FRANCHISE EXPO MIRF 2023 UNVEILED BY MRCA WITH A VISION OF RM120 MILLION IN LOCAL & INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT

The grand opening of Franchise Expo Malaysia International Retail and Franchise 2023 (FE MIRF 2023) today saw YB Datuk Seri Salahuddin Bin Ayub, Minister of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN), witness its goal of attracting RM120 million in investments for local retailers and franchisors through the newly rebranded exhibition.

Formerly known as the Malaysia International Retail and Franchise (MIRF) exhibition, the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) has officially rebranded its prestigious show to FE MIRF 2023 for its sixth edition. This year marks a significant milestone for MRCA as they embark on strategic initiatives to elevate the retail and franchise industry in Malaysia, attracting investors from around the world.

Featuring near to 400 booths and over 200 exhibitors, the exhibition anticipates the attendance of over 15,000 visitors, including prospective investors, business owners, and customers – resulting in a boost in business activities, exhibitor transactions, and sales. With significant growth in the participation of foreign investors and retailers from Taiwan, Korea, Singapore, USA, UK, Vietnam, India and Australia – FE MIRF 2023 brought well-established and in-demand brands to provide a platform for local franchisees and investors to make calculated decisions based on side-by-side comparisons on international franchises, ultimately resulting in the introduction of these brands to the Malaysian market.

Domestic exhibitors showcased innovative homegrown franchise concepts, presenting investors with exciting opportunities to participate in the growth of local brands. These concepts were tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the Malaysian market. By capitalizing on FE MIRF 2023’s platform, domestic exhibitors showcased its best offerings to attract investments that will enable their franchises to expand and thrive.

In a significant milestone, the F&B Pillar of MRCA (Malaysia Retail Chain Association) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with TAZTE by ZCITY, a comprehensive F&B digital platform and automated business solution. The signing of this MOU marks an important step towards achieving MRCA’s ambitious goal of securing RM120 million in investments. The MOU signing represents a strong commitment from both MRCA and TAZTE by ZCITY to foster innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability within the F&B industry. Together, they aim to create a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem that benefits not only businesses but also consumers and the overall economy.

YB Datuk Seri Salahuddin bin Ayub, Minister of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN), in his speech mentioned, “Malaysia is increasingly becoming the first port of call for international organizations wanting to engage in businesses across Southeast Asia. In line with the KPDN vision of achieving progressive and sustainable domestic trade, the emphasis will be focusing on the efficient and effective administration in the distributive trade sectors as an integral part of the services sector in Malaysia. The distributive trade sectors including retails, direct selling, chain stores, franchising and e-commerce had also contributed to changes of the distributive trade by providing a more diverse distribution channel for goods and services produced in the country.

“Malaysia being located geographically central in the ASEAN region, gives us an advantage to expand and reach out to neighboring countries and beyond. We have an abundance of resources and know-how which once put to its maximum output can spearhead and increase exports. In this regard, MIRF is definitely the fighting platform for businesses to connect and I trust the next 3 days in KLCC Convention Centre are going to be very fruitful and exciting for all,” he added.

Additionally, FE MIRF 2023 facilitated business matching services to propel investment prospects further. By carefully analyzing investor profiles and exhibitor offerings, tailored meetings were arranged to connect partners who demonstrated a genuine mutual interest in their respective sectors. This personalized approach ensured that investment discussions were focused and aligned with the specific needs and preferences of investors, boosting the likelihood of successful partnerships and investment commitments.

Moreover, through a meticulously designed on-ground engagement initiative, visitors were provided with a conducive environment to establish direct interactions, build relationships, and explore potential collaborations. Networking sessions, one-on-one meetings, and interactive workshops created an atmosphere conducive to productive exchanges, allowing franchisors to showcase their offerings and investors to express their interests. 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.

Ms. Christine Tan, Organizing Chairperson of FE MIRF 2023 said, “This grand opening marks the culmination of months of meticulous planning, dedication, and collaboration among industry leaders and entrepreneurs, who share a common vision of fostering growth, innovation, and prosperity in the world of franchising and retail. Our FE MIRF 2023 is more than just an event; it is a platform that will catalyze economic development, entrepreneurship, and knowledge exchange. It is an avenue where businesses will thrive, and partnerships will be forged. Moving forward, FE MIRF 2023 will continue offering unparalleled investment opportunities, a platform for emerging brands, valuable knowledge sharing, extensive networking opportunities, and industry recognition, as we aim to ultimately position ourselves as Southeast Asia’s leading retail and franchise expo.”

The exhibition is supported by MRCA Corporate Patrons namely Maxis, Fusionex and RHB, and endorsed by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) Singapore and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).

Franchise Expo MIRF (FE MIRF) 2023 is also proud to have Nu Vending Sdn Bhd as the Platinum Sponsor, POS2U Sdn Bhd as the Gold Sponsor, Gem Reward Sdn Bhd; SBDG (SEA) Sdn Bhd; Web Bytes Sdn Bhd as the Silver Sponsors and 168 Park Selayang Sdn Bhd and China Mobile International Sdn Bhd as Bronze Sponsors.

Franchise Expo MIRF (FE MIRF) 2023 will be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) from 7 to 9 July 2023. For more information on Franchise Expo MIRF (FE MIRF) 2023, visit https://mirf.my/  or its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MIRF.MRCA