The International Franchise Association swept into the Windy City in August for our 2023 Open for Opportunity Roadshow. The event was the 14th stop along the Open for Opportunity Roadshow, where we visit cities and states around the country to shine a light on the importance of the franchise business model to the local economy.
The feature of this stop was an engaging roundtable discussion at McDonald’s headquarters in Chicago’s city center. Several participants, including a number of elected officials, shared how franchising not only gave them employment opportunities, but also provided them with leadership opportunities and entrepreneurial skills throughout many stages of their careers.
We were honored to be joined by several elected officials including:
- Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10)
- Congressman Jonathan Jackson (IL-01)
- Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08)
- State Representative Lakesia Collins; Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer, Chicago Deputy Mayor Kenya Merritt, Chicago Deputy Mayor Garien Gatewood, Alderman Michael Rodriguez, and Alderman Bill Conway
We also visited a local Dunkin’ franchise in South Side Chicago. We caught a glimpse of the demanding, but rewarding, daily responsibilities of managing a franchise and how the franchise prioritizes hiring in the local community, especially nearby high school students and single mothers looking for flexibility.
It was clear to see why Illinois is projected to be the second-best state for franchise growth this year. The nearly 33,000 local franchise establishments in Illinois provide more than 375,000 jobs. In 2022, the sector provided roughly $13 billion in payroll, generated more than $34 billion in economic output, and contributed $20 billion to Illinois’s gross state product. The Prairie State is home to some of America’s most iconic brands such as McDonald’s, Hyatt Hotels, & Moran Family of Brands.
We look forward to ensuring it is a place for the franchise business model to continue generating opportunity in every community.
Read more in FranchiseWire and watch the full roundtable discussion with Illinois constituents.
Importantly, IFA is also here in Washington, DC, to answer your questions, discuss the economic benefits of franchising in Illinois, and connect you directly with these business owners when you are back home.
