Over 150 firms to attend top franchise expo in Abu Dhabi

More than 150 international and local companies will showcase their latest offerings in the franchise sector at the sixth International Franchise Exhibition (IFE) later this year, in Abu Dhabi, UAE, said the Abu Dhabi Chamber.

The event will take place on October 16 and 17, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec).

As an important business-first event, the IFE 2018 provides a platform for meeting the demands of the growing franchise sector, and represents a significant opportunity for companies to improve their performances and portfolios, said a statement.

The exhibition allows international and multinational companies to expand their investments, in turn providing support for the local and regional business environment and contributing to sustainable economic development, it said.

The companies across ten key sectors are expected to exhibit in this year’s IFE, which builds on the notable successes and momentum gained over previous editions. Last year, the fifth edition of the event received significant support from 12 international agencies specialising in franchises, and the event attracted more than 3,600 visitors, 120 companies and 300 brands, it added.

Mohamed Helal Al Muhairi, director general of Abu Dhabi Chamber, said: “Now in its sixth edition, the exhibition will continue contributing to the realisation of Plan Abu Dhabi.”

“By attracting and developing local and international business, this event forms a main pillar of Abu Dhabi Chamber’s strategy, and contributes to our broader goals of sustainable economic diversification,” he said.

“The event provides businesses with unique opportunities to expand



their presence and investments in the UAE and the wider Middle East region, as well as supporting youth and local entrepreneurs to benefit from franchise projects,” he said.

Al Muhairi continued: “With the exhibition, our main goal is to highlight the promising opportunities available through this growing sector. Representing a main tool for investors and entrepreneurs alike, the franchise model is effective and competitive.”

“In particular, SME’s – which are the backbone of economic activity – can capitalise on the opportunities provided by the Exhibition to hear global experiences and the latest international practices from throughout the franchise sector,” he said.
“This is a leading event that specialises in franchise rights, and it reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a primary global destination in the field. As a result, the event is a strategic platform for local and international investors to explore trends and identify opportunities,” he concluded.

IFE provides opportunities for local and international companies to explore a number of fields, including tourism, hospitality, trade, health, education, food and beverage, and retail.

The exhibition also offers educational workshops for visitors to learn about the expertise of the most influential figures in the franchise world. Educational activities are designed to incubate and advance ideas in order to identify new opportunities and capabilities throughout the industry.

As a business-first event, IFE provides a suitable business environment for holding meetings and sessions, providing spaces for exhibitors, visitors and delegates to meet and conduct business meetings, it stated.