PARAMUS, N.J., April 29, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Prospective business owners and entrepreneurs in the New York metro area and beyond are ready to take advantage of a key opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives of top franchise brands during three days at the 23 rd Annual International Franchise Expo (IFE), sponsored by the International Franchise Association.
A major contributor to the U.S. economy, the International Franchise Association reports that in 2014 the franchise industry is expected to create approximately 200,000 new jobs; in 2014, the gross domestic product (GDP) of the franchise sector is projected to increase to $493 billion.
According to President Tom Portesy of MFV Expositions, the franchise industry's premier annual event producer, last year's event attracted more than 19,000 attendees from 85 countries. This year, an even larger crowd is expected to surpass its record high attendance.
"Thousands come to our expos with dreams of opening a business and leave knowing what it will take to make their dreams reality," said Portesy. "The IFE is more than just business opportunities. We are the vital connection between eager prospects seeking to transform their lives and the 'big' names and new emerging brands holding the keys to a more secure future and better quality of life."
Dozens of industry experts present educational topics covering every aspect of the franchise journey. More than 70 free seminars and 9 in-depth symposia help attendees learn firsthand from industry leaders what it takes to get into a business of their own. Among the topics entrepreneurs can explore are Getting Ready to Franchise Your Business, What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Franchise, and The Use of Master Franchising Domestically and Internationally.
At all levels of experience - from seasoned corporate executives looking to open their own franchise to recent college graduates and retirees - the number of brands presented at the IFE makes it possible for everyone to examine options that fit their unique lifestyle, including those starting at less than $5,000.
"Attending the International Franchise Expo is a golden opportunity to discover the great variety of franchises available," said Chuck Eldridge, Signarama franchise owner in Cherry Hill, NJ. "I found Signarama, and within three years built it into one of the highest volume stores in the world. We have built our own financial and job security by paying attention to the systems of the franchise."
In 2013, more than 30 percent of attendees planned to invest between $100,000 and $499,999. Whether a single unit, area developer, or multi-unit buyer, expo visitors were well educated, engaged and serious about taking the next step.
"The IFE show is a dynamic franchise event that provides us with a high-impact international platform to exhibit our franchise opportunity," said Cathy Deano, co-founder of Painting with a Twist. "From start to finish, the IFE show delivers optimum value for our brand and we look forward to attending every year."
The IFE is endorsed by the U.S. Department of Commerce and promoted worldwide as part of its International Buyers Program. More than 150 U.S. Embassies through its Foreign Commercial Service Offices actively promote the IFE within its regions and bring official escorted delegations from all around the world to the expo. Over the years, the IFE has been a significant catalyst to the global expansion of franchising.
Register for the International Franchise Expo at www.ifeinfo.com .
About MFV Expositions
For 23 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 a franchise, MFV also offers access to online franchise opportunities through web-based resources.
Media Contact: Holly Kleese, Fishman PR, , 874-945-1300
