KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 (Bernama) -- Malaysian businesses are invited to participate in the Thailand Franchise and Business Opportunities (TFBO) exhibition to be held at the Impact Convention Centre in Bangkok, from June 23 to 26.

The first international franchise exhibition is expected to attract around 180 leading franchise owners from Thailand and neighbouring countries and draw at least 20,000 visitors.

Manager of Siam Connection Sdn Bhd Hunsa Eakturapakal said that franchise business in Thailand has grown rapidly during the last four years and the number of franchise outlets has dramatically increased to 10,000 in 2004 from 6,000 in 2000.

"A large number of Thai investors are still looking for new business opportunities and that will mean a golden chance for foreign franchisors to expand the business in this event," she said in a statement

She said that this would also be the gateway for Malaysian franchisors to penetrate into the Thai market.

Despite the long history of trade between the two countries, there were only a limited number of Malaysian businesses or franchisors in Thailand, she said.

She added that Thai people were in fact very fond of Malaysian brands including Bonia, Vincci, Eclipse, British India and Urban & Co.

"There are also many more brands that is of interest to Thailand and should consider expanding to Thailand by way of the franchise system, particularly in the line of food and beverages, education, automotive and electrical and electronic products," she said.

Interested parties can contact the company at 03-6201 5050 or The Malaysian Franchise Association at 03- 2697 1557.