Franchises in Puebla allocate 15% of profits to security

Franchises in Puebla, Mexico, have increased the share of their annual profits allocated to security to 15%, according to Francisco Lobato Galindo, vice-president of the Mexican Franchise Network (Red Mexicana de Franquicias). He linked these protective measures to a reduction of up to 60% in thefts at these businesses during 2026, according to information published on 23 October.

Protection goes beyond CCTV

Lobato Galindo explained that business owners have strengthened their precautions because CCTV systems alone are not enough. Measures adopted include hiring police officers and following security recommendations aimed at protecting customers.

The 15% figure refers to annual profits, not sales or initial investment. This distinction matters when assessing the operational burden of security costs: the figure describes the share of profits that businesses allocate to improving protection, according to the representative.

Although he said this proportion had increased, the published information does not specify the previous percentage. The figure therefore indicates the reported level of spending, but cannot be used to calculate its year-on-year increase or compare different brands.

For Puebla’s franchise community, this makes security a factor to consider when assessing day-to-day operations, alongside the specific circumstances of each outlet and its location.

Fewer thefts reported during 2026

The vice-president of the Mexican Franchise Network said thefts at these establishments had fallen by up to 60% in 2026. He attributed this result to preventive measures adopted by franchisees and their adherence to security recommendations.

The figure should be understood as a result reported by the business representative. The published information does not detail the number of establishments covered, the total number of incidents or the period used as a basis for comparison. Nor does it establish that every franchise in Puebla experienced the same reduction.

Lobato Galindo also maintained that security conditions were encouraging chains interested in opening outlets, particularly in the food sector, to enter the market. His explanation links protection for existing businesses with expansion decisions, without announcing specific openings or investment commitments by any brand.

The central message is that prevention is not simply about responding to incidents: it also forms part of the conditions operators consider when deciding where to set up.

Location and track record before investing

In his comments, Lobato Galindo advocated franchising as an option for prospective entrepreneurs, while stressing that its chances of success depend on the location and type of business. He said food and drink concepts had seen greater demand over the past five years.

He also recommended checking that a brand has more than five outlets, whether in the same city or elsewhere. This is a due diligence criterion suggested by the representative, not a guarantee of profitability or a legal requirement cited in the published information.

His recommendation combines two considerations: checking the network’s experience and setting aside funds for security. Under this approach, understanding a brand’s track record does not replace an assessment of conditions at the proposed premises.

Warning over promises of returns

Lobato Galindo also questioned offers promising returns of 10% on an investment of 100,000 Mexican pesos, which include running the business on the owner’s behalf without explaining how profits are generated. He did not identify specific companies or specify the period over which those returns were promised.

He warned that the buyer bears the operating risk, describing guidance and the supply of raw materials as support functions provided by the chain. His comments highlight the distinction between franchise support and a promise of guaranteed profits.

Practical takeaway: before investing, check the brand’s track record, clarify who will run the outlet and how revenue is generated, and include a security budget appropriate to the location. The percentage reported in Puebla is a local reference point, not a rule that applies to every franchise.