New York City to Host International Franchise Expo, Becomes Epicenter of Business Opportunities

Aspiring entrepreneurs ready to get on the fast track to business ownership will have a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with executives from more than 400 proven franchise brands at the International Franchise Expo (IFE). The Javits Center in New York City will become the epicenter of business opportunities from June 15-17.

Franchising has become one of the fastest and most lucrative routes to business ownership. The IFE provides an ideal platform for thousands of eager entrepreneurs ready to transform their lives, getting in at the ground level with highly reputable franchise concepts. Attracting attendees from recent college graduates to retirees looking to get back into the business world, the IFE provides an inside look into the vast opportunities the franchise industry has to offer. From restaurants and fitness clubs to auto repairs and travel agencies, franchise investments can range from as little as $10,000 to over $1 million, providing opportunities at nearly every budget.

Throughout the three days, expo-goers are encouraged to take advantage of an event designed to energize entrepreneurial spirit. In addition to the vast display of franchise opportunities, there are more than 85 educational programs, including 10 in-depth workshops on a variety of topics ranging from “The A to Z’s of Buying a Franchise” to “Franchising Your Business.” SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business, and New York Women in Business will be conducting seminars on small business topics. There will also be an “Answer Center” with experienced mentors ready to provide free expert advice, one-on-one coaching, start-up support, and more, right on the show floor.

For the first time, the IFE is presenting a full-day program for current single-unit franchisees with a session titled, “Franchisee Growth Summit: From Single-Unit to Multi-Unit Enterprise,” on Friday, June 16. Attendees will gain a better understanding of their business goals, details of multi-unit growth and support initiatives, and learn about real estate, financing, accounting and legal issues, as well as how to benchmark and design a business plan.

Further enhancing its educational arm, the IFE will welcome two “CBS Undercover Boss” stars to speak on the topic of women in franchising. Shelly Sun, Chairperson of the IFA Board of Directors and CEO/Co-Founder of BrightStar Care, and Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, will be among the women speaking, providing attendees the opportunity to learn firsthand from industry leaders what it takes to get into a business of your own.

“Becoming a franchise owner can be one of the most important decisions ever made in a person’s career and we’re here to make sure they are equipped with a solid foundation to succeed,” said Tom Portesy, President and CEO of MFV Expositions, producers of IFE. “As economic optimism continues to rise post-election, many businessmen and women are turning to the franchise industry, which is poised for prosperous growth.”

Last year, the IFE attracted attendees from 120 countries around the world. This year, MFV Expositions expects record-breaking attendance as the franchise sector continues to outpace growth in all other sectors economy-wide.

The IFE costs $10 to register in advance and $20 at the door, but people who register at www.IFEinfo.com and use promo code FPR1 can receive a complimentary pass.

The IFE is sponsored by the International Franchise Association (IFA) and assisted by the U.S. Department of Commerce/U.S. Commercial Service. The IFE is owned and operated by MFV Expositions, producers of shows in the United States, Mexico, Spain, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.

About MFV Expositions

For 25 years, MFV Expositions has been producing the leading franchise events worldwide that consistently bring together franchise concepts, at all investment levels, with the most qualified visitors seeking to own their own business. In addition to quality franchise expos in the United States and overseas that offer face-to-face opportunities to grow a franchise, MFV also offers access to online franchise opportunities through web-based resources.

Fishman Public RelationsKelly McNamara, 847-945-1300KMcNamara@fishmanpr.com