West Coast Franchise Expo Brings Growing Small Bus

ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 15, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The West Coast Franchise Expo (WCFE) opens next week where thousands of entrepreneurs will flock to the Anaheim Convention Center to explore unique and fast-growing small business opportunities. From October 24-26, nearly 200 franchise brands will be on display with investments from $5,000 - $5,000,000, giving prospective entrepreneurs, the top franchise brands and current franchisees the rare chance to meet face-to-face with one another.

As the largest franchise event on the west coast, the WCFE unites qualified prospects with franchise organizations looking to develop west of the Mississippi. The comprehensive conference will also host more than 50 free and informative seminars and symposia covering all aspects of franchising.

"Our goal is to provide an opportunity for entrepreneurs – whether novice or experienced – with an approachable, educational conference that leads them to their next business venture," said Tom Portesy, president and CEO of MFV Expositions. "Small business continues to drive our economic recovery, with franchising outpacing the rest of the economy. We're excited to act as a catalyst for growth in the west, uniting individuals ready and willing to invest and organizations steadily expanding."

MFV Expositions, producers of the WCFE along with the International Franchise Association, will welcome high-profile local leaders – Jan Owen, commissioner of the California Department of Business Oversight, California State Assemblyman Tom Daley, and Kish Rajan, director of the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Opportunity – to present opening remarks the morning of October 24 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

"An integral part of the state's franchise community, Jan Owen helps regulate the offer and sale of securities, franchises and off-exchange commodities," said Portesy. "Equally central to the expo, Daley is the former mayor of Anaheim and Rajan brings 20 years of experience in both the government and private sector. Their presence helps solidify the significant role franchising plays in cultivating small business growth."

To register to attend the West Coast Franchise Expo, visit www.wcfexpo.com . On-site registration is also available, but pre-registration is recommended.

About MFV Expositions

For 22 years, MFV Expositions has been producing the leading franchise events worldwide that consistently bring together franchise concepts, at all investment levels, with the most qualified visitors seeking to own their own business. In addition to quality franchise expos in the United States and overseas that offer face-to-face opportunities to grow your franchise, MFV also offers access to online franchise opportunities through web-based resources, lead management tools and solutions for generating sales.

Sara Schulte, Fishman Public Relations 847-945-1300 or