What Franchise - Issue 21.2

What’s driving the boom? The real story behind the numbers is how quickly the sector is evolving. Technology is transforming how education is delivered, with hybrid and digital platforms opening the door to new audiences, reducing start-up costs, and extending reach far beyond local classrooms. At the same time, parents are increasingly turning to private education options to fill the gaps traditional schools can’t cover, particularly in areas like STEM, coding, and creative skills. And because education is a universal language, franchises that can adapt their content and delivery to local markets are scaling rapidly across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe And it’s not just about after-school tutoring anymore. Brands are branching into early childhood education, language immersion, and even test prep for adult learners.Wherever there’s curiosity, there’s opportunity. If you’re looking to invest, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for education brands that combine personalisation, technology, and real-world outcomes. Digital-first models are cutting overheads and making delivery more flexible than ever. At the same time, adaptable curricula are helping brands localise quickly and stay relevant across different markets. Many franchises are also benefiting from recurring tuition models that create steady, predictable revenue streams. And with purpose-driven branding on the rise, more parents and franchisees are drawn to businesses that deliver genuine impact as well as profit. And here’s the real appeal: education spending rarely slows down. Even during tough economies, parents keep investing in their children’s learning, making this one of the more recession-resistant categories in franchising. The fine print Of course, not every education concept is created equal. Success depends on the strength of the brand, the quality of the curriculum, and how well franchisors support their network. Regulations differ frommarket to market, and competition is rising fast, particularly from new online- only models. But for the right investor, those challenges come with plenty of upside. The best education franchises don’t just sell lessons – they build futures, communities, and lasting value. “Education franchising hits a rare sweet spot – it’s profitable, purposeful, and adaptable. For anyone looking to grow internationally, this is a sector that delivers both financial and human rewards” 57 WHAT-FRANCHISE.COM Ins ight