The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) launched the fifth edition of its Franchise Programme on June 21 in Muscat, aiming to strengthen the presence of Omani brands in regional and international markets. The initiative, held under the patronage of Dr Khamis bin Saif al Jabri, Minister of Economy, aligns with Oman Vision 2040 objectives to diversify the economy, enhance private sector competitiveness, and boost economic development across the country's governorates.

The Franchise Programme seeks to cultivate a franchise culture among local business owners, facilitate scalable Omani brands’ access to broader markets, and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in achieving sustained growth, job creation, and contribution to the national economy. This year’s launch included the signing of multiple agreements designed to extend operational and promotional support to participating companies.

During the event, OCCI signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Oman Oil Marketing Company, securing ten locations at the company’s filling stations throughout various governorates to host franchise projects. The agreement also provides advertising space on Oman Oil’s digital screens to promote the participating brands. Additionally, a framework support agreement was concluded with Shell Oman Marketing Company, offering $5,000 to aid SME participation in the Egypt Franchise Exhibition and granting access to 19 of its filling station locations for franchise development.

In a further development, OCCI entered a cooperation agreement with LuLu Group to explore the allocation of retail units ranging from five to twelve at Al Muzn Mall and Nizwa Grand Mall. The agreement also considers potential opportunities in Barka Grand Centre and Salalah Grand Mall for eligible programme participants.

The launch ceremony featured the signing of 62 franchise agreements involving Omani brands operating across seven countries, including Oman, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Pakistan, and Ecuador.

Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of OCCI, highlighted the programme’s role in generating new investment opportunities, improving company efficiencies, and encouraging the adoption of international standards among national firms, which he said would spur economic growth and expand commercial prospects.

Eng Hamoud bin Salem al Saadi, Chairman of OCCI’s Franchise Centre Committee, noted that the programme offers a full spectrum of services such as business evaluation, expert consultations, preparation of operational manuals, financial model development, marketing of investment opportunities, and specialized training and workshops. He added that the centre aims to empower 300 Omani brands and elevate the combined market value of franchisor and franchisee entities to one billion Omani rials, with a focus on both domestic and international expansion.