Catherine Holloway, a seasoned field manager with Foodco Group, has been named Franchise Field Manager of the Year at the Franchise Industry Awards 2025. The honor cements her reputation as one of the most dynamic figures in Australia’s franchising sector, particularly through her work with Muffin Break, where she has combined a background in marketing with a pragmatic approach to franchise operations.
Unlike those who treat franchising as a transactional relationship, Holloway has long championed the idea that it is, at its best, a partnership. Her philosophy emphasizes empathy for franchisees and an understanding of the pressures they face. Rather than focusing only on compliance, she has become known for stepping into stores, working alongside operators, and demonstrating how small changes can translate into measurable results.
Richard Goodman, chief executive of Foodco, said Holloway’s recognition reflects not only her results but also the culture she fosters across the network. “Her award is a testament to her approach and the respect she has cultivated within the franchise community,” he said, pointing to her willingness to “roll up her sleeves” and work shoulder-to-shoulder with franchisees.
The award also underscores the breadth of her influence. Covering territories across Queensland and Northern New South Wales, Holloway has guided franchisees at all stages, from those opening their first store to long-time operators looking to reinvigorate their businesses. Her work spans operational coaching, customer service standards, and financial performance, ensuring that Foodco’s network continues to thrive in a competitive market.
For Holloway, the recognition is less about personal achievement and more about the relationships she has built. In her view, the strength of franchising lies in structured systems that allow entrepreneurs to grow within an established brand while receiving the support they need to succeed. That philosophy has helped keep the Foodco system resilient and adaptive in a changing retail landscape.
The Franchise Council of Australia’s chief executive, Jay Westbury, praised her for embodying the values that underpin successful networks. “Her practical leadership style, mixed with a genuine passion for franchising, ensures she leads not just with her words but through demonstrable action,” he said. His remarks underscored the often-overlooked role of field managers in determining the long-term success of franchise brands.
As the sector continues to navigate changing consumer expectations and economic pressures, Holloway’s recognition highlights the importance of field managers who do more than enforce standards. In her case, it represents a model of support that elevates the partnership between franchisor and franchisee, ensuring the system is both sustainable and profitable.
