Summary of the Franchise Fair

One of the standout moments was the announcement of the "TOP FRANCHISEES 2024" awards. The jury, consisting of notable figures from the franchise community, recognized several exceptional franchisees for their contributions and achievements. Winners included Andrzej Mazur from Carrefour as the "Multibiorca," Bogusława and Paweł Bigos from Intermarche for the "Fastest Growth in the Network," and Valerii Yolkin from Lviv Croissants as the "Innovator." A special award was also given to Anna Stencel, a Żabka franchisee, for her efforts in crisis management during recent floods in Wrocław.

In addition to the awards, various brands presented their unique franchise models. Touch Coffee Smart Bar, for instance, introduced autonomous coffee vending machines, already established in over 100 locations across multiple countries, including Poland, Ukraine, and the United States. The investment in these machines varies depending on the model, with costs ranging from 4,500 to 9,300 euros. This business model is noted for its low operational demands, requiring minimal daily maintenance.

Another notable franchise brand, Lviv Croissants, has been expanding its presence in Poland over the past three years, recently opening its eleventh location. The brand is recognized for its freshly baked croissants and has plans for further growth, particularly in Warsaw. Investment costs for Lviv Croissants range from 70,000 to 150,000 euros, and the franchisee receives extensive support in site selection and marketing strategies.

Emerging trends and opportunities in franchising

The fair also highlighted emerging trends in the franchise sector, such as the increasing popularity of mobile and compact store formats. For example, PSB Mrówka is launching a new concept called PSB Mrówka Express, targeting smaller towns and providing essential DIY products. This aligns with the trend of adapting franchise offerings to local market needs.

Gelato Naturale introduced a unique seasonal business model with mobile ice cream carts that operate from April to September, providing flexibility in location and sales opportunities. This innovative approach allows franchisees to capitalize on seasonal demand while minimizing overhead costs.

In the fast-food sector, McDonald's reiterated its commitment to franchising, with plans to increase the number of franchised restaurants in Poland. The brand aims for 95% of its operations to be franchised by 2026, emphasizing the importance of franchisee engagement and strong leadership skills in its partners. The investment required to become a McDonald's franchisee is approximately 5.5 million zł, with a structured training program that equips new franchisees with the necessary operational knowledge.

Overall, the Franchise Fair served as an important platform for networking and knowledge sharing, showcasing the diverse opportunities available in the franchise market. With a strong focus on innovation and support for franchisees, the event underscored the industry's resilience and potential for continued growth in the coming years.