FIM2026 Records Potential Investment of Over RM600 Million

Franchise International Malaysia 2026 (FIM2026) recorded potential investment of more than RM600 million (Malaysian ringgit), with 159 domestic and international exhibitors and over 26,000 visitors. The figures, reported by Malaysian news agency Bernama on 16 October 2026, indicate the scale of business engagement within the franchise community, ahead of efforts to bring these opportunities closer to entrepreneurs through regional events.

Potential investment, not confirmed sales

FIM2026’s three key measures were exhibitor numbers, visitor attendance and potential investment value. Each measures something different: exhibitor participation reflects the scale of the offering at the exhibition, visitor numbers indicate the event’s reach, and potential investment represents business opportunities identified.

This distinction matters when interpreting the figure of more than RM600 million. It was reported as potential investment, not investment already made or sales completed. Nor should it be treated as the value of new outlets already opened.

Likewise, attendance of more than 26,000 visitors does not mean that the same number became franchisees. For prospective participants in future exhibitions, the figure is better used to understand the breadth of opportunities to meet contacts and explore brands, rather than as a guarantee that every discussion will lead to an agreement.

The participation of domestic and international exhibitors brought both groups together at one event. However, the total of 159 exhibitors does not provide a breakdown by country or business type.

Following up through regional events

FIM2026’s figures were highlighted in a report on the launch of Road to FIM2027 Southern Zone in Johor Bahru on 16 October. The event, held at Paradigm Mall Convention Centre, was officially opened by the Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh.

According to Fuziah, the roadshow, themed “From Local to Global”, aims to make the franchise business model more accessible to the public. Its priorities include enabling micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to explore affordable franchise businesses before expanding into international markets.

That aim puts FIM2026’s headline figures into context. Beyond attendance and potential investment, the roadshow focuses on giving aspiring entrepreneurs opportunities to meet brand owners directly and assess options suited to their budgets.

Fuziah also emphasised efforts to challenge the perception that franchising is only accessible to large companies. Regional events therefore serve not merely to introduce brands, but also to explain the business model to people considering their first steps as entrepreneurs.

Advice and support complement the exhibition

Malaysian Franchise Association Vice-Chairman Khalek Awang said the roadshow was an effort to extend entrepreneurial opportunities to local communities. The groups mentioned included young people, graduates, homemakers and retirees seeking to earn an income.

He said visitors could obtain advice, financing information and business guidance directly from franchise operators and relevant agencies. This adds to the exhibition’s role: visitors can not only explore what brands offer, but also seek clarification on what is required to join a particular network.

Khalek also said that the franchise model offers support from brand owners, including operational training, marketing, the transfer of expertise and guidance on meeting standards. Prospective franchisees should include these matters in discussions when assessing an offer, alongside questions of affordability.

The opportunities highlighted at the roadshow also span food and drink, education, services, and health and beauty. This range shows that exploring franchising need not be limited to food businesses.

Assessing the event’s results using the right measures

FIM2026’s figures provide a clear reference point for the event’s scale: 159 exhibitors, more than 26,000 visitors and potential investment exceeding RM600 million. However, all three figures must be understood according to their definitions, without equating visitor interest with investment commitments or business openings.

For entrepreneurs, an exhibition’s practical value lies in the information they can take away for further consideration. Meetings with brand owners, financing information and explanations of operational support provide a basis for comparing options more systematically. Large headline figures may attract attention, but the suitability of each offer still needs to be assessed separately.

Practical takeaway: Use exhibitions to clarify capital requirements, training and support from brand owners. Treat an event’s potential investment figure as an indication of opportunity, not a guarantee of returns for your own business.