CINCINNATI — Franchise Expo Cincinnati, produced by MFV Expositions ("MFV") and Comexposium, will bring together more than 1,500 attendees and over 80 exhibitors at the First Financial Center on October 23-24. The event is MFV Expo's only Midwest stop in 2026, signaling the region's growing importance as a franchise hub.
Ohio's franchise sector has gained national attention. The International Franchise Association's latest Franchise Economic Impact Report ranked the state ninth for overall franchise interest and activity, underscoring the area's potential for business expansion. "We look forward to bringing our message of economic hope and prosperity directly to America's Heartland," said Martin Joksimovic, president of MFV Expositions. "We've had our eye on this region for some time now, noting the area's potential for growth and expansion, the comparative affordability of its communities, and what we would best describe as significant opportunities for market leadership."
The expo will feature a diverse range of franchise concepts, from automotive and fitness to senior care and fast casual dining. Attendees can explore top franchise brand exhibitors such as Gold's Gym, HomeVestors, Dream Vacations, and Lightbridge Academy. Food and beverage options include McDonald's, Biggby Coffee, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Pizza brands Rosati's Pizza, CiCi's Pizza, and Little Caesar's Pizza will also be present. Emerging concepts like Industrious and The Fruit Stand offer lower barriers to entry.
Educational programming includes the ever-popular A to Z's of Buying a Franchise seminar, hosted by Dr. John Hayes, and the Franchising Your Business session. Beyond the familiar workshops and seminars, attendees can take advantage of numerous special events, including the Emerging Brands Pavilion and the Business Resource Center. For those interested in exhibiting, registration is open for attendees and exhibitors.
This event matters because it provides a direct platform for entrepreneurs in the Midwest to connect with established franchisors, potentially spurring local economic development and job creation. With Ohio's franchise activity ranking among the top ten nationally, the expo could accelerate small business growth and attract investment to the region. The expo also represents a strategic move by MFV Expositions, which has already hosted successful events in Dallas and New York this year, to tap into the Midwest's underserved markets before concluding its 2026 domestic schedule with Franchise Expo West in Glendale, Arizona, on November 13-14. As the franchise industry continues to expand, gatherings like Franchise Expo Cincinnati play a critical role in fostering face-to-face connections that can transform careers and communities.
