On Thursday, November 5, IFA, in partnership with our members Inspire Brands and Wendy’s, as well as the Coalition of Franchisee Associations (CFA) hosted a briefing for Capitol Hill staff featuring a ‘Franchising 101’ seminar, our new Oxford Economics research on the value of franchising, and a Franchisee Panel Discussion with three amazing franchisees. This briefing was part of Open for Opportunity, our multi-year, purpose driven campaign we launched in September to refresh the association’s and business model’s image by strengthening the narrative about what it truly means to be a part of the franchise community.
Our message to lawmakers and staff was clear – franchising creates inclusivity, diversity, and economic growth for America’s workers and communities. To support America’s workers, lawmakers must support franchising.
Michael Layman, IFA’s VP of Government Relations, sat down with three of our members: Ruth Agbaji, CEO of Code Wiz, Jerome Johnson, Dunkin’ and Baskin Robbins owner, and Joe Lindenmayer, California Closets owner. Together, they discussed how franchising made it possible for them to achieve their dreams of owning their own small business, and how the business model helps them adapt to challenges that come their way, whether it be the COVID-19 crisis, staffing challenges or supply chain issues. With the support of proven business models and the International Franchise Association, our panelists agreed that local franchise small businesses will help lead our economy and workforce into the future.
Additionally, Jeff Ziarko, from Economic Policy Strategies, also highlighted the recent research from Oxford Economics, The Value of Franchising, which underscores what local franchise businesses really mean to America as we work towards a path back to prosperity. For example, the report demonstrates that local franchises create 2.3 times as many jobs as comparable non-franchise businesses and produce sales that are 1.8 times higher. Also, more than 65% of franchise workers are offered health insurance, a greater proportion than among small establishments in general.
More importantly, we wanted lawmakers and their staffs to understand that “open” on Main Street means something different today. Our communities need more than ever from their local businesses, leaders, and job creators. Members like Joe and Jerome, who are veterans themselves, are helping others transition from military to civilian life, exposing them to new and exciting career paths. Alongside Ruth, you are all creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds to improve their livelihoods. You are investing in your local communities by giving your time, resources, and hearts back to those around you. And you are creating more equitable and inclusive teams that support your employees and drive success.
As local businesses, you are part of something bigger. Together, we are rising to our communities’ challenges. We will continue to lift up your stories so that lawmakers and consumers know what we know—that franchising empowers local business owners to create opportunities for themselves and those around them.
Together, we are Open for Opportunity. Read more here.