impact you are having on peoples ’ lives . Life without your club is often a huge void in their lives . Plus , the lengths to which you are going now to keep the business safe for your members should be known . The more you advocate for your business , the greater the likelihood of government policy supporting it . Likewise , take the time to get to know industry trends , see what other industry thought leaders are advocating for and , if it aligns with your priorities , use their platform for your discussion points as well .”

Franchisees should take Izaks ’ words to heart . It is imperative that franchisees are mindful of the organizations that can help them . More , it is necessary for franchisees to learn how to use these resources to their benefit . Frankly , as belts tighten and in light of the ongoing pandemic , franchisees must be active and engage with their state and local representatives . Franchisees can use these resources to maintain awareness of legislation that already affects their business , as well as pending legislation that may affect it in the future .

Moreover , if there are other franchisees in your area – both in your franchise system or in other systems – it would be prudent to seek them out and join forces on issues that are symbiotic to your collective businesses . Izaks added , “ Another key piece of advocating for your club or clubs is taking the time to rally others in the franchise system , most commonly in your region or state , to join you in your efforts . There is strength in numbers when it comes to advocating . Getting your franchisee colleagues on board to raise their voices for your advocacy goals increases the likelihood of affecting change or keeping policies in place .”

With respect to pending legislation , having your voice heard can be very helpful to advocating for or against such legislation and can be the difference of success or failure for your business . If one

thing is clear in the fitness industry , it is that government plays an enormous role in the operations of gyms . Whether it be those states that regulate membership agreements or licensing or , most recently , in connection with operating in the “ now normal ” COVID-era , state and local government has an enhanced role in the operation of your business . As such , the better relationship you have with the representatives in your state and local areas , the more likely those relationships can be leveraged to help shape policy and also provide the facts and information that will help guide legislative decisions . Remember , your state and local representatives have not likely owned a business like yours ; your input is critical in helping craft legislation that serves not only the public good but protects your interests .

Ultimately , franchisee engagement with advocacy organizations is becoming a more critical tool to franchisee success . Franchisees should learn to feel comfortable working with advocacy organizations and networking with legislators and their staffs to ensure your voices are heard and your needs are taken into account in the legislative process . Franchisees should also remain mindful that good advocacy serves a vital role in the development of public policy . Finally , franchisees should be careful that their efforts to influence policy are conducted in a businesslike and lawful manner . G

Justin M . Klein is a franchise and business attorney and a partner with the nationally recognized franchise law firm of Marks & Klein LLP , which represents Planet Fitness franchise operators throughout the United States . You can contact Klein at justin @ marksklein . com .

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GearedUp | 2020 Issue 3

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