10 Franchise Trade Shows That You Should Attend in 2023

Trade shows, conventions, expos, and events are excellent opportunities to network with industry leaders and professionals. You can also take advantage of these events if you’re into the franchising business. Whether you’re a franchisor, franchisee, vendor, supplier, or aspiring entrepreneur, there is always something new to learn. Here are 10 franchise trade shows happening in the major cities in the U.S. and even international in scope that you should participate in. 

1. International Franchise Association (IFA) Annual Convention

The International Franchise Association (IFA) is a global organization representing franchising companies and individuals involved in the franchise industry. The IFA Annual Convention is the organization’s flagship project that gathers professionals from around the world to share best practices, network, and learn the latest developments in franchising. Whether you’re a franchising veteran or a newcomer, this event is a great opportunity to learn from franchising professionals. 

The convention is typically held in late February or early March each year. It attracts thousands of attendees from all franchise industry sectors, including franchisors, franchisees, suppliers, and consultants.

2. The Franchise Show

The Franchise Show is produced by National Event Management, a Canadian event management company specializing in trade shows and conferences of various industries. The event occurs in different cities worldwide, including major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. It aims to help prospective franchisees, current franchise owners, and professionals working in franchising.

3. Multi-Unit Franchise Conference (MUFC)

The Multi-Unit Franchise Conference (MUFC) is an annual conference and trade show focused on multi-unit franchising. The event features educational sessions, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and an exhibit hall showcasing vendors and suppliers who specialize in supporting multi-unit franchising. This year’s conference is slated for April 25th – 28th, 2023, in Las Vegas.

4. MFV Expos

MFV Expos is a leading producer of franchise expos and trade shows. The company organizes several events yearly, including the International Franchise Expo, the Franchise Expo South, and the Franchise Expo West. If you want to attend an MFV Expo, the trade show visits multiple U.S. cities yearly. Visit this link for the 2023 expo schedule.

5. Springboard: A Special Event for Emerging Franchisors

The Springboard event allows you to have first dibs on industry best practices. This franchise trade show offers its attendees a holistic approach to creating a successful franchisor. The 2023 Springboard will be held in Philadelphia from September 27 to 29, 2023.

6. Franchise Leadership & Development Conference (FLDC)

The FLDC is an annual franchise growth and development conference. FLDC is organized by Franchise Update Media, a leading publisher of online and print franchise industry publications, and is typically held in different locations throughout the United States. This year’s event will be held in InterContinental Buckhead Hotel in Atlanta, GA, on October 18-20.

7. The Great American Franchise Expo

The Great American Franchise Expo is a leading franchise expo that brings together franchisors, prospective franchisees, and industry professionals. The event is held in various locations across the United States, typically on the weekend. The expo features a wide range of franchisors from various industries, allowing attendees to explore different franchise opportunities and learn more about the franchising industry. Based on their website, there are 12 upcoming shows scheduled in 2023.

8. Restaurant Finance & Development Conference (RFDC)

The Restaurant Finance & Development Conference (RFDC) is an annual conference focused on finance, growth, and development in the restaurant industry. The event is designed for restaurant owners, operators, and investors interested in learning about best practices for restaurant finance and development.

9. Franchise Young Conference

Franchise Young Conference is an event designed for the young (and young-minded) innovators in franchising. It typically aims to gather and share their knowledge and strategies to navigate the ever-increasingly digital realm. This annual event will be held on May 10-12, 2023.

10. IFA Emerging Franchisor Conference

The IFA Emerging Franchisor Conference is an annual conference hosted by the International Franchise Association (IFA) that focuses on emerging franchisors’ unique challenges and opportunities. The conference is designed for new and growing franchises looking to scale their businesses and achieve long-term success.

Conclusion

Your attendance at trade shows and conferences will benefit you in many ways. These events will help you gain exposure, network with like-minded entrepreneurs, and learn industry insights. So, mark your calendars now and jot down the best events that suit your goals and objective, whether you’re a franchisor, franchisee, or budding entrepreneur. And for other info about franchising, check out more here at Franchise How!