Exciting new concepts were on show at the Brisbane Franchising and Business Opportunities expo at the weekend, with scooter chauffeurs, roof maintenance, and a frozen fruit drink dispenser among the first-timer businesses exhibiting.

The Queensland based Scoot2You was launching its personal chauffeurs on motorbikes franchise offer at the expo, showcasing on the stand the collapsible scooters which transport franchisees to and from their appointments. Franchisees become personal chauffeurs driving car owners home after a night out, after a lunch appointment, or to the airport.  Potential franchisees have the choice of purchasing a single bike operation for $38,000 or investing in a hub business with five bikes and the potential to grow neighbouring territories, for $180,000.

Reliance Roof Restoration was also new to the franchise sector, although the business has been trading for 11 years. Franchisor Justin Eldershaw told Franchising some of his sub-contractors are making $3,000 a week doing roof repairs and painting, and he is guaranteeing franchisees work worth $75,000 a year. "Now it's an industry, getting your roof done is part of maintenance or renovation," Eldershaw said. The franchise package costs $47,000 +GST and the initial growth area is south east Queensland.

Blizzard was sampling its frozen fruit drinks and hot chocolate from drinks dispensers. The 99.9 percent fruit drink with natural colours and flavouring is a Healthy Kids Registered product, allowing it to be sold in school canteens. The addition of hot chocolate is designed to boost business in the cooler months. Blizzard bears a Made in Australia logo, and has been operating for six years.

Also showcasing its franchise offer was Total Tools, the retail chain aimed at the professional tradesman. Network development manager Neville Bruns told Franchising the network of 31 stores had a goal of 70 outlets within six years. "Our set up model is very customer friendly and retail friendly. We have the best access, line of sight, gondola shelves and trolleys." Easy to find categories are well sign-posted he added. The brand is aspiring to be "tool heaven" Bruns said. Franchisees need $800,000 in net equity to invest in a $1.4 million Total Tools business, which is accredited with the Bank of Queensland.

Other brands at the expo included chicken chains Oporto and Chicken Treat, courier business Fastway Couriers, the recently launched The Burrito Bar offering a street-food inspired Mexican menu, EmbroidMe, Caltex with its convenience store Star Mart, The Cheesecake Shop, Jim's Test and Tag, and kids' oriented Grasshopper Soccer.

* Did you miss the show? Check the photos on our Facebook page to see who else was there!