Affordable Franchises Gaining Ground Inside

According to information released to Exame by the Brazilian Franchise Association (ABF), 48% of chains already operate in municipalities with less than 500,000 inhabitants, and the number of units outside capitals increased by 12% in 2024. The expansion reveals a strategic shift in the sector: small and medium-sized cities are no longer supporting and have become a priority for franchisors seeking to diversify markets and broaden their reach.

For Bruno Mendonça, businessman and franchisor, this progression is mainly due to two factors: the decline in operating costs, which reduce barriers to entry, and the growing demand for professional services previously concentrated in metropolises.

An example is Voilà Realizações, a network specialized in the rental of Espelho Mágico equipment, used to generate interactive experiences during social and corporate events and various celebrations.

Bruno explains that, for the franchisee, the model is intended to be simple, practical and very scalable. The investment includes both the franchise fee and the complete equipment, allowing work to begin immediately after training.

“When we analyze the Voilà business model, we observe that the difference lies in the combination of operational practicality and the ability to maintain consistent delivery standards,” explains Bruno. He says the model was designed precisely to serve a growing market, particularly in smaller towns, where festivals and ceremonies boost the local economy and have a strong cultural appeal.

In addition to growing demand, profitability is attracting attention. According to Bruno, the return is generally quick, even for those who work part-time. “The design of the operation, lighter and with a smaller team, allows the franchisee to combine the activity with other professional commitments or to use the business as a gateway to the event experience segment,” he notes.

Another factor that contributes to the practicality of Voilà is its ease of implementation. As it does not require a commercial location, large structures or inventory, the model perfectly meets the needs of entrepreneurs looking to start a business with a reduced investment, a factor particularly relevant in rural towns.

“The microfranchise model has become stronger in recent years, driven by people who have left CLT in search of personal fulfillment. This movement is even more visible outside the capitals, where the cost of living is lower, competition is more diluted and there is room for lighter companies,” concludes Mendonça.