The franchise model continues to gain ground in El Salvador, consolidating itself as a key strategy for business growth. Currently, 80 companies in the country have adopted this scheme, according to the Corporación de Exportadores de El Salvador (COEXPORT). Worldwide, there are more than 90,000 franchising companies, with 8 million franchised units and a market valued at US$15 billion.

During a discussion organized by COEXPORT, salvadoran entrepreneurs learned about the opportunities offered by franchises for business expansion. National brands such as Restaurante Don Li, Mixheladas and Corpobelo participated in the event, sharing their experience in the implementation of this model. Alfonso Riera, president of Front Consulting International (FCI),one of the most influential franchise consulting networks worldwide, also contributed his vision of the sector.
One of the key points addressed was the need to observe international trends and adapt successful strategies to the salvadoran context. Franchising not only allows a business to expand, but also facilitates investment and reduces the risks associated with opening new branches.

The event also highlighted emerging sectors with high growth potential in the region. Branches such as health, telemedicine, digital education, artificial intelligence, logistics and e-commerce are booming and offer opportunities for franchise expansion in El Salvador. In addition, the role of strategic alliances and cooperation models as key tools to consolidate businesses in highly competitive markets was addressed.

Silvia Cuellar, President of COEXPORT, emphasized that franchises represent an opportunity for business growth with great potential for internationalization. To promote this process, COEXPORT has a specialized program that has already trained more than 40 brands, of which four have managed to expand to other countries and six more are in the process of internationalization. Demand is high, with interested parties from Honduras to India.
The discussion concluded with a call to entrepreneurs to take advantage of these expansion opportunities through sustainable and innovative models. The collaborative economy and franchises continue to set the tone for business growth in El Salvador and globally.
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