The first franchise and retail forum in Africa was held on June 28, 2024 in Paris.
Afretail, a newcomer to the world of professional events, has positioned itself in a niche segment. This forum is the first dedicated to franchising and retail in Africa. In a single day, the organizing team brought together commercial real estate developers, distributors, banks and brands, as well as logistics and IT experts.
For this first edition, Benin was the featured country. Corinne Brunet, Her Excellency the Ambassador of Benin in France, presented the many development and partnership opportunities available with Benin. Eurélia and Concretiz, the two organizing entities, are experts in international business development. Eurélia is the international division of France’s largest federation of specialist retailers, with 300 members. It advises investors and retailers on European and international markets. Concrétiz, founded by Izar Hyacinthe, supports companies in their expansion in Africa.
An ambitious conference program
The day was divided into two parts, with great efficiency. The morning’s program of conferences was ambitious, and was kept to. The organizers favored short sessions and concrete user cases to present development opportunities in Africa. Kiko Milano and Kiabi shared their successful experiences of expansion on the continent. GDIZ -Glo-Djigbé industrial zone zé-Bénin- presented its ambitions to become a key player in Benin’s made in Africa sector. Ecobank shared the various solutions it offers to support brands and promoters in their development. After an African-style cocktail reception, meetings took place in a convivial atmosphere between the brands’ international managers, support departments and promoters.
An event not to be missed
Professional forums play a crucial role in strengthening business relationships, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, there has been a growing desire for face-to-face contacts. These events meet this need by offering opportunities for face-to-face meetings. In the African context, face-to-face interactions take on particular importance. African partners often prefer a handshake to a simple exchange of e-mails. This personal approach builds mutual trust and consolidates business relationships more effectively. These professional forums help to create solid, authentic links, which are essential for business development in Africa.
Trade shows attract a variety of participants with diverse profiles. Among them are entrepreneurs looking for opportunities to develop their businesses. Executives from large companies also come to identify strategic partners and explore new markets. Investors, meanwhile, are looking to discover promising projects and make contacts with innovators. Consultants and industry experts attend to share their know-how and advise participants on best practices. Representatives of governments and public institutions attend to promote support policies and development initiatives. Finally, students and young professionals come to gain inspiration, expand their networks and prepare to enter the job market. This diversity of profiles enriches exchanges and fosters the creation of synergies beneficial to all the players present.
We look forward to seeing you next year, and in the meantime, get in touch with the Concretiz agency to give concrete expression to your deployment ambitions on the 54-country continent.
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