On behalf of the International Franchise Association and the 2026 IFA Legal Symposium Task Force, I am pleased to invite you to attend the 58th Annual IFA Legal Symposium, taking place May 17–19, 2026, at the Grand Hyatt in Washington, D.C. As always, the Legal Symposium will examine significant legal and regulatory developments affecting franchising over the past year, while offering a forward-looking perspective on what lies ahead for the franchise community in 2026 and beyond.
The year 2025 proved to be one of the most consequential for franchising in recent memory, with meaningful activity across the United States at the state and federal level. Notably, Congress saw the introduction of the American Franchise Act in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. This landmark legislation garnered bipartisan support and has been endorsed by franchisors and franchisees. The bill represents a significant step toward stabilizing issues in franchise relationships resulting from uncertainty in the joint employer standard that has plagued the franchise community since the NLRB issued its Browning-Ferris decision in 2015.
At the federal regulatory level, both the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) have undergone significant transitions with the appointment of three Commissioners to the FTC and two Board members and General Counsel to the NLRB. While the federal agencies have been quiet during this transition period, we expect activity to resume in 2026, including joint employer rulemaking at the Department of Labor. While the federal agencies have been quiet during this transition period, we expect activity to resume in 2026, including a joint employer rulemaking at the Department of Labor. Additionally, recent Supreme Court decisions, including those addressing administrative deference and agency enforcement powers—have introduced new legal frameworks that are already influencing how franchise systems assess regulatory risk and compliance strategy.
Labor and employment issues also remained front and center. Several states advanced or enacted legislation restricting non-compete agreements and imposing wage and hour obligations on “large” employers, many times casting franchisees as a single employer because of their operation under a common brand. We expect similar legislation to be advanced in the states during the 2026 legislative session, underscoring the increasingly complex patchwork of state labor and franchise regulation.
Against this backdrop, the 2026 Legal Symposium will offer in-depth, practical programming on these and other critical issues important to the franchise community. We have developed programs that explore key issues in crisis management, the use of AI in 2026, addressing franchise disclosure claims, conflict resolution strategies through mediation and ombuds programs, and many other programs. And we will debut this year a general session where preeminent franchise counsel discuss provisions in franchise agreements that test the franchisor-franchisee relationship. Additionally, for those new to franchising or those seeking a refresher, the always-popular Basics Track will once again provide essential foundational insights.
As is evident from the above, there is truly something for everyone at the 2026 IFA Legal Symposium. Attendees will hear from leading legal and business minds, engage in meaningful dialogue at our interactive roundtables, and connect with franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers from across the globe. Equally important, the Symposium provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends while enjoying all that Washington, D.C. has to offer.
You will not want to miss this year’s Legal Symposium. I look forward to welcoming you in Washington and to another engaging and impactful program for the franchise community.
Sincerely,
Nina Greene Legal Symposium Task Force Chair
2026 Legal Symposium Task Force
Nina Greene Partner Venable LLC (Chair)
Harris Chernow Partner
Reger Rizzo Darnall LLP (Vice Chair)
Bethany Appleby Of Counsel DLA Piper LLP (US)
Jason Bauman Associate General Counsel, Franchising Planet Fitness
Michael Braunstein Partner Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A.
Toni Brown Shareholder Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Cynthia Clark AVP Franchise, Legal REGIS, SuperCuts
Max DeLeon Associate Attorney Cheng Cohen LLC
Abhishek Dube Partner Baker & Mckenzie LLP
Michael Einbinder Partner Einbinder & Dunn LLP
James Goniea General Counsel Purpose Brands, LLC
Sam Gray General Counsel Sizzling Platter, LLC
Kevin Hein
Co-Chair, Franchise and Licensing Practice Denver Ackerman LLP
Jason Johnson Partner
Luther Lanard, PC
Kelly Krug Vice President, Litigation Wyndham
Noah Leszcz Partner Cassels
Doug Luther Partner Luther Lanard, PC
Babette MarzheuserWood Partner Dentons
Dominic Mochrie Partner, Franchise & Distribution
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Ariane Panter Senior Counsel, Global Labor and Employment Law McDonald’s
Benjamin Reed Partner Plave Koch PLC
Frank Sciremammano Partner Lathrop GPM
Kevin Shelley Partner
Kaufmann Gildin & Robbins LLP
Angelo Spinola Partner Polsinelli
Vicente Tome
Vice President, Legal, U.S. & LAC
Restaurant Brands International US Services LLC
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
• All attorneys interested in franchise law
• In-house counsel
• Franchise CEOs
• Franchise development and sales executives
• Franchise legal and compliance officers
• Paralegals
• Franchise administrators
• Franchisees interested in learning more about the legal and business aspects of franchising
• All others concerned with franchising’s legal, regulatory and business issues
SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE
All 2026 Legal Symposium Sessions will take place at the Grand Hyatt Washington in Washington, DC
Sunday, May 17
8:30 A - 2:30 P Corporate Counsel Retreat
4:00 P – 7:00 P Registration Open
3:30 P - 4:30 P Legal Legislative Committee
5:30 P – 6:30 P Welcome Reception
6:45 P – 9:00 P Speakers’ Networking Event
7:00 P – 9:00 P Rising Franchise Legal Professional Dinner
Monday, May 18
7:00 A – 6:00 P Registration
7:45 A –8:30 A Breakfast 8:30 A – 10:00 A Welcome & General Session
10:00 A – 10:30 A Break
10:30 A – 11:45 A Round #1
1. BUSINESS ISSUES TRACK: Building Unbreakable Links: Structuring Franchise Supply Chains for Legal and Operational Resilience
2. TRANSACTIONAL TRACK: Evolving Models, Expanding Risks: Advanced Legal Strategies and Considerations for Non-Traditional Franchising
3. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: What do I Have to Sign? Navigating New Terms and Conditions Upon Renewal and Transfer
4. GENERAL COUNSEL SUMMIT: Navigating Legal Strategy in Modern Franchising
5. INTERNATIONAL TRACK: Franchise Law Without Borders: Navigating the Crosscurrents of Global Legal Trends
6. BASICS TRACK: Mergers & Acquisitions: The Anatomy of a Franchise Deal
7. BUSINESS TRACK: Technology, Pricing, and the Consumer Experience: Navigating New Risks and Expectations
12:00 P – 1:30 P Boxed Luncheon & Roundtables
1:45 P – 3:00 P Round #2
1. LITIGATION TRACK: From FDD to the Courtroom: Drafting and Litigating Franchise Disclosure Claims
2. REGISTRATION & DISCLOSURE TRACK: Franchise Disclosure Under the Microscope: State Registration Trends
3. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: Advanced Strategies for Conflict Resolution Through Mediation and Ombuds Programs
4. BUSINESS ISSUES TRACK: Crisis Management 2.0: Legal and Business Strategies, Deepfakes, and Real-Time Reputation Defense
5. TRANSACTIONAL TRACK: Financing the Future: Navigating New Trends and Challenges in Franchisee Approvals and Lending
6. BASICS TRACK: Trademarks & IP
7. BUSINESS TRACK: Next-Gen Franchise Investing: How Private Equity Is Reimagining Value in the Franchise Model
3:00 P – 3:30 P Break
3:30 P – 4:45 P Round #3
1. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: Redrawing and Redefining: Best Practices to Affect Systemwide Change
2. LITIGATION TRACK: The Joint Employer Reckoning: Federal Shifts, State Safeguards, and the Future of Franchise Liability
3. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: The Next Generation of Ownership: Succession Planning as a Strategy for Franchise System Stability
4. BASICS TRACK: Registration & Disclosure
5. TRANSACTIONAL TRACK: Hidden Gems or Devils in the Details: The Gift (or Curse) of Oft-Ignored Franchise Agreement Provisions
6. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY TRACK: Stealing the System: Trade Secret and Trademarks Battles After Franchise Termination
7. BUSINESS TRACK: Confidentiality, Loyalty and Conflicts of Interest: Ethical Considerations for Counsel Representing Multiple Franchise Parties [Ethics Class]
5:00 P – 6:00 P Networking Reception
Tuesday, May 19
7:00 A – 4:15 P Registration
7:45 A –8:30 A Breakfast
8:30 A – 10:00 A Judicial Update & Legal Trends
10:00 A – 10:15 A Break
10:15 A – 11:30 A Round #4
1. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: Advanced Strategies for Conflict Resolution Through Mediation and Ombuds Programs
2. REGISTRATION & DISCLOSURE TRACK: State-Mandated Addendums and Evolving Interpretation of State Disclosure Laws
3. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: The Next Generation of Ownership: Succession Planning as a Strategy for Franchise System Stability
4. BUSINESS TRACK: Next-Gen Franchise Investing: How Private Equity Is Reimagining Value in the Franchise Model
5. BASICS TRACK: Franchise Litigation
6. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY TRACK: Stealing the System: Trade Secret and Trademarks Battles After Franchise Termination
7. BUSINESS TRACK: Technology, Pricing, and the Consumer Experience: Navigating New Risks and Expectations
11:45 A – 1:15 P General Session Luncheon on Business Model Issues
1:30 P – 2:45 P Round #5
1. BUSINESS TRACK: Confidentiality, Loyalty and Conflicts of Interest: Ethical Considerations for Counsel Representing Multiple Franchise Parties [Ethics Class]
2. INTERNATIONAL TRACK: Franchise Law Without Borders: Navigating the Crosscurrents of Global Legal Trends
3. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: Redrawing and Redefining: Best Practices to Affect Systemwide Change
4. BASICS TRACK: Franchise Relationship Laws
5. TRANSACTIONAL TRACK: Hidden Gems or Devils in the Details: The Gift (or Curse) of Oft-Ignored Franchise Agreement Provisions
6. LITIGATION TRACK: The Joint Employer Reckoning: Federal Shifts, State Safeguards, and the Future of Franchise Liability
1:30 P – 3:00 P In-House Intensive (Inhouse counsel attendees only)
2:45 P – 3:00 P Break
3:00 P – 4:15 P Round #6
1. RELATIONSHIP TRACK: What do I Have to Sign? Navigating New Terms and Conditions Upon Renewal and Transfer
2. TRANSACTIONAL TRACK: Evolving Models, Expanding Risks: Advanced Legal Strategies and Considerations for Non-Traditional Franchising
3. BUSINESS TRACK: Crisis Management 2.0: Legal and Business Strategies, Deepfakes, and Real-Time Reputation Defense
4. BASICS TRACK: International
5. LITIGATION TRACK: From FDD to the Courtroom: Drafting and Litigating Franchise Disclosure Claims
6. TRANSACTIONAL TRACK: Financing the Future: Navigating New Trends and Challenges in Franchisee Approvals and Lending
7. BUSINESS TRACK: Building Unbreakable Links: Structuring Franchise Supply Chains for Legal and Operational Resilience
For session descriptions and speakers, see pages 5-11
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
GENERAL SESSION
Welcome
Nina Greene, Partner, Venable, LLP, Legal Symposium Task Force Chair
General Session
Keynote Speaker: Gabe Karp, Operating Partner, Detroit Venture Partners
Make the Hard Stuff Easy: Accelerate Collaboration to Transform Business Challenges into Competitive Edge
The hard stuff is unavoidable in any worthwhile endeavor. Most corporate cultures condition people to avoid difficult situations, which breeds toxic conflict that derails collaboration, erodes trust, and prioritizes pointing fingers over finding solutions. Everything suffers: innovation, productivity, client relationships, individual careers, and so on. But when handled well, the hard stuff becomes a catalyst for accelerated collaboration, stronger partnerships, and competitive advantage.
In his uniquely entertaining and insightful style, Gabe Karp reframes the hard stuff as a tool for collaborative growth rather than something to fear. Drawing from 30+ years of experience and his bestselling book Don't Get Mad at Penguins, Gabe equips leaders with practical strategies to transform uncomfortable situations into collaborative opportunities that drive breakthrough results.
Franchising
2026: A Fireside Chat with Industry Leaders
IFA Legal Symposium Chair and Venable LLP partner Nina Greene will lead a candid fireside chat with IFA CEO Matt Haller and East Coast Wings + Grill/Sammy Sliders CEO and IFA Chair Sam Ballas as they explore the outlook for franchising in 2026. Gain firsthand insights from two of the most influential voices in franchising today.
Moderator: Nina Greene, Partner, Venable LLP
Speakers: Matt Haller, President & CEO, International Franchise Association
Sam Ballas, CFE, CEO & Co-Founder, East Coast Wings + Grill/Sammy Sliders & Chair, IFA Board of Directors
Monday Boxed Luncheon & Roundtables
Our roundtables provide a unique opportunity for you to sit down with your peers and share tips, challenges, solutions and best practices on a wide range of franchise law and business topics. New this year, we have added non-legal franchise business facilitators to this session.
Judicial Update & Legal Trends
Join us for the always popular Judicial Update where our speakers will identify key franchise legal trends that are impacting the franchise community and examine what the most important cases mean for the future of franchising’s legal and business operations.
Moderator: Chad Finkelstein, Partner, Dale & Lessmann LLP
Staying Ahead of Cybersecurity Risks: How to Protect Your Franchise Business from Attackers and Litigants Alike Speaker: Jen Daskal, Partner, Venable LLP
Using AI in the Employment Process: Recent Developments You Need to Know: Speaker: Brad Kelley, Shareholder, Littler Mendelson, P.C.
InternationalUpdate on China: Speaker: Dominic Hui, Partner, Ribeiro Hui
Potpourri: Notable Franchise Cases from the Past Year: Speaker: Harris Chernow, Partner, Reger Rizzo Darnall LLP
TUESDAY PROGRAM LUNCHEON
Tough Franchise Relationship Conversations between Franchise Gladiators with Special FTC Guest, Christine Todaro
Join us for a fireside chat with Christine Todaro, Franchise Rule Program Manager, Federal Trade Coimmission (FTC). This will be followed by a candid, unscripted dialogue to the franchise terms that most often fuel relationship tension and system instability. Seasoned franchise attorneys step into the Legal Symposium Thunderdome to examine the provisions that test franchisor-franchisee relationships, drawing on their real-world experiences. This session delivers sharp insight into the legal pressure points shaping today's franchise systems.
Moderator: Speakers: Michael Joblove, Partner, Venable LLP
Norman Leon, Partner, DLA Piper LLP
Robert Zarco, Partner, Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Rising Franchise Legal Professional Program Dinner
This professional development program dinner is for rising legal professionals with up to 5 years’ experience in franchise law. Meet up with colleagues in a similar career stage as yours. This will be a progressive dinner where experienced franchise law, government relations, and c-suite business professionals will move tables with each course to host small group conversations. Gain insight from those who once were in your shoes to help navigate your franchise law future.
Advanced Strategies for Conflict Resolution Through Mediation and Ombuds Programs
Franchisor and franchisee conflict is often rooted in failed expectations, contractual obligations and operational practices. Many of these conflicts are ripe for pre-litigation resolution through communication, information exchange and a realistic assessment of options that can be achieved through mediation and/or an ombuds. This session will explore the nuanced roles of mediation and ombuds programs, including their relative advantages and disadvantages. For mediation, the program will focus on preparing effective conflict resolution provisions, criteria for a mediator, addressing common pitfalls of mediation, including, commitment, options assessment, participant preparation, pre-mediation preparation and effective representation strategies. For an ombuds program, the session will discuss training and criteria for a franchisor employee or third party ombuds, scope of authority, disputes best suited for an ombuds, the ombuds‘ potential investigations and interactions with franchisor, and confidentiality and enforcement of agreements.
Speakers: Brian Balconi, Mediator, Balconi Mediation Services, LLC
Dana Dombrowski, Lead Corporate Counsel, Snap-on
Joyce Mazero, Mediator and Co-Chair of Global Franchise & Supply Network Practice, Polsinelli
Building Unbreakable Links: Structuring Franchise Supply Chains for Legal and Operational Resilience
Disruptions — from pandemics and geopolitical conflicts to natural disasters and cyberattacks — have exposed the vulnerabilities in global supply chains. For franchise systems, those disruptions can cascade quickly, impacting franchisees’ operations, brand consistency, and compliance obligations. This session explores how to structure franchise supply chains with resilience at their core — through strategic contracting, diversification, and risk-sharing models that balance legal protection with operational flexibility.
Moderator & Speaker: Sam Gray, General Counsel, Sizzling Platter, LLC
Speakers: Jacob Erhard, Lead Corporate Counsel, Restaurant Services, Inc.
Ryan Gallagher, Managing Associate, FBT Gibbons LLP
Betsy Griswold, Corporate Counsel, IHG Hotels and Resorts
Confidentiality, Loyalty and Conflicts of Interest: Ethical Considerations for Counsel Representing Multiple Franchise Parties [Ethics Class]
Whether representing multiple parties in the same lawsuit or transaction, representing both franchisors and franchisees in separate matters or separately representing industry competitors where one client’s benefit may have adverse consequences for another client, franchise lawyers and law firms frequently face challenges balancing zealous representation with ethical obligations of confidentiality, loyalty and avoiding conflicts of interest. Through case studies and interactive hypotheticals, attendees will navigate realworld dilemmas that test the limits of professional responsibility (actual ethical conflicts and client business relation conflicts) for franchise lawyers.
Speakers: Marcus Banks, SVP, Litigation, Employment Law & Government Relations, Wyndham Hotel Group
Dimitrije Canic, Attorney, Venable LLP
Karen Marchiano, Senior Counsel, Caiola & Rose
BREAKOUT SESSIONS (continued)
Crisis Management 2.0: Legal and Business Strategies, Deepfakes, and Real-Time Reputation Defense
Crises rarely unfold as planned — and in today’s environment, threats extend beyond regulatory mishaps and operational failures. From deepfakes to politically charged reputation attacks, franchisors, franchisees, and their legal advisors must be prepared to respond quickly and decisively. This session goes beyond the basics of crisis management, drawing on real case studies and legal insights to highlight effective preparation and rapid decision-making in the heat of the moment.
Speakers: John Eddy, Managing Director, Goldin Solutions (Monday session)
Brian Forgas, Senior Counsel, Global Franchise Regulatory Hilton Worldwide David Goldin, Founder, Goldin Solutions, Inc. (Tuesday session)
Evolving Models, Expanding Risks: Advanced Legal Strategies and Considerations for Non-Traditional Franchising
Non-traditional franchising is no longer the exception— it’s the laboratory for the future of franchise growth. As franchisors deploy models across airports, universities, healthcare systems, military and other government locations, ghost kitchens, shared spaces, and digital platforms, traditional franchise legal and operational frameworks are being tested and redefined. This advanced session examines how leading franchisors and counsel are structuring, documenting, and governing complex non-traditional arrangements that challenge the boundaries of the Franchise Rule as well as state disclosure and relationship laws.
Panelists will dissect:
• The shifting allocation of control and liability in tri-party and institutional host arrangements.
• How co-location, licensing hybrids, and platform-based brand extensions complicate disclosure, territorial rights, encroachment and termination or exit analyses.
• Regulatory friction points—franchise versus distribution versus partnership—and emerging guidance from enforcement agencies.
• Financing, supply chain, data access and ownership implications unique to non-traditional operations.
Participants will gain a deep understanding of how to anticipate and mitigate legal risks while leveraging non¬traditional models as engines for innovation, scalability, and system resilience.
Speakers: Brittany Johnson, Special Counsel, Miller Nash LLP
Gina Malandrino, Partner, Cheng Cohen
Abby Whetstone, Owner and Principal Consultant, Non Trad Consulting Group
Financing the Future: Navigating New Trends and Challenges in Franchisee Approvals and Lending
Access to capital is a cornerstone of franchise growth, but the franchise lending landscape is evolving rapidly. This session will explore current developments in franchisee lending, including the return of the SBA Franchise Directory, shifting underwriting standards, and the expanding role of franchise brokers and sales organizations (FSOs). We will also delve into the pros and cons of targeting select highwealth and sophisticated franchisee applicants versus the broader spectrum of mainstream franchisee applicants.
Moderator & Speaker: Tom Spadea, CFE, Franchise Attorney, Spadea Lignana Franchise Attorneys
Speaker: Carl Buchholz, Vice President, SBA Relationship Manager, WSFS Bank
Rocco Fiorentino, CFE, CEO & Vice Chairman of the Board, Benetrends Financial
General Counsel Summit: Navigating Legal Strategy in Modern Franchising
Join senior legal leaders from some of the world’s most recognized franchise brands for a candid discussion that explores the most pressing legal issues impacting franchising—from regulatory developments and litigation trends to risk management and brand protection. Panelists will also share insights on evolving legal operations within franchise systems and strategies for building effective partnerships with outside counsel.
Moderator: Sarah Davies, General Counsel, International Franchise Association
Speaker: Grayson Brown, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Neighborly Company
Shelly O'Callaghan, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, International Dairy Queen
Nadia Sarangi, Vice President & Associate General Counsel, InterContinental Hotels Group
Franchise Law Without Borders: Navigating the Crosscurrents of Global Legal Trends
As franchising expands across markets, legal and policy developments no longer stay confined within national boundaries. Emerging labor, disclosure, competition, and ESG frameworks in the United States increasingly influence regulators and courts abroad—and international reforms are, in turn, shaping U.S. franchise law and enforcement priorities. This session will examine how key policy trends—such as the evolving joint-employer landscape, data and privacy regulations, ESG accountability, and franchisee relationship protections—are converging across jurisdictions. A panel of experienced international franchise counsel will discuss where these laws are coming from and analyze how these shifts are creating new compliance pressures and strategic opportunities for franchisors operating globally.
From FDD to the Courtroom: Drafting and Litigating Franchise Disclosure Claims
Franchise agreements are drafted for business — but tested in court. This session explores how to strengthen agreements in a post-NASAA SOP world without questionnaires or anti-reliance clauses and how disclosure and compliance claims are being litigated today. Attendees will gain practical strategies to anticipate risks, defend against evolving disclosure disputes, and protect their systems when conflicts reach the courtroom.
Hidden Gems or Devils in the Details: The Gift (or Curse) of Oft-Ignored Franchise Agreement Provisions
Some of the most overlooked clauses in franchise agreements — from indemnity, notice, and survival to restrictive covenants — become critical when disputes arise. This session unpacks why these provisions matter, how they’re treated in litigation and regulation, and what franchisors can do to make them stronger before it’s too late.
Speakers: Michael Braunstein, Partner, Zarco Einhorn Salkowski, P.A.
Sean McCloskey, Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, Neighborly
Current hot topics for in-house attorneys - done in format to maximize participation.
Moderator: Michael Coccaro, General Counsel, Synergy Home Care Franchising, LLC
Speaker: Zev Eigan, Senior Director, Data Science, DLA Piper Alexander Tuneski, Partner, DLA Piper
What do I Have to Sign? Navigating New Terms and Conditions Upon Renewal and Transfer
This session will address the inevitable tension between a franchisee’s expectation of a right to renew and transfer and the franchisor’s expectation that it can impose conditions on renewal and transfer and introduce new terms.
Session Objectives:
• Discuss the ability of a franchisor to impose or enforce conditions on the right to renew and transfer.
• Explore the legal basis for why franchisors can (and often do) increase royalty rates, change system standards, introduce new technology, change incentive programs, impose obligations to refurbish the franchised business, mandate upgrades, reduce protected territory, and alter other material terms at renewal and transfer.
Moderator: Vicente Tome, Vice President, Legal, U.S. & LAC, Restaurant Brands International, Inc.
• Assess state law impact on the renewal and transfer process, including the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing on the renewal and transfer process.
• Identify key negotiation points for franchisors and franchisees and the importance of strategic preparation for negotiations.
Len MacPhee, Global Franchise & Supply Network Co-Chair, Polsinelli
Ari Stern, Partner, Fox Rothschild LLP
Next-Gen Franchise Investing: How Private Equity Is Reimagining Value in the Franchise Model
Private equity’s relationship with franchising has evolved well beyond traditional buy-and-build plays. Today’s investors are leveraging data analytics, brand ecosystems, and operational innovation to uncover new sources of value — reshaping what it means to be an attractive acquisition target in the franchise world. From acquisitions of multi-unit franchisees to the emergence of royalty transactions, the climate around investments in the franchise world is rapidly evolving. This session goes beyond the basics of deal readiness to explore the next frontier of PE investment in franchising. Experts will discuss how private equity is redefining performance metrics, deploying AI and technology to assess brand scalability, and responding to shifting consumer behavior, labor pressures, and ESG expectations. Learn how forward-thinking franchisors are positioning themselves not just for sale, but for strategic growth partnerships that fuel multi-brand portfolios and long-term enterprise value.
Moderator & Speaker: Noah Leszcz, Partner, Cassels Brock & Blackwell
Speakers: Matt Gruenberg, Partner, DLA Piper LLP
Grant Marcks, Partner, The Riverside Company
Mark McAndrew, General Counsel, Unleashed Brands
Redrawing and Redefining: Best Practices to Affect Systemwide Change
Franchise systems must evolve to successfully meet changing market dynamics and consumer preferences. This session discusses how lawyers can prepare a franchise system to make a future pivot and advise their franchisor and franchisee clients during a moment of transition. Panelists will discuss their experience with franchise system change and flag key legal issues and opportunities, followed by roundtable discussions among panelists and attendees on the scope and limits of changing franchise systems, franchisee rights, and obligations, and maintaining franchise relationships.
Moderator Jason Bauman, Associate General Counsel, Franchising, Planet Fitness
Speakers: Mackenzie Dimitri, Partner, Einbinder Dunn Dimitri & Bayer
W. Michael Garner, Partner, Garner, Ginsburg & Johnson, P.A.
Kyle Lennox, Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Jonathan Solish, Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP
Franchise Disclosure Under the Microscope: State Registration Trends
This session provides franchise attorneys with actionable guidance on navigating current trends in state franchise registration and disclosure priorities. We'll explore compliant and non-compliant disclaimer language; structuring approaches for variable fee disclosures; state addenda requirements and litigation risks.
Moderator: Doug Luther, CEO / Managing Attorney
Speakers: Theresa Leets, Assistant Chief Counsel, California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation
Anthony Marks, Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
Geoff Spray, Franchise & Securities Registration Director, Minnesota Department of Commerce
Stealing the System: Trade Secret Battles After Franchise Termination
In a business climate where non-compete clauses are under increasing scrutiny, franchisors must explore all options to protect their brands and their franchisees’ equity in their businesses. This session explores how trade secret claims can be leveraged against rogue operators, what you must prove, when the added cost is worth it, and how to safeguard your system in today’s shifting legal landscape.
Moderator & Speaker: Max DeLeon, Associate Attorney, Cheng Cohen
Technology, Pricing, and the Consumer Experience: Navigating New Risks and Expectations
From dynamic pricing to loyalty apps, consumer-facing technologies are transforming franchise systems. This session explores how franchisors and franchisees can work together to harness these tools while navigating privacy, transparency, and regulatory pitfalls — turning potential zee/zor friction into system-wide strength.
Speakers: Curtis Dubay, Chief Economist, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Michael Lindsey, Partner, Steinbrecher & Span LLP
The Next Generation of Ownership: Succession Planning as a Strategy for Franchise System Stability
Franchisee succession planning is no longer just an operational issue, it’s a strategic imperative that affects valuation, brand consistency, and long-term system viability. As more first-generation franchisees look to retire or divest, franchisors face complex challenges balancing contractual rights, transfer approval standards, and system continuity. This advanced session will examine how legal frameworks and policy design can either facilitate or hinder smooth ownership transitions. Panelists will delve into nuanced issues such as the franchisor’s discretion in approving successors, the interplay between transfer provisions and relationship laws, the impact of succession planning on private equity transactions, and strategies for mitigating litigation risk during ownership changes. The discussion will also consider innovative approaches, including structured internal resale programs, succession-readiness assessments, and franchisee development pipelines.
Moderator: Jason Johnson, Director of Legal & Franchise Administration, Great Clips Inc
Speakers: Shannon Iverson, CFE, Vice President of Franchise Growth, El Pollo Loco
Justin Klein, Franchise and Business Attorney, Marks & Klein
Matt Smith, Partner, Wiggin and Dana LLP
BREAKOUT SESSIONS (continued)
The Joint Employer Reckoning: Federal Shifts, State Safeguards, and the Future of Franchise Liability
The joint employer standard remains one of the most consequential—and volatile—issues shaping the future of franchising. With the American Franchisee Act under congressional consideration, the SEIU’s challenge to the 2020 joint employer rule pending before the D.C. Circuit, and the NLRB’s enforcement action against Amazon as an alleged joint employer with its delivery service partners, the stakes for franchisors have never been higher. This advanced session will analyze the emerging federal landscape under both the National Labor Relations Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act, while exploring how state-level joint employer statutes—many crafted to reinforce the franchise model—are influencing the balance of power between franchisors and franchisees. Panelists will discuss:
• The potential implications of the American Franchisee Act and current D.C. Circuit litigation for the definition of “control.”
• How ongoing federal enforcement actions could reshape employment relationships and franchise liability.
• The divergence between federal and state joint employer frameworks and how counsel can navigate compliance amid conflicting obligations.
Attendees will gain forward-looking insights into how the next phase of joint employer regulation could redefine franchise operations, workforce models, and risk management strategies.
Speakers: Ronald K. Gardner, Partner, Dady & Gardner, P.A.
Marvin Kaplan, Principal, Jackson Lewis P.C.
Brian Schnell, Partner, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath
BASICS TRACK
Franchise Litigation
If a franchise relationship is like a marriage, then relationship disputes are also part of the analogy. Litigation arises when the parties are unable to resolve their disagreements by themselves. This session will cover the lifecycle of a franchise action from start to finish. The panel will discuss important procedural considerations, typical claims and defenses, and practical strategies for optimizing your likelihood of success whether in settlement or trial.
The topics will include:
• Pre-filing considerations
• Forum selection and choice of law
• ADR: mediation and arbitration
• Common claims, defenses, and remedies
Speakers: Andrew Bleiman, Managing Attorney, Marks & Klein
Alex Kelly, General Counsel, Kiddie Academy
• Discovery issues
• Motion practice
• Trial themes and strategies
• Settlement considerations
Evan M. Sauda, Shareholder, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell, & Berkowitz, PC
Franchise Relationship Laws
This session provides a practical overview of key federal and state relationship laws that govern terminations, renewals, transfers, encroachment, and the duty of good faith and fair dealing. Designed for newer practitioners and executives seeking a clear understanding of the legal landscape, this program will explore the purpose and policy behind these statutes, highlight key differences among states, and discuss recent judicial interpretations affecting system operations. Speakers will use real-world examples to illustrate how these laws impact business decisions, from enforcing brand standards to handling underperforming units or system changes.
Learning Objectives:
• The core elements and policy goals of state franchise relationship statutes
• How relationship laws interact with the FTC Franchise Rule and common law doctrines
Moderator & Speaker: Kelly Krug, Vice President, Litigation, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
International
• Practical guidance on termination, non-renewal, and transfer compliance
• Trends in litigation and legislation reshaping the franchisor–franchisee dynamic
• Best practices to maintain compliance and strengthen franchise relationships
The International Franchising Basics Track explores the fundamentals of international franchising. We invite you to learn the fundamentals from our panel as they explore the following topics:
• Assessing a franchisor’s readiness for international expansion.
• Selecting the countries for development; Deciding on the deal structure.
Frank Robinson, Partner, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
• Key business terms to address.
• Understanding local law and franchise registration / disclosure obligations and trademarks requirements.
BASICS TRACK (continued)
Mergers & Acquisitions: The Anatomy of a Franchise Deal
This session will cover the steps required to complete an acquisition in the franchise space, including the role of the buyer and seller, the investment banker, and the lawyer running the deal team.
Topics addressed will include:
• The decision process employed when buying or selling a franchise company.
• The process for retaining the investment banker.
• The role of the investment banker in the transaction.
• Negotiating and drafting the letter of intent.
• Determining whether to acquire assets or stock in the transaction.
• Drafting the purchase agreement.
Moderator & Speaker: Rachel O'Connor, Counsel, Lathrop GPM LLP
Registration & Disclosure
• A review of other documents required to complete a transaction.
• Understanding the Quality of Earnings Report.
• Understanding Representation and Warranty Insurance.
• Understanding the due diligence process and preparing the diligence report.
This session introduces the federal and state franchise registration and disclosure laws that franchisors must comply with in offering and selling franchises in the United States.
The following topics will be covered:
• What are the federal and state laws that regulate the offer and sale of franchises?
• What information must be included in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)?
• What are the timing and delivery requirements for the FDD?
Speakers: Carol Terry, General Counsel, Chicken Salad Chick
Adam Wasch, Founding Partner, The Franchise Firm
Trademarks & IP
• Which states require registration of the FDD and what is the registration process?
• What exemptions exist for registration and disclosure under federal and state law?
• What are the requirements for amending and renewing the FDD?
Trademarkss, copyrights, trade secrets and other IP are the keystone of franchising. This session will discuss the various types of intellectual property; the role they play in franchising; the treatment they receive in the FDD and Franchise Agreement; how they are registered and protected, and how they are enforced against trademarks infringers and franchisees who default.
Speakers: Susan Do, VP, Franchise & Technology, Wingstop
Lizzy Westrope, Associate, DLA Piper
BONUS FEATURES
IBA/IFA JOINT CONFERENCE
Each year our task force strives to enhance the Legal Symposium experience to deliver real-world solutions and top-of-the-line value to all who attend. Take a look below at some of the highlights we think you’ll enjoy at our 58th Annual Legal Symposium.
BASICS TRACK
Our Basics Track is designed to provide those who are new to franchising, or those simply in need of a refresher course, with a solid foundation in the principles of franchise law. A different topic will be offered during each breakout session time slot.
Rising Franchise Legal Professional Dinner
This professional development program dinner is for rising legal professionals with up to 5 years’ experience in franchise law. Meet up with colleagues in a similar career stage as yours. Build your network, share best practices, and learn from seasoned legal professionals how to grow in franchise law. (Additional charge; Registration required.)
ETHICS COURSE
We are offering one class on each day that will be eligible for ethics credits: Confidentiality, Loyalty and Conflicts of Interest: Ethical Considerations for Counsel Representing Multiple Franchise Parties. See listing on previous pages for full details.
Do you want to learn more about the current issues facing the international franchise law community? Extend your stay in Washington to participate in the 41st Annual IBA/IFA Joint Conference, May 19-20. Partnering with the International Bar Association’s Franchising Committee each year ensures we offer a comprehensive program focused on the latest international franchise law issues. Interactive sessions include a “News from Around the World” update during which expert international franchise law professionals provide a roundup of developments in franchising from some of the world’s hottest jurisdictions. Don’t miss the annual IBA/IFA Conference Reception and Dinner which many regard as one of the premier networking events offered all year. By attending the IBA/IFA Joint Conference you will also earn additional CLE and CFE credits. There is a separate fee to participate in this program. For more information and to register please visit https://www.franchise.org/iba-ifa-joint-conference/.
SOCIAL & NETWORKING EVENTS
In addition to premier educational content, one of the most important benefits of participating in the IFA Annual Legal Symposium is the opportunity to build relationships with franchise attorneys and business executives. Several networking events are offered during the program. Take advantage of your time away from the office by joining your colleagues at the following social events where the only thing on the agenda is building your portfolio of contacts in the franchise industry.
• Welcome Reception – Sunday evening
• Annual Networking Reception – Monday evening
• Networking Luncheon – Tuesday afternoon
• Refreshment Breaks
REGISTRATION
SYMPOSIUM PRE-REGISTRATION
Pre-registration for the Legal Symposium closes May 15, 2026. After this date, please register at our On-site Registration Desk during official Registration hours. Onsite registrations will be subject to an additional $100 fee. Advanced registration for individual concurrent sessions is not required. Rooms will be set to maximum capacity, and seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
WHAT DOES YOUR REGISTRATION FEE INCLUDE?
• Entry into all educational sessions
• Extensive course materials
• Welcome Reception Sunday, May 17
• Networking Reception Monday, May 18
• Continental Breakfast Monday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 19
• Refreshment Breaks Monday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 19;
• Lunch Monday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 19
• Symposium opt-in registration lists that will be distributed to all attendees and sponsors, and include their names, companies, titles, phone numbers and email addresses*
*If you do not want your contact information included on the registration lists, please select opt-out on your on-line registration form.
CLE CREDITS
Your attendance at IFA’s Legal Symposium qualifies you for Continuing Legal Education Credits (CLEs) in many states. Details on how to earn credits will be available on-site at the Registration Desk.
CFE CREDITS
Based on the sessions you attend, you can earn up to 10.90 CFE LIVE Learning Credits toward the completion of your 2026 IFA Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) accreditation.
HOTEL INFORMATION
Grand Hyatt Washington
Address: 1000 H Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001
Phone: +1 202 582 1234
To reserve your hotel room visit: https://www.hyatt.com/events/en-US/ group-booking/WASGH/G-EIF6
Our room rate: $379 per night*
*Single or double
Deadline: April 24, 2026*
*Or when the IFA room block is filled, whichever is first. Once the room block is sold out, reservations will be accepted based on availability.
