Lenard’s has set its sights on adding 30 new stores to its existing 191 before the end of the year, with founder and director Lenard Poulter taking a more hands-on role in the company’s franchise recruitment.

Poulter commented “To my knowledge, there aren’t many large franchise businesses in Australia where the founder and director plays a hands-on role in selecting and introducing new franchise owners into the fold.  

“It has always been of upmost importance that we recruit the right franchise owners to continue to build successful stores and a strong national franchising model."

Sales are up for the majority of Lenard's franchisees this financial year, said Poulter. The business has done well because of its established offer, a growing staple market, value-added chicken products and the latest ready-to-eat options.