Franchisee of the Year 2025 – Interview Feature
When Brad purchased PACK & SEND Riccarton, he wasn’t just stepping into a successful business—he was stepping into history. Riccarton holds the distinction of being the very first PACK & SEND store in New Zealand, opened in 2008 and run by the Master Franchisee until Brad took over.
With a background in operating petrol stations, Brad brought fresh energy, commercial acumen, and a drive to push the envelope. Since taking the reins, he’s made bold investments in marketing, built a trusted team of experienced operators, and significantly grown the business—all while living in Nelson, hundreds of kilometres away. His exceptional leadership earned him the title of Franchisee of the Year in 2025.
We caught up with Brad to learn more about his journey, his approach to growth, and what’s next for Riccarton.
A Change in Direction
“After years in the fuel retail industry, I was ready for something new—something where I could apply my operational skills and still grow something of my own,” Brad recalls.
PACK & SEND Riccarton stood out as a strong, stable business with serious potential. “The fact that it was the original store was meaningful. It had a great foundation, and I could see opportunities to take it even further.”
Building on a Legacy
One of Brad’s first priorities was to respect the store’s history while finding smart ways to modernise and scale.
“I didn’t want to change what was working—I wanted to elevate it.” That meant investing in targeted marketing, exploring new customer segments, and building a team that could run independently, especially while he was based in Nelson.
His first strategic move? Hiring experienced staff who knew the store and the brand inside out. “I was lucky to bring on team members who had worked at Riccarton before, as well as others who’d worked with PACK & SEND head office. That gave me a trusted operational base while I ran things remotely.”
Managing from Afar
Running a busy logistics operation from a different island might sound like a logistical nightmare, but Brad made it work.
“I had to build clear systems, trust the team, and stay focused on outcomes. It definitely tested my leadership—but it also proved how scalable and resilient the PACK & SEND model can be when you have the right people in place.”
He credits this setup with helping him grow as a business owner. “I became a better delegator, a better communicator, and more strategic in how I planned the business.”
Thinking Bigger
Brad’s entrepreneurial spirit is a key part of what earned him the Franchisee of the Year award. Known for “pushing the envelope,” he’s always looking for ways to try something new.
“Whether it’s testing new ad channels, refining the customer experience, or exploring B2B partnerships—we keep experimenting. That’s how we find our edge.”
He’s also built a strong local presence through community engagement and smart marketing that goes beyond just promotions—it’s about positioning Riccarton as the go-to solution for sending anything, anywhere.
Recognition and Reflection
Winning Franchisee of the Year was a proud moment—but also a humbling one.
“It was a huge honour,” Brad says. “To be recognised not just for running a profitable store, but for how we’ve grown and operated as a team—that means a lot.”
He’s especially proud of the culture they’ve built. “I’ve got a team that cares, a business that runs with purpose, and customers who trust us. That’s the real win.”
Words of Advice
For other franchisees, Brad’s advice is simple: don’t settle.
“Even if you’re taking over an already successful store, there’s always room to improve. Look at what you can modernise, measure, and multiply. Build a team you trust. And if you’re thinking about stepping back or managing remotely—it can work, but only if your systems and people are solid.”
What’s Next?
Now based closer to the store, Brad is excited about getting even more hands-on—and continuing to scale.
“We’ve got momentum, and I want to keep building on it. There are always new verticals, new customer needs, and new tech to explore.”
Brad’s story is proof that great businesses can go even further in the hands of ambitious, thoughtful leadership—and that no distance is too far when you’re driven by vision, values, and a great team.