MEET THE IFA
What does this organization do for franchising? Find out here.
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by Jill Abrahamsen
ou may have heard about the IFA (International Franchise Association), but you might be surprised by all they do. Last month, for our Game Changers issue, we went right to the source, and spoke to IFA's President and CEO, Robert Cresanti. He shared his passion for the industry and told us that he feels franchising is a game changer because it creates opportunities and changes lives for the better. To continue our coverage, this month we highlight the many aspects of the IFA. We spoke to IFA’s Executive Vice President of Development, Marketing and Conferences, Scott Lehr and IFA’s President of Development and Member Services, Paul Rocchio, to find out more. The IFA serves many roles. It has the back of the franchising industry and its members. A non-profit organization with voluntary membership, the IFA’s mission is to promote, protect, and enhance fran54
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chising. Think of it like a guardian, mentor, and event planner all wrapped up into one. Here, we tell you about just a few of its important jobs. IT PROTECTS THE FRANCHISE INDUSTRY. Located in Washington DC, IFA staffers lobby on Capitol Hill and educate legislators on the complex issues franchisors face. They also do this at an international level, tackling big issues like joint employment—helping to take the liability of the franchisor as an employer, since all franchises are privately run. IT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER. Folks involved in franchising love to collaborate and share best practices. The IFA offers several opportunities at the organization’s annual convention and other events throughout the year. “Whether they are selling burgers or eyelash extensions,
