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ARTICLE · 14 JULY 2026

Competition Commission Launches Inquiry Into SA Franchise Sector

Andersen in South Africa
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South Africa's Competition Commission is launching a market inquiry into the franchising sector, examining whether structural barriers prevent historically disadvantaged persons from accessing an industry that contributes...

South AfricaAntitrust/Competition Law
Mark Safranek
Mark Safranek
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On 26 June 2026 the Competition Commission (Commission) published draft terms of reference (ToR) for a proposed market inquiry into the South African franchise sector (Franchise Market Inquiry). Interested parties have until 16h00 on 7 August 2026 to submit comments before the final ToR is published and the inquiry formally begins. This marks the lates, and arguably most novel exercise of the commission’s market inquiry powers under section 43B of the competition act.

A massive economic footprint

The significance of this inquiry lies in franchising’s sprawling reach. It isn't confined to a single market; it spans fast food, grocery retail, fuel station forecourts, automotive services, construction, hardware and health and beauty.

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