When you first start your franchise journey, you’ll often be offered the opportunity to join a franchise association. These associations are groups designed to help facilitate and build stronger franchising relationships between the franchisee and franchisor and between the franchisee members and lawmakers.
There are two types of franchise associations — independent and national. Which do you need to be a part of, and which are most beneficial to your franchising journey? Let’s take a closer look.
What is an Independent Franchise Association?
Independent franchise associations are formed when franchisees want a place to share ideas, feedback, and support outside of the regulations of a franchisor. Typically, these associations are made up of the franchise’s franchisees rather than franchisees from various businesses.
Independent franchise associations work both privately and alongside the franchisor. They are standalone entities created to represent franchisees within a specific organization. Yet, they work closely with the franchisor to make their voice heard on important issues. Ultimately, these are designed to open the lines of communication between franchisees and franchisors, strengthening the relationship rather than creating an adversarial relationship.
What About National Franchise Associations?
In addition to independent franchise associations, there are also five national associations that you can join for further support. These include:
- International Franchise Association (IFA)
- Coalition of Franchise Associates (CFA)
- American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD)
- International Association of Franchisees and Dealers (IAFD)
- American Franchise Association (AFA)
National franchise associations are more about the collective franchising laws than what’s happening within one organization. You do not need to be part of them to receive the same benefits. Do your homework and decide which one offers the representation you need at a state and national level. More specifically, look at how they communicate with their members and on behalf of their members.
Amplify Your Voice
When you start your franchise, you’ll likely connect with other franchisees in your area. However, through an independent franchise association, franchisees come together from all corners of the country or globe to have a voice in the organization's direction. This shared collaboration can help amplify new ideas to the franchisor, giving them more weight and priority because they impact franchisees on a broader scale.
As a franchisee, your membership makes you even more influential in the franchise's direction over time. This doesn’t have to be an adversarial relationship but rather one with the intention of growth and collective success by facing growth challenges and operational struggles head-on as a collective.
Likewise, with a national franchise association, you can amplify your voice to lawmakers. When you see new laws creeping up around franchising, you can make your voice heard about the impact they will have if they pass.
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Extended Professional Development
One of the biggest benefits of becoming a franchisee is access to ongoing professional development. You’re never alone on the journey and have opportunities to continue learning new systems, technology, and techniques.
Inside an independent franchise association, those opportunities increase. You get to learn from others inside your franchise about what’s working and where there are new areas to explore that could help your organization. Since the association comprises franchisees working in the same industry and organization as you, you can tap into further professional development from the hive mind rather than outside influences that might not be relevant to your organization.
Extended Networking
Another benefit to having access to that hive mind is the opportunity to extend your network.
As part of a franchise association, you can feel even more supported in your franchise journey by others working in the same role as you. These industry contacts and franchise connections can help you through challenges, offer encouragement, and be a resource when questions arise.
Which Franchise Association is Right for You?
Ultimately, it’s up to you to do your due diligence to decide which franchise association is right for you. Many franchisees are part of several associations, each providing unique benefits. Research your needs and outline where you could use added support. Be sure to also speak with your franchisor to ensure they know your plans and will support your membership.
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Kimberly Crossland is the founder of Roadpreneur and Cruisin' + Campfires, two companies designed to keep families together and living in freedom through travel and entrepreneurship. The goal of both businesses is to inspire meaningful change through the power of a strategic, thoughtful approach to life and business. In her free time, you can find her looking for a new adventure together with her two boys.