Franchise Update Magazine Issue IV, 2014 | Page 37
IFA’S FRANCHISE ACTION NETWORK
T
BY ERICA FARAGE
he franchise business model is under unprecedented attack by anti-business activists launching a coordinated
campaign in cities, states, and at the federal level. From
discriminatory wage increases in Seattle and potentially Chicago, to federal regulations that would recast franchisors as
employers of their franchisees’ employees, these attacks are like
nothing we have ever experienced. Franchise businesses must
unite under a single, unswerving, strong, and collective voice
to defend the franchise model against these increasing threats.
1) It’s time to mobilize, now. This summer, the IFA board
approved a new strategic initiative, the Franchise Action Network (FAN) to mobilize and
unify the franchise community. Through
FAN, franchisees, franchisors, and suppliers
are working to educate lawmakers, regulators, key influencers, and the public about
the crucial economic advantages provided
by the franchise business model across the country.
2) Why join FAN? In addition to keeping you in the loop about
the latest news affecting franchises in your area, FAN will work
to neutralize anti-franchising forces, simultaneously educating
policymakers that locally owned franchise businesses are indeed
essential small businesses. As a member of the franchise community, you know that behind many familiar logos and trusted
brands are small-business owners seeking to increase opportunity—not just for themselves, but for their entire communities.
By joining FAN, individuals can play a critical part in delivering this message to policymakers in Congress, the states, and
in cities across the U.S.
3) Key objectives. By launching FAN, franchising aims to
seize control of the debate, build our network of grassroots
supporters, and educate policymakers and the public about the
benefits of franchising. FAN’s objectives are as follows:
• recruit current franchisees, fra