The WA committee of the Franchise Council of Australia is hosting a luncheon for women in the franchising industry, April 3 at the Burswood Entertainment Complex. The theme for this event will be ‘attracting women to your brand’. Trends indicate that women are favouring independent business ownership rather than pursuing franchise opportunities. Therefore there are several challenges in attracting women to franchising. Key issues to be discussed at this event by a panel of experts include why women are a key demographic as franchisees and as consumers, and strategies for attracting women as franchisees and as consumers. Linda Steele, general manager of Chooks Fresh & Tasty and 2006 franchise woman of the year, will facilitate the panel discussion, assisted by Deacons partner Tamra Seaton. The panel will consist of: Allana Edwards – franchise development manager, Baker’s Delight; Diane Doust – master franchisee, PoolWerx; Kate O’Hara – director, Intersect Communications; and Susan Mason – franchisee, Mortgage Choice. Registration for this event costs $69.50 for Franchise Council members and $99.50 for non members. For more information contact Liza Drake on 1300 669 030 or email liza.drake@franchise.org.au.