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Franchise Experts Panels

This year, we're ramping up the excitement with thought-provoking discussions! You'll witness sessions from industry experts, diving into the hottest topics, tackling both current and future challenges.

These lively debates will be packed with actionable insights and groundbreaking ideas, and you’ll have the chance to interact directly with the experts during engaging Q&A sessions. While the topics will stay consistent across both days, each session will bring a fresh lineup of distinguished experts to keep things dynamic and diverse. Keep an eye out for more details on the subjects and the stellar experts leading each discussion.

Make sure to arrive early to grab a prime seat in the theatre—these sessions are in demand, attracting interest for their unique insights and invaluable guidance. Get ready for an unparalleled opportunity to fuel your knowledge and connect with the best in the business!


 

IFA Franchise Panels

Keynote Speakers

KEYNOTE THEATER 1

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11:00
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    In this session, CEO of Dine Brands Global – parent company of Applebee's, IHOP, and Fuzzy's Taco Shop – will give us a look at the headlines and trendlines impacting businesses today, what it means t ...
11:45
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Explore the transformation of franchising from small Mom-and-Pop operations to thriving family empires. Delve into the workforce's shift from corporate jobs to business ownership, driven by the allure ...
12:30
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Join 40-year franchising veteran, former franchisee and current President & CEO of PuroClean, Steve White, for a discussion exploring how franchising can be a strategic pathway to entrepreneurship. Th ...
13:15
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    In this session Brad will share from personal experience important attributes of a sturdy, sustainable franchise system that values strong relationships with their franchisees, and how to discover the ...
14:00
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Creating the proper culture is pivotal for any business, especially in franchising where the culture flows through all levels: from the home office, to the franchisees, and then their local teams. At ...
14:45
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    This keynote dives into the core principles that drive thriving franchise systems, where both people and profits grow together. From the science of unit-level economics to the art of collaboration, tr ...
11:00
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Expanding into multi-unit franchising offers an exciting pathway to growing your portfolio and multiplying your success. For franchise owners ready to scale, learn from other franchisees' approach wit ...
11:45
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Join Jim Holthouser, CEO of GoTo Foods, with nearly 40 years of global franchising expertise in travel and F&B. Discover how to forge powerful franchisee-franchisor partnerships, sidestep common pitfa ...
12:30
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Join Clarence Howell III as he reveals how to leverage your unique gifts and systems thinking to create a culture of excellence in franchising. Drawing from his success as both a franchisee and busine ...
13:15
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Join us for an insightful and interactive session featuring Jhonny Mercado, a multi-unit, multi-brand and multi-country franchisee, as he shares his journey, experiences, and key lessons from the worl ...
14:00
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    Embarking on a franchising journey opens a world of exciting possibilities, but it can also provoke anxiety—much like preparing for your first child. Regardless of the brand, you will likely find the ...
14:45
  1. Keynote Theatre 1
    A dynamic seminar designed for founders in early stage eager to elevate their concept. Discover innovative strategies that blend excitement with practical execution, ensuring your brand stands out in ...

IFA Theater

SEMINAR THEATER 2

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11:00
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    This seminar, led by Fernando López de Castilla, CFE, Founding Partner of GNF Worldwide, a thought leader in global franchising, will explore growth opportunities and emerging trends in the franchisin ...
12:00
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    "The Basics of Franchising" is a discussion with franchise experts aimed at introducing aspiring minority business owners, executives, or others to the world of franchising. The experts cover the fund ...
13:15
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    Franchising 101 With VetFran & Diversity Institute - VetFran shares Navigating Your Franchise Journey: Choosing the Right Opportunity Unlock the potential of franchising: designed to guide aspiring Ve ...
14:30
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    Join industry expert Dave as he immerses you in the world of franchising, providing invaluable insights for both aspiring franchisors and potential franchisees. Drawing from his extensive experience, ...
11:00
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    Unlock the potential of franchising: designed to guide aspiring Veteran franchisees through the essential steps and key considerations in selecting the franchise that aligns with their goals. Whether ...
12:30
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    Join us for an inspiring discussion on the power of women in franchising! This panel will explore leadership, mentorship, and business growth, sharing real stories and actionable strategies from top f ...
14:00
  1. Seminar Theater 2: IFA Theater
    This seminar, led by Larry Kruguer, Senior Director of GNF Worldwide in the U.S., will focus on the key strategies to bring your brand to the U.S. market. With extensive experience in franchise expans ...

EXPERT PANELS

SEMINAR THEATER 4

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11:00
  1. Seminar Theater 4: Expert Panels
    This session introduces the essential steps to buying a franchise—from understanding what franchising truly involves, to evaluating opportunities and navigating the legal and financial landscape. Atte ...
13:30
  1. Seminar Theater 4: Expert Panels
    Franchising is the most dynamic method of expanding a business. Business owners should gain a thorough understanding of what is involved in franchising in terms of franchise law, resources, costs, and ...
11:00
  1. Seminar Theater 4: Expert Panels
    Effectively expand your business through franchising. This class provides the essential knowledge required by prospective and emerging franchisors by teaching both the fundamental franchising principl ...

    Sponsored Session by

    MSA

14:00
  1. This session introduces the essential steps to buying a franchise—from understanding what franchising truly involves, to evaluating opportunities and navigating the legal and financial landscape. Atte ...

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

SEMINAR THEATER 6

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11:00
  1. Seminar Theater 6: Professional Development
    Expanding from a single-unit owner to a multi-unit operator requires the right strategy, leadership, and financial control. Aicha Bascaro, a 30+ year franchise expert who has worked with brands like D ...
12:30
  1. Seminar Theater 6: Professional Development
    Your first year as a franchise owner is crucial to long-term success. Jerry Akers, a former corporate turnaround specialist turned multi-brand franchisee, has built 34 locations across Great Clips and ...
14:00
  1. Seminar Theater 6: Professional Development
    Starting a franchise is exciting but getting it right from day one is key to long-term success. Jerry Akers, a former corporate turnaround specialist turned multi-brand franchisee, has spent 20+ years ...
11:00
  1. Seminar Theater 6: Professional Development
    Thinking about buying a franchise? Understanding the financial side of ownership is key to making a smart investment. In this session, Aicha Bascaro, a franchise expert with over 30 years of experienc ...
12:30
  1. Seminar Theater 6: Professional Development
    Starting a franchise is exciting but getting it right from day one is key to long-term success. Jerry Akers, a former corporate turnaround specialist turned multi-brand franchisee, has spent 20+ years ...
14:00
  1. Seminar Theater 6: Professional Development
    Your first year as a franchise owner is crucial to long-term success. Jerry Akers, a former corporate turnaround specialist turned multi-brand franchisee, has built 34 locations across Great Clips and ...

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