Two-day FRO Expo focuses on SMEs in Gujarat

In a bid to help local retail groups to expand and move out of Gujarat, the National Franchise and Retail Opportunity (FRO) show sought to focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its two-day expo on July 24 and 25 in Ahmedabad.

Organised by RE/MAX India in support of Indian Franchise Association (IFA) and, co-organized by franchise and retail solution company, Franchise India (FI) the show was a platform for over 500 brands from various sectors.

"The intention is to create opportunity in the service sector for small retail businesses. The expo showcased how local retail businesses can franchise outside Ahmedabad and even Gujarat. Through the focus on SMEs, we also want to encourage clusters in Gujarat for their own branding," said Gaurav Marya, president, Franchise India.

The FRO show day put forth a spectrum of opportunities in franchising, retailing, licensing, real estate and retail supply from all possible industry verticals including fashion and lifestyle, food and beverage, education, financial services, health, beauty and wellness, travel, retail, and entertainment. "The exhibitors participating at the show include ICICI Securities, Kwality Walls, Remax, Eurokids, Zee Interactive Learning Systems, Gitanjali Jewels, Jetking, Chhabra 555, Mexus Education Pvt Ltd, Action Coach, SMC Global Securities Ltd, International Institute of Fashion Technology, and Vadilal Enterprises Ltd, among others. The show also witnessed presentation on low cost home based franchises, free business counseling and start-up ideas.," Marya added.

Apart from Ahmedabad, the expo has been held in cities like Indore, Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Calcutta, Chandigarh, Chennai, and Hyderabad.