Gayle Koolen - Founder – Essential Brands Group

Initially starting her career in banking, Gayle then moved into the airline industry working her way from administration into marketing and sales, then into the broader section of the tourism sector of marketing resorts and hotels. For the past 20 years or more, Gayle along with partner Mike became more interested in the concept of growing franchise businesses.

 

Travelling and living overseas and finding inspiration always, Gayle alongside Mike, enjoyed the excitement of the start- up of new concepts and turning these ideas into a reality. When Espresso Essential started, with Mike concentrating on sales and travelling constantly, Gayle initiated the administrative side of the business, of which the basic system continues to operate to this day. When able, Gayle would always accompany Mike to trade shows and the like, promoting the company and building rapport with major suppliers both nationally and internationally, and continues to enjoy doing this to this day.

 

Over time new additions to the core business were launched with new companies born to be under the umbrella of Essential Brands Group. The skeleton structure was in place, and slowly a strategic team of employees at head office and along with the network in general, have helped create the success of the group of companies that now exist under this umbrella.

 

Gayle, whilst no longer in the day to day operations of the companies, will continue to be involved in decisions pertaining to the overall direction of the companies, and now also takes time to enjoy family and travelling with Mike, constantly searching for new ideas, products and suppliers to further benefit the group.