Over the past few months, the franchising industry has come under attack, creating headlines around the nation. There are many threats to be concerned with – from discriminatory minimum wage increases to changes in joint-employer status – that could alter the franchise business model as we know it. The International Franchise Association (IFA) is working to neutralize these types of attacks and educate policymakers that locally-owned franchise businesses are America’s hidden small businesses that not only create jobs, but also provide incredible value to local communities around the country.
To defend the industry, IFA launched a strategic initiative called the Franchise Action Network (FAN). This network creates consistency by bringing franchisees, franchisors, and franchise suppliers together to be one consistent and collective voice on behalf of the industry. FranConnect has teamed up with the IFA, and if you haven't already, we encourage you to join, too. By building the Franchise Action Network across the nation, our industry will be prepared to handle future federal, state, and city issues that threaten the franchise community. FAN will be educating franchisees, franchisors, and suppliers in each state on franchise policy issues in their area, which will position the IFA for successful legislative activity in the 2017 sessions and beyond.
By joining the FAN, you will play a critical role in ensuring the franchise model remains an important part of the U.S. economy. FranConnect supports the IFA and Franchise Action Network and asks that our clients take a moment to learn more about the issues that could affect everyone in our industry.
