This is the opinion of the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA), which believes that government is overlooking a vital sector that can help it achieve its projected five million jobs by 2020, as envisaged by President Jacob Zuma.
It appeals to government to consider the important role that this unique business system has played in fostering entrepreneurship, in the transfer of skills and in job creation and to partner with the sector to achieve its employment targets.
Says Vera Valasis, executive director of FASA, "Franchising in South Africa is under-utilised and is not given enough credit for the role it plays in the economy in establishing small businesses that make up the backbone of the economy and above all in job creation."
FASA, which has represented the interests and growth of franchising in South Africa for the past 32 years in South Africa, hosts the International Franchise Expo (IFE) at the Sandton Convention Centre from 17-19 May 2012.
In addition to well-known brands, some new brands will be making their first appearance at IFE, including Butchers Grill, Jo Marlin Fish n Chips, Chingos, with international food brands Pasta Go-Go, Pizza Go-Go, Subway and Buffalo Wild Wings Grill and Bar bringing new options to South Africa.
For those wanting to invest in other business sectors, the show offers a variety of business opportunities - from courier services to education, from funeral services to business coaching. Retailers are represented, as are building, office and home franchises and business-to-business services. For those wanting to find out about funding, banks and financial institutions will be on hand to assist, as will attorney and consultants. A Speakers Corner, sponsored by Seda and hosted by USB speakers, will give attendees the motivational boost they need to start their own business.
