(MENAFN) Shares of the owner of Gloria Jean's, Brumby's Bakery and Donut King have dropped to a five-year low, after allegations it is charging excessive fees that are running franchisees into the ground.

Gold Coast-based Retail Food Group is the biggest food franchise operator in the country, and owns brands including Cafe2U, Pizza Capers, Esquires Coffee and Crust Pizza.

After reports of Fairfax Media about the mistreatment of franchisees, it shares have dropped 26.41% or 1.15% to 3.25%.

According to the investigation, several franchisees are facing tough business model, which includes disabling costs and support deficiency that has led some of them to bankrupt and underpaid employees.

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