National convenience franchise NightOwl expanded its Brisbane market place with a new opening in Wickham Street on 5 December 2008. This is the fifth store owned by franchisees Ian and Lisa McLauchlan, who also own Fortitude Valley, Highgate Hill, New Farm and West End.

Promotional leaflets and local marketing will support the new store opening, but Ian also has his own marketing ideas. “Initially, we will be providing free tea and coffee around the clock to police, ambulance and fire fighters on duty in the valley,” he said. “We will also be handing out free frozen coke vouchers this month to some of the valleyÍs nightclub party-goers to welcome people to our store.”

NightOwl currently employs more than 450 staff across Queensland, NSW and Vicotria, and Ian hopes this most recent opening will help generate employment within the local area. “NightOwl has the opportunity to give the local economy a boost through the direct employment of store managers and customer service staff,” he said.