In recent years, the franchise model has gained significant traction among Salvadoran businesses, with approximately 37 local brands venturing into this expansion strategy. According to records from the Salvadoran Exporters Corporation (Coexport), at least two of these companies have successfully taken their franchises beyond the country’s borders, particularly in the coffee and food sectors.

For Salvadoran enterprises, franchising has presented an enticing opportunity to broaden their operations and introduce local products to international markets. Coexport’s records indicate that, to date, 37 national brands have ventured into the franchise model. Out of this group, at least two brands have already established franchises in different Latin American countries, such as Ecuador.

«In franchising, we have discovered a valuable opportunity, and we have witnessed successful ventures. To date, we have identified 37 Salvadoran brands that have embraced franchising. Among them, two have expanded their franchises beyond our borders: one in the coffee sector and one in the food industry,» emphasized Silvia Cuéllar, President of Coexport, during an interview.

During another event, the executive elaborated further, revealing that the trained franchises have generated $5.3 million in sales and created 360 direct jobs within a year and a half. Additionally, these franchise activities have attracted $5.5 million in private investment. Notably, 21 of these businesses are led by women.

Cuéllar also mentioned that Coexport is actively encouraging the integration of more firms into this business model. She expressed her aspirations, saying, «We dream of taking pupusa franchises abroad. We are strongly committed to the franchise concept. Our aim is to continue fostering a model that ultimately promotes inclusive practices within the entrepreneurial sector, with the hope of bringing our brands to international markets.»

The success achieved by Salvadoran brands venturing into franchising has showcased the country’s potential as a hub for business expansion. With a growing number of local enterprises embracing this model, it is evident that franchising provides a platform for economic growth, job creation, and the international promotion of Salvadoran products. Coexport’s ongoing efforts to stimulate the adoption of franchising reflect their commitment to supporting the Salvadoran business community in reaching new heights on the global stage.