Study goals
To investigate, in an exploratory and quantitative manner, innovative activities in Brazilian franchising, identifying innovative sectors and franchise characteristics, determining factors, sources of information, and interaction mechanisms, thereby expanding the understanding of innovation in the sector and its practices.
Relevance / originality
This study fills a gap in the national literature by analyzing innovation in franchising considering all Brazilian franchisors, regardless of ABF membership, offering an unprecedented diagnosis that combines size, sector, life cycle, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Methodology / approach
Quantitative research based on a survey applied to Brazilian franchisors between November 2023 and February 2024, with a questionnaire inspired by PINTEC/IBGE. The probabilistic sample included 198 valid responses, statistically analyzed to identify patterns, practices, and factors influencing innovation.
Main results
It was found that 49% of franchisors innovated, with a predominance of product improvements and partnerships with consulting firms Product and process innovations proved complementary, but internal R&D, alignment with the SDGs, and the use of government support remain underexplored in Brazilian
Theoretical / methodological contributions
The study expands the literature by analyzing innovation across all Brazilian franchisors, highlighting patterns, interdependence between types of innovation, and R&D gaps. Methodologically, it combines a survey inspired by PINTEC with statistical and multivariate analyses.
Social / management contributions
It provides inputs for franchisors and policymakers to improve innovation practices, encourage franchisee participation, and expand strategic partnerships. The findings reinforce the need for greater collaboration with research centers and increased participation in government support programs.