Maltese businesses discuss franchising and exporting their concepts worldwide

The president of Malta’s Chamber of Commerce said entrepreneurs need more support and necessary resources to export Maltese concepts and establish international franchises.

Helga Ellul was addressing the Chamber’s conference ‘Focusing on Franchise’.

“This sector deserves full support – there are already several success stories. The Malta Chamber knows there will be many others if more entrepreneurs are encouraged to go the same way. Last year we teamed up with Malta Enterprise and the Commonwealth Secretariat for an initial project. We know that building on this project and providing further support will generate growth for the Maltese economy,” Ellul said.

Ellul insisted that these decisions are important and urgent. “There is no doubt that this support falls squarely into an innovative export-led and knowledge-based activity we all desire for our country and franchising could be the ideal vehicle to deliver this kind of economic growth.”

During her presentation, the director of the International Franchising Centre, Farrah Rose said that in order for a company to franchise, it needs a sound and successful domestic operation, as well as a vision and commitment to a long-term project, which would include a five year development plan - and budget.

“However, there is still little knowledge of successful franchising processes in Malta – the length of time and resources it takes to do it right!” she said.

Finance minister Tonio Fenech, who closed the conference, urged participants to “take up these opportunities: let’s do our best to move towards the practical implementation of the ideas that were shared here today. The tools are there. It’s up to all of us to make it happen, he said. “If we can provide excellence to foreigners investing locally, then our local businesses can provide excellence in foreign markets. Indeed, many of the ingredients are there for us to be truly excellent.”