FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising
The conference is positioned as a Call to Action for Economic Transformation, aiming to leverage the franchise business model as a catalyst for growth and job creation in South Africa. Main Argument: Franchising is an underutilised mechanism that can significantly drive economic recovery, job creation, and entrepreneurship development. Economic Impact: The sector currently contributes approx 15%to South Africa's GDP. Increasing this to 18% or 20% could create thousands of new jobs and expand SMEs.
FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising
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.
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
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, the Services SETA, the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency and the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA).
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
For sponsorship:
Warren Hickinbotham
Email: sponsorships@fasa.co.za
Cell: 084 400 5995
Registration link: https://www.online-rsvp.co.za/FASAConference/
About the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA)
FASA is the voice of franchising in South Africa, representing the interests of franchisors, franchisees, and the broader franchise community. As the only officially recognised franchise body in the country, FASA is committed to promoting ethical business practices, supporting sustainable growth, and positioning franchising as a key driver of economic transformation.
For inquiries, please contact:
Media Contact:
Catherine Larkin CVLC Communication ׀ 083 300 0331 ׀ catherine@cvlc.co.za
Mpho Mashego
Head of Communications
mpho.mashego@fasa.co.za ׀ Cell: 060 504 8886
Date: 19 February 2026Time: 08:00
Venue: Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, Boksburg
Contact: Catherine Larkin
Company name: CVLC
Telephone number: 083 300 0331
Email address az.oc.clvc@enirehtac
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