Australian pool and spa franchise, Poolwerx, has implemented a new subsidised training program to ensure all franchisees attain certificates III and IV in Pool and Spa Service by 2018.

This follows the opening of a pool and spa technical and retail training centre at its global support office in Brisbane, in May last year.

John O’Brien, CEO at Poolwerx, said the three day program, which gained franchisees credit towards the certificates, provides 40 training places at a subsidised cost of $500, covering the program, flights, accommodation and meals, regardless of where the franchisee was based.

“We opened our world class training facility last year because we’re aiming for highly skilled and more experienced pool and spa technicians working in the industry, but to achieve this vision we need more franchisees to undergo training,” he said.

“As an Australia-wide company we didn’t feel it was fair that some franchisees had to pay excessive travel costs while others could just drive in each morning to take advantage of the training opportunity, so by subsiding a number of places it ensures the training program is an opportunity all franchisees can take advantage of.

“Ultimately, we are working to achieve our goal of a technically efficient industry that is populated by highly skilled, qualified technicians. Our network alone represents more than 10 per cent of pool and spa care operators in Australia, so it will make a difference and we will set the standard for others to follow.”

O’Brien said the franchise was aiming to offer these types of special training packages at least once a quarter.