The Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) is proud to announce its highly anticipated Annual Conference for 2026, themed “Building the South African Economy through Franchising.” The event will take place on the 19th of February 2026 at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg (East Rand), marking a significant milestone as the first major conference since the COVID-19 pandemic and the first under the leadership of FASA’s newly appointed CEO, Mr Freddy Makgato.
A Call to Action for Economic Transformation
Speaking ahead of the conference, Mr Makgato emphasises the urgent 
need to leverage franchising to drive economic recovery and growth. “South Africa continues to face persistently high unemployment, sluggish economic growth, and limited opportunities for meaningful business expansion. While the government has introduced various interventions and methods, including learnerships, internships, and TVET programmes, their impact has often been fragmented,” says Makgato.
“We believe the franchise business model represents one of the most underutilised yet powerful mechanisms for job creation, entrepreneurship development, and inclusive economic growth. This conference will serve as a platform to reimagine how franchising can become a central catalyst in rebuilding our economy.”
Economic Impact and Growth Potential
The franchising sector currently contributes approximately 15% to South Africa’s GDP, employing hundreds of thousands of people across diverse industries from food service and retail to healthcare, education and professional services.
If the Franchising model is implemented and we increase the sector’s contribution to 18% or 20% GDP growth, we could yield substantial economic benefits, including:
* The creation of thousands of new employment opportunities
* Expansion and empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs)
* Enhanced access to structured skills development and training nationwide
* Increased foreign direct investment through international franchise partnerships
* Accelerated entrepreneurship development, particularly among previously disadvantaged individuals
Conference Focus Areas
The 2026 FASA Conference will convene business leaders, policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs for critical dialogue on aligning franchising with national economic priorities, including:
* Economic growth and sustainability: Exploring franchising’s role in building resilient, scalable businesses
* Job creation and youth employment: Addressing South Africa’s unemployment crisis through proven franchise models
* Skills development and entrepreneurship: Leveraging franchising as a platform for business education and mentorship
* Digital transformation and innovation: Examining the strategic integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology in franchise operations
* Regional expansion and market access: Facilitating growth opportunities within Africa and internationally
* Franchise financing and investment: Connecting entrepreneurs with funding solutions and investment partners
“This conference will transcend traditional discussion; it will be a moment of strategic introspection for all stakeholders. We must fundamentally rethink collaboration between business, government, and civil society. Franchising can serve as a powerful engine for inclusive growth, provided we unlock its full potential,” Makgato emphasises.
Why Franchising Matters Now?
With South Africa confronting persistent structural challenges, including youth unemployment exceeding 50%, energy insecurity, and constrained GDP growth, the franchising sector offers a proven, scalable model for sustainable business development.
The franchise model provides:
* Reduced business risk through established systems, brand recognition and ongoing support
* Accelerated growth with replicable business models that can scale rapidly
* Skills transfer from experienced franchisors to emerging entrepreneurs
* Economic inclusion by providing access to business ownership for individuals who may lack traditional business experience
* Community development through local job creation and supplier partnerships
FASA’s 2026 conference aims to position franchising as a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic recovery and a foundation for long-term prosperity.
The Association is delighted to announce that the FASA Annual Conference
2026 is proudly sponsored by Absa [1], the Services SETA [2], the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency [3] and the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) [4].
Sponsorship, Exhibition, and Registration
FASA invites businesses, industry leaders, and stakeholders to participate in this transformative event. Sponsorship packages and exhibition opportunities are now available, offering organisations:
* High-visibility brand positioning before South Africa’s leading franchising community
* Direct access to decision-makers, investors, and emerging entrepreneurs
* Speaking and thought leadership platforms
* Networking opportunities with government officials and industry influencers