The Franchise Association of South Africa (FASA) has launched its expanded 2027 Annual Conference and Expo (Confex), which will take place at Emperors Palace in Boksburg, Johannesburg on 24 and 25 February 2027.
FASA CEO Freddy Makgato says the event signals a new chapter for both the association and the broader franchising industry. “We need to break barriers to build South Africa’s economy. This is a new journey for FASA, and we are changing how we work. We believe in entrepreneurship and in partnerships that help people build sustainable businesses.”
An African platform for growth
Under the theme “Implementing Franchising Today“, the expanded two-day platform brings together franchisors, franchisees, investors, suppliers, policymakers and prospective entrepreneurs for learning, connection and business development. The programme reflects FASA’s commitment to advancing a sector that creates pathways into business ownership, skills development and employment.
A defining development for 2027 is Confex’s strengthened African outlook. FASA is now a member of the Africa Franchise Association, which brings together national franchise associations and expert partners from across Africa to build, grow and elevate franchising across the continent. Eight franchise associations have already joined the network, creating a stronger continental community that Confex can engage.
“The African focus will broaden the conversations and connections available through Confex, while supporting collaboration across markets,” explains Makgato. “It also reinforces the role that franchising can play in enabling entrepreneurs through established systems, training, mentorship and operating support.”
Makgato encourages industry, government and the private sector to participate in the momentum behind FASA’s evolving journey. Partners who engage at this formative stage can help shape a platform that promotes practical solutions, stronger networks and opportunities across the franchising ecosystem.
FASA’s Conference and Expo is delivered in partnership with key industry stakeholders, reflecting the value of public and private sector collaboration in supporting entrepreneurship and economic participation.
Warren Hickinbotham, head of sponsorships for FASA, says the platform offers companies an opportunity to align their brands with entrepreneurship, job creation and transformation. “If you believe, like I do, that South Africa builds itself one entrepreneur at a time, one job, one skill and one franchise at a time, then this is where you put your name behind that belief.”
Two days for deeper engagement
Confex 2027 expands from one day to two days of programming in response to feedback from delegates and sponsors. The format will allow more time for keynotes, panel discussions, breakaway sessions, networking and meetings across the franchising value chain.
“Our delegates and sponsors told us they wanted more time to connect, to learn and to do business, and we listened,” explains Makgato. “Moving to a two-day format allows us to go deeper into the issues that matter to franchisors, franchisees and investors, without rushing the conversations that lead to real partnerships.”
The added time is expected to give exhibitors and sponsors increased visibility and more opportunities to build relationships and generate leads. Furthermore, sponsorship opportunities begin when a partner signs up, extending engagement beyond the two event days through FASA’s communications and sector-facing platforms.
For the first time, the event will also be open to the public independently of conference attendance. This gives a wider audience access to the exhibition floor and an opportunity to explore franchising, engage with brands and learn more about business ownership.
FASA will also revitalise the FASA Awards at Confex 2027, creating an occasion to recognise excellence in the franchise sector. Confex 2027 invites the industry and its partners to help build a stronger, more connected franchising future for South Africa and the continent.
For sponsorship, sales and exhibition enquiries, please contact:
Warren Hickinbotham – sponsorships@fasa.co.za, 084 400 5995
Leigh Kennedy – EventX: 082 321 4487 , leigh@eventx.co.za
For registration and other enquiries, please contact:
Mpho Mashego
Email: mpho.mashego@fasa.co.za
Cell: 060 504 8886
