FranchiseHelp at the IFA 2020

IFA's Annual Convention is just about the biggest franchising event of the year, and a great opportunity to meet many others in the franchising space. We checked in with our Director of Strategic Growth, Alfonso Flores, about his thoughts on the IFA's Annual Convention 2020.

"Over 3,500 people from all walks of Franchising life flooded the halls of the Marriott World Center for the 2020 International Franchise Association (IFA) annual convention in Orlando, Florida. Attendees from across the globe gathered for several days filled with roundtables and workshops discussing every facet of franchise business and operation, world-class speakers delivering inspirational and thought-provoking messages, and exhibitors pulling out all the stops with fantastic displays and volumes of information about their brands and services. You can’t forget about the nights jam-packed with mixers, socials, and networking events, which are all accompanied by delicious foods and an adult beverage or two. One thing about the folks of the franchise industry: They work hard, and they play hard. It’s the kind of spirit and energy that keeps a hold of you. It’s no wonder so many thousands choose franchising for their entrepreneurial endeavors.

"The hard work, strong leadership, success, and community giving, of the best of the best in the industry are celebrated each year. Amy Cheng of Cheng Cohen LLC won the Bonnie LeVine Award, Anytime Fitness founders Chuck Runyun and Dave Mortensen took Entrepreneur of the Year, and this year’s Hall of Fame inductee is Gordon Logan, founder of Sports Clips, Inc. Gordon delivered an incredibly heartfelt acceptance speech, which Gordon’s family was there to hear. After the Hall of Fame ceremony, which ended with a surprise appearance and speech by Lou Hotlz, lauded NFL and South Carolina Gamecocks head coach. I was honored with a photo with Gordon (left) and his son Edward Logan (right). 

"The IFA does so much for the franchise industry and community. From Franchising Gives Back, its main coordinated charitable act, to Political Action Committee, which fights for fair representation of business interests critical to the success and continuation of franchising. If you’re not an IFA member, become one. Experience the support, satisfaction, and enrichment of the franchise world, and I'll see you next year in Las Vegas!"