Nuevo León: food and drink lead franchising with 32% of outlets

Food and drink account for 32% of franchise outlets in the Mexican state of Nuevo León, a market with around 397 brands and 2,300 operating establishments. Figures shared by Lidia Quezada, director of Expo Franquicias Monterrey, show a sector with a strong presence in everyday consumer goods and services, which is expected to grow by 6% in 2026.

Three categories account for 65% of outlets

According to information published by El Horizonte on 28 October, food and drink retain the largest share of franchise outlets in Nuevo León. Personal care, health and beauty follow with 20% of outlets, while general services account for 13%.

Together, these three categories represent 65% of the establishments reported. The breakdown shows where franchise activity is currently concentrated, but it does not measure sales, profitability or untapped demand for new outlets.

The prominence of food and drink does not mean that the region’s franchise offering is limited to restaurants. The figures identify personal care, health and beauty businesses as another significant component, with general services completing the group of categories with the largest reported shares.

For those comparing investment options, this breakdown provides an initial overview of the state’s market. It shows which activities have an extensive presence, without replacing an assessment of each franchise concept and location.

A market of 397 brands with growth expected

Quezada said that Nuevo León has approximately 397 brands and 2,300 franchise outlets. At the presentation of Expo Franquicias Monterrey, she also highlighted their presence in Monterrey and its metropolitan area, where business and economic activity support the development of new ventures.

Growth in the state’s franchise sector is forecast at 6% for 2026. This is an expectation, not a year-end result. According to El Horizonte, expansion would be driven by opportunities across various retail and service categories, as well as the arrival of new brands.

The estimate matches the 6% growth forecast for Mexico’s franchise sector as a whole. As a national benchmark, Quezada cited more than 1,500 brands and nearly 95,000 outlets.

The regional figures therefore describe an established operating base. The expected growth points to a broader franchise presence, but does not specify how many new openings will fall within each category or how they will be distributed across Nuevo León’s municipalities.

Beauty, health and pet care among the opportunities

Alongside food, Quezada identified growth opportunities in beauty, health, services and pet care. Wellness, specialist services and lower-investment concepts were also mentioned during the event presentation as options for those looking to enter franchising.

These activities broaden the choice beyond the category with the largest number of outlets. However, the opportunities highlighted are neither individual growth forecasts nor guarantees of returns for any particular brand.

In her interview with El Horizonte, Quezada said that options are available with an initial investment starting at MXN 500,000 (Mexican pesos). The amount depends on the brand and business model, so it should not be interpreted as a standard entry cost for the Nuevo León market.

Comparing opportunities requires a review of their requirements, costs and operating characteristics. Two concepts within the same category may have different investment and operating conditions.

Growth requires consistent standards

Among the challenges Quezada identified is maintaining operational consistency across outlets belonging to the same brand. Expansion means preserving comparable standards as each concept increases its presence.

The director also highlighted digitalisation and the adoption of artificial intelligence tools as challenges in adapting operations and customer service. These are ongoing tasks that accompany growth, rather than applying only when new outlets open.

Practical takeaway: the breakdown of franchises in Nuevo León can help guide an investment search. Before choosing a brand, assess its financial proposition, operational requirements and the support available to maintain its standards.