Franchise Show 2027 accepting exhibitor applications for Tokyo and Osaka, with a package for foodservice franchisors

On 29 October 2026, the official website for Franchise Show 2027 announced that exhibitor applications for the Tokyo event remained open. It also highlighted a food court package for foodservice franchisors and announced the opening of exhibitor applications for the Osaka event. For franchisors planning to recruit franchisees or showcase their businesses in Japan in 2027, now is the time to check the dates and participation requirements.

Tokyo event scheduled for 3–5 March 2027 at Tokyo Big Sight

The 44th Franchise Show is scheduled to take place at Tokyo Big Sight from Wednesday 3 to Friday 5 March 2027. Exhibitor applications can be submitted through the official website.

The opening of applications for the Tokyo event was first announced on the official website on 10 June 2026. The latest notice, dated 29 October, confirms that applications are still being accepted. Franchisors considering exhibiting should not only note the dates but also check the information and documents required to apply and draw up an internal preparation timetable.

The official notice directs prospective exhibitors to the exhibitor information pack for details of fees, application procedures, venue information and documents required from first-time exhibitors. In particular, franchisors taking part for the first time may find it easier to track progress across their teams by treating the application process and preparation of supporting documents as separate tasks.

The announcement itself does not specify exhibitor fees, application deadlines or the number of spaces remaining. The fact that applications remain open should not be taken as confirmation of available stand locations or participation terms; these need to be checked in the latest exhibitor materials.

Food court package promoted for foodservice franchisors

Alongside the standard exhibitor information for Tokyo, the announcement introduces materials for a “food court package”. Foodservice franchisors are explicitly identified as its intended users.

For franchisors operating foodservice brands, this is an option worth reviewing when deciding how to present their business. However, the announcement does not explain the package’s pricing, included facilities or conditions relating to food preparation and service. Rather than assuming what equipment or activities are permitted from the name alone, prospective exhibitors should first check the dedicated package information.

When considering participation, it is worth comparing the standard exhibitor information with the food court package details to assess which better suits the message the business wants to convey. Preparation needs will vary depending on whether the priority is to showcase the products themselves or explain store operations and franchisor support after a franchisee joins.

The package does not guarantee results from exhibiting. The starting point should be to decide what prospective franchisees need to understand, then assess the participation terms and costs against that objective. Another practical consideration is deciding what to explain at the venue and what to cover in subsequent individual consultations.

Osaka event scheduled for 22–23 July at INTEX Osaka

In the same announcement, the official website stated that exhibitor applications had opened for Franchise Show Osaka 2027. The event is scheduled for Thursday 22 to Friday 23 July 2027 at INTEX Osaka.

The published schedule gives Tokyo a three-day event and Osaka a two-day event, with separate exhibitor information provided for each. Franchisors considering both locations should review each event’s materials and identify the application requirements and preparation tasks separately.

The announcement does not include visitor forecasts or targets for the number of business meetings at either event. Nor does it state that the food court package promoted for Tokyo will be available on the same terms in Osaka. Prospective exhibitors should therefore avoid assuming that the Tokyo information also applies to Osaka.

As the events take place at different times of year, exhibitors should compare each set of dates with their target recruitment regions, staffing plans and timetable for updating franchise recruitment materials. The decision to attend both events or choose one should reflect not just location, but also the business’s recruitment strategy and capacity to prepare.

Base the decision to exhibit on recruitment objectives and participation terms

The three main developments confirmed in this announcement are the continued acceptance of Tokyo exhibitor applications, the promotion of a food court package for foodservice franchisors and the opening of Osaka exhibitor applications. For franchisors, this provides useful information for firming up plans to present their businesses to external audiences in 2027.

In practical terms, it makes sense to clarify the purpose of exhibiting first, then assess the costs and preparation involved. Agreeing internally whether the aim is to make initial contact with prospective franchisees or deepen their understanding of the brand and business will make it easier to plan the stand and supporting materials.

When presenting franchise terms or franchisor support, it is also important to ensure that information given at the venue is consistent with the materials provided during individual consultations. Alongside preparing the exhibitor application, businesses may also wish to assign responsibility for enquiries and establish follow-up procedures.

This announcement is aimed at exhibitors. Anyone considering becoming a franchisee should not confuse it with an announcement that visitor registration has opened, and should check the official visitor guidance separately for the relevant procedures.

Practical takeaway: Franchisors considering exhibiting should obtain the separate Tokyo and Osaka information packs and check fees, required documents and application terms. Foodservice franchisors should also review the food court package in detail before choosing the participation option that best matches their recruitment objectives.