Kwik Kopy appoints Shwabsky as new CEO

Print franchise group Kwik Kopy has appointed Sonia Shwabsky as its new CEO, tasking her with leading implementation of the company’s significant strategic plans for future growth. 

Shwabsky joins from rival franchise operation Snap Print and Design, where she has chief growth officer for the past three years. Snap itself is about to appoint a new CEO, following Richard Thame’s departure last week.

She said, “This is a brilliant opportunity to work with a company in developing a vision and values that align with my own. Kwik Kopy is committed to growth, and I am excited to play a part in what is shaping up to be a new era for the company.” 

Matthew Penfold, Kwik Kopy chair, said, "Sonia is a dynamic leader. Her energy and passion, together with her extraordinary experience and business acumen, make her a great asset to the business, and we welcome her to the Kwik Kopy family."

The appointment follows the departure of long time Kwik Kopy CEO David Bell, and the appointment of Matthew Penfold as chair, and entrepreneur Annalise Andrews to the Kwik Kopy Australia board, which has responsibility for leading the business and its 90+ group of stores. The franchisees deliver a range of services, from printing to graphic design to online solutions. Kwik Kopy Australia is Australian-owned, and has been operated by the Penfold family since 1982.

Kwik Kopy says Shwabsky brings to the role "an in-depth franchise industry knowledge, business ownership experience, transformation strategy expertise, and strong alignment to Kwik Kopy’s relationship-based business model and growth agenda."

Prior to working in senior roles at Snap for three years, Shwabsky has successfully worked across a range of industries, including 10 years transforming the iconic Australian King Gee workwear and uniform business. She has also founded two businesses and been a franchisee, bringing hands-on experience and understanding of how to create and build successful small businesses for Kwik Kopy’s franchisees. Kwik Kopy says Shwabsky is also recognised for her ability to incorporate innovative management techniques and people skills to create enhanced business practices, increased productivity and profits.

Paying tribute to Shwabsky's predecessor David Bell, Penfold said, “On behalf of the board and shareholders of the company I want to express our sincere appreciation of the service that David has given over his many years to his team at Kwik Kopy Australia, to the many franchise owners he has supported, and to the board, shareholders and other stakeholders who have all greatly benefited from his calm, reliable and effective endeavours."

Shwabsky begins at Kwik Kopy on 14 March.