International Franchise Association Convenes New Jersey State Assemblymembers, Franchise Business Leaders for the Open for Opportunity Roadshow

February 10, 2023

Trenton, N.J. – The International Franchise Association (IFA) brought its 2023 Open for Opportunity Roadshow to Trenton and the Meadowlands this week. The New Jersey Roadshow stop included back-of-house tours at local franchise businesses and two roundtable discussions with franchisees, local elected officials, and business and community leaders. Conversations centered around how franchising helps strengthen the New Jersey community and workforce and the vital role franchising will play in supporting the state’s hospitality and tourism needs ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

“New Jersey is home to some of the most well-known franchised brands in the world, including essential hospitality companies that serve communities across the country,” said Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO. “What many don’t realize is that these household names do more than provide critical hotel and lodging services – they are part of a larger business model that helps manifest opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs to become business owners. Open for Opportunity is here in New Jersey to showcase how franchises are leading the way in supporting individuals and communities around the nation.

“Franchises are a big part of New Jersey’s economy and local communities,” said New Jersey Minority Leader John DiMaio. “Small business owners and entrepreneurs are proof that success can come from anywhere. If we improve New Jersey’s business climate by lowering taxes and cutting regulations, they will have more money and time to invest and grow businesses in New Jersey. If that happens, the next great franchise may start in the Garden State.”

“Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is committed to helping our franchisees realize their entrepreneurial dreams by placing our franchisees – here in our home state of New Jersey and around the world – at the center of everything we do,” said Paul Cash, General Counsel, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “We are proud to support the IFA’s Open for Opportunity campaign to raise awareness for the successful franchise business model and its impact on the Garden State.”

Nearly 20,000 local franchise establishments in New Jersey provide more than 203,000 local jobs. In 2022, the sector provided $7.2 billion in payroll, generated more than $19 billion in economic output, and contributed $11.9 billion to New Jersey’s gross state product.

The Open for Opportunity Roadshow wrapped up its first roadshow stop of 2023 in the Twin Cities in January. Officially launched at the 2022 IFA Annual Convention in San Diego, the Roadshow has also visited South Florida, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Wilmington, DE, Sacramento, San Jose, and Virginia and Maryland.

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