Franchising World

Expos: Producing Leads For Top Franchisors July 1, 2008

Quality leads are the reason franchisors exhibit at trade shows year-after-year.
By Joel Goldstein

Testing your advertising outreach will provide answers to the right combination.
By Doug McCrea

New law will dispose of hundreds of class action lawsuits filed against franchise companies.

Franchise Appreciation Day provides an opportunity to come to Washington; and, in essence, “Franchise Congress.”
By Jason Straczewski

Political Engagement is Good for Franchising July 1, 2008

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

Addressing consumer desires or muzzling small business?
By Troy Flanagan

PostNet International Franchise Corp. CEO and IFA Chairman Steve Greenbaum, CFE, shared his insight on the relationship between Canada and the United States.

Franchise professionals in charge of their brand’s expansion plans should not overlook the fertile marketplace of the Middle East.

The overall goal of a Franchise Advisory Council is to facilitate communication between franchisor and franchisee.
By Janice M. Dwyer, CFE

Measuring Franchise Development Performance July 1, 2008

Disciplined use of the right measurement tools will then lead to performance-improving decisions.
By Ben Davis

Leads, prospects or inquiries All franchisors want them, want more of them and want them all to be qualified.
By Jeff Sturgis, CFE

IFA requests comment period extension.

Going overseas…Very Carefully July 1, 2008

Extending operations internationally means careful planning, choosing the right partners and observing cultural and language traditions as well.
By Todd Recknagel

Run, Don’t Walk Away July 1, 2008

The single biggest mistake made by novice franchisors is awarding franchises to marginally-qualified candidates.
By Mark Siebert and Theresa Huszka

The Dwyer Group implemented the Dwyer-Dasher program to encourage and support a company-wide mentality of health-consciousness.
By Hilary Strahota

By Matthew Shay

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

IFA leaders and franchising executives are working to advocate for and implement sustainable solutions.
By Jason Straczewski

It appears that the law of unintended consequences is once again asserting its presence.
By Arthur L. Pressman and Gregg A. Rubinstein

Build Your Search-Engine Ranking July 1, 2008

With the power of your franchisees behind you, you have the resources to build thousands of high-quality links in no time.
By Chad Hill

Vigorous fund-raising activities by IFA members have propelled the association’s political action committee to a record first quarter in 2008.
By Victoria Adams

Visionary Leaders Breed Successful Programs June 1, 2008

The President's Column
By Matthew Shay

Shape Up Your Brand June 1, 2008

Every franchisor and franchisee needs to be confident that the brands are at peak performance during challenging times.
By Jim Rogers

Franchisors who aren’t already considering smaller markets for expansion should explore the possibility.
By Greg Tanner

Franchise companies seeking to advance their recruitment activities to attract more women and minorities consider the path two well-recognized franchisors. By Miriam L. Brewer

The International Franchise Association, through the IFA Educational Foundation, is committed to fostering increased representation of minorities in the franchising industry.

Minorities Attaining Success in Franchising June 1, 2008

This issue of Franchising World is the Seventh Annual Minorities in Franchising Special Edition.

Today’s diversity training is a far cry from what it once was.
By Mauricio Velásquez

Franchisees who have been awarded a franchise through the VetFran program are eligible to apply for the grant.

It all begins with establishing a corporate culture of respect and commitment.
By Catherine Monson

Buy a franchise with retirement funds and other untapped resources.
By David Nilssen

Corporate diversity counseling is an emerging area that assists clients in addressing these issues.
By Kendal Tyre and Phil Wilkins

Navigating the ins and outs of the various government tax rules is especially difficult for small businesses.
By Troy Flanagan

The agreement recognizes the opportunities that the franchising sector offers.

India: Market for the Masses June 1, 2008

Franchising in India has been consistently growing at more than 30 percent for the past five years.
By Dhawal Shah

Schlotzsky’s is the 300th franchise to join VetFran.

Winners at the Business of Diversity June 1, 2008

The Shane Battier Franchise Scholarship will award a total of 30 commercial-cleaning franchises nationally within the next four years.
By Tracee Roderick

Changing the definition of “disability” will amount to a boon for trial lawyers and fewer resources to assist the truly disabled.
By Jason Straczewski

Today’s conventions should also meet increasingly-high standards for eco-awareness and “earth-friendly” events.
By Dave Masterson

Companies are at the starting line of a long, competitive race in the quest for skilled talent.
By Sandy Mazur

Taking it to the Max at Expo June 1, 2008

Maximize your presence at franchise trade shows to get the most for your brand and your money.
By Joel Goldstein

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 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

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

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

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

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

“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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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

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

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).

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