From November 4 to 8, approximately 20 Brazilian companies participated in a trade mission to the Spanish and Portuguese markets, promoted by Franchising Brasil, a program for the internationalization of the franchising sector in partnership with the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF) and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil). The trip also had the collaboration of the Portuguese Franchising Association (APF) and the Asociación Española de la Franquicia (AEF). The expectation is to generate approximately US$ 1,134,660.00 in business over the next 12 months.
During the trade mission to Spain and Portugal, the more than 15 participating Brazilian companies, including brands such as Aramis, Bee Delivery, Chopp Time, Corpo Bueno, Detroit Steakhouse, Doutor Sofá, Fast4you, Goakira, Hypper Brands, Crepefy, Tdonuts, Frutassa, iGui, Mapfry, NTW, School of Rock, Solutto, Billy the Grill, Chilli Beans and Ital’in House had an intense and diverse agenda of activities.
In Madrid, the first day was dedicated to workshops on the franchise market, intellectual property, regulations, real estate and cybersecurity. Companies also participated in institutional presentations, success cases and networking sessions with local professionals, strengthening the franchise ecosystem between Brazil and Spain.
On the second day, the delegation went on technical visits to shopping centers such as Alcobendas Carrefour and Gran Via de Hortaleza, in addition to an immersion in the business model and customer service strategies of the international franchise MBE – Mail Boxes Etc., with discussions on potential partnerships in Brazil.
In Lisbon, the mission continued with a series of activities focused on immersion in the local market. The program included an opening session with representatives from AICEP and APF, as well as panels on internationalization strategies, marketing for global expansion and challenges faced by Brazilian and Portuguese franchisees. The delegation also had the opportunity to participate in a “porto de honra“ (port of honor) organized by AICEP.
In addition, the companies participated in technical visits to innovative business models such as Tab – The Alternative Board, the School of Rock Music School, and explored the marketing strategies of brands such as Braza and Nata Lisboa. The agenda also included a meeting with local professionals at Oeiras Park, one of Portugal’s main shopping centers, and discussions on marketing strategies and expansion in Brazil during a visit to Shopping Colombo.
Bruno Amado, executive manager of Franchising Brasil and manager of International Projects at ABF, highlighted the importance of the mission: “This mission was an excellent opportunity for Brazilian companies to get to know the potential of the European market and establish strategic partnerships. The exchange of experiences and the strengthening of commercial relations were fundamental to consolidating the presence of Brazilian brands on the international scene.”
About Franchising Brasil
Franchising Brasil is a project that aims to support the internationalization strategy of Brazilian franchise networks and their commercial promotion in the main international markets. The initiative is a partnership between ABF and ApexBrasil, which works to promote Brazilian products and services abroad and attract foreign investment to strategic sectors of the Brazilian economy through commercial promotion actions. To participate, simply download and fill out the membership form available on the website and send it to internacional@abf.com.br.
About ABF
Founded in 1987, the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF) is a non-profit organization that officially represents the Brazilian franchise system. Its mission is to defend, promote and foster the sector, nationally and internationally, so that it remains prosperous, sustainable, innovative, inclusive and ethical. With over 35 years of history, the ABF enjoys great prestige and a consolidated image in the market. It is also the headquarters of the Ibero-American Franchising Federation (FIAF), leader of the World Franchise Council (WFC) Task Force, member of the International Franchise Association (IFA) and responsible for the largest franchise fair in the world, the ABF Franchising Expo.
About ApexBrasil
The Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) works to promote Brazilian products and services abroad and attract foreign investment to strategic sectors of the Brazilian economy. To achieve its objectives, ApexBrasil carries out diversified trade promotion actions aimed at promoting exports and valuing Brazilian products and services abroad, such as prospective and commercial missions, business rounds, support for the participation of Brazilian companies in major international fairs, visits of foreign buyers and opinion makers to learn about the Brazilian production structure, among other business platforms that also aim to strengthen the Brazil brand.The Agency also works in a coordinated manner with public and private actors to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to Brazil, focusing on strategic sectors for developing the competitiveness of Brazilian companies and the country.