Now that conventions and in-person gatherings are officially “back,” we are headed to Phoenix next for the Franchise Expo West, March 18-19. This is another incredible opportunity to gather with franchising brands and suppliers, learn in our tailored education sessions, and pick up new insights for your business. For those looking to get started in franchising, this is the place to see what opportunities are out there. For those already in the business, this is where you or anyone in your network should be to showcase your business and help it grow.
When it comes to franchising, Arizona has a lot to show. According to our recent 2022 Franchising Economic Outlook, Arizona is projected to be 3rd in the nation for franchise growth this coming year. This study looks at business climate, migration trends, and economic recovery, along with statistics and performance from 2021, all showing that Arizona is helping lead the way. We all have a lot to learn from all that is going on in the Phoenix area.
Whether you’re brand new to franchising or looking to expand your knowledge about the business, IFA has partnered with MFV Expositions to bring you seminars and workshops where you can get all the information you need. In addition to the vast expo that this event will bring, IFA will be sharing our new education content and programming. You have probably heard us mention that we are reimagining our education curriculum to put it at the center of our value proposition, with the goal of meeting you where you are – and that happens to be in Phoenix next week.
We have two packed days of education sessions on everything from buying a franchise, to finding the right franchise for you, to making your business a franchise, marketing techniques and more.
Franchising provides countless opportunities, and this new partnership is a great way to showcase all this sector has to offer in the way of getting into business, creating jobs, and giving back to the community. Franchised businesses offer unparalleled opportunities for underrepresented groups, including people of color and veterans. Around 26% of franchises are owned by people of color, compared with 17% of independent businesses generally, and Black-owned franchises earn around 2.2 times more than Black-owned independent businesses. 14% of franchisees are veterans, whereas they make up only 7% of the general population. To dive deeper into these opportunities, the IFA Foundation will offer seminars on the benefits of franchising for veterans and underrepresented communities.
Franchising is open for opportunity, and the Franchise Expo West, and any of our upcoming conferences or exhibitions are a great way to learn more and grow your business knowledge. This is just the beginning!