IFA Releases New Value of Franchising Report | | |
Today IFA released The Value of Franchising report, conducted by Oxford Economics and with data provided by Paychex, that highlights how franchising delivers stronger jobs, entrepreneurial opportunities, and deeper community service and investment than other types of businesses.
Why It Matters: This report, which builds off the original 2021 report by the same name, finds that franchise employees see faster wage growth, more generous benefits, and higher retention than non-franchise employees—while franchise employment outpaced non-franchise employment by approximately 10% since 2021.
Dig Deeper: Read the full report here and a summary of the findings here.
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Franchise businesses can be relieved that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is back in business after the Senate confirmed two Trump nominees in December, restoring a three-member quorum. Two board seats remain vacant.
What This Means: IFA is pleased that a quorum is restored at the NLRB so that the recent pro-growth appointees can support the future and stability of the franchise model by issuing issue decisions on key labor law issues, including those on rules determining joint employer and collective bargaining standards.
Our Thought Bubble: IFA is calling on the White House and Senate to swiftly approve additional Board members, as the Board will again lose its quorum in August when Member David Prouty’s term expires.
| | 2026 State Sessions Begin | | |
As the new year begins, forty-six state legislatures across the country are kicking off their 2026 legislative sessions, with most gaveling in by mid-January.
What To Watch: The following states open within the next week:
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Jan. 5: California, Ohio
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Jan. 6–7: Kentucky, Mississippi, Maine, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont
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Jan. 12–14: Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Washington; Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Michigan, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin to follow
What This Means: Legislation in state capitals can move quickly, and IFA’s State Government Relations team will be specifically tracking:
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Joint employer shield legislation: IFA is supporting state legislation to codify clear joint employer and liability standards—protecting franchisees and reinforcing the franchisor-franchisee distinction. Priority states include: South Carolina, West Virginia, Nebraska, Missouri.
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Freedom of contract legislation: Bills affecting franchise relationships remain a risk in Arizona, California, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Virginia, and Washington. Specifically:
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Virginia – HB 69: Would significantly alter franchising in Virginia by prohibiting post-termination noncompete restrictions in franchise and settlement agreements and mandating that Virginia law govern franchise contracts.
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Arizona – HB 2038: Would impose a comprehensive franchise relationship law that retroactively regulates franchise agreements by restricting termination and nonrenewal, mandating renewals and buybacks, limiting franchisor control over transfers and brand standards, and creating expansive new litigation rights.
| | Nationwide American Franchise Act Push | | |
Public momentum and bipartisan support for the American Franchise Act is growing. An op-ed penned by Atlanta-area Floor Coverings International franchise owner Jennie Hong in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution headlined “American Franchise Act would support Georgia’s small business owners,” reinforces why Congress must deliver a clear, consistent joint employer standard.
What This Means: As 2026 begins, congressional action is the clearest path to certainty for franchise owners and workers, and the American Franchise Act remains IFA’s top legislative priority.
Call To Action: Following Senate bill introduction in December, it is essential to make your voice heard. Contact your lawmakers with just a few clicks to let them know how important it is to pass this legislation to protect your business.
| | Register for the 2026 IFA Convention | | |
The 2026 IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas is little more than a month away - the premiere event in franchising that brings together franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers to discuss industry trends, gain actionable insights, and hear the latest on the policy and political landscape.
Why It Matters: This year, we have reimagined our flagship event with new features and fresh formats designed to help you evolve your brand, your team, and your leadership. Featured speakers include entrepreneur Daymond John of CNBC’s Shark Tank, Codie Sanchez of Contrarian Thinking, Andrew Cathy of Chick-fil-A, and many more.
What To Expect: The IFA26 Convention will spotlight policy, leadership, and best practices that reinforce accountability, clarity, and sustainability in franchising—while equipping attendees with tools to lead in a rapidly changing environment. Save $100 when you register by 12:00 AM EST on January 13, 2026 with code IFA26_NEWYEAR.
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