The Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) has announced a target of securing RM120 million in investments for local retailers and franchisors through the Franchise Expo Malaysia International Retail and Franchise 2023 (FE MIRF 2023), which will be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) from July 7 to 9, 2023.
The target set is an increase of 20%, from RM100 million accumulated in multinational investments in 2022 to RM120 million this year.
Notable retail and franchise brands that contributed significantly to last year’s success included Marrybrown, Bask Bear Coffee, MyKori, Gigi Coffee, and LaundryBar, among others.
MRCA deputy president Ken Phua said, “FE MIRF is returning with its new tagline Everyone Wins because simply it is a platform meant to benefit both parties not only in the retail sector but also parties that are providing services to the retail sector.
“The name also shows that the expo places franchise as a key element and is set to be the leading largest franchise exhibition in Malaysia, with over 400 booths, and four halls.
He added, “We will be welcoming the participation of retailers from across the globe – this will allow us to improve and strengthen our relationship with different nations and encourage investment and business development between Malaysia and abroad.”
Previously known as the Malaysia International Retail and Franchise (MIRF) exhibition, this year’s sixth edition observed its official rebranding to Franchise Expo Malaysia International Retail and Franchise (FE MIRF) 2023.
FE MIRF 2023 is expected to attract 15,000 visitors from across the Asean region, compared to last year’s 10,000 visitors.
FE MIRF 2023 aims to develop bilateral trade relationships, while strengthening existing partnerships among retail franchises and licensing brands from different countries including China, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, USA, India, Thailand, Indonesia and host Malaysia.
FE MIRF 2023 will feature 450 booths across four exhibition halls for retail franchises and licensing brands.
The exhibition is the latest world-class stage for companies to gather and showcase their best offerings, with the intention of exporting their products and services internationally. This coincides with the theme of FE MIRF 2023 – “Everyone Wins”, establishing itself as an all-new platform with boundless business opportunities in Malaysia and across the world.
Through endorsements garnered from the government and strategic partners, MRCA is confident that FE MIRF 2023 will play a significant role in revitalizing the country’s economy through the development and growth of the franchise sector.
FE MIRF 2023 organizing chairperson Christine Tan said they are prepared to assist brands in expediting their global expansion, given their extensive capabilities and experience.
“I am confident that the rebranding and expansion of this year’s FE MIRF 2023 will bring much-added value for our local retailers and franchisors, and we look forward to aiding them in generating overseas investments into Malaysia,” she said.
Participants and delegates will be given opportunities to build brand awareness, forge connections with new business partners, and accelerate business growth in Southeast Asia.
FE MIRF 2023 will also provide services such as business matching, career matching, on-ground engagement and round-table discussions for participants and delegates to meet with potential franchisees from all over Malaysia and overseas.
A Best Booth Competition will be held for the first time for all exhibitors to show off their best designs. Judges will score the booths after the opening ceremony to determine the winner. The Best Booth Award will be presented during the Networking Dinner on July 7, with a grand prize worth RM15,000.
For more information on Franchise Expo MIRF (FE MIRF) 2023, visit https://mirf.my/ or its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MIRF.MRCA
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