The Sri Lanka edition of the Global Franchise Forum (GFF) successfully concluded on 27 April at the Sheraton Hotel, Colombo, bringing together an exceptional mix of global brands, investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders for a powerful day of networking, insights, and opportunity.
With a remarkably high turnout that exceeded expectations, the event welcomed a diverse audience, including many from the targeted sectors—hospitality, retail, healthcare, and education—alongside aspiring entrepreneurs, growth-focused SMEs, and decision-makers from adjacent industries, all eager to explore franchising as a growth avenue.
The forum, supported by esteemed partners such as Indo-Lanka Chamber of Commerce, Ceylon National Chamber of Industries (CNCI), International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Sri Lanka, Colombo Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), and Indian Small Business & Franchise Association (ISFA) reinforced the growing importance of international franchise development in the country’s economic resurgence.
Gaurav Marya, Chairman of Franchise India Group, remarked, “We were thrilled to see such an enthusiastic and relevant audience in Sri Lanka. This forum was more than an event—it was a meeting of minds, markets, and opportunities. The energy in the room reflected the hunger for growth and the readiness of Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurs to embrace global brands and scale with purpose.”
Sri Lanka continues to position itself as a gateway to South Asia, and the forum highlighted its promise – a growing consumer base, rising demand for global brands, and a conducive policy environment for investment. The day featured a franchise showcase with leading global brands, pre-arranged business meetings, and rich knowledge-sharing sessions from franchising thought leaders.
Gaurav further noted, “Sri Lanka is clearly moving toward economic recovery. Despite global headwinds, including recent trade policy shifts, the Global Franchise Forum 2025 Sri Lanka Edition has helped catalyze timely conversations and build sustainable partnerships that support long-term economic development and resilience.”
Attendees engaged in meaningful one-on-one discussions, formed potential collaborations, and absorbed valuable insights from panels and workshops dedicated to franchise expansion strategies. The evening culminated in an elegant awards night that celebrated excellence and innovation within the franchise ecosystem.
Some of the brands that participated include Freshco Soda, U Clean, The Chocolate Room, Naturals Salon, Yala Begum, B2B Networks, Top Up Goli Soda, Hay Womens wear, Remarko Bakers, Total Clean, Karims, ISAS, DVE Automation, Franks, ThreeO clock, ActionCOACH among others.
The Global Franchise Forum 2025 – Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its role as a vital platform for franchise development, job creation, and cross-border collaboration—perfectly aligning with Sri Lanka’s broader ambition to emerge as a vibrant, investment-ready business hub in the South Asian region.
