IFE - INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE EXPO 2012

The International Franchise & Entrepreneurs Expo, which takes place from the 17th to 19th May 2012 at the Sandton Convention Centre has, over the past 19 years, developed into the biggest franchise exhibition on the African continent and the most dedicated to developing not only franchising but encouraging small business development and entrepreneurship. With 12% of business activity going through the franchise route at present, the potential for increased franchise growth is high and shows like IFE are the ideal platform for prospective franchisees to find out more about this business format that allows you to get into business for yourself but not by yourself.

Despite the predictions of a global recession, franchising is the one business sector that seems to be able to weather the storm of economic downturns and indeed, historically has been know to thrive when things slow down. When the market is down, and there is insecurity in the job market, or when retrenchments or retirements happen, people are spurred into being entrepreneurial, fully aware that they have to consider alternative careers. The opportunity of going into business for themselves suddenly becomes feasible and it is here that franchising comes into its own. The combination of determination and a will to succeed from their side, coupled with a sound franchise opportunity, a solid brand and the fact that when times are hard, consumers choose well-known franchise brands over new, untried concepts resulted in a plethora of successful franchisees.

South Africa is one of those emerging markets that will experience a boom in franchising and with less than two years to the 2012 FIFA World Cup event, South Africans are preparing for this momentous event which is going to put the spotlight firmly on our beautiful country. Seen by many as a turning point for South Africa not only in terms of our global profile but as a gigantic boost to our economy, the franch