Querétaro’s Thriving Franchise Sector
With over 1,300 franchise outlets in the state and annual growth of two digits, Querétaro has become a significant market for this business model, according to Betsy Eslava, president of the Mexican Franchise Association (AMF).
These franchise units generate 11,000 direct jobs in Querétaro and have a strong presence in the food and beverage sector. The state’s economic and population growth have fueled this sector’s development.
Franchise Growth and Performance
“Currently, there are more than 1,300 establishments operating as franchises in Querétaro, reflecting a mature local ecosystem,” Eslava stated.
In 2024, Mexican franchises saw a 10% increase in new unit openings, with an estimated 11% growth this year. The entrepreneur highlighted the strong performance of the franchise sector, surpassing Mexico’s overall economic growth trend.
“A growing industry when most of the economy is in decline, we are growing and at double-digit rates within our sector. It’s a very solid industry and it’s a proven model worldwide, as we provide manuals, support, training, innovation, and technology to investors,” she explained.
In the services segment, logistics have grown due to e-commerce demand. About 70% of franchises use technology platforms to deliver their products, she added.
Upcoming Business Gathering in Querétaro
Business Meeting
Querétaro will host the first edition of the Hagamos Negocios – Franquicias Expo and Forum, an event organized by AMF and Hagamos Negocios.
The event, scheduled for September 10 at the Querétaro Industrial Club, will bring together investors, entrepreneurs, and businesspeople from the Bajío region to evaluate business opportunities. The day will include networking sessions and other activities.
“Our sector is a true engine of growth and economic development in the country. (…) This type of platform, bringing brands and investors together, is incredible because it’s when brands meet entrepreneurs seeking a franchise and learn about each brand’s value proposition, while we, as brands, get to know our investors firsthand,” Eslava said.
The Bajío region, according to the AMF president, is a hub for scaling and professionalizing projects; it has become one of Mexico’s most dynamic poles for franchise business growth.
Democratization of Franchises
The franchise model has become more accessible, with businesses now starting at 150,000 pesos. For example, water purification franchises have thrived in the country with this investment level. The average investment in the sector is 1.5 million pesos.
Franchises are present in at least 17 sectors, primarily food and beverages, health and beauty, travel agencies, schools, workshops, laundromats, and more.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Querétaro’s franchise sector? Querétaro has over 1,300 franchise outlets with annual growth of two digits, making it a crucial market for this business model.
- What sectors do franchises primarily operate in? Franchises are present in at least 17 sectors, with a strong presence in food and beverages, health and beauty, travel agencies, schools, workshops, laundromats, and more.
- What is the average investment in the franchise sector? The average investment in the franchise sector is 1.5 million pesos, although businesses can start as low as 150,000 pesos.
- What is the Hagamos Negocios – Franquicias Expo and Forum? This event, hosted in Querétaro, aims to bring together investors, entrepreneurs, and businesspeople to evaluate franchise opportunities and foster connections between brands and investors.
- How has the franchise sector performed compared to Mexico’s overall economy? The franchise sector has shown strong growth, surpassing Mexico’s overall economic growth trend.
