Over 1,000 franchisees and staff from Donut King, Brumby's Bakery, Michel's Patisserie and bb's cafe stores from across Australia will converge on the Gold Coast this week to discuss initiatives for continued business growth during the current economic climate.

The annual trade show and conference, titled Pulse 2009, is being held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre from February 10 to 12 by Gold Coast-based company Retail Food Group.

RFG CEO Tony Alford said the trade show would feature over 3,000sqm of exhibits and activities featuring the latest retail products and services from more than 50 suppliers and trade partners.

"Boasting over 3,000sqm of exhibits, RFG's trade show presents and excellent opportunity for our franchisees strengthen their supplier relationships and stay abreast of industry innovations," he said.

"RFG's 2009 Trade Show will feature displays from over 50 local businesses and National suppliers, including Allied Mills, Kerry Pinnacle, Coca Cola and Huhtamaki Packaging.

"Apart from the trade show, Pulse 2009 also includes the company's national conference which features workshops and presentations on marketing, operations and product development. Conference delegates will also enjoy a night at SeaWorld and a Celebration awards evening when the Franchisee of the Year will be announced.
"Refocusing on the fundamental tools and systems which have served each of our franchise systems so admirably over many years is a fundamental objective of convening such a large forum.

"Donut King, Brumby's Bakery, Michel's Patisserie and bb's cafe are among the most successful franchise systems in Australia. But we cannot be complacent, especially in this current economic environment. By convening the conference at this time offers the perfect opportunity for franchisees to network and develop strategies to attract and maintain customer loyalty while continuing the business momentum."

Retail Food Group is a leading Australian retail food brand manager and franchisor. It is the franchisor and intellectual property owner of the Donut King, Michel's Patisserie, Brumby's Bakeries and bb's cafe systems.