The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE), leading financial institutions, sector education and training authorities and industry bodies have reaffirmed their commitment to franchising through support of the Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) Conference and Expo 2026. The event takes place on 19 February at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Centre in Boksburg, Ekhurhuleni.
“The CoE is proud to partner with FASA to empower our SMMEs and drive sustainable economic growth,” states Phakamile Mbengashe, HOD: Communication, Marketing and Tourism at the City of Ekurhuleni. “By leveraging FASA’s expertise, we aim to tackle socio-economic challenges, create jobs and foster a knowledge-based economy.”
Franchising as a proven engine of economic impact
FASA hosts the annual conference and exhibition, bringing together franchisors, franchisees, funders, SETAs, entrepreneurs, SMMEs, aspiring business owners, policymakers and service providers to address the practical realities of growing franchise businesses.
“Franchising is one of the most practical ways to convert economic ambition into real businesses, jobs and skills,” says Fred Makgatho, CEO of FASA. “The FASA Conference and Expo 2026 is where stakeholders come together to share what works and scale it. If we are serious about inclusive growth and sustainable SMEs, these are the conversations the country needs to have.”
With the franchise sector contributing nearly R1 trillion to the South African economy, FASA positions the event as a working platform that focuses on outcomes rather than theory.
Financial sector support for long-term sustainability
Major banks supporting the conference and expo emphasise collaboration and tailored financial solutions for the franchise ecosystem. They understand the importance of sector-specific expertise and long-term partnerships.
“Having supported the industry for over three decades, we understand the evolving needs of franchisors and franchisees,” says James Noble, Executive for the Wholesale, Retail and Franchise Sector at Absa Business Banking.
“Our expertise enables us to partner with franchise businesses throughout their lifecycle, from new entrants to established brands looking to scale. As the Bank of the Entrepreneur, we go beyond traditional lending by offering holistic, integrated solutions that empower business owners, their employees and their long-term growth ambitions.”
Karen Keylock, National Manager for Retail Franchising at Nedbank Commercial Banking, adds that Nedbank sponsors events like the FASA Conference to support its clients and the broader industry more effectively. “At Nedbank, we believe our role goes beyond offering best-of-breed financial products and expert advice. So, through partnerships with leading industry organisations such as the Franchise Association of South Africa, we create opportunities that enable experts to share their knowledge to help drive the sector towards a thriving and sustainable future.”
Skills development and MSME support in focus
The Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) is reinforcing the critical role of franchising within its mandate, by placing skills development at the forefront of the industry conversation. Through a strategic partnership with FASA this year, the W&RSETA aims to encourage franchisees to actively engage with the SETA system to unlock essential benefits, specifically tailored training initiatives for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs).
This collaboration provides practical support during the mandatory grants application window, streamlining the process for businesses. By facilitating these applications, the W&RSETA directly supports the franchise community and contributes to national GDP growth through targeted, high-impact skills development.
Other conference sponsors include the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (Sedfa) and the Services SETA.
A platform for practical solutions and collaboration
The FASA Conference and Expo 2026 provides a space where stakeholders move from discussion to action, addressing funding access, skills shortages and scalable growth models.
“The continued backing of leading banks and skills authorities reinforces how franchising anchors South Africa’s SME economy,” concludes Makgatho. “It underscores the value of collaboration in building resilient, future-fit businesses.”
For sponsorship, sales and exhibition enquiries, please contact:
Warren Hickinbotham
Email: sponsorships@fasa.co.za
Cell: 084 400 5995
For registration and other enquiries, please contact:
Mpho Mashego
Email: mpho.mashego@fasa.co.za
Cell: 060 504 8886
Registration link: https://www.online-rsvp.co.za/FASAConference/
