First Floating International Franchise Expo Launches in Jeddah

The First Floating International Franchise Expo commenced in Jeddah yesterday, drawing prominent entrepreneurs, investors, and representatives from Saudi and international brands. Aboard the Aroya Cruise, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) project, the three-day event combines business, investment, and tourism to promote the expansion of Saudi brands locally and internationally, and foster collaboration within the franchise sector.

The exhibition began with an introductory video on the National Franchise Committee’s objectives: developing brands for franchising and increasing their presence in the Saudi market.

Committee Chairman Dr. Khalid Al-Ghamdi emphasized the rapid growth and investor confidence in the Kingdom’s franchise sector. He positioned the floating exhibition as a launchpad for globalizing Saudi franchise, aligning with Vision 2030’s economic diversification and investment promotion goals.

He also announced three key initiatives: establishing a national company for export franchises, launching a platform to ease international expansion for Saudi brands, and creating an investment fund to support their global reach. He highlighted the rising global demand for quality Saudi products, noting over 204 Saudi trademarks on the franchise platform, with franchise restrictions growing by 866% in the last three years to 1,788.

The exhibition also saw the signing of agreements between the National Franchise Committee and the Social Development Bank, Monsha’at, and the Restaurant and Cafe Owners Association to enhance collaboration among franchise support entities.