The US hosted International Franchise Expo (IFE), which attracts franchisors and prospective franchise owners from across the world including the UK, is moving from Washington to New York City.
The 2012 IFE will take place on 15-17 June and will be held for the first time at the Jacob K Javits Convention Center in New York City.
“Every year, the IFE is responsible for the opening of hundreds of small businesses and creating thousands of jobs – and there’s no better place for that to take center stage than New York,” said Tom Portesy, President of MFV Expositions, producers of the show. “By moving the IFE to New York, we’re making it more accessible to the majority of qualified prospective franchise owners from the US and abroad to get an inside-look at the franchising world offered by our complete program of free seminars on the franchise industry.”
Professor Roy Seaman co-founder and Managing Director of Franchise Development Services, added: “This is an exciting decision and we believe that the international franchise market will, like Franchise Development Services, welcome it for at least five reasons: Organisations rather than individuals are now the preferred owners and operators of Master Franchise Rights and they are more likely to be found at and visiting New York.
“Many exhibitors from the past Washington DC IFE will recognise this as an upgrading of the venue and wish to book for 2012 onwards.
“International investors will be more likely to attend as New York, as it is recognised as one of the worlds most important financial centres.
“More private equity companies are likely to attend from the US and around the world.
“Regular exhibitors will welcome the change of venue as they have the opportunity to spend some of their leisure time enjoying the attractions of New York City.”
The three-day event showcases hundreds of franchise companies offering a wide range of opportunities at virtually every investment level. Tens of thousands of prospective investors from across the USA and overseas have attended the show over the last 20 years.
“Small business growth will be a significant factor in our economic recovery and we know New York City is the place to lead the charge,” said Portesy.
Published: 18 February 2011
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