Santander, Getnet and AMF franchise expansion partnership in Mexico, Digi Mart USA News (Mexico): Mexico’s franchise sector will gain new tools to strengthen operations, facilitate access to financing and accelerate expansion plans. Banco Santander México, its payment platform Getnet and the Mexican Franchise Association (AMF) have formalized a strategic alliance to develop a specialized service model for businesses.
The agreement targets reaching 85,000 franchises during the first three years of the initiative through banking solutions, digital tools, financing alternatives and payment processing services. It also includes creating business networking spaces to connect franchisors, franchisees and decision-makers with new business opportunities.
The collaboration was formalized during the AMF International Convention 2026, where the organizations presented a joint agenda aimed at responding to the needs of the sector. Santander seeks to position itself as the reference bank for franchises in Mexico, while Getnet will serve as its specialized payment processing solution.
Marcos Abal Soneira, executive director of SMEs at Santander Mexico, said the goal is to offer a financial support scheme that considers the particular characteristics of the franchise model. “This alliance represents a strategic step to bring those who hold a franchise a financial support model designed specifically for their needs, which we are sure will make a difference for the growth of this sector,” he said.
Abal Soneira also said access to financing and payment methods could boost franchise business by up to 2.4 times, with potential effects on job creation and economic development in the country.
The alliance will offer bank accounts, payment acquiring services, payroll administration, financing options for opening, investment, modernization and growth of points of sale, digitalization of operations, and financial traceability mechanisms. Getnet will process payments designed to meet changing consumer habits and connect businesses with new commercial opportunities through global payment solutions.
Betsy Eslava Altamirano, president of the AMF, said the collaboration offers an opportunity to support member brands and the families that depend on this economic activity. “We saw a great opportunity to work together to bring financing tools, training and solutions that allow franchises to grow, strengthen and expand internationally,” she said.
Franchises represent an important part of Mexico’s business fabric, replicating commercial concepts, expanding brand presence and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs. According to figures shared by the participating organizations, the industry represents 5% of Mexico’s gross domestic product (GDP), more than 1,500 brands operate under the franchise model nationwide, more than 95,000 points of sale are part of sector networks, and more than one million direct jobs are generated by the industry.
