Sujit has been a Soul Origin customer for nearly eight years. When the opportunity came up to open a Soul Origin franchise at DFO Uni Hill in Bundoora, Victoria, he researched the location carefully, backed himself, and was met with an immediate and enthusiastic community response. Five days in, the feedback from customers and fellow retailers was overwhelming. Here is his Soul Origin franchise story and what it means for anyone considering the opportunity.
A Soul Origin Franchise Customer Who Became an Owner
Some Soul Origin franchise stories start with a business opportunity. Sujit's started with a salad and a coffee.
"Since I started eating Soul Origin, I don't go anywhere else," Sujit says. "I've been telling other people for years, fresh food, great coffee. That's what got me in."
After nearly eight years as a loyal Soul Origin customer, Sujit made the decision to become part of the brand from the inside. He researched locations, completed his due diligence on DFO Uni Hill in Bundoora, Victoria, and opened his doors to the public. The response in the first five days was immediate.
"Amazing," he says. "The customers, the standard of the coffee and the food. Customer feedback was perfect."
Why DFO Uni Hill is the Right Location for a Soul Origin Franchise
Sujit did not choose his Soul Origin franchise location by chance. He visited DFO Uni Hill multiple times, thoroughly researched the demographics, and assessed the surrounding community before committing.
"There are two universities nearby, and the students love coffee," he explains. "Even during school holidays, I can see them coming in for coffee, drinks, and food. And the demographics are beautiful, multicultural people who love fresh food. It's amazing."
The multicultural community surrounding DFO Uni Hill in Bundoora is a natural fit for Soul Origin's fresh, flavour-packed menu. Sujit identified that connection early, and it is already paying dividends in the first week of trade.
How to Build a Local Customer Base as a New Soul Origin Franchisee
One of the first things Sujit did after opening his Soul Origin franchise was introduce himself to every other retailer in the centre. It is a simple move that many new franchisees overlook, and it has already had a direct impact on his daily trade.
"I went to all the retailers and gave them a 10% discount," he says. "They were sick of eating the same food every day. They didn't have any variety. Now they can see all the new options: salads, fresh food, and they're loving it. They come every day, from morning for coffee and then through to lunch."
Building relationships with fellow retailers creates a loyal, local customer base that shows up consistently and recommends the store to their own customers. Sujit's approach in the first week is already delivering daily trade that most new Soul Origin stores take months to establish.
Opening Advice from a New Soul Origin Franchisee
Five days into running his own Soul Origin franchise, Sujit already has clear advice for anyone considering the opportunity.
"Training, of course," he says. "We got training and support, which is really appreciated. But I'd say one to two weeks more support on the floor would be amazing. Having that extra time with experienced operators makes a real difference when you are just getting started."
It is the kind of honest, constructive feedback that reflects the Soul Origin approach, always looking to improve, always listening to the people on the ground.
The Soul Origin Franchise Opportunity at DFO Uni Hill Victoria
Sujit's Soul Origin franchise story is a compelling one for anyone considering the opportunity. A genuine customer for eight years who researched his location carefully, connected with his community immediately, and was generating daily trade from fellow retailers within his first week of opening.
Soul Origin is one of Australia's fastest-growing fresh food and coffee franchises with over 170 stores across Australia and New Zealand. If you are passionate about fresh food, quality coffee, and building a business within a proven franchise network, Soul Origin has opportunities available across Victoria and nationally.
Find out more about Soul Origin franchising at soulorigin.com.au/franchising
Frequently Asked Questions | Soul Origin Franchise DFO Uni Hill
What support does Soul Origin provide to new franchisees?
Soul Origin provides training and on-the-ground support for all new franchisees. As Sujit's experience at DFO Uni Hill demonstrates, the network is actively engaged with new operators and committed to helping every Soul Origin franchise get off to the best possible start. Sujit recommends one to two weeks of on-floor support for new franchisees to complement the existing training programme.
How much does a Soul Origin franchise cost?
Soul Origin franchise investment varies by store format and location. Visit soulorigin.com.au/franchising or contact the Soul Origin franchise team directly for current investment figures and available opportunities.
What makes Soul Origin different from other food franchise opportunities in Victoria?
Soul Origin is positioned uniquely in the market, offering fresh food and specialty coffee that gives customers a genuine alternative to traditional fast food. As Sujit puts it, he has been eating Soul Origin for nearly eight years because of the fresh food and great coffee. That loyalty is what makes Soul Origin a compelling franchise opportunity in any Victorian retail environment.
How do I build a loyal customer base as a new Soul Origin franchisee?
Sujit's approach at DFO Uni Hill demonstrates one proven method: introduce yourself to fellow retailers immediately, offer an opening incentive, and make your store the go-to option for the people around you. Daily interaction and genuine hospitality build the repeat customer base that drives long-term franchise performance.
What is it like to be a Soul Origin franchisee in your first week?
As Sujit's experience at DFO Uni Hill shows, the first week is about connecting with your community, establishing relationships with fellow retailers, and delivering on the Soul Origin standard of fresh food and specialty coffee. With the right preparation and the support of the Soul Origin network, the first week can set the tone for long-term success.
How do I enquire about a Soul Origin franchise opportunity in Victoria?
Visit soulorigin.com.au/franchising or contact the Soul Origin franchise development team directly to find out about available locations in Victoria and the broader franchise application process.
