With the economy showing a positive growth for the coming year and public and business sentiment on an all-time high, the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) is poised to spearhead initiatives and events that will nurture entrepreneurship, encourage small business development, add to skills growth and ultimately add much needed jobs to the economy.
The franchise sector has continued its growth trajectory despite the tough economic conditions of the past eight years, adding around 88 new franchise systems and 2 789 new outlets in 2017 – proving that franchising remains one of the soundest business formats, structured to withstand economic challenges. With a contribution of 13,3% to the country’s GDP through its 845 franchise systems, over 40 000 franchise outlets are giving direct employment to close to 400 000 people.
According to Vera Valasis, Executive Director of FASA, “the continued growth of new franchise concepts proves that franchising is the entrepreneurial heart of any economy – its growth might be temporarily curbed due to economic influences, but it remains the one business sector that is always innovating and has the highest success rate.”
Vera Valasis believes that on a global front, our changing world is opening up opportunities on the franchise horizon. “As spending patterns change, entrepreneurs will be looking at business sectors where there is an appetite for franchising and flourishing new industries will start to see the light. Niche markets are also offering one-of-a-kind franchises that give one the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a new franchise trend.”
With the country’s renewed energy and more positive outlook, both on the political and economy front and for those wanting to go the franchise route, whether as a prospective franchisee or as a developer of a new franchise concept, FASA has the following events and initiatives during 2018 which include:
- The FASA Franchise Manual, the official annual directory for the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA), is the ‘bible’ for the industry in South Africa. It lists all franchises but highlights in detail its accredited members and features practical articles – from how to evaluate a franchise to the legalities to setting up a franchise. Click here for your electronic copy of the 2018 manual
- FASA’s Awards for Excellence in Franchising, sponsored by Sanlam – the industry’s most prestigious accolades – takes place at a breakfast event at The Venue at Melrose Arch on Thursday 7th June 2018. FASA members can enter the Awards here. To book your seat to attend the Awards Event breakfast please email fasa@fasa.co.za– tickets are R290 excluding VAT per person
- FASA’s annual Convention, aimed at industry stakeholders as well as those wanting to franchise their business or purchase a franchise takes place at the Forum Campus in Bryanston on Thursday 28th June 2018. Convention. Delegates have access to attend no less than 50 lectures or presentations related to franchising. Click here to book your ticket to attend the convention. FASA members get a 50% reduction on the ticket price.
- As the economy recovers, FASA’s International Franchise Expo (IFE), taking place on Level 5, Entrance 22 and 25 of the Mall of Africa from the 29th June to the 1st July 2018 is where the who’s who of the franchising world will be on show to promote their brands and offer franchise and business opportunities. For more information visit IFE athttp://ife.co.za/. Book your stand now – FASA members receive 35% discount on the cost of stands – click herehttp://ife.co.za/exhibitor-information/
Book now to attend one or more of the 21 free public seminars by emailing fasa@fasa.co.za– seats are limitedhttp://ife.co.za/free-franchise-seminars/
The pubic are welcome to attend any of FASA’s events to learn more about the franchising business method. Members of FASA are given preferential rates to attend events. For more information contact fasa@fasa.co.za or call 011 615 0359.