South Africa stands at a pivotal crossroads. With franchising already contributing approximately 15% to the country’s GDP and employing hundreds of thousands across multiple sectors, the opportunity to grow that figure to 20% represents more than expansion, it signals a blueprint for national renewal.
Tomorrow, industry leaders, policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs will gather at the FASA 2026 Conference & Expo, united by one mission: unlocking franchising’s full potential as a powerful engine for job creation, skills development and inclusive economic growth.
According to Fred Makgato, CEO of FASA, the sector’s structured model offers a practical solution to many of South Africa’s economic challenges.
“Franchising is not just about building brands it’s about building sustainable businesses that create jobs and transfer skills,” says Makgato. “If we can scale the sector responsibly, we can significantly accelerate youth and women participation in the economy.”
The 2026 programme will tackle critical issues shaping modern enterprise, including economic sustainability, women and youth employment, skills development, digital innovation and AI, market expansion, and franchise funding solutions.
With more than 40 national franchise associations connected globally, FASA continues to position South Africa within a credible international franchise community. Strategic Memorandums of Understanding with Malaysia, Singapore and France are expected to strengthen trade relationships and promote two-way sharing of best practices in ethical franchising.
Digital transformation will be a key focus, as franchise systems increasingly adopt AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency, customer experience and competitiveness. At the same time, funding models aimed at unlocking greater participation for emerging entrepreneurs will take centre stage.
Makgato emphasises that the conversation is no longer theoretical.
“The question isn’t whether franchising can transform our economy,” he says. “The question is whether we are ready to scale it.”
As South Africa seeks practical solutions to unemployment and slow growth, the FASA 2026 Conference & Expo aims to move from dialogue to delivery designing a scalable, inclusive pathway for economic renewal through franchising.
