The liquidation of a trendy Australian fast-food chain has exposed a trail of financial devastation and broken promises. Behind the brand’s cheerful, potato-themed image lies a harsh reality for its franchisees, many of whom invested their life savings only to face crippling losses. The company’s management firm was formally wound up in a court hearing that lasted less than two minutes, a quiet end to a loud failure.
While franchisees struggled to keep their businesses afloat, often taking out loans against their homes, the founders—Jess Davis and Tyson Hoffmann—were publicly shifting their focus. They campaigned for a $50,000 investment on social media to help fund a separate $4 million luxury eco-resort in Tonga. This move has been described as a “slap in the face” by those who lost everything. A representative for the franchisees accused the parent company of leaving them “hung out to dry,” without proper training or support, while still demanding royalty payments.
In previous statements, Hoffmann emphasized that each store was responsible for its own financial success. However, with the parent company now in liquidation and franchisees facing ruin, this collapse raises serious questions about corporate accountability and the safeguards for small business owners who invest in franchise models.
