The franchise sector has consolidated its relevance in the Brazilian economy by achieving a historic revenue of R$ 301.7 billion last year. The performance represents a 10.5% growth compared to the previous period and reinforces the maturity of the business model in the country. Currently, the system has 3,297 franchise networks and more than 202,000 units in operation, responsible for generating around 1.76 million direct jobs.
The data is part of the report released by the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF), which highlights franchising as one of the most structured and resilient segments in the Brazilian business environment. The expansion is driven by various areas of the economy, with the food sector standing out for maintaining a strong growth pace.
The Food Service segment recorded record revenue of R$ 51.8 billion, up 10.8% year-over-year. In the fourth quarter of 2025, the sector totaled R$ 15.3 billion in revenue, a 9.9% increase, a result that reinforces the trend of rising demand for meals outside the home and demonstrates the operational efficiency of franchise networks.
For Ycaro Martins, a specialist in business and high-performance expansion, CEO and founder of Maxymus Expand, Brazilian franchising is in a phase marked by the consolidation of professional practices and the evolution of management models. According to him, the food sector stood out in this movement.
“The food sector, in particular, has shown continuous growth, driven by the increase in out-of-home consumption and the ability of networks to deliver attractive experiences for customers. Today, we see more structured networks, with governance, clear performance indicators, and scalable models. This transforms franchising into an intelligent growth strategy, both for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors seeking methodical and predictable operational assets,” he states.
Despite the favorable scenario, the specialist emphasizes that expansion requires thorough analysis from investors interested in the franchise model.
“A franchise is not a fad; it is a model. It must be replicable, financially solid, and transparent. Investors need to deeply assess the franchisor’s health, talk to active franchisees, understand the real level of support, carefully review the Franchise Offering Circular (COF), and confirm if the business fits their region. A strong brand does not replace solid fundamentals. Expansion without a strong base leads to frustrations and losses. Growth matters, but structured growth builds legacy,” Martins comments.
Networks Expand Presence Across the Country
The market’s growth prospects have spurred the expansion of various food sector brands. One of them is Di Blasi Pizzas, a delivery-specialized pizzeria network with more than 50 units already in operation. The company is expanding its national presence, entering the North and Northeast regions, and projects 30% growth in the number of units by the end of the year.
“Our brand’s focus is on responsible and consistent growth to preserve the network’s essence and ensure solid operations for franchisees,” says Arnaldo Di Blasi, founder and CEO of Di Blasi Pizzas.
Another example is Casa de Bolos, Brazil’s largest cake franchise network and pioneer in the segment. In 2025, the company recorded 11.6% operational growth and revenue of R$ 720 million.
The network has more than 600 stores in 20 Brazilian states, serving more than 250 municipalities with around 60,000 cakes produced daily. Last year, 63 new units were opened in São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, Santa Catarina, Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, and Pernambuco. For 2026, it projects R$ 800 million in revenue and aims for 700 stores, focusing on family-oriented regions with high consumption potential, such as the Northeast.
Sophistication and Diversity in Food Service
In confectionery, Boulangerie Carioca stands out with a concept inspired by French pâtisseries. Founded a decade ago, the network seeks organic growth and today has nine units.
For CEO Antônio Augusto Ribeiro de Souza, blending international references with Brazilian ingredients broadens the appeal.
“The diversity of Brazilians invites combining national coffee with the French croissant. Networks that deliver quality international cuisine without ignoring the best of Brazil gain market share and respect, boosting franchising,” he comments.
Consumer sophistication also drives demand for artisanal and premium products. Gelateria Cuor di Crema, which uses Italian production methods and is managed by the Antaris Foods Brands Franchising holding, has ten units in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Ceará, Piauí, Maranhão, and Rio Grande do Sul.
In ice creams, Açaí Concept has become a global leader in açaí and tropical creams. Founded in 2014, it is present in 18 Brazilian states and countries such as the United States, Ecuador, Switzerland, Chile, Canada, Portugal, United Arab Emirates, Spain, and Turkey.
“With 100% Brazilian raw materials, açaí has enormous growth potential both for operators and for representation in food service. The coming years look even more promising,” emphasizes co-founder and CEO Rodrigo Melo.
Thematic and Healthy Options Gain Ground
Another market trend is the advance of themed restaurants. Launched in 1986 in Los Angeles, the Johnny Rockets burger chain—with its 1950s aesthetic—has its second-largest global store network in Brazil, behind only the U.S. headquarters.
The brand focuses on the “quick service restaurant” (QSR) model in casual dining, targeting diverse audiences.
“Themed restaurants are gaining strength in food service. The advantage of franchising is that franchisees start with the brand’s proven experience, clear paths, and success guidelines,” says director Alan Torres.
Confectionery follows the same path. Founded in 2014 in Bento Gonçalves (RS), Le Petit Macarons is Brazil’s first boutique specialized in the French sweet, with 28 franchises in seven states and more than 30 flavors on the menu.
For Roger Coelho, co-founder and director of new business, demand for unique gastronomic experiences strengthens the segment.
“Modern consumers seek indulgence and authenticity. This ‘affordable luxury’ has positioned Le Petit Macarons as a reference in high gastronomy in Brazilian franchising. Our expansion reflects a mature model that combines technical sophistication with efficient operations, projecting around 8% network growth by the end of the cycle,” he highlights.
Healthy Eating Advances
Demand for healthier options also boosts franchising. Founded in 2011 in Paulínia (SP), Mr. Fit is a pioneer in healthy fast food in Brazil.
Today, it has around 900 units in the country, plus units in Portugal and Paraguay. The menu features ultra-frozen meals, light dishes, and nutritious sandwiches.
“Convenience allied with health is a consolidated behavior of the modern consumer, which drives our network in franchising. We aim for 1,000 units by the end of the year,” highlights CEO and founder Camila Miglhorini.
Source: brasil247.com