The 8 | February 3, 2017

Frantastic: Welcome to the special IFA Hangover Edition of “The 8!” This week’s Frantastic video features 1851 Franchise VP Scott Oaks performing his acclaimed rendition of the Garth Brooks classic, “Friends in Low Places.” Now you don’t have to feel left out if you missed No Limit Agency*’s Franchise Unwind party at #IFA2017.

Franlebrity: Our Franlebrities this week also include a few of our own—No Limit Agency CEO Nick Powills and 1851 Franchise Editor Megan Ferringer. During the IFA’s annual convention, Nick stole Megan’s signature look. So we have one question to ask you: who wore it better? Cast your vote for #TeamNick or #TeamMegan on 1851’s Facebook page or tweet @1851Magazine.

Frash Money: Consumers across the U.S. and Canada will no longer have to search for quality soups. That’s because Zoup! is bringing its franchise concept to new communities. The brand’s unique model that makes soup the focal point of its menu has a long history of bringing in both loyal and new customers.

Frant of the Week: Brand Journalists CEO Thomas Scott highlights key takeaways from #IFA2017 in this week’s column. He notes that at almost every session, conversations focused on how critical storytelling has become. From web design and digital marketing campaigns to the overarching sales process, stories have the potential to make or break a brand.

Franch Forward: Even though the restaurant industry is seeing a lot of negative numbers, Buffalo Wings & Rings is continuing to grow. The brand’s same-store sales rose 0.5 percent in 2016 while its average unit volume climbed 0.4 percent. Buffalo Wings & Rings says this momentum is here to stay—the brand is looking to open one restaurant every month this year.

FranFunny: I used to think the brain was the most important organ. But then I thought, look what’s telling me that.

Franspiration Misquote: “If you see a bandwagon, it’s too late… unless you’re talking about watching ‘The 8.’” – James Goldsmith

Franemies vs. Frands: Charles Internicola, the man behind Internicola Law Firm, is one of our many franchising Frands! His team of franchise law experts helps entrepreneurs franchise their businesses by guiding them through converting their license system into a franchise, understanding the ins and outs of state franchise laws and everything in between. If you want to hear from the man himself, check out Charles crashing “The 8” live from #IFA2017.