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Franchise-based catering: the model that drives the present and future of hospitality in Spain

FISCAMPUS Hosteleria

Madrid, June 18, 2025

In an increasingly competitive, volatile, and digitalized economic environment, franchise-based restaurants have proven to be one of the most resilient, scalable, and growth-promoting models within the Spanish business ecosystem. Since the Franchise Innovation Summit (FIS), we have observed from a strategic perspective how this sector is not only consolidating, but is also leading many of the transformations that today define the present and future of the HORECA channel.

Franchising and Organized Restaurants: A Natural Alliance

Talking about organized restaurants means talking about professionalization, operational efficiency, centralized management, and replicability. By integrating the franchise model, a key element is added: scalability with shared investment, something that allows brands to grow quickly and entrepreneurs to access tested, profitable, and supported business models.

According to the latest data from the Spanish Franchise Association (AEF) (2024 Report), 269 franchised restaurant brands operate in Spain, generating more than €5.8 billion in combined revenue and thousands of direct and indirect jobs. This represents a substantial portion of the €27.623 billion generated by the entire franchise system in our country.

A sector demonstrating maturity and traction

Franchise-organized restaurants have not only recovered to pre-COVID levels, but have also strengthened their economic prominence. In 2023:

  • The number of franchised establishments exceeded 78,200, of which 57,000 were managed by independent franchisees.
  • More than 318,000 jobs were created, an increase of 4.8% compared to the previous year.
  • The model demonstrated legal strength and trust, with extremely low litigation (0.09% of cases between franchisors and franchisees).

This reality demonstrates a mature relationship between brand and operator and a growing professionalization of all stakeholders in the system.

Brands leading expansion

Chains like Telepizza, Knee, 100 Montaditos, The Good Burger, The Mafia Sit at the Table, Goiko, Popeyes, KFC, Five Guys, La Tagliatella, Taco Bell, and ALSEA are just a few examples of brands that are betting on the franchise model as the cornerstone of their growth. Whether through multi-unit formats, master franchises, or independent units, these brands have developed solid systems that attract both institutional investors and individual entrepreneurs.

In addition, many of them are accelerating their international expansion, especially into Latin America and Eastern Europe, positioning Spain as an exporter of organized and competitive restaurant concepts.

Current challenges: scaling efficiently

Although the model is solid, it is not without challenges. At FIS, we identify several key vectors to work on:

  • Rising costs (energy, raw materials, personnel) continue to strain margins, especially in an inflationary environment.
  • The shortage of qualified personnel, both operational and in management positions, is becoming a bottleneck for expansion.
  • Competitive pressure is forcing brands to differentiate themselves beyond price, focusing on experience, sustainability, and innovation.
  • Digitization is no longer optional: automation, proprietary apps, AI in shift and order management, and virtual kitchens are now standard among the most competitive chains.

Clear opportunities: franchising + innovation = growth

At FIS, we are convinced that the combination of franchising and innovation represents one of the greatest opportunities of the moment. Brands with proven models, but open to technological evolution, are the ones that are attracting the most investor interest.

The growth of delivery, the rise of new formats (dark kitchens, grab & go stores, food halls), the professionalization of the franchisee as an "investment manager," and the international projection are trends that are already shaping the roadmap for the sector.

Furthermore, the Spanish legal and regulatory framework provides security for investors: with virtually no litigation, Spain is consolidating its position as a safe and attractive environment for developing franchise brands.

The role of the FIS: an essential meeting point

In this context, the Franchise Innovation Summit is positioned as the leading professional forum for connecting franchisors, prospective franchisees, investment funds, specialized consulting firms, and organized catering groups.

In each edition of the FIS:

  • Strategic business contacts are generated between actors seeking to grow in an organized and professional manner.
  • Success stories and emerging models that inspire new initiatives are presented.
  • The trends that will shape the future are discussed: AI, sustainability, internationalization, new formats, customer experience.
  • The creation of lasting alliances is fostered in a real and effective networking environment.

FIS is not just an event. It is a platform, an ecosystem, and a meeting point for anyone who wants to grow a franchise-based restaurant brand with vision and ambition.

Conclusion: An opportunity that never stops

Franchise-organized catering is, today, one of the most dynamic, solid, and attractive sectors in the Spanish business community. And it will become even more so in the coming years.

At FIS, we support this evolution, creating a professional space where innovation, connection, and action meet. Because franchising is no longer just a way to grow: it's a leadership strategy.