Addis Ababa is set to become a major meeting point for the African and international franchise business community as the Ethiopian International Franchise Expo and Africa Franchise Expo 2026 take place on 31 October and 1 November 2026 at Hilton Addis Ababa.
The two-day international event will bring together franchise brands, investors, entrepreneurs, business groups, franchise professionals and industry leaders from Ethiopia, across Africa, the Middle East and other international markets.
The event is being organised in collaboration with 251 Marketing & Communications and supported by FranExpos, Dubai, a leading franchise exhibition organiser with experience in developing and promoting franchise business events across international markets.
A Gateway to Ethiopia and Africa:
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is emerging as a promising destination for franchise and international business expansion in East Africa. With a metropolitan population estimated at more than 5 million people and a growing young, urban consumer base, the city offers opportunities for franchise brands across food and beverage, retail, education, healthcare, hospitality, technology and professional services.
Addis Ababa also holds a unique position as the diplomatic capital of Africa, serving as the headquarters of the African Union and hosting numerous international and regional institutions. Its strategic location, improving infrastructure and role as a gateway to Ethiopia’s large domestic market make Addis Ababa an increasingly important platform for connecting international franchise concepts with Ethiopian entrepreneurs, investors and the wider African market.
Ethiopia has a population of approximately 135 million people, making it the second-most populous country in Africa after Nigeria. Its large, predominantly young population and increasing urbanisation create significant long-term potential for consumer businesses, retail, food and beverage, education, healthcare, hospitality and franchise development.
With Ethiopia emerging as one of Africa’s important consumer and investment markets, the Expo aims to create a dedicated platform connecting international franchise brands seeking expansion with Ethiopian and African investors and entrepreneurs looking for proven business opportunities.
The event will provide opportunities for international brands to explore master franchise, area development, joint venture and investment partnerships across Ethiopia and the wider African continent.
Alongside the exhibition, the event will feature the Africa Franchise Conference, bringing together business leaders and franchise experts to discuss franchise development, investment, market entry and the future of franchising in Africa.
The programme will also include the Africa Franchise Awards, recognising outstanding franchise brands, entrepreneurs, business leaders and organisations contributing to the development of the franchise sector.
Event: Ethiopian International Franchise Expo & Africa Franchise Expo 2026
Dates: 31 October – 1 November 2026
Venue: Hilton Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
In Collaboration With: 251 Marketing & Communications
Supported By: FranExpos, Dubai
The Addis Ababa event is expected to strengthen Ethiopia’s position as an emerging destination for international franchise investment while creating a new gateway for brands seeking to expand across the African continent.
