Course Description:
Over the past 50 years franchising has evolved into one of the most dynamic, transformative business strategies in the world. We'll take a detailed look at how it started, evolved and transformed into its current form. Then we'll look at why people start a franchise, buy a franchise and use the franchise model. We'll examine the different alternatives to the franchise model to better understand its value and purpose. We'll review the latest thinking in the business community on corporate structures, chain development, mergers, acquisitions and divestitures. The key topics and guest speakers include:

• A Global Perspective: John Reynolds, President, International Franchise Association Education Foundation
• Legal Analysis: Mark Forseth, Vice President & Assistant General Counsel, Marriott International
• Strategic Franchise Structures: Carl Zwisler, Principal, Gray Plant & Mooty
• The Economic Impact of Franchising: Peter Schwarzer, Director of Research, FranData
• International Franchise Overview: Regina Amolsch, Attorney, Plave Koch PLC
• Marketing & Promotion: Bob Fiddler, President, The Fiddler Group
• The Social Impact of Franchising: April Pinch-Keeler, CEO, MVLE

Note: Not all speakers confirmed for the upcoming session.