First Floating Franchise Expo in Jeddah Concludes with Participation from over 24 Countries

The First International Floating Franchise Exhibition concluded Wednesday, drawing investors and entrepreneurs from within Saudi Arabia and over 24 countries. The event, held aboard the AROYA ship in Jeddah, offered a unique blend of tourism and investment opportunities in an innovative environment that reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030.

At the close of the expo, National Franchise Committee chairman Khalid Al-Ghamdi announced the launch of an interactive online platform connecting brands with international investors. The platform will provide qualification, marketing, and technical support services. He also announced the establishment of a national company for the alliance of Saudi brands, aimed at collective expansion into foreign markets through strategic partnerships and integration in supply and services.

The expo saw broad participation from global organizations specializing in the franchise field as well as representatives from investment sectors from various countries, including the United Kingdom, Russia, Croatia, China, Korea, and South Africa. Through workshops held alongside the expo, participants provided insights into markets and franchises in their respective countries.

Experts and speakers from various participating countries shared their inspiring experiences during the three-day event, discussing the challenges and trends of franchising globally, as well as opportunities for expansion and cooperation in international markets.

The expo featured various prominent Saudi brands with ambitions for regional and global expansion. Through their participating pavilions, these brands showcased successful models and local experiences striving for international recognition with confidence and professionalism.

On the sidelines of the expo, the National Franchise Committee signed several cooperation agreements with the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority “Monsha’at,” the Social Development Bank, and the Restaurant and Cafe Owners Association.