Speakers

Alan Branch

Company: Donaldson Walsh Lawyers

Position: Partner

Alan Branch should be well known to some of you as a senior partner of Donaldson Walsh Lawyers, who were awarded the FCA Excellence in Franchising Awards 2009, and past Board member of the FCA from 2003 to 2009.  Alan is an enthusiastic supporter of franchising within Australia, despite having had more than 20 years experience in the field!  This enthusiasm has been maintained through the success of franchisors and franchisees.  Alan has maintained a strong business focus for the success of franchising, generally avoiding the need for litigation and relying instead on good strategic planning to bypass disputes.

Alan was admitted to practice in 1981 and joined Donaldson Walsh Lawyers as a Partner in July 2000.  He is the Partner in charge of Franchise Development.  He has wide experience establishing franchises in service, food manufacturing, internet, security, training and real estate industries.  He has practised extensively in business and accounting related areas, wine law, commercial leasing and e-commerce.

Alan has often relied on innovation to ensure that franchisors remain competitive.  Sourcing software development from low cost overseas countries, establishment of outsourcing arrangements, benchmarking with other industries, establishing international franchises and website innovation are key ingredients to this success.  In 2007 Alan commenced his links with India, travelling to New Delhi India to be a speaker at the India Franchise Conference and continues to growth these ties.

Alan is supported by many lawyers within his firm, which gives him time to enjoy time with his two children, and other family and sporting interests.