The 8 | June 9, 2017

1. Frantastic: On last week’s edition of “The 8,” we issued a breaking news update saying that at the upcoming International Franchise Expo in New York, our own Scott Oaks will be dressing up as Franchise Elmo, or FranElmo. That’s why this week, we’re giving him some advice on what not to do while in character. Our latest Frantastic video shows what happens when Elmo and Times Square don’t mix.

2. Franlebrity: In honor of our IFE theme, this week’s Franlebrity is the International Franchise Association’s president and CEO, Robert Cresanti. Cresanti first joined the IFA in 2014, and he’s been advocating on behalf of the franchising industry ever since. Prior to his role with the largest organization representing franchising, Cresanti worked with SAP America, Inc., where he served as VP of Corporate Affairs and Government Relations.

3. Frash Money: Breaking into the franchising industry—on both the franchisor and franchisee sides of the business—requires some Frash Money. That’s why IFE is the place to be if you’re looking to understand the financial model of franchising. Attendees can meet with financial experts on how to best fund their brands and how to budget for their futures.

4. Frant of the Week: To prepare for IFE—and help others do the same—No Limit Agency* CEO Nick Powills created a list of the top 50 brands to see at the expo. In his latest Frant, Powills highlights the brands that will be making waves at IFE, from established companies to up and coming emerging concepts. Some brands that made the list include BoConcept, CycleBar, Gloria Jean’s, Orange Cryo and Sylvan Learning. Check out this week’s edition of “The 8” for the full roster.

5. Franch Forward: If you’re looking to Franch Forward in your career, IFE offers a ton of educational programs to learn all about buying a franchise or even franchising your existing business. The expo is also designed to give franchisors advice on growing their existing concepts.

6. Fran Funny: Why did the social media marketer get kicked out of the Franchise Unwind bowling party? He kept trying to sponsor the pins.

7. Franspiration Misquote: “Your big opportunity may be right where you are now. But it’s more likely waiting for you at the Javits Center in New York.” – Napoleon Hill

8. Frands vs. Franemies: We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, the IFA is our Frand. The organization is a great resource for both brands and entrepreneurs looking to get involved in the industry. And if you want to learn more about the personal success stories that the franchising industry is experiencing on a daily basis, head to the IFA’s @OurFranchise campaign website for more information.