After an eight-year absence, Franchise Expo Dallas is set to make its highly anticipated return to the Dallas-Fort Worth area on September 18-19 at the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas. The event, organized by MFV Expositions and Comexposium, arrives at a time when interest in franchise ownership is surging across the United States, with Texas consistently ranking among the top five states for franchise activity.
Martin Joksimovic, president of MFV Expositions, highlighted the industry's growth trajectory: "There are approximately 850,000 franchise establishments in the U.S. today and it's only a matter of time before the industry surpasses the one-million mark - a significant milestone." This sentiment underscores the importance of events like Franchise Expo Dallas, which serve as critical meeting points for aspiring entrepreneurs and established franchisors.
The expo will feature more than 100 exhibitors, over a dozen workshops and sessions, and a lineup of keynote speakers. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of franchise concepts across various industries and investment levels. Notable exhibitors include household names like McDonald's, GNC Live Well, and Lightbridge Academy, as well as regional favorites such as Perkins American Food Co., Mr. Gatti's Pizza, and The Big Biscuit. The home services sector is represented by Poolwerx, Pi Kitchen and Bath Shop, and Milo Insulation, while the senior care market features upstart concepts like Golden Years Relocation and Assisted Living Mansion.
Educational programming is a cornerstone of the event. On the opening day, Dr. John Hayes, Titus Chair for Franchise Leadership at Palm Beach Atlantic University, will host the "A to Z's of Buying a Franchise" workshop, while franchise industry veteran Mark Siebert of iFranchise Group will present "Franchising Your Business." Additional sessions include "Top Questions to Ask a Franchisor Before Investing," moderated by Natalie Hoyt of Ascent Hospitality Management, and a keynote on "Minorities Building Wealth with Franchising" by Andre Key, founder and CEO of Sociallybuzz.
Beyond the exhibit hall and workshops, Franchise Expo Dallas offers unique networking opportunities. The Emerging Brands Pavilion showcases concepts with fewer than 10 locations, giving attendees a first look at up-and-coming franchises. The Business Resource Center facilitates connections between franchise brands and leading industry vendors. Meanwhile, Franchise Expo Unplugged, in partnership with Social Geek Radio, will feature dedicated playlists and exclusive podcast interviews from the trade show floor.
The return of Franchise Expo Dallas is strategically significant. Texas's pro-business environment and rapid population growth make it a fertile ground for franchise expansion. For prospective franchisees, the event provides a rare, up-close look at the potential of entrepreneurship. For franchisors, it's an opportunity to tap into a motivated audience in a key market.
Franchise Expo Dallas is the second stop on MFV Expo's 2026 U.S. tour, following the International Franchise Expo in New York City in May. The tour will continue with Franchise Expo Cincinnati (Oct. 23-24) and Franchise Expo West in Glendale, Arizona (Nov. 13-14). Registration for the Dallas event is now open for both attendees and exhibitors. For more information, including travel and lodging options, visit the Franchise Expo Dallas website.
As the franchise industry approaches the one-million-establishment milestone, events like Franchise Expo Dallas play a pivotal role in connecting the people who will shape its future. Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner looking to expand, the expo offers the resources and connections needed to turn aspirations into reality.
