Official Opening of Franchise Expo Malaysia 2026 at KLCC, officiated by YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Investment, Trade, and Mobility
High-energy networking, bustling digital streams, and cutting-edge brand showcases filled five major exhibition halls at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) as the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) officially kicked off its annual flagship event, Franchise Expo Malaysia 2026 (“FEM 2026”). Running from 23 to 25 July 2026, this three-day powerhouse exhibition marks a bold new chapter for local and international retail expansion.
Under the theme “Invest In Your Future,” the 9th edition of FEM is aiming high: setting an ambitious target of RM700 million in transaction value—a striking 40% leap from the RM500 million achieved in 2025. This surge reflects unwavering investor confidence in franchising as a resilient, future-proof mechanism for business growth.
An Official Tour & Visit to Franchise Expo Malaysia 2026 by YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Investment, Trade, and Mobility, accompanied by MRCA Executive Council
The event opened with Guest of Honour YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Investment, Trade, and Mobility, underscoring government backing for entrepreneurship and retail innovation.
Spanning over 450 exhibition booths and expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors, FEM 2026 serves as a high-efficiency business-matching platform. Home-grown Malaysian brands represent an impressive 60% of participating businesses, with the remaining 40% comprising international powerhouses from Thailand, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Australia, and beyond.
Key international highlights include:
- The Thailand Pavilion, anchored by the Department of Business Development (DBD) under Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce.
- Strong presence from global industry bodies, including the China Bakery Association, the Catering Franchise Alliance (China), and the World Franchise Association.
To keep pace with changing consumer habits, FEM 2026 debuted an exclusive Live Streaming Zone. By blending physical booths with live digital commerce, exhibitors can broaden their reach, boost brand visibility, and generate real-time leads. The initiative is part of MRCA’s strategy to bring a vibrant, youthful, and digital-first dimension to the franchise space.
In tandem with digital growth, MRCA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) during the opening day. This strategic partnership focuses on talent development, internships, career pathways, scholarships, and joint CSR projects—ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled talent for Malaysia’s evolving retail ecosystem.
YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Investment, Trade, and Mobility
For aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the franchising world, trust is everything. Mr. Terry Tay, Organizing Chairman of FEM 2026, emphasized that safety and credibility remain top priorities for the expo.
“Every brand showcasing at FEM 2026 undergoes a rigorous screening process. Exhibitors are required to be members of MRCA, ensuring that they possess an established business scale and solid credibility. This stringent measure is in place to protect the rights and investments of prospective franchisees,” Tay highlighted.
Dato’ Liew Bin, President of MRCA
FEM 2026 continues to enjoy strong backing from key industry players:
- Platinum Sponsor: Nu Vending
- Silver Sponsors: Xilnex & Reveillon Group Sdn Bhd
- Bronze Sponsor: Gintell
- Patron & Connectivity Partner: U Business (ensuring seamless digital performance across all halls)
By bridging traditional retail with digital execution and young talent, FEM 2026 reinforces its standing as Malaysia’s premier platform for franchise growth—helping everyday investors turn entrepreneurial dreams into sustainable reality.
