The Power Sessions are in-depth sessions guaranteed to pack a powerful punch! Tune in to world-class experts as they share an extensive range of insights and practical tools to help move your business forward.
*All power sessions will run concurrently on Saturday, April 5, from 1pm-3pm.
Location, Location, Negotiation: Cracking the Code of Real Estate & Leasing in Franchising
Real estate and leasing are foundational to franchise operations, yet often remain complex and under-explored. This power session will provide an in-depth look at everything franchisors and franchisees need to know about securing and managing commercial leases. From head leases to subleases, and demolition clauses to renewals, experts will break down key considerations in the leasing process and how to protect your franchise system. This session will examine the intricacies of negotiating and managing leases to ensure favorable terms for franchisees, mitigate risks, and maintain long-term sustainability. Franchisors will gain actionable insights into how to support franchisees in navigating lease agreements and real estate challenges, while also exploring emerging trends in the real estate market that affect franchising.
Attendees will walk away with practical tips on everything from strategic lease negotiations to resolving conflicts and building stronger relationships with landlords. Whether you’re a franchisor or franchisee, this session is critical to building a successful, scalable business.
Key Takeaways:
- Identify and evaluate the differences between head leases, subleases, and other common lease structures in the franchising industry.
- Learn how to negotiate critical lease terms, including renewal options, demolition clauses, rent escalations, and more.
- Understand the challenges involved in leasing, including dealing with landlords, minimizing risks, and supporting franchisees in securing optimal lease terms.
Emerging Franchisor Bootcamp
This session is designed to guide new and aspiring franchisors through the foundational steps of building and scaling a franchise system. It will cover key topics such as:
- Franchise Development Essentials: Understanding the steps to successfully grow your franchise, including legal considerations, franchise disclosure documents, and establishing a solid franchise agreement.
- Building a Scalable Operations Model: Developing efficient systems, processes, and standards to ensure consistency and quality as your franchise grows.
- Marketing and Lead Generation: Effective strategies to attract potential franchisees and customers, focusing on building a strong brand presence, digital marketing, and lead nurturing.
- Training and Support Systems: How to create comprehensive training programs and provide ongoing franchisee support to ensure successful franchisee performance.
- Financial Management for Growth: Managing finances, understanding unit economics, and planning for sustainable growth, including forecasting, capital needs, and managing franchisee profitability.
This bootcamp will provide practical tools, expert advice, and real-world insights to help emerging franchisors navigate the challenges of starting and scaling their systems successfully.
Key Takeaways:
- Identify key steps for establishing a scalable franchise system, covering legal, operational, and financial foundations.
- Evaluate the franchise development process and identify best practices for attracting franchisees and scaling.
- Develop strategies for marketing, training, and supporting franchisees for sustainable growth.
Anna Thompson-Amadei, Sotos LLP
Kirk Allen, Reshift Media Inc.
Stewart MacPhee, Fishman Canada
Marketing Mastery 101: From Lead Generation to Crisis Management
This session will cover the essentials of effective marketing strategies for franchises, including B2B lead generation, B2C marketing, public relations, and crisis management. Learn how to balance brand-building and customer acquisition while safeguarding your reputation in times of challenge. Practical tips and proven strategies for all levels.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand the Future of Franchise Marketing: Explore the evolving landscape of B2B lead gen, B2C engagement, and PR strategies, and how to integrate them into your marketing plan.
- Leverage PR for Brand Resilience: Learn how to craft impactful PR strategies that build brand trust and loyalty in a fast-changing marketplace.
- Crisis Management Essentials: Discover best practices for navigating crises and protecting your brand's reputation when the unexpected happens.