President’s Point: MUFC Takeaways
After more than a year of virtual gatherings that offer little in the way of true networking, client relations and making new connections, All Points PR attended our first major in-person conference, building on team members who attended Franchise Expo South mid-spring this year. Plus, there are more industry gatherings slated for the balance of this year and into next.
The Multi-Unit Franchise Conference (MUFC) was the first in-person franchise conference with more than a dozen of our client brands in attendance and countless key networking opportunities since the start of the pandemic. With its largest registered attendance to date, MUFC had a lot on the line, but it did not disappoint.
While our clients were there for the most part to connect with multi-unit franchisees who could invest in and operate new locations, APPR took part or led several in-person meetings and dinners, and networked with our clients, potential clients and industry insiders, both on the trade floor and in areas throughout the conference and the host hotel. There is no doubt that the energy level was high throughout the three-day event. With so much to offer, here are MUFC 2021’s biggest takeaways:
Reconnecting In-Person
After nearly 18 months apart, reuniting with clients, industry connections, and long-time personal and professional friends was priceless. All Points PR had a fantastic showing—from our client dinner to the networking cabana and other events we hosted, to client meetings and new client opportunity discussions, we represented the agency well. Our time and preparation paid off, and we’re eager to see how the conversations evolve in the coming weeks.
Likewise, All Points PR clients had a great response to their efforts, with potential franchise candidates eager to attend events, visit the exhibitor booths and schedule individual meetings.
High Energy
The excitement of Las Vegas coupled with the dinners, events and other networking opportunities infused palpable adrenaline into the conference. The energy level was high, truly a sign of the unified commitment we have to the industry, one another and our companies. I’ve attended virtual conferences this past year, and the energy does not compare to the in-person version.
We had a chance to see clients on every pod, including Beyond Juicery, Meineke/Maaco, Big Chicken and Taco John’s among many more.
Eye-Opening Content
As with any conference, the keynote speakers and panelists did not disappoint. The fantastic learnings brought by accomplished speakers in the franchise realm offered insightful perspectives to help streamline and inspire business growth.
We strengthened our relationship with the franchising industry and reinforced camaraderie with our clients. We are looking ahead to seeing many again at industry gatherings this year.
Jamie Izaks is the president of All Points Public Relations, a franchise-focused PR agency based in the Chicagoland area, www.allpointspr.com.