February 13, 2025

IFA Annual Convention Highlights Growth and Innovation

With the 65th IFA Annual Convention underway in Las Vegas, more than 4,000 franchise professionals have gathered to celebrate the growth and future of franchising with building new connections, learning from one another, and discussing the pressing issues facing franchising.

Zoom in: IFA President and CEO Matt Haller unveiled a bold new IFA brand, complete with an updated logo and forthcoming website highlighting IFA’s role as an “information beacon” to be the trusted source for franchising, propelling the organization to make 2025 “the year of franchising.” IFA also honored major award winners and celebrated 116 franchisees of the year for their contributions to their communities and the franchising network.

IFA Member Testifies Before Congress

Meanwhile, yesterday in Washington, Frank Wetegrove, an IFA member, veteran, and owner/operator of five Camp Bow Wow locations in Texas, testified before the U.S. House Small Business Committee on the importance of Small Business Administration (SBA) programs helping franchise businesses grow and create jobs.

Dig deeper: Wetegrove took questions and discussed the impact of SBA lending programs and the essential role of community banks in supporting small businesses, especially franchisees to get their start in business. 

The big picture: Lawmakers discussed potential improvements to SBA lending, with a focus on ensuring continued access to capital for entrepreneurs across the country.

IFA Advocacy Sinks Virginia Franchise Bill

On February 11, the IFA-opposed SB 798 was defeated on a 5-2 party-line vote in the House Labor & Commerce Subcommittee.

Why it matters: The positive outcome is a result of weeks of IFA engagement at the General Assembly raising concerns about the bill to key members of the House and Labor & Commerce Committee.

What’s next: The legislation’s sponsor, Sen. Chris Head (R-03), stated that he intends to bring the bill back next year. IFA will continue to monitor and engage as needed. View our one-pager fact sheet on the bill’s harmful impact here.

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Hearing On Maryland Bill Scheduled

In Maryland, HB 0992, sponsored by Del. Marc Korman (D-016), will be heard in the House Economic Matters Committee on February 19.

Why it matters: The bill extends the time the state can act against violations, ensures financial thresholds for exemptions adjusted with inflation, and introduces a pilot program that temporarily waives franchise renewal fees for certain businesses that meet specific financial reporting requirements.

What’s Next: While there are unfavorable and favorable aspects to the bill, IFA is working with the bill’s sponsor and will testify during the upcoming hearing.

Utah Operating Hours Bill Introduced

Rep. Ken Ivory (R-039) has officially introduced HB 441, legislation that prohibits franchisors from requiring franchisees to operate on religious holidays if it conflicts with their religious beliefs.

The big picture: The bill stems from a handful of Nothing Bundt Cake franchisees in the state disputing a mandate requiring their doors to remain open on Sunday.

What’s next: IFA is in contact with Rep. Ivory’s office and is working with our partners in Utah to gain a clearer picture of support for the bill and its possible path forward.