the annual Smith & Sons gala awards, the Gold Coast Central branch has earned numerous accolades, including ten recent awards at the 2024 event, including Renovation of the Year for the Australian Metro and the top award for International Franchisee of the Year. “Winning the international award is particularly satisfying,” Neil says. “You first have to win your state, then compete against top franchises from New Zealand and elsewhere. It’s a great feeling to see that our work is recognized on such a scale.” Looking ahead, Smith & Sons Gold Coast is planning for steady, sustainable growth. Neil is grooming his son to take on more responsibilities, preparing him for future leadership. “In five years, I’d like to be able to take the caravan around Australia and know the business is still running smoothly,” he explains. Expansion will be measured, focusing on staff development, project diversity, and succession planning. Options include mentoring his son into leadership or potentially selling part of the franchise to trusted staff. “It’s about legacy,” he says. “Setting up the business so it thrives beyond my direct involvement is a key priority.” Neil’s approach is clear: follow the franchise system, build strong relationships, and maintain a commitment to quality. “When I took on this franchise, I gave up a secure job and salary, but I told my wife I would either succeed by doing it my way or learn from it. I’ve followed the system, put in the hard work, and it has paid off,” he says. “Only about half of new franchisees stick with it, usually because they aren’t prepared to put in the effort required.” For clients, the combination of brand recognition, OCTOBER 2025
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