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This week, we are bringing you a special report on the franchise industry featuring exclusive interviews with industry representatives.

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Interviewees include Great American Cookie Company franchisee Doc Cohen; Vice President of Franchise Development for Regis Corporation Alan Storry; President of Hot Dish Advertising Dawn Kane; Vice President of Operations for ASBDC Donna Ettenson and President of Sports Clips Clete Brewer. Enjoy!

This week we have news on the IFA’s prediction for the first drop in franchise sales in the last 20 years. That said, it’s not a bad news for the franchise industry, as two groups- minorities and veterans – have been enjoying success of late.

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Franchising has thrived during past recessions and it’s hoped that the government will take action to ease credit market to capital flowing back to prospective franchisees. Picking up on the mantra of change that swept Barack Obama into the White House last November, Maria D’Ambrosio, senior director of inclusion and diversity for Choice Hotels International has emphasized the importance of minority franchise ownership.

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In this weeks’ Franchise Update, we’ve got news on some exciting developments for franchisees in North Carolina, as well as some information on the latest IFA webinar, which will happen tomorrow, August 5.

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Both The Raleigh News and Observer and the International Franchise Association are reporting positive numbers & growth in the Franchise sector. A number of franchise & entrepreneurial focused conferences have also been reported, which is a good sign for business.

Speaking of conferences, the IFA has announced the details of its next franchise webinar on Wednesday, August 5th, and will deal with the idea of Franchising Abroad.

The presenters will be Lawrence Weinberg, a partner with Cassels Brock & Blackwell, Robert Shaw, the Chief Development Officer with Edwards Global Services and Janet Muhleman, the president of regroup Inc.

Attending the on-line seminar will not only give you of valuable information on international franchising, but you will earn 50 points towards your Certified Franchise Executive designation.

Register online at www.franchise.org/cfe.aspx

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In this week’s Franchise Update, we have news from the Small Business Administration, as well as news on fast food franchises.

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Reports in the Washington Post say that the US Treasury is now finalizing plans for a 15 billion dollar bailout of the SBA. The plan involves using funds from the federal bailout program to purchase SBA loans. IFA president Matthew Shay, along with other leading figures in the franchising industry, met with officials in the Treasury Department last week, in order to press for urgent action to shore up credit lines to small business.

A new report from CNN says that America’s big fast food chains are considering embracing environmentally-friendly buildings in what may be the future of architecture for food franchises. CNN states that McDonalds are rolling out test stores, like its one Cary, North Carolina which opened this week, that utilize green technologies such as energy efficient appliances, daylight-harvesting technologies and low-flow toilets.

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This week’s Franchise Update is going dog crazy!

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We’ve got some exciting news about two of our best pet franchises. Home Buddies by Camp Bow Wow is celebrating the addition of 12 new franchises in the last six months. This is a top new pet franchise concept and it’s great to see it experiencing growth.

Also, Bark Busters have published some useful guidelines for looking after your pet during the back to school season. They include sage advice like providing it with home toys and showing it less attention in the run-up to the first day of school.

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