Varntige: Our Journey to Franchising and Why We’re Expanding Across New Zealand
The idea of franchising Varntige was born out of a powerful conversation about two years ago. At the time, Chantelle Good (our founder) met with Troy, a franchise expert introduced to her by Tim Pearson. Troy shared insights about his experiences, and that conversation planted a seed. It sparked a thought: why aren’t Virtual Assistants franchising?
For a year, this idea sat on the back burner. But as Varntige continued to grow, it became increasingly clear that our model was perfect for franchising. With virtual assistance, there are endless possibilities to support businesses all over the country—and even the world. However, there’s also a limit to how much we can do as one team. Operating within a franchise model, rather than opening branches everywhere, would allow us to grow and support more clients without sacrificing quality, time, or resources. It’s a model that brings the best of both worlds: low risk and high potential when done well.
Making the Move to Franchising
In March 2024, Chantelle reconnected with Troy, this time seriously considering the franchise path for Varntige. After an in-depth conversation about the ins and outs of franchising, Troy messaged Chantelle, suggesting that if she ever wanted a partner in this venture, he’d be interested. This turned out to be a pivotal moment. Not long after, while on a solo holiday in Queenstown, Chantelle had time to reflect on the opportunity. The answer was clear: it was time to team up with Troy and officially turn Varntige into a franchise operation.
Though Chantelle had always run her business independently, she’d seen partnerships succeed when they were built on a foundation of trust, clear goals, and solid agreements. With a structured shareholders’ agreement and a strong shared vision, Chantelle and Troy were confident they could launch something truly special.
Taking Varntige Franchising Nationwide
After months of planning, we went to market in August 2024, with our first franchise sale happening in October. It was an exciting moment: a business owner who had been exploring the idea even before we officially launched came on board on October 7, becoming the first Varntige franchisee.
We’re now looking to expand across New Zealand, with plans to take the virtual assistance space by storm, being the first VA firm/agency to franchise VA services in Australasia. This model isn’t unlike other successful franchises in industries like lawn care or cleaning services; the difference is that, as VAs, we aren’t limited by physical boundaries. Our VAs can work for clients across the country, which gives us the flexibility to develop territories and offer ongoing support for franchisees wherever they’re based.
The Opportunity for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Franchising with Varntige is more than a business opportunity; it’s a way to empower aspiring virtual assistants who may have wondered how to get started. Building a business from scratch can be daunting, especially in a field that’s still relatively new for many people. But with a Varntige franchise, you get a clear roadmap, an established brand, and everything you need to hit the ground running.
Our franchise model is designed to support franchisees from day one, whether they’re new to virtual assistance, bookkeeping, or many other services. With Varntige, they’re never on their own. We’re here with guidance, resources, and a network they can lean on right from the moment they buy a franchise, all the way through to selling it or retiring. It’s a low-cost way to get into the industry with the backing of a strong, recognized brand that’s ready to go nationwide.
Why Franchise with Varntige?
With the launch of our franchise model, we’re building something unique in New Zealand. For those who want to enter the VA space but aren’t sure where to start, franchising with Varntige offers a direct path forward with plenty of support along the way. As our franchise network grows, so does our ability to help business owners all over New Zealand thrive with virtual assistants that meets their unique needs.
If you’re curious about what franchising with Varntige could look like for you, or if you’re exploring a career as a VA, bookkeeper, or social media specialist, reach out to us! Let’s chat about how this opportunity could be your start in a thriving industry with the guidance, tools, and community to succeed.
Interested? Get in touch, and let’s see how we can build the future of virtual assistance together.
027 621 4900 or franchise@varntige.co.nz
