EXPO RETURNS

Small business is the backbone of the New Zealand economy, with more than 590,000 small and medium-sized enterprises operating across the country. As more people explore business ownership, franchising and flexible ways of working, a new national event is launching this September in Auckland to support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The New Zealand Franchise and Small Business Expo will bring together leading franchisors, business advisors, technology providers and service specialists for two days of practical ideas, opportunities and connections for people looking to start, run or grow a business.

Presented by NZSME Limited and supported by the Franchise Association of New Zealand (FANZ), the Expo will showcase franchise opportunities alongside the tools and services modern businesses rely on, from finance and marketing to digital systems, AI tools and operational support.

The Expo is being developed by Matt Reilly and Rachel Hobbs-Price, who between them have more than three decades of experience delivering exhibitions and industry events across New Zealand and Australia. They believe the next decade will bring significant change to how people work and build businesses.

As Rachel explains, “Technology, flexible work and new economic conditions are pushing people to rethink traditional career paths. More people are looking for ways to work for themselves, create multiple income streams, or build businesses that give them greater independence.

"Franchising remains one of the most established pathways into business ownership, offering proven systems and support networks. At the same time, the tools available to small businesses have evolved dramatically, with digital platforms and automation making it easier than ever to launch and scale a business."

The event is expected to feature a strong mix of franchise brands, business service providers and industry experts.

“We want to bring together New Zealand’s leading franchisors alongside the companies that support small business success now and into the future,” says Matt. “That includes finance providers, marketing and digital specialists, technology platforms, business advisors and operational service providers.

“We’re also building a speaker programme that gives people practical insights – from buying a franchise to using technology and AI tools to run a more efficient business.”

Rachel says the idea for the Expo grew from observing how dramatically the business landscape has changed in recent years.

“We felt there was an opportunity to create an event where people could explore business ownership seriously – meet franchisors, talk to business advisors, hear from people who have done it before and understand what it really takes to build a business today.”

More information

The New Zealand Franchise and Small Business Expo will take place 18-19 September 2026 at the Due Drop Events Centre, in Auckland in 2026. Exhibiting, sponsorship and speaking opportunities are now open. Visitor registration opens June 2026. Visit www.nzsme.co.nz for more information.