(Denver, Colo.) – After four years in Anaheim, Franchise Expo West relocated to Denver where the community fosters an entrepreneurial spirit and supports new startups while providing budding resources to perspective business owners. Denver’s strong economy and lead-rich environment drew in thousands of serious prospective entrepreneurs ready to take the leap into franchising.
An official ribbon cutting ceremony kicked off the Franchise Expo West on Thursday, October 6, with special remarks delivered by a variety of speakers including Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock. His focus on developing new opportunities for Denver residents has led to rapid job creation and given rise to a thriving business community. CEO of PostNet and Former Chairman of the International Franchise Association, Steve Greenbaum also spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the franchise industry’s continued stellar performance and contribution to the economy.
Nearly 60 percent of Franchise Expo West attendees were interested in purchasing a franchise and of those who already were business owners, approximately 72 percent were also interested in franchise opportunities. The franchise industry’s economic outlook for 2016 forecast a 3.1 percent increase in job creation, the addition of more than 13,000 franchise establishments and economic output estimated to hit $994 billion.
“There are many pros and cons when it comes to debuting in a new city – a renewed spirit and energy for the industry, an extended pool of franchisors and prospective franchisees, but also addressing and connecting with a new audience, navigating community events and so on,” said Tom Portesy, President and CEO of MFV Expositions. “While the number of attendees on the showroom floor was less than targeted, we’re delighted to hear from so many of our exhibitors that the quality of attendees was extremely high. We’re hopeful these leads will convert at a higher rate than what might have been anticipated and we’re excited to watch the franchise industry continue to grow in size and talent.”
Expo-goers had the opportunity to delve into an event designed to energize and further educate their entrepreneurial spirits. This year’s event offered an inside look into the hottest trends in the franchise industry – ranging from restaurants and fitness clubs to auto repairs and pet supply stores – at every investment level ranging from as little at $5,000 to up to $1 million+. Attendees were also able to explore more than 60 free seminars and five in-depth workshops in addition to one-on-one consulting, financial discounts, and notable small business speakers.
