Franchising in South Africa is one of the most dynamic and progressive business sectors in the economy. This is backed up by research from the Franchise Advice and Information Network (FRAIN) 2004 Franchise Census survey, which states that franchised outlets constitute a staggering 94.83% of the annual turnover in comparison to company owned outlets and joint ventures.

This is possibly due to the fact that franchises offer investors a proven concept and tested business model. Experts recommend that prospective franchisees select more established systems with a known name and reputation - it's always good to invest with companies that are tried and true, have a proven track record, a good balance sheet and proven profitability.

With this in mind, King Consolidated Holdings Limited (KingCo) was established in 1992. The main intention was to build financial capital and purchase additional brands. Today, King Consolidated Holdings Limited is a South African company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

This group operates a franchise management operation namely King Consolidated Food Services as well as a food wholesale and distribution business operating under the name Lusitania Food Products. Both subsidiary companies were developed and established in South Africa in 1996 and are part of King Consolidated Holdings Limited.

The group's principal activities are the establishment, development and operation of over 87 franchised restaurants, pubs and fast-food outlets operating under the trade names of Saddles, Bimbo's, KEG and McGinty's. The group is also involved in the processing, storing, wholesaling and distribution of value-added food products to the restaurant, hotel and catering industry.

The well qualified management team that drives the group's brands are strong and uncompromising when it comes to maintaining high standards and quality. To ensure that the high quality and good value that the customers have become accustomed to remains intact, there is a stringent franchisee selection standard and recruitment process, which remains crucial factor in the success of the brand's image.


Tried, tested and proven systems are firmly in place to help those who are making their first foray into the business world as managers of their own business enterprise. Systems including stock control and presentation among others have been streamlined and perfected since 1990 and are constantly evolving.

Franchise companies, such as KingCo, are able to provide small businesses (franchisee) with the tools of big businesses allowing them to gain access to established business systems at lower risk. This valuable backing and assistance is on hand to all franchisees around the country from a highly professional team who will assist them in maximising their operating profits and ultimately the return on their investment.

The successes of the brands are ensured through the provision of ongoing training, support and the hands-on commitment from the franchisor. This continuous business relationship includes the product, service and trademark, as well as the entire business concept itself. From the marketing strategy and plan, operational standards, systems and formats, to extensive training, quality control and advice on site selection, the franchisor provides continuous and ongoing assistance, guidance and supervision. This ongoing development and comprehensive support makes KingCo a world-class franchisor.

Using the 'Guide to Extraordinary Achievement Programme' as a benchmark, each franchisee is provided with a stringent set of performance standards against which they were evaluated. These criteria include aspects such as quality, service, customer care and cleanliness. The end results include the presentation of awards where the winning franchise is recognised for their outstanding commitment and passion for the brand.

KingCo upholds the firm belief that communications and transparency is the basis of ethical franchising and the proof is in the continued growth of all its brands and outlets. KingCo highly values the opinions, feedback and ideas from all its franchisees, managers and staff, and so maximum allowance is made for facilitating communication flows to and from franchisees. As with all businesses, customer feedback is crucial, which is why the management team constantly survey the customer feedback questionnaires posted on the websites and regulate all calls received from its customer care line.

As franchising has transformed from a specialised marketing technique into a highly competitive, innovative vehicle for expansion of retail product and service industries, it is fast becoming the chosen format for many South African entrepreneurs to expand and develop their business.