Entrepreneurs Can Explore Hundreds of Brands at Largest-Ever World Franchise Show
The International Franchise Association today revealed plans to launch the world’s largest franchise exhibition in a new partnership with event organizer Fortem International. The IFA World Franchise Show, which will present hundreds of brands to thousands of entrepreneurs, is scheduled for May 9-10, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Florida.
In their partnership, the IFA and Fortem International will embark on a new vision for franchise exhibitions. According to a news release announcing the partnership and May expo, the IFA said its goal is to “build the world’s largest event to drive growth of the franchise sector in the U.S. and internationally, foster innovation and connections, and showcase the strength of franchising in the U.S. and its potential to a worldwide audience.” Founded in 1960, the IFA is the oldest and largest organization working on behalf of franchising.
Projections are optimistic for franchise growth this year. Total franchise output is expected to increase by 4.1% from $858.5 billion in 2023 to $893.9 billion in 2024, according to the IFA 2024 Franchising Economic Outlook produced by FRANdata. Franchising’s gross domestic product will increase by 4.3% to $545.8 billion, according to the report, which will outpace the total U.S. GDP of about 2%.
Overview of the IFA World Franchise Show
“The IFA World Franchise Show will rethink franchise expos with IFA’s commitment to responsible franchising,” IFA President and CEO Matthew Haller said in the news release. Franchisee education and due diligence will be top priorities of the show’s agenda, Haller said. He also promised an “innovative format and unmatched education and professional development opportunities.”
Haller said the IFA World Franchise Show will host great brands, supplier experts and aspiring small business owners. “We look forward to partnering with Fortem so we can further expand the opportunities created by franchising and bring these incredible businesses to more people here in the U.S. and around the world,” he added.
Also in the news release, Nick Moss, founder of Fortem International, said, “This exhibition will establish a new standard for franchise events, providing exceptional value and opportunities for success within the industry and a variety of new elements to enhance the overall experience for all participants. [The show] aims to create a dynamic and progressive environment that exceeds the expectations of all stakeholders.”
About Fortem and IFA
The IFA advances the goals of franchising by influencing government relations and public policy, acting proactively via media relations, and offering educational programs. IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in business development, law, marketing, and technology.
United Kingdom-based Fortem International is known for acquiring established industry exhibitions and re-invigorating them with a modernized approach. To view a brief video of Haller announcing the partnership with Fortem International and their collaboration on the Miami Beach expo, click here.
