Former multi-unit franchisee Sue Pamboris has been leading the Bricks 4 Kidz franchise in Australia for just six months, bringing a growth-mindset and a determination to fulfil the brand’s potential.
When she took up the reins in March 2026, the STEM-directed kids program had 22 franchise territories operating; now the business has new franchisees and an expanded footprint.
“Since I took over, we have sold six territories in Australia, and onboarded five new owners – two in Queensland, three in Victoria,” Sue says.
“We’ve seen quite big growth in the business, and I’d like to keep up this pace, opening with four or five new owners each year. That will be about a 30 per cent increase in revenue to the total business,” she says.
Sue already has her sights set on expanding across New South Wales, and sees big potential in the Sydney area.
“I am looking to bring in more new owners with new passion and fresh ideas,” she says.
Key targets for new franchises
Sue is seeing growing demand in areas where there are currently no Bricks 4 Kidz operators. So Adelaide, and more broadly South Australia, along with Tasmania, are key targets for growth.
She understands all too well that for a new owner, running the business can be overwhelming. So she’s committed to providing valuable support and targeted guidance to franchisees.
“Having a quick response when you have a problem is important,” Sue says. “I am actively encouraging more communications, and I’m doing more frequent one-on-one catch-ups.
“We provide all the support, and all the guidelines on curricula upgrades, new tools, and how to grow the business.”
In October she is meeting with the head of curriculum from Bricks 4 Kidz’ head office, to discuss upgrades to the model and tools, to match the development of Australian primary school teaching.
“Our growth is about making the brand stronger, so I encourage owners to be more proactive in talking to schools and communities. It’s about putting our name out there.
“We understand the market is competitive; we want to position ourselves as good local partners and build strong relationships.”
Choose from two different formats
The Bricks 4 Kidz model has two formats: a mobile business, and a bricks-and-mortar centre.
While the mobile option is the more affordable option, building centres which become hubs for the business help boost brand awareness, Sue says. And to encourage new franchisees to be bold and ambitious, she has introduced a financial incentive.
“We’ve started a strong incentive in franchise fees and royalty arrangements if new employees commit to opening a centre,” she says.
Bricks 4 Kidz will discount the $40,000 franchise fee by 50 per cent for those franchisees who agree to the terms.
The five new franchisees appointed this year have all signed up to open a centre within 12 months.
As well as bringing in new owners, Sue is excited to see franchisees expand their existing businesses. She was thrilled when the franchisee who purchased her three territories in North Sydney, added the Newcastle area to her portfolio.
“I see existing owners’ growth will come from adding more territories. It’s an opportunity for franchisees to have more impact, to reach out across a wider area.
“As a franchisee you can expand your territory, or go as deep as you can in your local area. When you are hyper-local you know your customers, community, schools, really well so when your potential customers think of STEM or robotics, they think of you,” she says.
“Whichever growth path franchisees choose, this is a flexible, rewarding business. Our franchisees love that they are nurturing and developing children.
“And of course the financial opportunity with Bricks 4 Kidz is a real draw. There’s a big potential for growth in this business,” Sue says.