As 2023 comes to a close, I've taken some time to reflect on the year, and I have to say it was a great year overall. The year included many conferences, several speaking engagements, and plenty of board meetings. It was a very successful year for myself and those I work with. As a franchise expert, advisor and speaker, I really enjoy the work that I do and the people I get to collaborate with. My business travel adventures started with a fun time at the IFA Convention in Las Vegas, where my wife and two daughters joined me. That was a lot of fun and the first time we've ever done that.
Gratitude and Growth: Wrapping Up 2023 in Franchising
Highlights and Takeaways from IFA's Emerging Franchisor Conference
In early November, I had a great time participating at this year's IFA's Emerging Franchisor Conference in New Orleans. I have been to this event several times before and was fortunate enough to be invited back again as a speaker and roundtable facilitator.
Things I Heard at IFA 2023
I just got back from this year’s IFA Annual Conference in Las Vegas. The conference was a blast, with a record-breaking attendance of 4,200+ people and 300+ exhibitors!
The International Franchise Association has its annual conference scheduled for February 26th to March 1st of this year. The IFA Annual Convention is “the Super Bowl of franchising.” Every big player in the franchising world will be there. Over the years, I have learned a ton and met many great people at this conference. I hope you’ll decide to join me in attending!
One of the best things that I have done to grow my franchising career is to attend industry conferences. Being able to engage with other franchise professionals, hear their insights, and offer ideas is a rewarding and fruitful way to become a better franchisor, franchisee and supplier - any franchise professional can benefit from building relationships at these events!
Recently, in May 2021, I had the pleasure of attending the 2021 Big Frog Conference in Orlando, Florida. This was my 1st in-person conference since the COVID pandemic hit in March of 2020 and it was great to get back out there again! After more than a year of being stuck online, the in-person connections with handshakes and hugs were welcome.