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Not every franchise is the right fit for every person. In this session, franchise industry expert Aicha Bascaro will walk attendees through the key factors to evaluate before investing in a franchise — including lifestyle fit, financial expectations, operational complexity, franchisor support, and long-term growth potential. Learn how to look beyond the brand name and choose a franchise that aligns with your goals, strengths, and vision for the future.
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Christina Broccoli shares the real-world journey of leaving an established career to build a business from the ground up. From recognizing an opportunity and taking the first leap to navigating challenges, building a team, creating multiple revenue streams, and expanding the brand, this session offers practical lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to turn an idea into a business—and a business into something bigger.
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You found the franchise. Now, how will you fund it? Rocco Fiorentino breaks down what aspiring owners should know about financing a franchise, from understanding startup and working capital needs to exploring today’s funding options and knowing when to begin the process. Attendees will leave better prepared to ask the right questions, avoid common funding mistakes, and turn the dream of business ownership into an actionable plan.
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Tee Box is redefining golf training by combining elite coaching, advanced technology, fitness, club fitting, and a supportive community under one roof. Rather than simply renting simulator time, Tee Box delivers a complete player development experience that helps golfers of every skill level improve faster, play better, and enjoy the game more.Speakers
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Did you know the Canadian franchise community is the second-largest in the world? The CFA’s “Go Canada: The Best Next Step for Your Business” information session will provide an overview of the key considerations, opportunities, and steps involved in entering this key market. Industry experts and franchise professionals with cross-border experience will share insights on franchise development, legal and regulatory considerations, market dynamics, and best practices for successful expansion.
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Are you ready to grow but don’t know which strategy is best for you? Franchising your business is a dynamic method of expanding, but is not right for everyone. This seminar will help you understand various growth alternatives and whether franchising should be a part of your long-term plan. Discussions will also help business owners gain a thorough understanding of what is involved in terms of resources, costs, and personnel. Alternatives examined will include company-owned growth, business opportunities and licensing, joint ventures, dealers and distributorships, and franchising. This session will also include measuring the advantages and disadvantages of alternative strategies versus the advantages of franchising.Speakers
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The seminar “Should You Franchise Your Business?” provides business owners and entrepreneurs with an introduction to franchising, including its benefits, costs, operational systems, branding, and franchise relationships. Attendees will learn what makes a franchise successful, how to determine if their business is franchisable, and whether they are suited to become a franchisor. The seminar also offers practical guidance, industry insight, and clear next steps for business growth through franchising.
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Most franchise brands scale by leaning on consultant networks. Glo took a different path. Founder Onyi Odunukwe reveals how Glo grew its first hundred locations organically, then accelerated with paid social and a founder-led personal brand, awarding 110 units to just 45 owners. The lesson: when you recruit committed operators instead of selling one-off deals, growth compounds. A candid playbook for building a franchise that's healthy from day one.Speakers
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Franchise candidates have many brands/segments to choose from today. How do you muddle through the list of reputable franchisors to determine which brand is the best fit for you. It’s more than looking at the investment levels to determine what you can afford, but moving through your journey, what are the most important criteria to consider in picking the right franchise offering
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Shawn Saraga is the creator of the course, Choose The Right Franchise and Author of The Franchise Toolbox. In this seminar we will cover off the highlights of what's involved in choosing the right franchise. Everything from personality matches to disclosure review, from validation to evaluating Profit and Loss Statements. This seminar promises to help you get the tools you need to determine which franchise is the best match for you.
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Scaling from one location to multiple units requires more than working harder—it requires building the right systems. In this session, Garret Steed shares practical lessons from operating and leading multi-unit franchise businesses, focusing on the three pillars of sustainable growth: People, Process, and Profitability. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to build stronger teams, create scalable operations, and use their P&L to make better business decisions.
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Effectively expand your business through franchising. This class provides the essential knowledge required by prospective and emerging franchisors by teaching both the fundamental franchising principles as well as the strategic implementation to achieve success in franchising. You'll discover how to adapt the franchise model to your specific business needs and brand identity allowing you to avoid one-size-fits-all approaches that rarely if ever work. Successful franchisors design their systems to replicate the brand experience consistently from location to location in a way that also attracts the proper class of franchisee.
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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. Attendees will learn about the franchise selection process, key elements of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), financing options, and resources to support their journey. Whether you're new to the concept or ready to take the next step, this session equips you with the insights and tools to make informed decisions.
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Breaking into franchising as a small, emerging brand is equal parts exciting and overwhelming. In this session, Matt Fowers of Cordovan Art School shares the real lessons learned from building a 12-location children's art franchise — from finding the right legal and operational partners, to attending expos, to leveraging social media for brand awareness. If you are early in your franchise journey, this session was built for you.
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Why do some franchise businesses consistently outperform everyone else, even when they have similar products, pricing, and marketing? The answer is rarely systems alone. It's culture. In this fast-paced, practical session, franchise executive Don Allen shares seven proven strategies used by high-performing franchise organizations to build passionate teams, create unforgettable customer experiences, strengthen community relationships, and drive long-term business growth. Attendees will leave with practical ideas they can immediately implement to improve hiring, leadership, employee engagement, customer loyalty, and operational excellence.
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What is the hardest part of franchise sales and why won't the candidate move forward? How do I know how to find the right franchise that 'fits you to a tea'? In this session, you'll hear why the art of relationship building is so important in today's development climate.
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Scaling a franchise system fast is one thing. Scaling it without watching your brand unravel is another. FACE FOUNDRIÉ went from concept to 85+ locations while staying self-funded, founder-led, and obsessively consistent. In this session, CRO Cheyanne Thurston breaks down the operational, cultural, and client experience frameworks that made rapid growth sustainable.
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Today's businesses face unprecedented challenges in attracting, hiring, and retaining talent. In this educational session, franchise executive Vince Vigneri explores how workforce trends are reshaping business opportunities and why staffing has emerged as one of the most resilient and scalable business models. Attendees will gain insight into industry trends, common mistakes entrepreneurs make, and the systems, technology, and strategies successful staffing businesses use to create long term growthSpeakers
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Thinking about franchising your business? This session cuts through the hype to give you an honest, practical look at what franchising really involves. You'll learn what makes a business franchise-ready, the operational, financial, and legal foundations you need in place, and why timing matters. Because while almost any business can be franchised, not every business should — and knowing the difference could save you years of costly missteps.
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Thinking about franchising your business? This session cuts through the hype to give you an honest, practical look at what franchising really involves. You'll learn what makes a business franchise-ready, the operational, financial, and legal foundations you need in place, and why timing matters. Because while almost any business can be franchised, not every business should — and knowing the difference could save you years of costly missteps.
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Scaling from one franchise unit to multiple locations requires far more than repeating what worked the first time. This seminar explores the key challenges of multi-unit growth, including leadership, delegation, systems, and culture. Attendees will gain practical insights on scaling strategically, building sustainable infrastructure, and avoiding common pitfalls that can derail expansion.
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Hosted by the IFA Diversity Institute, this dynamic panel will highlight how franchising can help Latino entrepreneurs turn business ambitions into lasting success. Panelists will discuss the advantages of franchise ownership, key steps to getting started, and how to navigate funding and growth opportunities. With insights tailored to the vibrant South Florida market, attendees will gain practical tools, industry knowledge, and connections to help confidently pursue franchise ownership and long-term business growth.
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Many people enter franchising with unrealistic expectations about the level of support and business guidance they will receive. In this eye-opening session, Aicha Bascaro explains what franchisors are designed to provide — and the critical business skills franchisees are still responsible for developing on their own. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the franchise relationship, the realities of business ownership, and how successful franchisees bridge the gap between following a system and building a profitable business.
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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 female franchise leaders. Learn how to build a strong network, overcome challenges, and create opportunities for success in the franchise world. Whether you're a franchisee, franchisor, or industry professional, this session will leave you motivated and ready to take action!
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Franchise success depends on delivering exceptional customer experiences at every location. Learn how AI powered customer engagement helps brands respond instantly, maintain brand consistency, increase conversions, and support employees without replacing the human connection customers value.Speakers
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This session explores how franchise owners are leveraging strategic HR partnerships to streamline payroll, navigate multi-state compliance, access Fortune 500-level benefits, and reduce employment liability, all while staying focused on growth. Learn how outsourcing HR through a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) can be the operational foundation that helps your franchise system scale faster and smarter.
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The best franchise decisions aren’t made under pressure—they’re made through a structured, intentional process. This session will explore how to stay in control of your franchise search, ask the right questions, avoid common pitfalls, and evaluate opportunities with confidence. Whether you're just getting started or narrowing your options, you'll leave with a practical framework for making a franchise investment based on facts, fit, and long-term goals rather than emotion.
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The franchising landscape is being reshaped by Artificial Intelligence and Generative Engine Optimization — and most franchise systems are behind the curve. In this session, Giselle Campos and Ric Militi of InnoVision Marketing Group break down how AI and GEO are transforming the way franchisees attract local customers, how franchise development teams generate and convert leads and what it means for the future of brand consistency across your entire system. Whether you're a franchisor trying to scale smarter or a franchisee trying to compete locally, the rules of visibility and discovery have fundamentally changed.
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This talk explores how to scale brands globally through a structured, city-led expansion strategy. The main thesis argues that growth now happens city by city, as targeting entire countries is too broad. Furthermore, it emphasizes that the biggest mistake is attempting to scale without first building a solid foundation, proposing a strategic approach focused on regional hubs and specific key cities.
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Buying a franchise can be one of the smartest, or most expensive decisions you'll ever make. Drawing on 27 years in franchising, including building one successful franchise, failing in another, and teaching hundreds of entrepreneurs how to find the right fit, Tom Scarda shares the seven biggest mistakes buyers make and how to avoid them. Leave with practical insights that can save you time, money, and regret.
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Thinking about franchising your business? This session cuts through the hype to give you an honest, practical look at what franchising really involves. You'll learn what makes a business franchise-ready, the operational, financial, and legal foundations you need in place, and why timing matters. Because while almost any business can be franchised, not every business should — and knowing the difference could save you years of costly missteps.
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What is takes to build a best in class franchise organization from determining if a brand is ready to franchise, how to build the franchisor organization and how to create the perfect match with a franchise brand with a franchisee.
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Brian Kelley is President and CEO of Phenix Salon Suites, one of the largest salon suite franchises in the world, with more than 500 locations open or in development across North America and Europe. Since joining the company in 2019, Kelley has helped lead a period of significant growth, including international expansion, acquisitions, new prototype development, and the diversification of the salon suite model beyond traditional hair services. Under his leadership, Phenix has continued to innovate through new concepts, flexible development models, and initiatives. Kelley is a frequent speaker on franchise growth, emerging business models, and the future of entrepreneurship within the beauty and wellness industries.Speakers
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America's aging population is creating unprecedented demand for senior care services, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for entrepreneurs. This session explores the demographic trends driving the growth of senior care, the increasing preference for aging in place, and the critical role franchising can play in meeting these needs. Attendees will gain insights into one of the fastest-growing sectors and the opportunities it creates for franchise owners and communities alike.
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Franchise candidates have many brands/segments to choose from today. How do you muddle through the list of reputable franchisors to determine which brand is the best fit for you. It’s more than looking at the investment levels to determine what you can afford, but moving through your journey, what are the most important criteria to consider in picking the right franchise offering
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Women are one of the fastest-growing groups in franchising, and there's never been a better time to get involved. Join our panel as we discuss what's driving this growth, why franchising is proving to be such a popular route into business ownership, and the opportunities available across the industry.
Hear from women who have done it themselves as they share their experiences and advice, while exploring why more women than ever are choosing franchising to build successful businesses.
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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. Attendees will learn about the franchise selection process, key elements of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), financing options, and resources to support their journey. Whether you're new to the concept or ready to take the next step, this session equips you with the insights and tools to make informed decisions.
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Explore how Sonny’s BBQ has evolved from a single smokehouse into a beloved, enduring brand—and how it’s being positioned for the next generation. Attendees will experience Sonny’s heritage, understand why guests and franchisees love the brand, and see how hospitality, culture, and operational excellence fuel success. The session highlights the guest journey, franchise support, and future growth opportunities that make Sonny’s more than BBQ.
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Managing advertising across hundreds of franchise locations has always meant choosing between brand control and local flexibility—until now. Join Simpli.fi's CRO, Susan Rothwell, and Roxane Harris, VP Block Advisors & Franchise Operations at H&R Block, as they share how Simpli.Hub, Simpli.fi's on-demand advertising portal, gives every location the power to launch campaigns in minutes while keeping every market on-brand and every stakeholder in the know.
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WellBiz Brands is bringing three powerhouse concepts — Drybar, Elements Massage, and Fitness Together — to the global stage. In this session, discover how a multi-brand platform built around wellness, beauty, and fitness is positioned for international growth. Learn what makes each brand a compelling franchise opportunity, how WellBiz supports franchisees from launch through ongoing operations, and why now is the right time to bring these proven concepts to new markets around the world.
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This seminar explores the rise of Korean food culture in the U.S. and how Korean brands are expanding globally. Through the evolution of Korean fried chicken, attendees will learn how cultural trends, consumer preferences, and business strategies shape international growth.
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Join us for an inside look at franchise ownership opportunities with FullSpeed Automotive's leading automotive service brands, Grease Monkey and SpeeDee. Attendees will gain insight into the automotive aftermarket industry, learn what it takes to become a franchise owner, and discover how FullSpeed Automotive supports franchisees through training, marketing, technology, and ongoing operational guidance.
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The seminar “Should You Franchise Your Business?” provides business owners and entrepreneurs with an introduction to franchising, including its benefits, costs, operational systems, branding, and franchise relationships. Attendees will learn what makes a franchise successful, how to determine if their business is franchisable, and whether they are suited to become a franchisor. The seminar also offers practical guidance, industry insight, and clear next steps for business growth through franchising.
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Join our panel of experienced multi-unit franchisees as they share how they approach expansion, build high-performing teams, manage operations at scale, and navigate the challenges of growth. Gain practical insights into the strategies, systems, and mindset required to build and sustain a successful multi-unit franchise business.
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In this founder story, Britt Riley shares the journey of building Haven from a personal challenge into a growing familycare movement. Attendees will learn how innovation, resilience, community, and strategic partnerships helped transform an idea into a scalable business designed to better support modern families while creating meaningful impact for parents, children, and communities.
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What does it take to scale a franchise portfolio when you have no salon industry experience? In this session, multi-unit franchisee Alex Bello shares how a background in finance and real estate led him to Phenix Salon Suites, why he viewed the model as a unique property management opportunity, and the lessons he's learned while building a growing portfolio of salon suite locations.
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This session highlights how Sonny’s BBQ develops leaders, strengthens communities, and delivers hospitality that keeps guests coming back. Through Shannon Snell’s journey—from team member to future franchisee—attendees will explore the brand’s culture, operational excellence, and commitment to the next generation. The session offers insights into leadership, guest experience, and the power of BBQ to bring people together.
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What does it take to successfully grow from your first franchise to a multi-brand, multi-unit business? Bill Mathis shares the lessons learned from building and expanding franchise businesses, highlighting the importance of preparation, relationships, and recognizing opportunity. Attendees will gain practical insights to help them evaluate growth opportunities and build a successful, sustainable franchise business.
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Many people enter franchising with unrealistic expectations about the level of support and business guidance they will receive. In this eye-opening session, Aicha Bascaro explains what franchisors are designed to provide — and the critical business skills franchisees are still responsible for developing on their own. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the franchise relationship, the realities of business ownership, and how successful franchisees bridge the gap between following a system and building a profitable business.
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Join VetFran for an engaging panel discussion featuring Veteran franchise owners and Veteran leaders from franchisor brands who have successfully transitioned from military service into franchising. Attendees will gain a better understanding of franchising, hear firsthand stories about leadership, entrepreneurship, and career transition, and learn how military experience translates into success on both the franchisee and franchisor side of the business. This session will provide practical insights, inspiration, and real-world advice for veterans, military spouses, and anyone interested in exploring franchising as a pathway to leadership and business ownership.
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Hosted by the IFA Diversity Institute, this introductory panel explores the fundamentals of franchising, strategies for success, and pathways to business ownership. Attendees will gain practical insights into Franchising 101, evaluating opportunities, and accessing capital and resources to support franchise growth. This session is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in learning how franchising can create opportunities for long-term business success.
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Not every franchise is the right fit for every person. In this session, franchise industry expert Aicha Bascaro will walk attendees through the key factors to evaluate before investing in a franchise — including lifestyle fit, financial expectations, operational complexity, franchisor support, and long-term growth potential. Learn how to look beyond the brand name and choose a franchise that aligns with your goals, strengths, and vision for the future.
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This session explores the similarities and differences between franchising in Canada and the United States through CEFA’s own cross-border growth journey. From franchise recruitment and market selection to real estate, legal structure, consumer expectations and brand positioning, the discussion will help attendees understand what translates easily, what requires adjustment, and why successful expansion depends on respecting both the similarities and the differences
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Discover how the Regional Developer model expands beyond traditional franchise ownership by creating multiple revenue streams, territory growth opportunities, and long-term enterprise value. This seminar explores the roles, responsibilities, financial advantages, and support systems available to Regional Developers, providing attendees with a clear understanding of how this scalable business model can accelerate growth, increase market influence, and build recurring revenue.
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From a near-$600m tech exit to almost losing everything in 2008 — and rebuilding into one of the UK's largest multi-brand franchise operators. Suhail Rehman shares the real map from single unit to empire: the five stages of scaling, why most operators stall, and the systems, leadership and capital discipline that make growth last. Candid, practical, and built for franchisees, franchisors and suppliers alike.Speakers
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Learn how Hickory Dickory Decks became Canada’s leading deck-building franchise through proven systems, strong brand values, and a customer-first approach. This session will share our Canadian success story, the principles that guide our franchise network, and our growth plans for bringing our trusted outdoor living model to new markets across the United States.
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Franchise brands aren't just selling a business model — they're selecting a partner. Join 40 year franchising veteran, Steve White, for a look behind the curtain on what top franchise systems actually evaluate when vetting candidates, beyond capital and credit scores. Attendees will learn the traits that separate franchisees who thrive from those who struggle, giving aspiring and current franchisees a candid look at how decisions are really made; and gives franchisors a framework for sharpening their own recruitment criteria. Whether you're evaluating your first franchise opportunity or refining how your brand selects its next operator, you'll walk away with a clearer picture of what "the right fit" truly means.
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Be inspired as Randy explores the evolution of brand identity and scaling with intention, from non-traditional venues to destination-driven experiences. Learn how adaptive formats, bold creativity, and innovative builds drive growth across full-service, quick-serve, and unconventional spaces. He’ll also unpack the power of culture, influencers, and purpose-driven impact in shaping meaningful brand connections.Speakers
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Within a few years, AI will be table stakes in franchising: every brand will run, more or less, the same automated back office. So where's the edge? It collapses back onto what franchising has always been: the local relationship, the team, and the community. This session reframes the question from "how do I automate?" to "what do I do with the time automation gives back?" You'll leave with a simple filter to apply Monday morning.
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Hear from two successful multi-unit, multi-brand franchise operators as they share how they built thriving businesses - while staying grounded as a close-knit family. Discover the strategies, lessons learned, and values that have fueled their growth without sacrificing what matters most at home.
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You’ve signed the agreement – now what? What you do in these early days will shape everything that follows. Hear directly from multi-unit and multi brand franchisee, Jerry Akers, as he shares the real …
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Data analytics are important when considering new sites for development, and in-person visits are essential for franchise growth. This presentation will cover site selection best practices including how in-person visits can mitigate risk, help you view the site through the customers’ eyes and guide you in selecting the strongest sites for your restaurant.
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The strongest franchise leaders approach each location with an owner-operator mindset. Viewing the business at the unit level sharpens decision-making around franchisee economics, support systems, and the real drivers of performance, focusing less on metrics that merely look impressive in a board presentation and more on what genuinely improves results on the ground.
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With 25 years and thousands of franchise units across multiple brands and 26 countries, Sean Oatney, CFE breaks down what it truly takes to build a franchise system that scales — and lasts. From franchisee recruitment and validation to multi-unit growth strategy, real estate, and franchisee relations, this session delivers actionable frameworks for franchisors at every stage. Walk away with clarity on what to fix, what to prioritize, and what separates the brands that endure from the ones that don't.
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Buying a franchise is a significant investment, and understanding the process is key to making an informed decision. This session will explore the advantages of franchising, highlight what prospective franchisees should look for in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), explain key provisions of the Franchise Agreement, and discuss the value of franchisee associations. Attendees will leave with practical insights and the confidence to evaluate franchise opportunities more effectively before making their investment.
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Jon Taffer shares his proven approach to building businesses that create the right customer reactions, drive revenue and scale with discipline. Drawing from Bar Rescue, Taffer’s Tavern and decades advising major brands, Jon will show franchise owners and operators how to strengthen systems, leadership, guest experience and accountability to build brands that last.
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Broward County Convention Center | 25 & 26 Sept 2026
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