Join the worldwide franchising community with an IFA membership

The International Franchise Association (IFA) was established 50 years ago in the USA with the mission to "protect, enhance and promote franchising".

Today the IFA is an internationally recognised organisation that has members from around the world including household names such as McDonald's, Burger King and 7-11.

Although a USA-based organisation, the IFA is keen to expand its international membership and is actively seeking reputable franchise professionals who are committed to excellence in franchising to become IFA members. The IFA membership is divided into three categories: franchisors, franchise owners, and suppliers.

Joining the IFA is a great way for UK franchisors who are looking at potential overseas expansion to get international exposure. As an IFA member, franchisors will be able to represent their brand at numerous quality USA franchise exhibitions including International Franchise Expo (IFE), Franchise Expo South (FES), The West Coast Franchise Expo (WCFE), and Regional Franchise and Financing Expos.

In addition to this, IFA members have access to industry magazines and studies including Franchise World Magazine, IFA Insider newsletter, Franchise Opportunities Guide, plus studies such as Franchise Unit Turnover and Franchising in the Economy.

Furthermore, members 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. IFA members also receive a discount of up to 40 per cent on more than 70 different franchising publications, videos and reports.

Franchisors who are members of the IFA are also provided with educational and professional development opportunities for their company's key staff to learn, develop skills, network and trade ideas on how to grow the franchise system and run it more effectively. By attending these events, the franchise management team is able to stay in tune with the changing franchise environment.

Another benefit for franchisors joining the IFA is that through its Systemwide Membership their franchise owners will be able to become IFA members for free. Franchise owners receive their membership benefits electronically through emails from Franchising World Online, IFA Insider, and IFA SmartBrief, plus the opportunity to participate in the IFA community.

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 whether they have franchises in the USA or no plans to enter the USA market.

Reported by Derin Ibrahim