Thinking about starting a franchise in South Africa? With the right brand, strong support, and a proven business model, franchising can be one of the most rewarding investments you’ll ever make. Cash Converters, a trusted name in retail and financial services, offers entrepreneurs a turnkey opportunity to own a business with established brand recognition and solid returns.

Below, we break down the step-by-step process of opening a Cash Converters franchise in South Africa.

Step 1: Submit Your Franchise Enquiry

Your journey begins with a simple enquiry. Once you reach out, one of our experienced franchise sales representatives will connect with you to share high-level information about the opportunity. If you’re keen to move forward, we’ll begin a mutually beneficial due diligence process to ensure the fit is right for both parties.

Step 2: Due Diligence and Disclosure

This stage allows us to get to know you better while giving you access to essential documents. After receiving your completed due diligence forms, we’ll provide:

• A comprehensive disclosure document
• A pro forma franchise agreement

These resources outline key details to help you make an informed decision about investing in a franchise in South Africa.

Investment Insight: Opening a Cash Converters franchise requires a total turnkey investment of R4.2 million, with R2.1 million in unencumbered capital needed upfront.

Step 3: Meet the Leadership Team & Tour a Store

Next, you’ll have the chance to meet with our Sales and Marketing Director or CEO, either face-to-face or virtually. This is your opportunity to dive deeper into our business model and ask questions directly.

We’ll also take you on a guided tour of one of our flagship branches so you can see firsthand how a Cash Converters store operates.

Step 4: Sign the Franchise Agreement & Secure Your Location

If both parties agree to proceed, the franchise agreement is signed. From here, our property team steps in to help you identify the perfect site.

 Location Criteria:

• Accessible and ideally parking-lot facing
• Close to home for hands-on ownership
• Positioned to attract consistent foot traffic

We believe that active, engaged ownership is one of the biggest drivers of franchise success.

Step 5: Open Your Store & Start Trading

Once the lease is signed and the build is complete, your store is ready to open its doors. Most Cash Converters franchisees reach break-even within 9 to 12 months, thanks to our proven systems and strong brand presence.

Why Choose Cash Converters?

If you’re wondering how to open a franchise in South Africa that offers:

• Full training and ongoing support
• Strong brand recognition
• A proven business model with solid returns

…then Cash Converters is the answer.

Opening a franchise in South Africa doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Cash Converters, you’ll have a clear roadmap, expert guidance, and a supportive team by your side.

Ready to take the next step? Enquire today and start your journey toward owning a successful franchise in South Africa.

Mochachos Positioned for Dynamic Growth and Expansion in 2026

For over 31 years, Mochachos has captured the hearts (and appetites) of South Africans, cementing its reputation as a national household brand with immense commercial opportunity. With a robust franchise network and a loyal customer base, Mochachos continues to stand out in the competitive food industry, offering both diners and franchisees a recipe for success.

A Fiesta of Flavour: Why Customers Love Mochachos

Mochachos is synonymous with Mexican-inspired cuisine bursting with flavour and colour. Every meal is freshly prepared to order, with spice levels ranging from lemon and herb to the fiery “dynamite” option.

Signature dishes include:

• Flame-grilled butterfly chicken
• Authentic Mexican favourites: fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas, and quesadillas

The menu appeals to individuals, families, and groups, while the vibrant décor, lively atmosphere, and friendly staff create a memorable dining experience. Bigger portions, healthier preparation, and bold flavours have made Mochachos a trusted brand that customers return to time and again.

Franchisee Support: A Proven Business Model

Mochachos isn’t just about great food—it’s about building successful businesses. Franchisees benefit from:

• Comprehensive training programs
• Hands-on mentorship and expert guidance
• Dedicated operations managers for ongoing support
• Flexible store formats: drive-thru outlets, food courts, or full-service restaurants

This strong support system ensures franchise owners are equipped to thrive, making Mochachos one of the most dynamic franchise opportunities in the restaurant industry today.

Expansion Opportunities in 2026

According to Philip Karafilakis, Director of Mochachos, the brand is rapidly increasing its market share and is well-positioned for national expansion. Premium locations across South Africa present endless opportunities for new franchisees to join the journey.

As demand continues to rise, Mochachos offers more than just food—it delivers a full sensory dining experience, combining bold flavours, vibrant store designs, and exceptional customer service.

A Brand Built on Trust and Excellence

Mochachos’ success is underpinned by:

• Commitment to operational excellence
• Strong franchisee support systems
• Membership with SANHA (South African Halal Association) and FASA (Franchise Association of South Africa)

With its unique blend of flavour, atmosphere, and business strength, Mochachos is not just a restaurant—it’s a brand to be proud of.

As we move into 2026, Mochachos is ready to welcome the next generation of passionate franchisees. Whether you’re a customer craving bold Mexican flavours or an entrepreneur seeking a thriving franchise opportunity, Mochachos promises growth, success, and a taste of Mexico that South Africans can’t resist.

Discover why specialist paint retail is a smart franchise-style investment in South Africa—serving both DIY enthusiasts and contractors with repeat demand and trusted expertise.

A Sector Built on Everyday Demand

Paint isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. From weatherproofing homes to refreshing interiors or boosting resale value, South Africans repaint regularly. That makes paint retail a resilient, repeat-purchase niche rather than a seasonal gamble.

Universal Paints offers a unique outlet model that feels like a franchise but with greater freedom. You get the backing of a strong national brand and proven systems—without royalties, cookie-cutter rules, or micromanagement. You own the store outright, bringing your entrepreneurial energy to the forefront.

Beyond Selling Tins: Consultative Sales

Most hardware chains treat paint as just another SKU. Universal Paints outlets elevate it into a specialist consultative sale:

• In-store tinting and colour matching
• Bundled systems (primer + coat + sealer)
• Expert advice on damp, adhesion, and fading issues

Customers don’t just leave with paint—they leave with confidence. That trust builds loyalty, repeat purchases, and referrals from neighbours, contractors, and body corporates.

Two Markets, One Store

The strength of this model lies in serving both DIY enthusiasts and trade professionals:

• DIY Customers: Weekend projects, quick refreshes, and small repairs drive consistent foot traffic. With guidance, bundles, and how-to advice, one-off buyers become loyalists.
• Contractors & Trades: Reliable contractors stabilise monthly cash flow. They order in volume, need job site deliveries, and value predictable supply. Winning their trust makes your outlet the go-to hub in your area.

This dual-market approach ensures resilience across economic cycles.

What Makes Paint Retail Different

Not all retail niches behave the same. Paint stands out because:

1. Expertise Drives Loyalty – Knowledge solves problems and keeps customers from shopping around.
2. Specification-Driven Sales – Builders and architects want complete systems, not just tins.
3. Products Tailored to SA Conditions – Formulated for local climates, from coastal humidity to inland heat.
4. Community Word of Mouth – One solved problem often leads to multiple new customers.

A Platform for Entrepreneurs

Universal Paints outlets combine the best of both worlds:

• Established brand recognition, supplier support, and training
• Total ownership with no royalties draining profits
• Flexibility to apply your own flair in sales, marketing, and partnerships

It’s independence with a safety net—perfect for entrepreneurs who want more than a cookie-cutter franchise.

Simple Growth Levers

Boost your outlet’s success with:

• Bundles: Prep + coat + finish + tools = bigger basket size
• Events: Workshops, colour consult days, or “Contractor Weeks” to build awareness
• Trade Accounts: Clear terms, smart credit, and prioritising reliable contractors
• Proof-Driven Marketing: Showcase before-and-after projects online and in-store

Why South Africa Needs Specialist Stores

Big-box retailers compete on price. Specialist outlets compete on trust, expertise, and relationships—values South Africans hold dear in the building trade. Universal Paints outlets are built on that foundation, offering locally made products and community-driven credibility.

Your Next Step

If you’re exploring opportunities in the home-improvement sector, paint retail is one of the most resilient and rewarding categories. It combines repeat demand, dual-market appeal, and the credibility of a specialist model.

With Universal Paints, you enjoy franchise-style benefits—brand recognition, training, and systems—without rigid rules or royalty fees.

Ready to own a specialist paint store in your community?
Speak to Universal Paints about available territories, outlet support, and how you can build a trusted home-improvement business today.

Every franchise has a story, but Mary Makhubela’s journey with Cash Converters Morning Glen is one that inspires far beyond business. For Mary, franchising wasn’t just about opportunity—it was about destiny. She often says that franchising chose her, and with that choice came challenges that demanded courage, resilience, and vision.

Mary’s path reminds us that success isn’t defined by the obstacles we face, but by how we rise above them. Her determination has turned setbacks into stepping stones, proving that women in franchising are not only capable but unstoppable.

She believes women bring something powerful to the industry: fresh perspectives, strength in adversity, and the ability to create lasting impact. Mary’s story is a call to every aspiring entrepreneur—when women lead, they don’t just run businesses, they transform industries.

For more information and to apply for a Cash Converters Franchise, click here

Cash Coverters  Group Franchise Sales and Marketing Director, Nicole Thomson, was featured on Business Talk to discuss how Cash Converters has evolved into one of South Africa’s most trusted brands over the past 30 years.
Nicole shared insights on:

• The webshop launch that kept customers connected during lockdown
• Strategies boosting franchise revenue and reach
• Upcoming innovations designed to excite customers
• The growing appeal of Cash Converters for entrepreneurs

Her interview is an inspiring look at how second-hand retail is thriving in the digital age.

For more information and to apply for a Cash Converters Franchise, click here