March 2010 Franchising World
There’s more than meets the “I” at IFA.
By Matthew Shay
We’re sometimes asked, “Why is IFA called the International Franchise Association and not the American Franchise Association?”
The answer in part is a reflection of the enduring optimism of our founding members of 50 years ago, who believed that franchising could expand and flourish, not just in the United States, but around the world as well. Believing the new organization’s name should reflect that, they named it the International Franchise Association.
It turns out the founders were right on target. Today, more than 60 percent of IFA franchise system members currently franchise or have operations in international markets and 75 percent have plans to accelerate or start new franchising programs internationally. Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and Australia are the most popular countries where U.S. franchisors are operating, but others include Brazil, China, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Spain, Italy, Kuwait, Russia, France, the United Arab Emirates, Ireland, Chile, Egypt and Argentina in their top market lists.
IFA’s international programs have evolved over the past half century to provide a cost-effective means for franchisors to explore foreign markets and expand globally, foster greater understanding of global markets and promote franchising abroad. IFA has also worked with members and other franchise organizations to ensure fair franchise laws and regulations in countries around the world.
We provide technical assistance and information, along with organizing and supporting franchise trade missions and U.S. pavilions at selected franchise exhibitions outside the United States. Our partnership with the U.S. government helps to enhance these programs and provide valuable in-country resources for members.
IFA’s revamped international section of its Web site reflects the evolving market potential for international franchising. More than 60 countries are profiled on the site with economic, demographic and cultural data, plus information about franchise laws. Also available are recent articles related to conducting business in the specific countries providing IFA members with comprehensive research tools for exploring the opportunities for international franchising. The next phase will be to complete the collection and publishing of data on international opportunities for master franchisees as part of every member’s listing.
IFA’s ongoing international development education initiatives and our relationship with franchise leaders around the world delivers enhanced value by harnessing top talent to delve into the current topics affecting today’s international executives in franchising.
IFA is well represented each year at meetings around the world to further enhance our members’ ability to expand overseas and foster relationships with experts in other countries. In 2009, IFA was represented at meetings in China, Dubai, Brazil, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, Morocco and Singapore, where IFA’s Certified Franchise Executive program was launched. Similar CFE programs are planned for India and the Philippines.
As our founders envisioned and as the IFA Vision Statement affirms, we aspire to be the preeminent voice and acknowledged leader for franchising worldwide. We have the tools, programs, resources and awareness to help our members grow internationally. That’s why we are the International Franchise Association.