2nd edition of The Global Franchise Market TGFM exhibition concludes

The 2nd Global Franchise Market-TGFM concluded in Dubai today, with over 1,500 investors exploring new franchise concepts and showing great desire to help start-ups and entrepreneurs in the Middle East.

Speaking about new franchising opportunities in the UAE, Ryan Trierweiler, President of Bloomin Brands said, “The UAE is a popular destination for franchising opportunities and although our franchising strategy is more broadly focused on the Middle East as a whole, the UAE is certainly the crown jewel for investors in the GCC and around the world.”  

While stating that the franchising market in the UAE and the Middle East is quite strong, he said, “We have seen a diverse cross section of individuals from the Middle East who seek new franchise opportunities not just in Dubai but in many regional countries like Jordan and Saudi Arabia”.

While commenting on their participation, Ali Mubarak, CEO and Founder of Koshari Bites, said, “Koshari Bites is a progressive brand and at TGFM this year, we hope to cross paths with many serious investors seeking to take a promising casual fusion cuisine brand to the next level, and to meet more potential franchisees looking to achieve competitiveness in their markets.”

He added, “We'd like to invest a lot more in new thematic and seasonal dishes to go along with our plans to develop and offer the franchises to small businesses as well as bigger more established food businesses.”

Speaking about how franchising plays a key role for brand owners who seek expansion in unexplored markets, Jasim Al Bastaki, CEO of Franchise Souq, said, “The franchise industry is growing every year creating opportunities for brand owners to expand their footprint across the globe. We want brand owners around the world to know that TGFM is a great medium for them to enter the MENA region by showcasing their brands and connecting with partners”.

With more and more brands from different franchise sectors entering new untapped markets, Martin Hancock, COO of World Franchise Associates says, “We now have 6 brands that we are trying to bring them in the UAE at the moment. At TGFM, what’s really fascinating is that all the brands get the right exposure.”

He further added, “This year, there has been a growth in the number of new franchise sectors entering the market. While F& B has traditionally been the backbone of franchising, we are now seeing new franchise sectors coming into the picture. We would like to see more brands representing Physical fitness, Health and Wellness and Kids Education to enter the UAE market, which can greatly strengthen the base of franchising in the UAE.”

While talking about how they intend to help and partner with potential businesses looking for franchising opportunities in the UAE, Fagr Kassim Ali, Director of Media Sector Development at SHAMS, said, “SHAMS’ desire to exhibit in The Global Franchise Market 2017 stems from TGFM’s ability to offer one-on-one communication with various profiles in the franchising industry. We expect to improve visibility locally and regionally as well as present our unique concept of free zones, and how it challenges the traditional way of doing things.”

He further highlighted that “SHAMS’ businesses are a means for creative entrepreneurship which is accessible to all aspiring start-ups, SMEs and established companies striving to grow their business both locally and globally.”

The Global Franchise Market is organized by INDEX Conferences & Exhibitions, member of INDEX Holding. TGFM is supported by the Department of Economic Development (DED), Franchise Souq, UAE-India Business Council, World Franchise Associates and is sponsored by Francorp Middle East, the world’s leading franchise consulting firm and Shams – Sharjah Media City.