IFA and CFA Square off in Rhode Island
An organization that largely represents franchisors is trying to revoke Rhode Island's fair franchise law as a coalition of franchise owners fights to preserve the law. In one corner is heavyweight International Franchise Association (IFA). It sent letters to the law's sponsors - State Senator Daniel Connors, State Representative and House Majority Leader Gerald Fox and key legislative leaders, voicing strong support a proposal to rescind the Rhode Island Fair Dealership Act that was passed in 2007.
The IFA claims on its website to be the only association serving as the voice for franchising in the United States. IFA's membership encompasses some 1,300 franchisors, 500 suppliers and over 10,000 franchisee members.
In the other corner you have the challenger, Coalition of Franchisee Associations. The CFA is a coalition of brand specific franchisee associations focused on strengthening the franchisee community and representing over 15,000 franchisees. Its franchise owning members employ over 1.5 million individuals.
This is a fascinating title match in the making. A lot is at stake in both corners.
by Jim Coen, 877-469-3002, Blog: Lets Talk Franchising, Jim Coen is the Executive Director of the New England Franchise Association
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