DED organizes first seminar on franchise management

Representatives from leading companies and establishments in Dubai attended the seminar held at Grand Hyatt Dubai. Experts and consultants in franchise management presented papers on the concept and benefits to be gained from franchising.

The main topics of discussion were: 'How to make your business grow through franchising', 'How to create you franchise manual', 'Negotiating a franchise', 'The importance of legal documentation in franchising' and 'how to choose the right franchise for you.' Consultants from DED and other experts from leading corporations including AGN MAK Business Consultants, International Business Consult (IBC), Francorp ME and GCC Business Centre, gave a detailed explanation on the various aspects of franchise management.

'This seminar is one of the key steps in further promoting the concept of franchise management in Dubai. The initiative is aimed at attracting international corporations to set up their regional base in Dubai and contribute to the economic growth of the emirate,' said Khalid Al Kassim, Deputy Director General for Planning and Development, DED.

'The seminar explained the procedures as well as the importance of choosing the right franchise. It is important that businesses looking for new opportunities have a clear picture on how to choose the right franchise, and how to manage and operate an establishment,' added Al Kassim.

The DED plans further develop franchise management by guiding and enabling UAE entrepreneurs - individuals and companies - to extend their business regionally and internationally by leveraging on the advantages offered by proper franchising.

One of the critical responsibilities of business owners is managing growth and this becomes increasingly significant as businesses move beyond national boundaries towards global expansion. Many businesses now use the franchising method for expanding internationally.

'Setting up franchise networks within the country and expanding to new markets internationally can be achieved only through the systematic development of business practices that meet the specific demands of targeted customers and clients,' added Al Kassim.

The Franchise Management service was launched last year by the Business Sector Development Division at the DED to focus on supplying support services to the Business Sector including individuals, SMEs interested in developing new and existing franchise businesses, and Intlaq license holders.