Serbia Becomes a Member of the European Franchise Federation

The Serbian Franchise Association (SFA) has officially become a member of the European Franchise Federation (EFF), providing Serbia with a direct connection to the leading European institution in the franchise sector. This membership represents a major step towards raising standards, greater professionalization, and the internationalization of the Serbian franchise market.

To mark this milestone, all interested stakeholders will have the opportunity to connect with domestic and international brands at the upcoming International Franchise Conference, to be held on December 2, 2025, at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia (CCIS). Through a series of educational panels, exchange of expertise and best practices on franchising in Serbia, the region, and the EU, participants will also be able to explore business opportunities directly in the exhibition segment.

The CCIS and the SFA closely cooperated in the accession process to the European Franchise Federation. The support of CCIS was crucial in affirming the importance of this membership for Serbian business, as it opens opportunities for the internationalization of domestic brands, greater promotion of Serbian franchises on the European market, and the implementation of the highest standards of ethical business. With this step, CCIS and SFA further strengthen institutional cooperation and create a more stable framework for the development of the franchise sector in Serbia.

“Joining the European Franchise Federation is a major leap forward for Serbia and proof that our market is moving in line with international standards. This is an opportunity for Serbian brands to gain a stronger voice in Europe and for businesses to more easily find partners and expand across borders. Membership in the EFF positions Serbia as an equal participant in the European franchise community and opens new doors for the development of our economy through the franchise business model,” said Marica Vidanović, Head of the CCIS Franchise Center.

“SFA’s membership in the European Franchise Federation is not just a symbolic success but a concrete step forward—for standards, for trust, for competitiveness. For Serbian entrepreneurs looking to expand their brand, operate transparently, and attract investment, this membership brings a new dimension of opportunities,” emphasized Tanja Petković, Chairwoman of the SFA Board of Directors.

With this membership, Serbia becomes part of the European franchise community, bringing numerous concrete benefits to domestic businesses and entrepreneurs. EFF membership adds credibility and trust, as the SFA and its members commit to respecting and implementing the European Code of Ethics for Franchising. This ensures more transparent and fair relations between franchisors and franchisees, adherence to best practices, and clearly defined rights and obligations in contracts—especially important given that franchising in Serbia is not yet legally regulated.

Membership also provides access to the European knowledge network, exchange of experiences with leading European franchise systems, and support in improving operations and education. Serbian franchise brands will gain new opportunities to enter the European market, connect with potential franchisees and foreign investors. In addition, through active participation in the European Franchise Federation, Serbia will be able to follow and apply the highest standards and recommendations shaping franchise practices in Europe, contributing to the creation of a safer and more stable business environment in the country.

The European Franchise Federation (EFF) was established in 1972, with headquarters in Brussels, and today brings together national franchise associations from 22 European countries. As the umbrella organization, EFF serves as the central body for regulation, promotion, and protection of the interests of the franchise sector, develops standards, and enhances business ethics through the European Code of Ethics for Franchising.