MEFranchising positive about 2009 business

Franchises are attracting strong interest despite the current economic uncertainty, according to Middle East Franchising (MEFranchising) chief executive Fadil Alnassar.

“I believe the recession has pushed people to look for tangible business,” said Alnassar.

“Franchising plays a key role in reducing the risk in investment compared to a business that has to be started from scratch.”

Alnassar’s comments followed the Kuwait-based company’s successful participation in Dubai’s Franchising Middle East Exhibition 2009 (FME), held earlier this month.

“The exhibition size was smaller than the last year and the traffic was also less, but it the quality of the visitors was good,” said Alnassar.

“We presented 12 new international concepts which are ready to enter the Middle East from different business sectors such as F&B, manufacturing, technology and services.

“We also provide different services for entrepreneur and companies in all levels to deliver franchising solution for them such as helping local concepts to franchise their business and expand in the region or worldwide,” he added.

Alnassar said 2009 would be a significant year for MEFranchising.

“We are planning to launch Middle East Franchising Academy in 2009, to provide different training programs for franchisee, franchisors, students and government sector to increase the franchising awareness level,” he revealed.

“We also have plans for new services that will be launched in 2009, but we’re keeping the details quiet to surprise the market.”