IFA releases its franchise reopening blueprint

The recommendations are based on task forces that were organized across business lines, consisting of executives and franchise owners from the most known and trusted brands in that industry

There is no denying that the coronavirus pandemic and ensuing business closures have harmed franchises across the board.

The IFA reported in a recent survey that three out of every four franchise businesses were fully closed due to either the economic downturn or stay-at-home directives. With more than 733,000 franchise businesses supporting nearly 8 million workers prior to COVID-19, it is clear the impact of the pandemic on the franchise industry is and will be tremendous.

Robert Cresanti, CFE, president and CEO of the International Franchise Association admits: “While franchises have been uniquely harmed, franchises – through a focus on maintaining and executing replicable and scalable operating systems, safety standards, and employee training – are also uniquely suited to help lead the country’s economic revival.

“We have organized task forces across business lines, consisting of executives and franchise owners from the most known and trusted brands in that industry. Their insights, along with those of government officials and other experts, were crucial in crafting recommendations on how best to reopen businesses while ensuring high standards of safety for employees and customers.

“As per the President’s request to me as a member of his Great American Economic Revival task force, these considerations and recommendations have been delivered to the White House, as well as members of Congress and our nation’s governors and mayors. It is IFA’s hope that our recommendations can inform reopening guidelines and serve as a baseline for franchisors and franchisees as they work to reopen their franchise systems.”

• Automotive
• Commercial services
• Education
• Fitness
• Hotel
• Residential services
• Restaurant
• Salon/personal care services
• Senior care