WHEN looking for the ideal franchise, Tania Western and Rachel Arthur turned to the one thing close to most people’s hearts – chocolate.
Lovers of the smooth and creamy cacao treat, the long-time friends and their husbands purchased retail and online business Lollypotz, specialising in chocolate gift bouquets.
Opening on the corner of Lake and Bulwer streets, Northbridge, in 2010, the outlet recently moved to Beaufort Street, Mt Lawley.
“At the time when we were looking at businesses, WA was going through a recession and we read an article in the paper saying chocolate was the one thing that had increased in sales,” Ms Western said.
“In hard times, people feel depressed and so they eat sweets. We jumped on that idea, and the fact that chocolate would probably be popular all year-round.
“We also thought it would be great for WA. Rachel saw the business in Canberra – where the head office is – and at that time they were looking for someone to open a franchise in Perth.”
Both women assemble the bouquets and treats at the store every day.
“We enjoy this job because it’s just great to put smiles on people’s faces,” Ms Western said. “When clients come in, they’re like kids in a lolly shop.
“I must admit, we find it very hard not to have the odd chocolate in the afternoon; however, we actually thought we would eat more than what we do.”
Chocolates range from Ferrero Rocher and Baci to Cherry Ripe and Mars Bar.
A specialty Mother’s Day range is now available, as well as men’s lines, replacing chocolates with liquor.
“It’s a bit more effort than just giving a box of goodies and they’re a good alternative to flowers because you can eat them,” Ms Western said.
“They have that wow factor and people are always looking for different gift ideas.”
More than 35 Lollypotz franchises operate in Australia and New Zealand. A second WA store is in Kardinya.