The momentous decision in Massachusetts will have a far-reaching impact toward protecting franchisees™ roles as entrepreneurs and business owners, said Michael Layman, IFA senior vice president of government relations and public affairs. Classifying franchisees as employees, as the plaintiffs unsuccessfully argued, would have undermined franchisee independence and led to an untenable situation for franchisors and franchisees alike, and undoubtedly created confusion, uncertainty, and an increase in litigation in the Commonwealth. We are pleased that common sense prevailed in the Bay State and hope that its precedent impacts the broader independent contractor debate in Washington, D.C. and state capitals across this country.

IFA today applauded passage of California Senate Bill 919, bipartisan legislation extending disclosure requirements to third-party franchise sellers such as brokers, broker networks, and franchise sales organizations. The 75-0 Assembly vote follows months of IFA advocacy, with the support of the Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) and American Association of Franchisees & Dealers (AAFD), promoting the legislation to strengthen the foundation on which the franchise relationship begins by improving information available to prospective franchisees. The bill passed the Senate in May and now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom™s desk for signature.

The International Franchise Association (IFA) today announced a new partnership with leading global event organizer Fortem International to create the world’s largest franchise exhibition. The inaugural event, The IFA World Franchise Show, will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center May 9-10, 2025, showcasing hundreds of franchise brands to provide education and connect them with prospective entrepreneurs across the world.

The International Franchise Association (IFA) today announced a new partnership with leading global event organizer Fortem International to create the world™s largest franchise exhibition. The inaugural event, The IFA World Franchise Show, will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center May 9-10, 2025, showcasing hundreds of franchise brands to provide education and connect them with prospective entrepreneurs across the world.