INTERVIEW of Mr Konstantin Anton, President of the Romanian Franchise Association

The last decades several Greek companies expand their business to the Balkan market. How does the Romanian market deal with this?  

The Romanian market is a friendly one for Greek franchises. And they managed to be interesting also for customers. For instance, Gregory’s is a good example of well-known exported Hellenic brands in our country.

Are Romanian investors keen on Greek franchises?

The Romanian entrepreneurs are attracted by Greek companies because are affordable, close to us (is very well to have a supporting franchisers in the neighborhood) both as distance and as cultural habits, successful and the list could go one.

Is franchising developed enough in Romania?

No, the franchising is not at its maximum potential in Romania. One of the Romanian Franchise Association’ goal is to strengthen the turnover of the domestic franchisers, master franchisees and franchisees and to educate the potential candidates to have a better understanding of their involvement in a franchise network.

Do Romanian investors invest on franchise?

Yes, the businessmen are interested in franchise market but right now they are reluctant to invest their money. First they study the offers and negotiate with the foreign/Romanian franchisers the franchise agreement provisions, the level of investments, insisting to pay in installments the entrance fee or gaining other advantages.

Which franchise concepts are the most popular in Romania?

Among the most appealing are: restaurants (including fast food concepts), retails, fashion, services.

Nowadays, Greece and other European countries go through a crisis period. Is the Romanian market affected by the crisis?

Yes, Romania was and still is affected by the crisis and so is the franchise domain. Still comparing its evolution with other areas we can consider the franchise as a potential key to gain profit.