Malaysia’s franchise industry is set for another year of growth as Franchise Expo Malaysia 2026 (“FEM 2026“) returns to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) with an ambitious RM700 million transaction value target, reflecting rising investor confidence and continued expansion across the retail sector.
Organised by the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA), the three-day exhibition runs from 23 to 25 July 2026 under the theme “Invest In Your Future.” Now in its ninth edition, the event aims to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for franchising, entrepreneurship and retail innovation.
The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Investment, Trade and Mobility, underscoring the government’s continued support for entrepreneurship and franchise business development.
RM700 Million Transaction Target Signals Industry Confidence
FEM 2026 is targeting RM700 million in transaction value, representing a 40% increase over the RM500 million achieved during the 2025 exhibition.
The higher target reflects growing confidence in franchising as a sustainable business expansion model amid evolving economic conditions.
This year’s expo spans five exhibition halls, featuring more than 450 exhibition booths and attracting an estimated 20,000 visitors, making it one of Malaysia’s largest franchise and retail exhibitions.
Home-grown brands account for approximately 60% of participating exhibitors, while international franchises make up the remaining 40%. The exhibition serves as a business-matching platform that connects franchise brands, investors and aspiring franchisees while supporting the continued growth of Malaysia’s retail ecosystem.
International Brands Strengthen Regional Franchise Opportunities
FEM 2026 also showcases strong international participation, reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a gateway for regional franchise expansion.
Participating countries include Thailand, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, South Korea, India, Spain, Australia and Indonesia, among others.
One of the exhibition’s highlights is the dedicated Thailand Pavilion, organised by the Department of Business Development (“DBD”) under Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce.
The expo also features participation from major international organisations such as the China Bakery Association, the Catering Franchise Alliance (China) and the World Franchise Association, creating additional opportunities for cross-border partnerships and business collaboration.
Live Commerce Takes Centre Stage
Recognising the growing influence of digital commerce, MRCA has introduced a dedicated Live Streaming Zone for the first time.
The new feature encourages exhibitors to combine their physical exhibition booths with live online promotions, allowing brands to reach wider audiences, increase visibility and generate new business leads through live commerce.
According to MRCA, the initiative forms part of its broader strategy to attract younger entrepreneurs while giving the exhibition a stronger international and digital presence.
MRCA and TAR UMT Partner to Develop Future Talent
Beyond business opportunities, FEM 2026 also focuses on developing the next generation of entrepreneurs and retail professionals.
During the exhibition, MRCA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) to strengthen collaboration in education and talent development.
The partnership will cover initiatives including scholarships, internships, career opportunities, industry engagement, knowledge sharing and corporate social responsibility programmes.
Supporting Aspiring Entrepreneurs
According to Terry Tay, Organising Chairman of FEM 2026, one of the expo’s key objectives is to make franchising more accessible by providing aspiring entrepreneurs with reliable information about established brands.
He explained that every exhibiting company undergoes a rigorous screening process and must be an MRCA member, ensuring participating businesses have established operations and strong credibility.
The screening process aims to provide prospective franchisees with greater confidence when evaluating investment opportunities while safeguarding their interests.
Strengthening Malaysia’s Retail and Franchise Ecosystem
FEM 2026 continues to receive strong support from industry partners.
Nu Vending serves as the Platinum Sponsor, while Xilnex and Reveillon Group Sdn Bhd are Silver Sponsors. Gintell joins as the Bronze Sponsor, and U Business supports the event as Patron and Connectivity Partner.
As Malaysia’s largest franchise and retail exhibition, FEM 2026 aims to bridge traditional retail with emerging digital business models. By combining international participation, technology, entrepreneurship and talent development, the expo seeks to strengthen Malaysia’s retail ecosystem while creating new investment and franchise opportunities for businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.
For further inquiries, please visit the official website at www.franchiseexpo.my, email [email protected], or contact directly at +6019-214 5362.
