Blog

Our blog is where we share insights from the front lines of franchising, public relations, and marketing. From industry trends and strategic guidance to lessons learned through client work, we offer perspectives designed to help brands stay informed, competitive, and positioned for growth.

Key Takeaways from NIFA: How Franchisees Can Leverage Google Business Profiles

Franchisees everywhere ask the same pressing question as they build their online presence: “How can I secure a spot on the first page of Google results?” At this quarter’s Northern Illinois Franchise Association (NIFA) luncheon, Lisa Landsman, Google’s Head of Global Business Development, shared actionable insights to help franchisees, franchisors, and suppliers maximize their local … Read more

Northern Illinois Franchise Association Welcomes Culver’s Franchisee Baron Waller

Northern Illinois Franchise Association hosts quarterly events.

At the Northern Illinois Franchise Association’s (NIFA) Q1 event, attendees had the privilege of hearing from Baron Waller, a multi-unit Culver’s franchisee in Chicago. The event kicked off with lively networking among Chicago’s leading franchise industry professionals, all while enjoying some of Culver’s iconic menu offerings: the butter burger, cheese curds, and more. The event was hosted … Read more

5 PR Trends to Watch in 2024

Jamie Izaks, President of All Points Public Relations, shares top PR trends for 2024.

In the dynamic world of public relations, anticipating and adapting to emerging trends is paramount. As we step into 2024, Jamie Izaks, President and Co-Founder of All Points Public Relations, offers invaluable insights into the five PR trends poised to redefine communication strategies in the new year. 1. AI Integration Revolutionizing Communication Artificial Intelligence (AI) … Read more

Celebrating 10 Years of NIFA

A decade of networking, growth, and success – the Northern Illinois Franchise Association (NIFA) recently celebrated its 10th anniversary! In December, co-founders Jamie and Lauren Izaks and Andrew Bleiman honored the milestone amongst industry peers, colleagues, and friends at the Q4 NIFA gathering. The night was filled with great conversation, drinks, bites, and an exciting … Read more

COO Corner: Navigating Global Events with Purpose

In years past, our country – and the world – have faced a relentless stream of issues, from racial justice and women’s rights to COVID-19, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and terrorism in Israel. As a business owner, I\’ve often found myself navigating my emotions and personal connection to these global events while working to uphold … Read more

From Influencers to User-Generated Content: The Path to Authentic Brand Connections

Brands are always looking for new and unique ways to authentically connect with their audience. Influencer partnerships have long been the popular choice to draw in new customers, but one avenue that remains untouched for a number of brands is user-generated content (UGC). Influencer and UGC partnerships are fairly similar, but blending the two strategies … Read more

NIFA Q3 2023 | Leading an Industrywide Movement Featuring Geoff Alexander, President & CEO of Wow Bao

At the recent Northern Illinois Franchise Association’s (NIFA) Q3 gathering, Geoff Alexander, President & CEO of Wow Bao and Managing Partner with Lettuce Entertain You Enterprise (LEYE), led an inspiring presentation on the invaluable lessons he’s learned and the mentors who have guided his career and Wow Bao’s success. During his 30-year tenure with LEYE, … Read more

All Points Public Relations’ PRo Community Project: Driving Positive Change for Chicagoland Nonprofits

All Points PR launches 2023 PRo Community Project.

At All Points Public Relations, our dedication goes beyond providing exceptional integrated public relations services to our clients. Our commitment to philanthropy is at the core of who we are as a company. That’s why we firmly believe in giving back to our communities and making a positive impact by using our agency’s expertise to … Read more