Key Takeaways NIFA Q1 2025: Strengthening Franchisee-Franchisor Communication
March 7, 2025
Franchise success isn’t just about having a great brand or a strong business model— it’s about fostering a productive, transparent partnership between franchisees and franchisors.
At this quarter’s Northern Illinois Franchise Association (NIFA) gathering, Julie Bieszczat, CEO of Barney Enterprises and a 14-unit Wendy’s franchisee, shared insights such as how strong franchisee/franchisor communication and collaboration, continuous commitment to employee development, an open mind to industry evolution, and dedication to community can help drive long-term success.
Navigating Expansion: Growth Requires Alignment
As a franchisee operating 14 locations and currently building her 15th, Julie highlighted the opportunities that come with expanding and how to maintain operational excellence. She emphasized that scaling a franchise business isn’t just about financial investment— it requires a shared vision and alignment with the franchisor. Working closely with the Wendy’s corporate team, she ensures that new locations align with the brand’s standards and that existing units continue to thrive.
Embracing Innovation: The Role of Technology in Franchise Success
One of the key takeaways from Julie’s discussion was how franchisors play a critical role in introducing and supporting new technologies. Wendy’s is at the forefront of AI-driven ordering technology, implementing AI in select drive-thrus— including one of Julie’s locations. She noted that these innovations wouldn’t be possible without a strong franchisee/franchisor relationship, as both parties must work together to test, refine, and implement new systems effectively.
Financial Preparedness: A Shared Responsibility
While financial readiness is crucial, franchisors also play a role in ensuring franchisees are equipped for success. From offering support in site selection and development to providing training and operational guidance, a strong franchisor partnership helps franchisees navigate financial requirements and maximize profitability.
Final Thoughts
Julie’s insights reinforced a key takeaway: franchise success is built on a foundation of trust, collaboration, and shared goals. Franchisees who actively engage with their franchisors, embrace innovation, and align with brand strategies are better positioned for long-term growth and sustainability.
We want to extend a special thank you to Julie Bieszczat for the insightful conversation and All Points PR for hosting this gathering. Stay tuned for future NIFA events where we’ll continue to explore the latest trends and insights shaping the franchise industry.
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