GLEN ROCK, N.J. — There’s a sense of optimism as MFV Expositions and Comexposium makes final preparations for the International Franchise Expo (IFE) May 29-31 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.
Show organizers expect as many as 6,000 attendees from across the U.S. and 60 countries to attend the three-day event. MFV’s flagship event will bring together interested entrepreneurs with representatives from more than 200 franchise brands, including some that will be exhibiting at an MFV event for the first time.
“International Franchise Expo is our largest event of the year and the only MFV trade show that spans three days,” Martin Joksimovic, President of MFV Expositions, said. “It’s always attracted a lot of interest from overseas investors and delegations looking to sign master franchisee agreements in their home countries or expand their reach to include the U.S. market.”
Exhibitors represent a wide range of industries, from home improvement services to restaurants to health and fitness brands. Among those that will be in attendance are Denny’s, Kiddie Academy, Nathan’s Famous and TruGolf Links. A show highlight is the Emerging Brands Pavilion, featuring franchise brands with 10 establishments or less.
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Despite the current economic uncertainty, Joksimovic remains optimistic. “Any type of market uncertainty is a net negative for industries across the board — franchising included — but it seems to be business as usual for the time being,” he said. “Historically speaking, interest in entrepreneurship and franchise ownership actually tends to increase in a down economy. Whenever there are significant layoffs in corporate America, a certain number of former employees decide to take charge of their own destiny, and I think you’ll see evidence of this at the upcoming International Franchise Expo.”
He expects that the new tariffs put in place by the Trump administration will be a hot topic on the show floor. “The effect will vary quite a bit. It really depends on the industry or business sector in which a franchisor operates. Some — such as those operating in the restaurant, automotive or retail categories — can expect increased costs for equipment, supplies and goods, especially if they’re reliant on a global supply chain. Recession-resistant franchise brands, which provide goods and services based on needs, not wants, should be in safer territory.
“I think it will be interesting to see what our foreign delegations plan to do, and this international expo will be a great place to get a reading on that.”
Reach Martin Joksimovic at Martin.Joksimovic@comexposium.com or (201) 881-1658
