Global Franchise 10.3

From back-to-back calls, interviews, and conversations that go far beyond soundbites, I’m lucky to spend time with some of the sharpest minds in global franchising – founders, franchisors, investors, and operators actively shaping the industry. After months spent engaging in conversations with people who care deeply about franchising, one thing feels clear to me: franchising is coming of age. It feels more intentional, more self-aware, and more focused on building businesses that last. And from where I’m sitting, that’s a really encouraging place to be. Of course, the noise is still there. Deals are being made, growth plans announced, and AI is finding its way into every second conversation. But behind the headlines, the underlying mood is thoughtful and grounded. Less about speed for speed’s sake, andmore about what truly holds up when a brand leaves its home market and attempts to scale in the real world. There’s a clearer focus on the fundamentals – unit economics, franchisee quality and culture. A realistic overview of whether a concept is genuinely transferable or simply successful in one market (which, by the way, should also be sought and celebrated). Consolidation is still happening, but investors are asking tougher questions. Franchisors are being pushed to explain not just how fast they can grow, but why they deserve to. What’s striking is our industry’s focus on people and recognition that systems alone don’t build enduring brands. The strongest operators I speak to all say some version of the same thing: belief, trust, and consistency matter most. Against that backdrop, it feels like the right moment for the global industry to come together. Global Franchise will be on the ground at the IFA Annual Convention in LasVegas, and we’ll also be hosting the Global Franchise Awards – one of our favorite nights of the year. It’s a chance to step away from the day-to-day, reconnect with peers from around the world, and celebrate the brands, leaders, and partners who are genuinely raising the bar. If you’re heading toVegas, we’d love you to join us. Come say hello to us at Booth 951 and be part of our awards evening that’s as much about the stories behind the success as it is about the trophies. NEXT ISSUE ON SALE: April 2026 The views in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, products and services mentioned in this publication, and the details given are believed to be accurate at the time of going to press. However, no responsibility or liability whatsoever can be accepted for any consequence or repercussion of responding to information or advice given or inferred. Copyright Artichoke Media Ltd. EDITOR Charlotte Smith charlotte.smith@artichokehq.com HEAD OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Rachael Wenham 44 (0) 1323 471291 rachael.wenham@artichokehq.com SENIORACCOUNTMANAGER Kelly Parris +44 1206 505902 kelly.parris@artichokehq.com ART EDITORS Richard Allen , Sarah Barajas ACCOUNTS Artichokemedialtd@integral2.com PUBLISHERS Joe Carter, Sam Reubin, Richard Stebbing PUBLISHED BY Artichoke Media Ltd Charlotte Smith Editor, Global Franchise charlotte.smith@artichokehq.com @globalfranchise advisor The shape of a healthy industry 3 GLOBAL-FRANCHISE.COM Edi tor ’ s Letter