February Franchising World 2011
It’s hard to imagine an International Franchise Association Annual Convention with more professional, educational and networking wattage than last year’s 50
thcelebration.
However, that would understate the reasons why the convention remains a power center each year: the IFA members.
Yes, each year the convention provides prominent keynote speakers from government, legislative, policymaking and industry sectors.
And this year is no different with keynote speakers former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney and Steve Forbes.
However, it’s the dedicated individuals who make up the IFA Convention Committee which begins to formulate and invite these respected and knowledgeable experts. Therefore, a sincere thanks goes to these men and women who took time away from their businesses to ensure that their peers hear from today’s leading visionaries, political analysts, economic authorities and business professionals over the next several days.
As you review your convention program, the session topics and speakers would be lackluster without the input of hardworking members of the IFA Convention Committee and others who collaborated closely with the IFA Conferences Dept. to develop a dynamic program.
Overcoming Challenges
See page 94 for the convention schedule-at-a glance and details in the onsite program books to learn how the Feb. 15 Super Session will benefit you and your company. 7-Eleven President and CEO Joseph DePinto, who was featured on CBS’ “Undercover Boss” in 2010, will share with convention-goers his experiences in overcoming business challenges and moving forward with plans for the future.
What makes the “Panel of the Pros” an important part of the Feb. 16 Super Session: IFA members and a topic on most businesspeople’s minds, “Show Me the Money.”
Dunkin’ Brands Chairman of the Board Jon Luther and IFA incoming first vice chairman will moderate the session that focuses on a priority issue for the franchise industry: accessing credit.
Come hear what they have to say and then learn how to best apply it to your brand.
It’s About Leadership
Each year the Annual Leadership Conference, which is conducted by the IFA Women’s Franchise Committee, includes a panel of industry specialists who provide advice on leadership strategies and best practices.
The theme of the Leadership Conference, scheduled Feb. 13, is “Leading Through the New Normal: How to Define and Empower Your System.” Keynote speaker Sopra Brands COO Keith Gerson, CFE, will guide attendees through discussions on the definition of the “new normal” and how it affects leadership style within companies.
Next, plan to participate in a panel discussion, moderated by FranWise President Mary Ann O’ Connell, CFE, who is the Leadership Conference chairwoman, on this new leadership dynamic.
Speakers will include Great Clips President Rhoda Olsen and Mr. Rooter President Mary Thompson, CFE.
The session closes out with roundtables facilitated by more than two dozen IFA members who will focus on a franchise system case study.
Double Dose of Service
IFA made great strides in 2010 to increase its influence among federal and state legislators.
IFA would be unable to forge these relationships without the ongoing and increasing support of its members.
During the convention, a series of events sponsored by IFA’s political action committee, FranPAC, will enable franchise representatives to learn more about how FranPAC educates lawmakers on issues in the legislative area that have a critical impact on the daily operations of franchise businesses.
The 2011 FranPAC events to be conducted during the convention will include a Silent Auction that presents a unique and entertaining experience for participants to bid on prizes donated by their colleagues.
The opportunity is yours to bid on exciting travel packages, state-of-the art electronics and more while supporting FranPAC during the Feb. 14
and 15 proceedings, during the Exhibit
Hall hours.
Are you a member of the FranPAC 365 Club?
If not, learn more it during the 365 PAC Breakfast on Feb. 15.
This basic level of FranPAC membership encourages industry leaders who are willing to pledge a minimum of $1 a day to enhance effective political representation in the nation’s capital.
It’s Your Convention
The IFA Annual Convention is a member-driven, member-enhanced
experience designed for all levels of association representatives. IFA appreciates the ownership that its members take in making the Annual Convention the quality event of the year.
The association can only move forward as fast as its leaders and general members propel it.
IFA continues to appreciate and look forward to your active participation in the 51
stAnnual Convention whether as a speaker, roundtable facilitator, panelist, sponsor, award presenter, award recipient or audience member.
Take the next few days to learn, network and be entertained within a relaxed atmosphere among some of the industry’s leaders.
IFA Convention Goes Mobile
IFA will offer attendees with an interactive smartphone a mobile application that will include the schedule of events, exhibitor listings, session details and speakers, convention announcements and more.
Your program book inludes more information about this mobile application and how to stay connected during the convention.
Download the mobile app at http://m.core-apps.com/ifa2011.