Franchising World

The Disclosure Process —Uncertainties, Ambiguities and Unresolved Issues May 1, 2008

While the disclosure document conversion process has gone quite smoothly for many franchisors, there are lingering issues.
By Stuart Hershman

South Dakota Gov. Michael Rounds (R) signed into law Senate Bill 52, legislation endorsed by the International Franchise Association.
By Troy Flanagan

Franchise Association’s Government Relations Team Enlists Policy Expert May 1, 2008...
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Supporting Candidates: FranPAC Report Card May 1, 2008

IFA’s political action committee, FranPAC, supports pro-franchise, pro-business candidates for U.S. Congress.
By Victoria Adams

ADIR Restaurants Corp. Pres. and COO José J. Cofiño elected as a member of the IFA’s board of directors.

Legislative amendments to the Australian Franchising Code of Conduct took effect March 1.
By Stephen Giles

Franchising Weathers Economic Challenges May 1, 2008

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

IFA simultaneously launched a public-awareness campaign themed “Franchising: Building local businesses one opportunity at a time.”

Who are the smartest people in the room?
By Keith Gerson, CFE

There are many different ways to measure success in franchising but, clearly franchisee satisfaction is at the top of the list.
By Eric Stites

The “States” of Franchising May 1, 2008

IFA Educational Foundation study finds that while franchising is flourishing in every state, the industry’s economic footprint is more important in some states than others.
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New Awareness Campaign Prepares Franchising for Changes Ahead May 1, 2008

Regardless of who wins the presidential and congressional elections this fall, there will be a change in Washington, D.C.
By Alisa Harrison

There are endless possibilities in organizing a multi-brand company that can take advantage of a variety of cost-savings measures.
By Ted P. Pearce

Retaining experienced and competent foreign counsel will ensure a much smoother transition and thorough understanding of the complexities of international franchising.
By Frank Zaid

Making Sales or Making Excuses? May 1, 2008

Turn every lead into a real prospect.
By Mario Altiery

Common-sense steps that franchise systems often fail to apply.
By Mary Beth Brody, CFE

The state of the Saudi economy and its demographics make it an inviting market for the franchising industry.

New trade show welcomes new audience.
By Joel Goldstei

Franchising World presents Part 2 of a special report about the economic impact of franchised businesses.
By John Reynolds

A company’s failure can be directly correlated to poor strategic planning to recruiting the wrong franchise partner.
By Michael D’Arezzo, CFE

Common-sense methods to avoid “development freeze.”
By Eric Newman

Washington State: A Profile April 1, 2008

This profile is part of an occasional series examining the issues and atmosphere guiding politics and policy in the various states.
By Troy Flanagan
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Canadian Franchise Legislation: Finding the Balance April 1, 2008

It may surprise some to learn that Canada has had franchise legislation since the early 1970s.
By Edward (Ned) Levitt

Partnering with the Health-Care Industry April 1, 2008

From automotive aftermarket chains to quick-service restaurants, forming partnerships with the health-care industry can benefit a franchise system on multiple levels.
By Keith R. ...
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Developing and Licensing Technology: Another Source of Revenue April 1, 2008

Merchandizing and licensing are terms that are sometimes used interchangeably.
By Gary R. Duvall, CFE

Snowbirds weren’t the only ones headed south in January.
By Joel Goldstein

Business Activity Tax Relief Urged April 1, 2008

Small companies came to Congress on Feb. 14 to ask for relief from state business activity taxes.
By David French

The three most common forms of multi-unit and third-party franchising are area development, master franchise and development agent arrangements.
By John W. Fitzgerald ...
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Multi-Unit Growth Through Coordinated Communications Strategies April 1, 2008

Developing a clear communication plan for a target audience offers a powerful advantage for finding franchise growth partners.
By Salman Siddiqui

When All Else Fails, Go Make a Sales Call! April 1, 2008

There’s only one reason not to sell and that’s because you’ve closed your doors.
By Harvey H. H. Homsey

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

Committee’s Mission: To assist IFA members by developing information and programs that promote positive relations and encourage dialogue and cooperation.
By Troy Flanagan

The purpose of the Diversity Institute is to expand the diversity initiatives of IFA and the Educational Foundation.
By Eric McCarthey

The group found cultural treasures, ancient history and a future full of promise.
By Kem Pollard

“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.” ––Vincent Lombardi
By Troy Flanagan

Predicting the Future, One Customer at a Time March 1, 2008

Customer analytics can help improve site-selection efforts and uphold the reputation of your brand.
By Rich Hollander

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay, President and CEO

IFA Rings NASDAQ Bell March 1, 2008

The IFA was among the featured guests during a NASDAQ Stock Market opening bell ceremony at the exchange in New York.

In the international arena there is no substitute for good prior planning and judgment.
By Roger Schmidt and Joyce Mazero

The International Franchise Expo remains the best event of its type.
By Joel Goldstein

U.S. Franchise Growth Outpaces Other Business Sectors, New Study Finds
By John Reynolds

Learn what potential multi-unit candidates want from your franchise system.
By Larry Weinberg

Franchising in Brazil March 1, 2008

The number of franchise units in Brazil increased 11 percent in 2006, compared to 2005.
By Cândida Ribeiro Caffé

The best way to avoid fraud claims when communicating a franchisor’s value is for the franchisor to put itself in the franchisee’s shoes.
By ...
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Expanding Your Brand Culturally March 1, 2008

One can avoid costly cultural faux pas and successfully navigate the world’s increasingly global economy.
By Bachir Mihoubi

2007 Entrepreneur of the Year Award February 1, 2008

Brian Scudamore Named Entrepreneur of the Year

Keynote Speakers Set to Provide Unique Insights February 1, 2008

CEO J.W. Marriott Jr. and U.S. Army Gen. Colin Powell, retired, will headline general sessions during the IFA’s annual convention.
By Hilary Strahota

2007 Hall of Fame Award February 1, 2008

U. Gary Charlwood, CFE, receives Hall of Fame Honor

2007 Bonny LeVine Award February 1, 2008

Jeanne Kennedy, Bonny LeVine Award Honoree

The landscape of franchising is rapidly changing.
By William Edwards, CFE

The New Frontier of Franchise Disclosure February 1, 2008

Franchisors have until July 1 to convert their offering circulars to the new disclosure format.
By Susan Grueneberg

The Benefits of System-Wide Continuity February 1, 2008

The most successful of the franchise owners are those who materially follow the entire system.
By Steven M. Rafsky

Financing Re-Imaging Projects February 1, 2008

National funding program can be the solution to revitalizing a brand.
By Rick Anderson

2007 Ronald E. Harrison Award February 1, 2008

Ronald E. Harrison Award Recipient Gerald A. Fernandez

2008 Legal Symposium—It’s all in the Planning February 1, 2008

Task force boosts program to new levels.
By Lane Fisher

It is the sincere wish of the Convention Committee that each attendee leaves with many new ideas to enhance the brand development.

Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance Pres. Gerry Fernandez is keynote speaker.
By Hilary Strahota

The Art of Closing the Sale in 10 Easy Steps February 1, 2008

These steps convey messages of confidence to future franchises and customers.
By Steve Beagelman, CFE

Public Policy Challenges Await in 2008 February 1, 2008

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

In Their Own Words February 1, 2008

Public statements of leading policymakers on franchising issues of concern to small businesses.

New vice president of international affairs to bolster the association’s visibility in the global market.

IFA, through the Diversity Institute, launched an ambitious multi-city seminar series in major cities across the country.
By Miriam L. Brewer

“Work/life balance” is used very liberally these days.
By Susan E. Black-Beth, CFE

The board of directors includes franchisees, franchisors and suppliers who represent the extremely diverse nature of franchising.

The IFA’s board of directors welcomes these franchise executives who will focus their respective experiences, talents and insights to benefit the association’s primary leadership group. ...
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Goal Planning Breeds Business Success January 1, 2008

If you don’t know where you are going, any road will do.––Lewis Carroll, author of Alice in Wonderland.
By Charles E. Chase

Sharing Best Practices January 1, 2008

Building a culture of information sharing improves operations, boosts franchise relations and saves time.
By Don Higginson

Maintaining Unity In a Franchise System January 1, 2008

Maintaining unity within a franchise system is paramount if a brand is to succeed. By Matt Boswell, Jeffrey Burnett, Lonnie Helgerson, CFE, and James Mowery, ...
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Leveraging Contacts After the Convention Is Over January 1, 2008

The best method to leveraging contacts after the convention is over is to start before the convention begins.
By Karen Spencer

From strength in numbers to targeted outreach, IFA promotes franchising industry’s interests.
By Jessica Bonanno

When Is It Time To Change Management? January 1, 2008

Identifying the most effective CEO for a franchise enterprise is a complicated, time-consuming and sometimes painful task.
By G. Thomas MacIntosh II and Ryan ...
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Bulgaria–Bullish on Franchising January 1, 2008

Bulgaria’s franchise market is still mostly unexplored and untapped.
By Miroslava Marinova

It's a Wrap for 2007 January 1, 2008

Seven cities played host to International Franchise Association’s Legal Roundtable Series and Franchise Development Seminars

Managing the Outside Sales Representative January 1, 2008

By using behavioral techniques, franchise systems can determine the traits necessary for success.
By John Boyens

Building an effective franchise recognition program can be a crucial element in promoting a successful franchisee.
By Kristi Mailloux

Support a Cause and Get an Effect January 1, 2008

Charitable team-building exercises are important not only for the participants, but also for the community’s perception.
By Lori Kiser-Block, CFE

Orlando is the place to be if you’re a franchise professional seeking to sharpen your industry skills and network with thousands of your peers .
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Ensuring Your Franchise’s Involvement in Diverse Neighborhoods January 1, 2008

Engaging in and building relationships in the diverse communities where you own a franchise helps ensure success.
By Freeman Farrow

IFA Publications Net Four Design Awards December 1, 2007

The International Franchise Association’s flagship publication, Franchising World, has reaped more awards for its outstanding graphic design.

The VetFran” program, created to aid former military personnel in the transition to civilian life, has enabled 1,000 veterans to become franchise small-business owners.

Headlines can be misleading, but the sky is not falling .
By Thomas Lauer

A Year Defined by Growth And Resiliency December 1, 2007

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

When Loan Options Narrow: Financing Partners Can Help December 1, 2007

Franchise systems that put the time and effort toward establishing financing partner relationships provide an extremely valuable component.
By Patrick Connealy

Betting Against Conventional Wisdom December 1, 2007

Enhancing decision-making skills increases your odds of achieving desired results.
By David Handler

Give Franchisees a Head Start on Success December 1, 2007

Having a successful franchise depends a lot on whether the owner knows how to run the business.
By Derek Ganter and Sharon Sanders

IFA Wins First Round in Federal Case December 1, 2007

IFA believes Congress has a mandate and an obligation to address immigration reform at the federal level.
By Jessica Bonanno

2008 in the States–Politics Over Policy December 1, 2007

An overcrowded ballot will assure political posturing when Congress and state legislatures convene.
By Troy Flanagan

Keys to a Successful Start-Up December 1, 2007

Satisfied first-year franchisees are essential to validation and the consistent growth of the franchised concept year after year.
By Joe Bourdow

Which Money Source is Best for Your Franchise System? December 1, 2007

The right amount, for the right reasons, at the right time, from the right source can cause significant, positive change.
By Don Marks

The Schumer-Crapo proposal would prevent unlawful impediments to the free flow of commerce among the states.
By Troy Flanagan

Effective Communication = Winning Franchise Relations November 1, 2007

To achieve positive relations with franchisees, there has to be a genuine interest in what they have to say.
By J.J. Prendamano

Special Report: The Profile of Franchising 2007, Series I

The ranks of Franchise Appreciation Day attendees grew this year by nearly 60 percent over 2006 .

Back to the Basics of Effective Franchise Relations November 1, 2007

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

Franchising Possibilities in Turkey November 1, 2007

The U.S. Commercial Service in Turkey has a number of programs and services available to assist the U.S. business community in establishing a presence in ...
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Moving Beyond Compliance November 1, 2007

Success in ensuring and building your brand can be achieved through the compliance/quality audit process.
By Kathy Larson

Franchise Compliance Sets the Tone November 1, 2007

Your organization’s attitude and approach to compliance sends direct and indirect messages to prospective and current franchisees.
By Joel Buckberg

CFE Program Hits the 1,000 Mark November 1, 2007

Survey measures growth and satisfaction.
By Linda C. Haneborg, CFE

Franchise South Expo: Heating up Miami November 1, 2007

There will be plenty of heat and excitement going on in the Miami Beach Convention Center.
By Joel Goldstein

It is more crucial than ever for franchise companies to build strong bonds with their franchisees.
By Rhonda Sanderson

Local Online Advertising: A Primer November 1, 2007

Local Internet search services have gained raving fans and have forced businesses to rethink their local marketing plans.
By Jeffrey Kolton

Reaching the Summit Through Well-Managed Partnerships November 1, 2007

What the franchising industry can learn from great expeditions.
By Jack Burris

Franchise companies must exercise care in adopting minimum retail price maintenance policies under Leegin.
By David L. Cahn and Jeffrey S. Fabian

Gaining an Edge on Vendor-Supplier Relations November 1, 2007

Positive franchise relations don’t just happen, people need to work at it and have a plan to develop it.
By Peter V. Baldine

Electronic Disclosure: The Future is Now October 1, 2007

Prospective franchisees are responding very favorably to electronic disclosure.
By Gary R. Duvall, CFE

IFA Educational Foundation issues comprehensive report on minority, gender-based franchise ownership.
By John Reynolds

Former corporate executives are highly-accomplished individuals, who are accustomed to status, recognition, rewards and perks.
By Jason P. Zickerman, CFE

In Their Own Words - U.S. Sen. Michael B. Enzi October 1, 2007...
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Massachusetts: A Profile October 1, 2007

An examination of the issues and atmosphere guiding politics and policy in the various states and the impact they have on franchising.
By Troy ...
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IFA and Industry Groups Sue to Stop “No-Match” Rule October 1, 2007

Firing workers required under immigration “no-match” rule.
By David French

Whichever option is chosen, it is important to be sure the providing company will provide excellent, personalized service.
By Jon Isackson

It’s like a boxing match…punch and jab, punch and jab.
By Dale Willerton

Human Resource Solutions For the Franchisee October 1, 2007

Professional employer organizations can help franchises enjoy the same HR benefits as large companies without the considerable overhead.
By Layne Davlin

Locating the Best Vendors For Your Franchise October 1, 2007

Partnering franchisees with the right vendor is a winning proposition for everyone.
By Danny Goldberg

Your Most Effective Customer Survey Tool is E-mail October 1, 2007

Strategically-applied, loyalty programs can boost customer frequency and provide direction for tomorrow’s outreach campaigns.
By Tim Schaden

How to Buy a Franchise 2007 September 1, 2007

Like any other form of business, there are no guarantees of success.

The new SBA Patriot Express Pilot Loan program brings broad appeal to the franchising community and its VetFran partners.
By Reginald Heard

Key Legal Questions To Ask September 1, 2007

Personal liability and obligations of franchisee and family members.
By David French

September 2007 FranPAC Report Card September 1, 2007

The IFA’s current financial support to candidates for federal office as of mid-July is reflected in the following “report card.”

Benjamin Franklin: Father of Franchising? September 1, 2007

Document shows evidence of first U.S. franchise, first female franchisee.
By Hilary Strahota

There are more than 80 value elements a franchisee may experience from membership in a banking syndicate.
By John L. Szajna

Franchised health outlets bring affordable health care to sub-Saharan Africa.
By Hilary Strahota

Franchise Prospecting and How To Maximize Your ROI September 1, 2007

There is a resurgence of trade shows and other events underway.
By Jim Squire, CFE

Marketing With Integrity Is More Than An Oxymoron September 1, 2007

It’s a better way to do business.
By Tom Feltenstein

New Zealand is attractive and high standards are being maintained by the Franchise Association of New Zealand through its membership having to comply with the ...
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Congress Faces Busy Fall Agenda September 1, 2007

The full spectrum of businesses involved in franchising must now be aware of the new political dynamics of Washington.
By Troy Flanagan

Next month a group of representatives from government agencies will be on hand to answer these questions and more during the West Coast Franchise Expo.
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Optimizing Markets for Your Franchise September 1, 2007

Achieve maximum market optimization with minimal “cannibalization” of customers through customer analytics.
By Tom Buxton

Buying a Franchise: What You Need to Know September 1, 2007

Find basic franchising information quickly and easily at Franchise.org.

IFA Welcomes Ohio Rep. Steve Chabot September 1, 2007

On July 12, the IFA’s political action committee, FranPAC, hosted a fundraising breakfast for U.S. Rep. Steve Chabot (R-Ohio-01).

Lessons from a Compulsive Networker September 1, 2007

Networking out of one’s comfort zone can be challenging and uncomfortable, but one will find it to be very rewarding.
By Marcia Hales, CFE

Through Franchise Appreciation Day, franchisees learn exactly how the IFA is working to protect them from harmful anti-small business policies...
By Jessica Bonanno

There may be significant under-reporting which could affect any comparison of franchise loan performance to non-franchise loan perfomance.
By Darrell Johnson and John Reynolds

West Coast Franchise Expo Opens Oct. 19 August 1, 2007

The WCFE offer an inside perspective into the franchising world.
By Joel Goldstein

E-Commerce for Successful Franchisors August 1, 2007

E-commerce may be an excellent source of revenue for franchise systems...
By John Rogers, Chris Bennett and Sony Grewal

Ultimately, keeping franchisees happy is what helps drive franchise growth and prosperity.
By Aaron Chaitovsky

... America’s most treasured brands are popping up all across Central and South America.
By Alan Andrews

Keeping the Franchise Family Connected August 1, 2007

Today’s conferencing technology makes communication easy and affordable.
By Mike Ligon

Now is the time to implement a system-wide PCI program before there is an issue or damage to the brand.
By Tom Epstein, CFE

November elections are viewed as “wide open” for political excitement.
By Troy Flanagan

Creating E-mails that Customers Want to Read August 1, 2007

Ten proven tips and suggestions.
By Michael Teitelbaum

Planning for Distance Learning and Education August 1, 2007

Executed correctly, distance learning can be a powerful tool to launch an organization to its next level of growth.
By Nancy Bigley, CFE
...
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Post-Termination Internet Violations: Who Fixes and How? August 1, 2007

Is the public being misled?
By Bethany Appleby and Frank Duffin

Political columnist George Will to deliver keynote address.
By Jessica Bonanno

Congress is Waiting to Hear From You August 1, 2007

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

Key steps to ensuring a profitable relationship.
By David Holmes

August 2007 FranPAC Report Card August 1, 2007

The following “report card” provides a snapshot of the IFA’s current financial support to candidates for federal office as of mid-June.
By Victoria Adams ...
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Managed Services: The Future of Technology in Franchising August 1, 2007

The possibilities and combinations of in-house and outsourced resources are endless.
By Ken Colburn

The U.S. House Financial Services Committee conducted a hearing in May to examine the effect of private-equity financing on workers and firms.

The best way to help franchisees adapt to an acquisition is going to be through strong, effective and consistent communications. Here are five basic steps ...
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IFA Hosts Florida Rep. Vern Buchanan July 1, 2007

Florida 13th Dist. U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan was honored with a fund-raising breakfast by the IFA.

July 2007 FranPAC Report Card July 1, 2007

A snapshot of the International Franchise Association’s current financial support to candidates for federal office.
By Victoria Adams

Who’s Managing Your Leads? July 1, 2007

By Bill Burris

Franchise Appreciation Day: Carpe diem! July 1, 2007

The growth of participation over the years has been impressive.
By Stuart Mathis

The importance of “thinking big.”
By Paul Steck

Today, the average prospect attending a franchise expo arrives having really done his homework.
By Joel Goldstein

I want to be better; I want to make a bigger difference.
By Art Coley, CFE

The economic climate for franchising is very favorable.
By Boris Popovski

Courts’ approach varies widely.
By Arthur L. Pressman and Bradley S. Block

What Else is on Congress’s Plate? July 1, 2007

Beyond the headline grabbers, many other issues affect franchising.
By Troy Flanagan

Answering the one question that prospects want to know can provide a competitive edge.
By Kay Marie Ainsley, CFE

By Fredric “Ric” Cohen and Brian Schnell

Embracing the Revised FTC Franchise Rule July 1, 2007

The countdown has begun.
By David J. Kaufmann

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

Australia’s franchise law is to apply to foreign franchisors. Should this be a concern?
By Penny Ward

There’s more than one reason the International Franchise Expo has become the pre-eminent franchise trade show.
By Joel Goldstein

The continent is officially open for business.
By John Sotos and Sam Hall

The program offers IFA members payment processing systems designed specifically for franchise systems, associations, suppliers and individual franchisees.

With primaries set to begin as early as January 2008, the window for congressional agreement on a comprehensive immigration reform bill is getting smaller.
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Diversity Officer Patricia Harris “Pays Forward” Inspiration June 1, 2007

Patricia Harris, vice president of McDonald’s USA and global chief diversity officer of McDonald’s Corp., received the prestigious Ronald E. Harrison award in March during ...
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Baltimore Kick-off Launches Women, Minorities, Vets Seminars June 1, 2007

The first seminar in the series attracted attendees who were committed to learning more about franchising that incorporates a proven business model with training ...
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Ensuring Good Franchise Relations June 1, 2007

Ensuring that the relationship between franchisee and franchisor remains positive is always important.
By Janice M. Dwyer, CFE

Guiding Minorities to Franchising Careers June 1, 2007

Welcome to the Sixth Annual Minorities in Franchising Special Edition.

The franchising community honors minority franchisees who regularly strengthen their communities and build their brands with unwavering commitment.

Little known SBA 504 program can be key to savings.
By Christopher G. Hurn

The U.S. mailbox withstands the test of time.
By Godfred Otuteye, CFE

Marketing for a Diverse Population June 1, 2007

When recruiting to attract qualified individuals, it is most critical to be fair to all.
By Wrenton Wright

Make your company the obvious choice for investors without breaking the bank.
By David Woods

Mark Ellis approached looking for a business the same way he approaches training recruits for the NYPD—methodically.
By Cynthia Franklin

If your side of the story isn’t heard, don’t expect a fair solution.
By Troy Flanagan

Centralized Prospect Marketing June 1, 2007

Careful planning, combined with readily-available technology, allows the creation of the best marketing power.
By Steve Scruton

Today’s franchise companies are experiencing dramatic changes, either through mergers and acquisitions, exponential growth and or through changes in brand identity and executive leadership.

The International Franchise Association Educational Foundation is set to release the findings from its study on minority franchisee development. The “Diversity and Minority Franchisee Development ...
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Q & A With U.S. Rep. Howard P. McKeon June 12, 2006

First elected to represent the 25th Congressional District of California in 1992, U.S. Rep. Buck McKeon has earned a reputation as a leader in the ...
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Minority-Business Enterprise: The National Priority June 12, 2006

Predictions abound that the fastest growing population segment in the United States, between now and the year 2050, will be among racial and ethnic minorities. ...
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Momentum Grows for IFA MinorityFran Initiative June 12, 2006

Nearly 100 International Franchise Association-member companies have signed up to participate in the new MinorityFran Initiative. Launched in February, MinorityFran is designed to help build ...
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Fly South this Winter: Franchise Expo South Debuts in Miami June 9, 2006

In its inaugural year, the Franchise Expo South is making its debut in Miami, and with the positive response we’ve received from exhibitors, it seems ...
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Era of the Social Franchise: Where Franchising and Nonprofits Come Together June 9, 2006

Minority is an interestingly over-used term in many circles, so much so that it seems we could easily become insensitive to its breadth of meaning. ...
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Corporate Stores Can Help Energize Market Penetration June 6, 2006

Asking franchisors about their growth strategies is almost the same as asking whether a tomato is a fruit or a vegetable. You’re bound to ...
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Small Business Health Plan Bill Blocked By Senate Opponents May 25, 2006

On May 11, the US Senate failed to approve a procedural vote on the Small Business Health Plan bill, S 1955, which would allow ...
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WFC Spotlight: The Theme Is Leadership May 12, 2006

At the turn of the 20th century, feminist and American writer, Charlotte Gilman was quoted as saying: “Until we see what we are, we cannot ...
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Untapped Financing Option Empowers Deeper Pool of Qualified Franchise Prospects May 12, 2006

Today, finding good prospects who financially qualify to invest in a franchise is one of the key jobs of any franchise that wants to grow. ...
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Best Practices: Structuring an International Franchise Expansion May 12, 2006

International expansion can be extremely appealing for most franchisors. It holds both the promise of large untapped markets and the allure of the exotic. However, ...
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Mexico Modifies its Franchise Laws May 12, 2006

While I was growing up in Mexico in the late 60s to early 80s, franchises were almost non-existent. Due to a combination of lax ...
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SBA Lending Programs: “The Seven Truths” May 12, 2006

Here’s a test to see how much you know or think you know about SBA loan programs. Take it for fun and then read the ...
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Opening Doors to Good Government May 12, 2006

About the only time members of Congress are easily accessible is during election time. Outside of that, they spend a lot of time in ...
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Franchise Business Outlook & Compensation Survey May 12, 2006

In late 2005-early 2006, the International Franchise Association conducted an e-mail survey of its franchise-system members....
By Ken Walker

High Noon for the Death Tax May 12, 2006

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) has a scheduled a key Senate showdown in May over the fate of the estate tax. The ...
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Negotiating Computer Contracts for Franchisors and Their Franchisees May 12, 2006

Franchise systems may use computer systems for many different reasons such as tracking sales, managing customer information, managing inventory, sharing system information and documentation ...
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What We Really Owe Our Government April 24, 2006

Growth…the mere mention of the word perks up ears and sets those competitive juices to flowing. Hardly a day goes by without an announcement of ...
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Succession Planning Is Critical Consideration April 24, 2006

It seems like only yesterday that I became the third franchisee of Spring-Green Lawn Care Corp., shortly after it was founded in 1977. I had ...
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IFA Launches Minority Franchisee Recruitment Initiative April 24, 2006

The International Franchise Association announced plans for a new initiative during its annual convention in Palm Springs, Calif. Called MinorityFran, the initiative is designed to ...
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Driving Traffic Through Powerful Advertising April 24, 2006

As you read this, college basketball’s annual championship, better known as March Madness, has come to its dramatic and exciting conclusion. In watching these games, ...
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At Age 17, Budding Entrepreneur Weighs Benefits of Franchise Ownership April 24, 2006

Like many teenagers, Douglas Quimby, Jr., is intentionally vague about his plans for the future. When asked the age-old question, “What do you see yourself ...
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Attracting Sales to Your Business April 24, 2006

In an ever-changing marketplace, offering an outstanding product or service isn’t all it takes to cultivate success. In fact, once your product has been developed ...
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Proposed Health Insurance Legislation Will Benefit Us All April 24, 2006

It is hard to imagine that in such an advanced country as the United States, more than 45 million Americans are without health insurance. Accordingly ...
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Former Marine Receives Franchising Scholarship April 24, 2006

Chris Marcia, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1997 to 2002 as a special intelligence network administrator, has received an educational advancement scholarship ...
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Being a Family-Owned Company Can Be a Competitive Advantage April 21, 2006

Creating and running a family-owned business can have many advantages as well as disadvantages. However, if the owners stay focused, use a loyal team to ...
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Building a Better Franchising System With a Multi-Unit Mantra April 21, 2006

The first person to say “less is more” wasn’t a franchising professional. Such is the case with growing single-unit franchises into multi-unit success stories in ...
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Concept Diversification? A Powerful Strategy for Multiple-Unit Operators April 21, 2006

Successful multiple-unit operators should consider diversifying their companies by shifting from the management and operation of one concept to two or more proven concepts. This ...
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Operational Expansion– Recruiting Multi-Unit, Multi-Brand Franchisees April 21, 2006

There are some key questions to ask before deciding to take this route to further expansion. What has been your growth strategy in the past? ...
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Spotting Successful Multi-Unit Candidates April 21, 2006

So, the franchise is at the stage where it’s time to move away from selling only single-unit franchises to selling multi-units as well. Perhaps multi-units ...
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US SENATE JUDICIARY CHAIRMAN ADDRESSES PHILADELPHIA FRANCHISE NETWORK March 27, 2006

US Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined members of IFA’s Philadelphia-South Jersey Franchise Business Network March 10 to air his ...
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Mexican Franchising at its Peak March 8, 2006

Mexico was completely different when the arrival of the first franchise occurred. Since then, the banks have become private, a new political party is governing ...
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How Franchise Companies Can Target Markets March 7, 2006

International development is viewed by many as a green field that spins profits with limited risk. In reality, however, this statement could not be further ...
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Measuring the Franchise Relationship February 13, 2006

Maintaining constructive relationships with franchisees is a lot easier to talk about than it is to put into practice. For franchisors, this is an ongoing ...
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The Broadening Appeal of Niche Franchising February 13, 2006

Today’s consumer is smarter than ever and demands an extensive variety of products and services within a single category. As customers are better educated about ...
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Hall of Fame David and Gail Liniger Named February 10, 2006

This award, International Franchise Association’s oldest and most prestigious, is presented to an IFA member, past or present, who exemplifies the optimum in franchising and ...
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Ronald E. Harrison Award February 10, 2006

This award was created to recognize organizations or individuals who have made significant contributions to minorities in franchising either within their franchise organization or within ...
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Entrepreneur of the Year Award February 10, 2006

First presented in 1982, this award is conferred upon an individual who is currently building a successful business venture. The recipient need not be an ...
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International Franchise Association's Federal and State Issues: A Year In Review February 10, 2006

The International Franchise Association, through its Government Relations Department, conducts an extensive, comprehensive program designed to preserve and enhance the legislative and regulatory climate for ...
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If You Can't Measure It...You Can't Manage It February 10, 2006

Imagine that your franchisees called tomorrow, all of them, one after another, and to tell you that they have a potential purchaser for their location. ...
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Increase Your Franchise’s Visibility December 8, 2005

Notice anything new at www.franchise.org? The International Franchise Association recently re-designed its Web site and has become one of the pre-eminent franchise lead portals on ...
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Marketing and Information Technology Combine December 8, 2005

Technology now impacts almost every facet of marketing. Franchise systems need to have a process in place that allows these disciplines to work effectively together ...
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When An Established Company Decides to Franchise December 8, 2005

When a large, established company decides to change its business format to that of a franchised organization, there is a learning curve that cannot be ...
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Key Accounts and a Franchised System December 8, 2005

Any strong franchised service company will inevitably get called upon by small and large chains to perform work on their locations. Strategically, the franchisor must ...
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An Effective Mentoring Program November 1, 2005

Mentoring has been going on, in an informal setting, for many years. It exists in every company. Most everyone can think of someone who helped ...
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Attracting and Retaining Multiple-Unit Operators November 1, 2005

Previously, franchise systems’ successes have been due to their ability to attract individual franchisees and duplicate victories–over and over again. Many franchisees see purchasing a ...
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Eliminate the Blame Game November 1, 2005

If there’s one message practically every franchisor has spoken it’s that the success or failure of one’s business is dependent on the marketing programs, support ...
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Rules of Communication November 1, 2005

Franchising is a very local business and the most effective way to communicate with foreign franchises is to not act foreign. In other words, ...
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The Making of a Fabulous Franchisee November 1, 2005

The strength of the franchising sector includes a number of factors, a well-structured system, a product or service that matches customers’ wants, attractiveness to financial ...
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