While it wasn’t the first time IFA Convention goers had to balance the work-play aspect of Las Vegas, it was the first time the International Franchise Association (IFA) held its annual gathering of franchise professionals at the Mandalay Bay. This year marked the 57th time the convention was held.
The four-day affair typically draws thousands of attendees from around the world and from franchises of all kinds and sizes – and this year was no exception. For 2017, the focus of the convention was “positive, inspirational and timely messages that will have a long-lasting impact on the future of franchising,” according to IFA Chairman Aziz Hashim.
One of the most popular speakers was Tim Feriss, a bestselling author on the New York Times and Businessweek book lists. His IFA Convention talk was centered on his book The 4-Hour Workweek, where he spoke about “lifestyle redesign” and shared tips on how to maintain a high level of productivity while putting in less work hours.
Another popular keynote was given by Anytime Fitness co-founders Dave Mortensen and Chuck Runyon, who shared the perspective and knowledge gained from the meteoric growth of their business. The fitness franchise grew from initial opening to approximately 3,500 locations in all 50 states plus another 30 countries in just 15 years.
In addition, as usual, there were tens of franchise-focused workshops and speakers touching topics that ranged across several diverse subject areas, including: franchise relations, management and leadership, marketing financing, multi-unit growth, international growth, franchise development, social media and more.
The exhibit hall was once again a popular spot where over 300 companies, including Franchise Direct (thanks to all who came by to chat!), shared the details of their services to attendees and engaged in invaluable networking.
All in all, it was another successful convention. Next year, the organization will stay out in the western part of the United States, descending upon Phoenix, Arizona from February 10, 2018 to February 13, 2018 for the 58th edition of the IFA Convention.