Focus: Asia Franchise Markets 2016 | Page 4

Overview of the Market. China Market Only around 13% of American franchises have entered the Chinese market though 15 of the world’s top 20 franchises are already active in China. With foreign companies comes new business systems and despite foreign companies accounting for a relatively small share of the retail market, their business experience produces highly improved operating efficiency and profit margins which outstrip their domestic peers. Only around 13% of American franchises have entered the Chinese market though 15 of the world’s top 20 franchises are already active in China. With foreign companies comes new business systems and despite foreign companies accounting for a relatively small share of the retail market, their business experience produces highly improved operating efficiency and profit margins which outstrip their domestic peers. The rise of the Chinese consumer: With the ever increasing growth in the middle-class (300 million as of 2012) combined with a maturing consumer, the Chinese are becoming a demanding society for new products. These economically empowered, sophisticated consumers require more than basic goods to satisfy their desires and many display their wealth through the purchase of foreign brands. To be seen carrying a Starbucks coffee on the way to work is really middle class cool. In a nutshell, these ripe malleable consumers are young, often have a double income, are forward thinkers looking to attain a modern lifestyle and broaden horizons. As an international franchisor there is a great opportunity to introduce exciting cross-overs targeting these new adventurous Chinese consumers. Key Franchise Points * Only around 13% of American franchises have entered the Chinese market.