Global Franchise Issue 10.1

outheast Asia is fast emerging as a powerhouse in the global franchise landscape.With over 700 million consumers expected by 2030 and GDP growth consistently outpacing global averages, the region is rich with opportunity for brands ready to scale. Urbanization in countries likeVietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines is fueling a growing appetite for new experiences, driven by a rapidly expanding middle class. At the center of this boom is Singapore – a politically stable, pro-business hub that’s ideally positioned to lead the way. It’s no surprise global F&B giants such as Shake Shack, TimHortons, and Cinnabon – alongside lifestyle brands like New Era, Palladium, and Salomon – are setting up shop. And soon to join the ranks: Chick-fil-A, launching in Singapore in late 2025. Gateway to ASEAN growth Singapore is increasingly seen as more than just a testing ground for global brands – it’s becoming a strategic launchpad into the wider ASEANmarket.With a multilingual workforce, solid intellectual property protection, and free trade agreements with neighboring countries, Singapore provides a low-risk, high-reward environment for franchise operators. On top of that, franchisors can take advantage of government support through programs like Enterprise Singapore’s Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) grant, which helps brands cover the costs of expanding abroad, including market entry consultancy, promotion, and business matching. These policies make Singapore an ideal springboard for international growth. That’s where Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia) 2025 comes in. As the region’s top platform for franchise and licensing opportunities, FLAsia brings ambitious brands together with serious investors, business owners, and master franchisees, offering tailored networking, knowledge exchange, and direct access to Asia’s booming markets. The 2025 edition will be a milestone event – marking the 20th edition – and is set to take place from 18–20 September 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. “Singapore’s strategic location and robust business fundamentals make it an ideal launchpad for international franchises looking to expand in Asia,” said Mr. ChuaWee Phong, Group Chief Executive Officer of Constellar, organiser of FLAsia. “FLAsia is a proven platform for new opportunities, connections, and partnerships, and an essential springboard for brands into the region.” “FLAsia is a cornerstone platform for strengthening our franchising and licensing ecosystem through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing,” added Mr. Gan SheeWen, President of the Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) Singapore. Rise of licensing in Asia Licensing is fast gaining ground as a strategic growth route in Asia, offering brand owners a powerful way to monetise their intellectual property (IP) – from characters and trademarks to digital content and storylines. Compared to franchising, licensing allows even more flexibility and faster market entry with lower capital requirements. Asia’s strong appetite for branded content, especially in entertainment, fashion, and sports, is fuelling demand S “With a multilingual workforce, solid intellectual property protection, and free trade agreements with neighboring countries, Singapore provides a low-risk, high-reward environment for international franchise operators, making it a strategic launchpad into the wider ASEAN market” 32 GLOBAL FRANCHISE Issue 10.1