies for stores. This support will also give us access to improved processes and systems as well as an expanded pool of prospective franchise partners.”
The Healthy Habits deal is effective immediately.