How IFA membership can benefit your franchise

Founded in the USA in 1960 to represent and protect the franchise community, the International Franchise Association has grown into an internationally respected organisation that aims to 'protect, enhance and promote franchising' around the world.

The IFA is still based in the USA, however it now has members from around the world and is keen to build on its internationally reputation by welcoming quality franchise professionals as new members. IFA members include many household names such as McDonald's, Burger King and 7-11, as well as smaller franchises. IFA membership is divided into three categories:

• Franchisors
• Franchise owners
• Suppliers

Due to the IFA being an internationally recognised organisation joining is of especial value to franchisors wanting to expand their brand into new international territories, whether or not they are planning to target the USA market.

One of the main advantages of joining the IFA for franchisors is that it will enable them to represent their brand at many of the leading USA franchise exhibitions including International Franchise Expo (IFA), Franchising Expo South (FES), The West Coast Franchise Expo (WCFE), and Regional Franchise and Franchise Expos.

As an IFA member franchisors will also be able to keep their key staff up-to-date with the franchise industry through the educational and professional development opportunities the IFA provides. These opportunities allow the franchisor's key staff to learn, develop skills, network and trade ideas on how to grow the franchise system and run it more effectively. IFA members are also able to attend:

• International Franchise Convention
• Annual Marketing Conference
• Legal Symposium
• Regional Educational Seminars
• Legal Roundtables
• Franchise Business Network
• Opportunity to Serve on IFA Committees
• Professional Certification for Franchise Executives

Furthermore, IFA members have access to industry magazines and studies such as Franchise World Magazine, IFA Insider newsletter, Franchise Opportunities Guide, as well as studies including Franchise Unit Turnover and Franchising in the Economy. Members also have access to Custom Research, provided by IFA's Research Department and the Franchise World Information Centre, as well as reports on specific industries and international markets. In addition to this IFA members receive a discount of up to 40 per cent on more than 70 different franchising publications, videos and reports.

IFA membership is available to franchisors who are committed to promoting excellence in franchising. The IFA welcomes applications from all franchisors regardless of the size of their network, the business sector they service and in country in which their franchise network is based.

Reported by Derin Ibrahim