Franchising is, without a doubt, transforming the landscape of goods and services distribution in North Africa. Morocco has been profoundly affected by the arrival of foreign franchises since it opened its borders to the industry over 10 years ago. Algeria and Tunisia, both working to lower trade barriers and encourage better business practices, are reforming legislation to create favorable conditions for the large-scale entry of foreign franchises. The countries’ consensus is that franchising is a proven means for ameliorating commercial practices, importing tested know-how and stimulating growth of small-and-medium-sized businesses. Algeria Once wary of the security situation and political instability that marked Algeria in the 1990s, French and some European franchises are now looking at the Algerian market with fresh interest in the new millennium. Brands seeking expansion, especially in the clothes, services, agro-business and high-volume distribution sectors, are hungry for the opportunity to sell to Algeria’s 33 million consumers.
