As the countdown begins for the 2026 National Conference & Expo, the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) is highlighting the sector's pivotal role as the country’s premier engine for job creation and inclusive growth. Scheduled for Thursday, 19 February 2026, at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, the event will showcase how franchising is evolving to meet the challenges of a modern South African economy.

Since its initial announcement last year, the conference—themed "Building the South African Economy through Franchising"—has drawn significant attention from government and private sectors alike, as franchising now contributes a substantial 15% to national GDP.

Franchising: A Proven Engine for Job Creation

With the sector supporting nearly 500,000 direct jobs and accounting for approximately 5% of national employment, FASA CEO Freddy Makgato believes the conference is a vital platform for addressing South Africa's unemployment crisis. "Franchising is far more than a business model; it is a catalyst for large-scale job creation," says Makgato. "For every 14 direct jobs we create, another seven are generated in the broader supply chain. This multiplier effect is exactly what our economy needs right now. By systemising success, we are providing a stable environment where over 70% of employees are from previously disadvantaged groups, driving true transformation through meaningful work."

Empowering the Next Wave of Entrepreneurs

The 2026 event focuses heavily on "Inclusive Entrepreneurship," targeting women, youth, and SME participation. With 88% of local systems being homegrown brands, franchising offers a unique "business-in-a-box" solution that includes intensive education, skills development, and ongoing training.

"We are unlocking a new wave of entrepreneurs who might not have had prior ownership experience," explains Makgato. "Through our structured training in operations, compliance, and management, we are building entrepreneurial capacity that strengthens the entire small business ecosystem. Whether through traditional models or new social-franchising initiatives in townships, we are democratising wealth creation."

A Comprehensive Agenda for Growth

The full-day programme will dive into critical topics essential for navigating today's complex business landscape. Key sessions will cover:

• Policy & Finance: Exploring regulatory enablers and tailored financial solutions for the ecosystem.
• Innovation & Tech: Addressing Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation and cybersecurity in multi-unit systems.
• Sustainability: Focusing on ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) compliance and renewable energy adoption to mitigate load-shedding.
• Operational Excellence: Sharing data-driven industry trends and strategies for building resilient systems.
• Labour & Compliance: Navigating the legal frameworks of the franchisor-franchisee-employee relationship.

The Expo: Connecting Innovation with Opportunity

Running alongside the conference is the exhibition, designed to bring the franchise ecosystem to life. This is a prime opportunity for attendees to network with exhibitors, explore industry support and discover emerging and existing brands.