Franchise Expo Paris 2026: The Must-Attend French Event for Future Entrepreneurs

Each year, Franchise Expo Paris establishes itself as a must-attend event for anyone considering starting their own business. A true hub for entrepreneurship, the show brings together the full franchise ecosystem for three days, including franchise networks, industry experts, investors and prospective franchisees. The next edition will take place from 14 to 16 March 2026.

More than just an exhibition, Franchise Expo Paris is a pivotal step for turning an idea into a viable business project and transforming ambition into entrepreneurial success.

Franchise Expo, a leading event for business creation

As franchising continues to attract a growing number of entrepreneurs, Franchise Expo Paris has become a recognised reference point for those looking to launch a business with the right support. The franchise model appeals strongly because it combines business independence with the security of a proven system, an attractive balance for people entering entrepreneurship.

Founded in 1981 by the French Franchise Federation and co-organised by Infopro Digital since 2023, the event has evolved far beyond a traditional trade show. It now functions as a genuine project accelerator, helping future business owners meet the right contacts, understand market trends and refine their plans before taking the next step.

For UK entrepreneurs considering franchising, the show offers valuable international insight and exposure to concepts that may later expand into the UK market.

Franchise Expo Paris in numbers

With more than 30,000 visitors in 2025 and nearly 500 exhibiting franchise brands, Franchise Expo Paris remains the largest franchise exhibition in Europe. Each year, it attracts serious project holders, career-changers and investors searching for structured and scalable business opportunities.

The breadth of sectors on display is one of the event’s key strengths. Over 90 industries are represented, including food and beverage, property, personal services, retail, wellbeing, education and emerging technologies. This diversity highlights both the resilience and adaptability of the franchise model, appealing to experienced professionals and first-time entrepreneurs alike.

Why Franchise Expo Paris matters

Franchise Expo Paris plays an important role in helping future franchise owners make informed decisions. By bringing together franchise brands, experts and investors in one place, the event gives visitors practical insight into market trends, business support and real franchise opportunities before committing to a network.

A concentrated view of market trends

Each edition showcases emerging franchise concepts and future-focused sectors. Visitors gain early insight into themes shaping modern franchising, such as responsible business models, digital service delivery, sustainable mobility and eco-conscious food concepts. As a result, the event acts as a market barometer for identifying growth opportunities.

Practical guidance for franchise candidates

Starting a franchise requires informed decision-making. Franchise Expo Paris provides access to legal advisers, financial experts, accountants and franchise consultants who can answer key questions around contracts, funding, market research and business structure.

The conference and workshop programme supports this further, covering essential topics such as franchise agreements, financing options and understanding pre-contractual disclosure documents, all designed to help candidates move forward with confidence.

Direct access to franchise decision-makers

Beyond the statistics, Franchise Expo Paris is fundamentally about connection. Visitors can speak directly with franchisors, development teams and existing franchisees, gaining real insight into how networks operate day to day. These conversations are often crucial in assessing cultural fit and long-term suitability.

Networking with fellow entrepreneurs and investors also adds value, creating opportunities for shared learning and collaboration.

Making the most of your visit

Preparation plays a key role in maximising the value of the event. Visitors are encouraged to define their target sectors in advance, shortlist brands of interest and prepare relevant questions before attending.

On site, digital visitor tools and personalised routes help streamline meetings and highlight franchise opportunities aligned with individual experience levels and investment capacity.

A gateway to franchise entrepreneurship

Attending Franchise Expo Paris offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of franchising. In one location, visitors gain access to expert advice, market insight and direct conversations that can shape a future business decision.

Whether you are at the early research stage or ready to take action, the event provides a strong foundation for building a sustainable franchise project.

Practical information

Franchise Expo Paris takes place annually in mid-March at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.
2026 dates: 14-16 March.

For those planning to attend, early preparation is recommended to ensure a focused and productive visit.