When Gelatissimo opened its newest store in Browns Plains, Queensland, it wasn’t just another store launch, it was the beginning of a new chapter for franchisee Nhan.
With a background in real estate dating back to 2009, business ownership wasn’t new territory. Alongside his wife, who previously worked as a nurse before pursuing her passion for cooking and hospitality, the pair had already built experience running sushi stores and later operating Vietnamese restaurants.
But after years in independent hospitality, they were searching for something different.
“We’d learned a lot running our own businesses,” he explains. “But we also realised there were so many systems and processes a franchise could teach us.”
After managing multiple venues without the structured support that comes with franchising, the couple began looking for a business model that offered simplicity, proven systems and the ability to grow sustainably.
That’s when Gelatissimo entered the picture.
Falling in Love With the Brand
Interestingly, their journey with Gelatissimo started long before they ever considered becoming franchisees.
“I used to take my niece into the city when she was little and we always visited Gelatissimo,” he says. “We just had a really good feeling about the brand as customers. We loved the atmosphere, the product and the experience.”
For them, Gelatissimo offered something they had been searching for: a strong, established brand with systems already in place.
Learning the Systems
One of the biggest surprises throughout the onboarding process was how accessible the training was.
“The training system was very easy to pick up,” he says. “You can learn things pretty quickly.”
Like many franchisees new to structured franchise operations, there was an initial learning curve around technology and systems, particularly Plan G, Gelatissimo’s operational software platform which is bespoke and so powerful.
“At first, the software side was probably our weakness,” he admits. “But Plan G is amazing. It’s basically the brains that control the business. Once you understand how powerful it is, you realise how much support it gives you.”
For franchisees looking to scale, streamline operations and create efficiencies, those systems become a major advantage.
Building a Team and Becoming Part of the Community
While the gelato is what brings customers through the door, it’s the people side of the business that has become the most rewarding part so far.
“What we’re enjoying most is working with junior staff,” he says. “They want to learn and they’re so enthusiastic.”
The Browns Plains community has also embraced the new store from day one.
“Customers keep saying, ‘We’re glad you’re here.’ People really appreciate having Gelatissimo in the area.”
As the business grows, the couple is excited to continue employing local staff and becoming part of the community fabric.
Looking Ahead
For this franchisee, joining Gelatissimo wasn’t just about opening one store, it was about creating future opportunities.
“We came into this to learn something new,” he says. “The systems allow you to create more freedom, and eventually we’d love to explore multi-site opportunities.”
It’s a mindset shared by many successful Gelatissimo franchise partners: build with systems, scale with support and grow with confidence.
And of course, there are the perks of being surrounded by gelato every day.
Favourite flavour?
“Pistachio, Salted Macadamia and New York Cheesecake,” he laughs. “I try not to eat it every day.”
Why Browns Plains Was the Perfect Fit
Located within one of Brisbane’s busiest southern retail corridors, Browns Plains continues to thrive as a growing retail and lifestyle destination, making it an ideal home for Gelatissimo.
The area offers:
- Strong daily foot traffic
- A growing residential population
- Family-focused dining culture
- Consistent retail activity
- Day-to-night trade opportunities
Combined with Gelatissimo’s premium handcrafted product range and experience-led store environment, it creates the perfect recipe for long-term success.
A Brand Built for Growth
With more than 60 stores globally and continued expansion across Australia, Gelatissimo continues to attract franchisees looking for a proven business model supported by strong operational systems and an experienced support team.
From site selection and training through to marketing and ongoing operational support, franchisees are backed every step of the way.
The opening of Gelatissimo Browns Plains is another exciting milestone in the brand’s growth journey — and another example of how the right systems, support and passion can help franchisees build something truly rewarding.
Ready to Explore Gelatissimo Franchising?
If you’re looking for a franchise opportunity backed by a recognised brand, proven systems and a supportive network, now is the perfect time to discover Gelatissimo.
Enquire today to learn more about available opportunities across Australia.
