Thursday, July 16, 2026

Al Jazeera - Economy:

The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority 'Monshaat' confirmed the continued growth of the franchise sector in the Kingdom, as the total number of brands operating under the franchise system in the Saudi market until the end of the second quarter of 2026 reached about 1,514 brands, with local brands accounting for 744 brands, an estimated 49.1% of the total brands operating in the market.

The authority explained that this growth reflects the development the sector has witnessed since the establishment of the Franchise Center under Monshaat in 2020, when the total number of brands operating in the Kingdom was about 692 brands, including 93 local brands representing about 13% of the total brands, reflecting the notable increase in the number of national brands over the past years.

Monshaat indicated that the Franchise Center directly contributed to supporting and converting 214 local brands to the franchise system, representing more than 28% of the total local brands operating in the market, in addition to verifying the readiness of 2,636 brands for franchising, as part of its efforts to enhance the readiness of national brands and strengthen their expansion opportunities.

The authority stated that the franchise market in the Kingdom is witnessing diversity in franchising sectors, most notably food and beverages, retail, education, healthcare, services, and entertainment, reflecting the wide investment opportunities available to entrepreneurs and investors. Entrepreneurs and investors can view available franchise opportunities through the center's website.

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