Dymocks has acquired an 80 percent equity stake in Healthy Habits, the sandwich bar business recently listed by BRW as the fifth fastest growing franchise by revenue.  

Multiple award-winning founder and owner, Katherine Sampson, retains 20 per cent of the company and will remain as managing director. Sampson said Dymocks’ retail and franchise experience will assist in accelerating the franchise’s aggressive expansion plans. “Our ability to tap their expertise as well as access their tried and tested processes and systems will mean greater support and improved efficiencies for stores.”  

Don Grover, Dymocks CEO said ““Healthy Habits stands out like an oasis of healthy eating choices in the company of most other food retailers. Katherine and her team have created a strong, modern brand which promotes healthy lifestyle habits and backs it up with truly fresh, wholesome ingredients.  

“We are very excited about acquiring a majority stake in the Healthy Habits business. 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. These are businesses where we are able to leverage our deep franchising and retail skills.”  

Healthy Habits is strong in Victoria and Queensland. Grover said there are plans to open a minimum of 10 outlets this year and to develop the New South Wales business.  

“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.”  

Dymocks has plans to expand beyond its existing 97 stores (76 in Australia, nine in New Zealand and 12 in Hong Kong).  

Healthy Habits was franchised in 2004 and there are now two company stores and 28 franchised outlets.