The always well-attended and popular case law update session will kick-start the CFA Franchise Law Day. 

Following the Legal Updates, tune in for the Government Relations Updates session where you will be provided insight on the related matters that can potentially be a threat to your franchise business.

What is artificial intelligence, and does it have a role in franchising?  This session features an AI expert and legal professionals engaging in a dialogue to explore the opportunities and risks associated with AI in franchising. Gain an overview of AI's sudden rise, its current and potential applications in the franchise industry, and the legal considerations for integrating AI technologies. Discover the risks related to data privacy, security, confidentiality, and trade secrets, and learn effective mitigation strategies. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the future implications and trends of AI in franchising.

Learning objectives:

1. Identify the reasons behind the rapid emergence of AI in 2023.
2. Examine the current and potential uses of AI in the franchise industry, including legal tech vendors and the franchise journey.
3. Understand the legal considerations and risk mitigation strategies when incorporating AI technologies in franchising.

Here’s a chance for the franchise litigators to shine! Franchise litigators will showcase their expertise as they explore effective strategies for resolving disputes and implementing cost-effective solutions. Topics include the advantages of arbitration over litigation, available resources for franchisors in litigious positions, and techniques for negotiating buyouts with struggling franchisees. Join this session to enhance your dispute management skills and learn valuable tactics for successful franchise litigation.

Learning objectives:

1. Understand the benefits and drawbacks of arbitration as a preferred method for resolving franchise disputes.
2. Identify the available resources and support systems for franchisors when faced with litigious situations.
3. Learn effective negotiation techniques for successfully executing buyouts with troubled or struggling franchisees.

Join a panel discussion with franchise in-house counsel as they address the pressing question, "What keeps you awake at night?" Gain insights into the concerns and current affairs of the franchise legal landscape as we explore recent case law summaries, the implications of the Freshly Squeezed decision, the impact of US judiciary and policy decisions on Canadian Franchise Agreements, and strategies for accessing new markets amidst increased immigration in Canada. Don't miss this opportunity to build a solid foundation for the future of your franchise.

Learning objectives:

1. Examine the key concerns that keep franchise in-house counsel awake at night in the legal landscape.
2. Discuss the implications of the Freshly Squeezed decision and its impact on day-to-day operations for franchisors.
3. Interpret the influence of U.S. judiciary and policy decisions on Canadian Franchise Agreements and the general franchise landscape.

This session will explore the evolving landscape of Canadian franchise agreements, with a focus on incorporating new provisions to adapt to the digital tech era. Identify emerging trends and models, and discover best practices in light of recent amendments to the Non-Competition Act. Learn all the top tips to plan for and traps to avoid to stay ahead in the franchising industry.

Learning objectives: 

1. Discover the significance of new clauses in franchise agreements to protect franchisors in the digital tech era.
2. Examine current trends and concepts shaping franchise agreements as observed by legal professionals.
3. Understand best practices in light of recent amendments to the Non-Competition Act for Canadian franchise agreements.

This informative session on "Financial Performance Representations" will explore best practices in effectively communicating financial information and empowering salespeople. Learn the boundaries of discussing financials in pre-execution prospecting conversations, delve into industry norms and trends, and gain insights into incorporating FPR diligently into FDDs. Join this session to enhance your understanding of financial communications in franchising.

Learning objectives:

1. Understand the limitations and boundaries of discussing financials in pre-execution prospecting conversations as a salesperson.
2. Identify industry norms and trends related to sales history and earnings projections in franchising.
3. Discover best practices for incorporating Financial Performance Representations (FPR) into Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) effectively.

Join us for a comprehensive legal discussion exploring the implications of "franchisor's associates" and recent franchise industry developments, using a notable court case as a reference point. Analyze the broad and nebulous definition of a franchisor's associate under the Wishart Act, and its impact on duties and liabilities. Stay informed about the latest legal developments and gain insights into the broader implications of recent legal changes for your business. Discover effective strategies for structuring systems and sales processes to mitigate risks. Don't miss this valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of franchise law.

Learning objectives:

1. Examine the implications of "franchisor's associates" and recent franchise industry developments.
2. Analyze the definition of a franchisor's associate and its impact on duties and liabilities.
3. Understand the impact of recent legal changes on duties, liabilities, and business operations in the franchise industry.

Join us for an invaluable session on "Setting Yourself Up for Success," designed specifically for emerging franchisors. Gain essential knowledge about the franchise legal process in Canada and understand the fundamental responsibilities of franchisors. Get an overview of the process, learn how to handle existing non-compliant FDDs, and discover best practices for annual maintenance and updates. Explore a wide range of resources available to emerging franchisors, including consultants, brokers, accountants, vendors, lawyers, marketing agencies, and the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA). Don't miss this opportunity to set yourself up for success in the franchising industry.

Learning objectives:

1. Examine the key steps and components of the franchise legal process in Canada.
2. Discover how to handle existing non-compliant Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) as an emerging franchisor.
3. Identify best practices for the annual maintenance and updates of FDDs and Franchise Agreements (FAs).

Insights on allocation strategies, compliance, and maximizing ROI with ad funding best practices

Legal considerations, market entry strategies, and intellectual property protection when doing business around the world

A review of recent changes in Quebec law, covering franchise disclosure requirements, language laws, and regional regulations.

Explore key topics such as lease negotiation, site selection, and landlord-tenant relationships for successful franchise operations.

Delve into compliance, contracts, policies, and dispute resolution in a dynamic exploration of the intricacies of employer/HR laws and their impact on franchise businesses

Analyse the intricacies of franchise resales with a look at transfer agreements, valuation, navigating bankruptcies and legal considerations for a smooth transaction.