The Open for Opportunity Roadshow recently stopped in Detroit – marking the 17th destination in our national tour to highlight the critical role the franchise business model plays in strengthening local economies across the country, featuring the stories of the franchise owners behind them.
Standout features of this Detroit stop were two roundtable discussions, one held at Little Caesars headquarters in downtown Detroit and one at Goldfish Swim School headquarters in Troy, Michigan. The discussions brought together two incredible groups of participants, including elected officials, franchise owners, and franchise brands who shared their personal experiences with franchising and its contributions to the Michigan economy. They highlighted how the franchise model provides communities with employment opportunities, leadership roles, and entrepreneurial skills at various stages of their careers, that they may not otherwise have access to.
Kevin Johnson, President and CEO of Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, emphasized the significant impact of franchisees in underserved areas, saying, “Businesses have three roles in a community. First, they can enhance a neighborhood with their presence. Second, they can stabilize a neighborhood by being there. Third, they can provide essential services in areas that lack them. From an entrepreneurial and job generation perspective, they also provide meals for individuals who might only have one meal all day.”
We were honored to be joined by several elected officials including:
- Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II
- S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI)
- S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI-01)
- S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI-11)
- S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI-05)
- State Representative Erin Byrnes
- State Senator Sylvia Santana
- Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington
The visit to Michigan also included tours of local franchises, including a PuroClean franchise in Troy and a Domino’s franchise in Hamtramck, offering a firsthand look at the demanding yet rewarding responsibilities of managing a franchise. During the visit, PuroClean owner Joe Thomas emphasized his commitment to local hiring, particularly focusing on providing flexible job opportunities for high school students and single mothers.
Similarly, Goldfish Swim School franchise owner Meg Kevane reflected on the strength of the franchise model, stating, “We’re so lucky to have the franchise behind us because I don’t think any of us would be doing this on our own or as successful if we are on our own.”
To round out the visit, IFA members gathered for a reception at the Detroit Historical Museum, which featured an exhibit showcasing Ziebart’s 65th anniversary, an historic franchise automotive brand with Detroit roots. This event provided a perfect backdrop for networking and celebrating the rich history of franchising in Michigan.
Beyond Detroit, the International Franchise Association (IFA) continues to advocate in Washington, DC, ensuring that policymakers understand the economic benefits of franchising. Senator Gary Peters said it best, “The stories are just so powerful, and every member of Congress needs to hear them to understand how franchising allows individuals to enter an industry with an established system.”
IFA’s mission is to amplify these powerful stories and foster a supportive legislative and regulatory environment for franchised businesses, by highlighting the unique ability of franchising to provide accessible pathways to entrepreneurship and leadership for diverse individuals.
