FRANCHISEE INDIA 2008, Asia’s largest franchise and retail show, kick started on Saturday (November 29) amidst the presence of top corporates and retailers in Delhi. Over 350 domestic and international brands from over 15 countries are participating in this event meant to promote franchising as a mode of business.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Lt General ML Naidu, vice chief of the army staff

in the presence of Gaurav Marya, president, Franchisee India Holding Ltd, Manish Kalani chairman EWDPL, Hemchandra Jhaveri, Samir Kuckreja, CEO and MD, Nirulas, and a number of dignitaries from India and abroad.
The exhibition is being organised by Franchise India Holding Limited and supported by India Franchise Association, together with Entertainment World Developers Private Limited.
Franchise India 2008 is aimed at providing a comprehensive business to business platform for the franchisee, retail and licensing industry to facilitate meetings, interactions and business deliberations.
Gaurav Marya, president,
Franchisee India Holdings Ltd, said that
franchisee business is globally growing at a fast rate of over 15 per cent every year and India is not untouched by it. “In a period of global recession, franchising business will prove to be an enormous business opportunity, and will work like a booster shot for the sluggish economy,” said Marya, who is also the organiser of the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Manish Kalani, chairman, EWDPL said, “ This event will

help in promotion of entrepreneurship in the country and enable them towards self employment and would therefore act as an enabler for small business growth in India. ”
The exhibition, which commenced today showcases around 250 business ideas, which can be utilised by those interested in setting up their own businesses. It also comprises five simultaneous conferences on entrepreneurship, franchise, retail and licensing industry to facilitate meetings, interactions and business deliberations.
These conferences will help in creating a global knowhow both for people looking to initiate or expand their business. Renowned experts from across the globe and top industry specialists in India shared their practical knowledge and modern trends that enabled the achievement of the core objective, solving the issues surrounding franchising and retailing.
The show exhibits business opportunities in food and beverages, fashion and apparel, education, health and beauty, jewellery, home furnishings and retail supplies. On Sunday, the event will witness Franchisee and Star retailer awards in various categories. The participants in the event have come from United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Netherlands and many other countries besides India.