Global opportunities in
the german market

Franchising in Germany

The German Franchise Association (Deutscher Franchiseverband) has represented the interests of the franchise industry in the economic and political arena since 1978 – both nationally and internationally. As a quality-driven association, it advocates for both franchisors and franchisees while offering a wide range of services, networks, and resources that support the professionalization and continued development of the franchise sector.

Today, more than 400 members are organized within the Association. In addition to franchise systems holding Full or Associate Membership, the network includes experienced experts such as consultants, lawyers, and service providers who contribute valuable expertise and insights.

The economic importance of the franchise sector continues to grow steadily. In 2024, the approximately 890 franchise systems operating in Germany, together with around 148,577 franchise partners and more than 829,736 employees, generated a total turnover of €149.2 billion – with further growth expected. This makes the franchise industry a powerful driver of economic growth and a reliable employer in Germany.

the association

German Market Overview

Quality through partnership

Franchising is a fair and transparent business model. It is characterized by partnership established on equal footing and respectful behaviour between franchisors and franchisees. They work together with shared responsibilities, helping to reinforce the competitiveness of the company.

Expanding sustainable, successful entrepreneurship

Only a successful and well-tested business model can be reproduced sustainably. Rapid, comprehensive growth is the particular strength of professionally-run franchise systems, since franchisors and franchisees work together systematically over time to perfect their business model. When building up a franchise system, it is crucial to guarantee brand protection and constant continued development of the service package for franchisees from the very start.

Clear rules for strong relationships

Clearly defined principles are the foundation of sustainable success for franchisors and franchisees. Both sides benefit simultaneously from their willingness to enter into a binding, honest partnership for the long term. In this regard, the franchisor prescribes the business conditions and the franchisee acts as a multiplier. Through open, transparent and interactive collaboration, both sides continually work to further develop the system and the brand image.

Our mission: creating collaborative entrepreneurship

With these values as a foundation, the central mission of the German franchise economy becomes clear: We generate successful entrepreneurship through sustainable multiplication. 

german market

Text or call us

Do you have a question? Or do you want to know more about franchising in Germany? Feel free to reach out to us!