# Event Details - **Event Name**: FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising - **Event Start and End Date**: Thu, 19 Feb, 2026 at 08:00 am – Thu, 19 Feb, 2026 at 09:00 am - **Event Description**: 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. A Call to Action for Economic Transformation Speaking ahead of the conference, Mr Makgato emphasises the urgent need to leverage franchising to drive economic recovery and growth. "South Africa continues to face persistently high unemployment, sluggish economic growth, and limited opportunities for meaningful business expansion. While the government has introduced various interventions and methods, including learnerships, internships, and TVET programmes, their impact has often been fragmented," says Makgato. "We believe the franchise business model represents one of the most underutilised yet powerful mechanisms for job creation, entrepreneurship development, and inclusive economic growth. This conference will serve as a platform to reimagine how franchising can become a central catalyst in rebuilding our economy." 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 opportunitiesExpansion and empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)Enhanced access to structured skills development and training nationwideIncreased foreign direct investment through international franchise partnershipsAccelerated 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 businessesJob creation and youth employment: Addressing South Africa's unemployment crisis through proven franchise modelsSkills development and entrepreneurship: Leveraging franchising as a platform for business education and mentorshipDigital transformation and innovation: Examining the strategic integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology in franchise operationsRegional expansion and market access: Facilitating growth opportunities within Africa and internationallyFranchise financing and investment: Connecting entrepreneurs with funding solutions and investment partners "This conference will transcend traditional discussion; it will be a moment of strategic introspection for all stakeholders. We must fundamentally rethink collaboration between business, government, and civil society. Franchising can serve as a powerful engine for inclusive growth, provided we unlock its full potential," Makgato emphasises. 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 supportAccelerated growth with replicable business models that can scale rapidlySkills transfer from experienced franchisors to emerging entrepreneursEconomic inclusion by providing access to business ownership for individuals who may lack traditional business experienceCommunity 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). Sponsorship, Exhibition, and RegistrationFASA 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 communityDirect access to decision-makers, investors, and emerging entrepreneursSpeaking and thought leadership platformsNetworking opportunities with government officials and industry influencers For sponsorship, sales and exhibition enquiries, please contact:Warren HickinbothamEmail: sponsorships@fasa.co.zaCell: 084 400 5995 For registration and other enquiries, please contact:Mpho MashegoEmail: mpho.mashego@fasa.co.zaCell: 060 504 8886 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 interviews, please contactMedia Contact:Catherine Larkin CVLC Communication ׀ 083 300 0331 ׀ catherine@cvlc.co.za This communication is shared on behalf of FASA:Mpho MashegoHead of Communicationsmpho.mashego@fasa.co.za ׀ Cell: 060 504 8886 - **Event URL**: https://allevents.in/boksburg/fasa-annual-conference-2026-building-the-south-african-economy-through-franchising/80001066631880 - **Event Categories**: business, meetups, exhibitions, conferences, workshops, job-fairs, public-speaking, artificial-intelligence - **Interested Audience**: - total_interested_count: 18 ## Ticket Details ## Event venue details - **city**: Boksburg - **state**: GT - **country**: South Africa - **location**: Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre - **lat**: -26.1748813 - **long**: 28.2504166 - **full address**: Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, 44 View Point, Bartlett, Boksburg, South Africa ## Event gallery - **Alt text**: FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising - **Image URL**: https://cdn2.allevents.in/thumbs/thumb69394405a1615.jpg ## FAQs - **Q**: When and where is FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising being held? - **A:** FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising takes place on Thu, 19 Feb, 2026 at 08:00 am to Thu, 19 Feb, 2026 at 09:00 am at Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, 44 View Point, Bartlett, Boksburg, South Africa. - **Q**: Who is organizing FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising? - **A:** FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising is organized by Franchise Association South Africa. - **Q**: Who is this event for? Is it right for me? - **A:** FASA Annual Conference 2026: Building the South African Economy through Franchising is ideal for professionals, entrepreneurs, startup founders, and networking enthusiasts eager to grow their connections. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a longtime enthusiast in Boksburg, this event is thoughtfully curated to deliver a standout experience worth every moment. 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