Apparently Woolworths franchisees would 'like a word' with Woolworths chief executive Simon Susman after his company embarked upon what the unhappy franchisees regard as a hostile bid to buy them out. Woolies is citing the complications franchising brings to their business, and the fact that it is, apparently, not their 'core business'. The buy-back does not include Engen or international franchisees. From the UK we have an opinion piece from Robin Lauffer, of The Bank, and she asks whether brands should proclaim their history proudly or keep quiet about them. So, do you strut your (historical - you know, how the brand started in a garage or something) stuff, or stick to today? On the food front, South African food manufacturers are right up there with the best - having won four out of nine Global Food Awards at the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) World Food Congress. Congratulations to all the winners - now for even more awards, next time.

Rod Baker, Retail editor
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