MFV Expositions and Comexposium are set to host Franchise Expo Dallas on September 18-19 at the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas, marking the event's first return to the Dallas-Fort Worth area since 2018. The two-day trade show is expected to draw thousands of attendees, featuring more than 100 exhibitors, over a dozen workshops, and a lineup of keynote speakers. This return is strategically timed, as Texas consistently ranks among the top five states for franchise interest and activity, making it a prime destination for entrepreneurs seeking ownership opportunities.
The franchise industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with approximately 850,000 franchise establishments currently operating in the U.S. According to Martin Joksimovic, president of MFV Expositions, the industry is on the verge of surpassing the one-million mark, a milestone that underscores the rising appeal of franchise ownership. 'The networking opportunities at Franchise Expo Dallas are, by design, meant to spark the conversations that can turn entrepreneurial dreams into reality,' Joksimovic stated. 'At MFV Expo, we're proud to play the role of matchmaker, connecting motivated entrepreneurs with franchise opportunities representing a diverse range of industries and all levels of investment.'
The event's educational programming includes popular sessions such as 'A to Z's of Buying a Franchise' led by Dr. John Hayes, Titus Chair for Franchise Leadership at Palm Beach Atlantic University, and 'Franchising Your Business' presented by Mark Siebert of iFranchise Group. Other sessions cover critical topics like '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. Attendees can access the full two-day agenda on the Franchise Expo Dallas Seminars page.
Special programming includes the Emerging Brands Pavilion, reserved for franchise concepts with fewer than 10 locations, offering a glimpse at up-and-coming brands. The Business Resource Center facilitates connections between franchisors and industry vendors, while Franchise Expo Unplugged, in partnership with Social Geek Radio, brings live podcast interviews and insights from the trade show floor.
The exhibitor roster spans multiple industries, featuring established names like McDonald's, GNC Live Well, and Lightbridge Academy. The food and beverage sector is well-represented with Perkins American Food Co., Mr. Gatti's Pizza, The Big Biscuit, and Rosatti's Pizza. Home services brands such as Poolwerx, Pi Kitchen and Bath Shop, and Milo Insulation are also participating, alongside senior care concepts like Golden Years Relocation and Assisted Living Mansion.
Franchise Expo Dallas is the second of four U.S. tour stops for MFV Expo in 2026, following the International Franchise Expo in New York City in May. Upcoming events include 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, with travel and lodging information available on the official website.
