Thursday, April 29^th, 2004 – 2:30pm – 5:30pm

Moderated by: Lewis G. Rudnick

Whether franchisors are in a start-up mode or are gearing up for expansion beyond their original markets there is much to learn about successful franchising, including a variety of business and legal issues relating to the development and implementation of a franchise expansion program; developing an effective and fair franchise relationship structure; legal compliance; furnishing products and services that benefit franchisees; and establishing durable franchise relationships. This symposium will explore a wide range of subjects bearing on the successful expansion of a franchise network.

Friday, April 30^th, 2004 – 8:30am – 9:30am

Presented by: Lee J. Plave

An important focus of franchising companies in recent years has been the ways in which they can harness developments in electronic and telecommunications technologies and the internet to enhance their businesses and franchise relationships. This seminar will explore the new technologies; the approaches franchise companies have taken to systemwide use of the web and to business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce; the domain name and cybersquatter issues to consider when implementing a systemwide strategy for use of the web; and the uses of intranets and extranets to enhance communication within franchise networks and with suppliers

Friday, April 30^th, 2004 - 10:30am – 11:30am

Presented by: H. Bret Lowell & Mark Kirsch

Many franchisors assist their franchisees in obtaining financing. Learn about the different approaches to franchisee financing, including franchisor-sponsored and non-sponsored financing. This session will cover many aspects of franchise financing programs, including identifying successful industry models and examining the pitfalls of less successful programs. The session will also explore the use of tri-party agreements, the types of direct financing available to multi-unit and other franchisees, how to choose between lenders and lender products, the steps needed to obtain a loan, and the types of loans available for different purposes (i.e. new franchises vs. remodels). Finally, we will discuss opportunities for franchisors to assist their franchisees in understanding various credit programs and successfully navigating the debt markets.

Friday, April 30^th, 2004 - 1:00pm – 2:00 pm

Presented by: Regina Amolsch & Michael Laidhold

Federal and State franchise laws are complicated and carry heavy penalties. Learn how to comply with these laws in the selling process, whether you sell by phone, at your office, at trade shows or over the Internet. The program will cover topics such as sales staff training, recordkeeping, sales material review, earnings claims, Internet selling, transfer and renewal issues and dealing with compliance problems.

Friday, April 30^th, 2004 - 2:15pm – 3:15pm

Presented by: Mark Kirsch

Co-branding and multi-branding – which entail two or more distinct, branded businesses operating under one roof – are popular and valuable methods for franchise system expansion into new markets and/or new distribution channels. This seminar will explore business, legal, and practical issues and strategies for establishing co-branding alliances, including identifying and evaluating a potential strategic partner; structuring the branding relationship; analyzing the legal and operational issues that confront the branding partners; developing a pilot program; and identifying the franchise law issues unique to co-branding.

Thursday, April 29^th, 2004 – 2:30pm – 5:30pm

Moderated by: Philip F. Zeidman

In large measure, the focus on franchising has shifted from the domestic scene to cross-border activities: Franchisors in virtually every country are now devoting an increasing portion of their resources and energies to expanding beyond their base to growing markets abroad. Franchise experts will look at issues ranging from the cultural challenges of international expansion to the practical aspects of doing business across borders. The topics will address the most common business and legal problems affecting international franchising. Franchisors and professionals experienced in international franchising will take part in the panels. A question and answer period will follow each topic.

Friday, April 30^th, 2004 – 10:30am – 11:30am

Moderated by: Michael G. Brennan

What’s the hottest overseas market? In this seminar we will be providing you with critical information about the most important global markets, including Asia, Europe, Latin American and elsewhere. We will cover what’s working and what’s not, how to avoid pitfalls and how to expand your brand in the most effective way possible. A panel of experts with direct, on-the-ground experience in each of the markets will be on hand to answer your questions and provide you with answers.

Click here for more information on the 2004 International Franchising Expo