2012 Conference Program—Symposium 1

 THE A TO Z's OF BUYING A FRANCHISE
sponsored by:   
If you're looking for a no-nonsense, cut-to-the-quick, show me how to evaluate franchises so that I can buy one that's right for me . . . this is the symposium you need. And it's the only one you'll need! If you hope to become a successful franchisee, get started with confidence by participating in this symposium.

You will learn the basic information about franchising but glean an in-depth knowledge through the experiences of the presenter. He will help you understand how to interpret and use the Franchise Disclosure Document to discover reliable information about the performance and viability of any franchise, how to evaluate the franchisor's operating system and determine if you and your intended market are compatible with the system, the pros and cons of franchising, the fees required by franchisors, the facts about territorial and product restrictions, how to raise money to invest in a franchise, and much, much more.

All symposium attendees receive admission to the exhibits on all three days.

Date
Saturday, January 21, 2012, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Rates
Advance: $95 includes exhibit hall admission and seminars
On-Site: $145 includes exhibit hall admission and seminars

Who Should Attend
Anyone who's thinking about buying a franchise will find this symposium to be invaluable. Where else will you have the opportunity to spend 3 hours with a seasoned professional who provides honest, accurate, timely information about franchising? Don't worry, this symposium isn't intended to sell you a franchise. It's intended to educate you about the pros and cons of buying a franchise and help you understand why buying a franchise may be right for you. The subject matter is intended for people who want to buy a franchise in the United States, although the seminar also attracts many international candidates as well as prospective franchisors. Attend only if you want to be better educated about buying a franchise!

Here’s What You Receive
In addition to the comprehensive information covered in the symposium, you will receive a binder of all the information presented. You will utilize a self-evaluation tool to test your compatibility with franchising. The profile, valued at $125, will help you determine the type of franchise that makes sense for you to buy. Also, you will receive a handy guide that walks you through the process of evaluating and buying a franchise. You also get an exclusive list of 99 Questions To Ask Before You Buy A Franchise!

This Symposium Will Look At
  1. Introduction To Franchising

  2. • What is franchising?
    • Pros & Cons of franchising
    • Franchising vs. Independent Start Ups
    • Is franchising for you? Self-Evaluation
    • More than 70 different industries in franchising
    • Selecting a franchise that's right for you personally & financially
    • How to research franchise opportunities
    • Franchise financing - where to borrow money

  3. How To Investigate The "Ideal" Franchise System

  4. • What to expect from a franchisor
    • What a franchisor expects from franchisees
    • Evaluating the franchisor's operating system
    • Understanding the fees involved in franchising
    • Key questions to ask both franchisor and franchisees
    • Sources of information that can help you evaluate opportunities
    • Seeking out the right legal and accounting advice

  5. Understanding the FDD and Franchise Agreement

  6. • What is the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
    • How to read the items in the FDD
    • How to use the FDD to your advantage
    • Major topics covered by the FDD
    • Evaluating the franchisor's performance using the FDD
    • Exploring options for negotiating the FDD with a franchisor
    • Understanding the Franchise Agreement


Presented by: Lynne D. Shelton and Jason Power, Shelton & Power, LLC
(www.franchiseright.net)

Lynne D. Shelton, Esq. has assisted businesses with their franchise and business opportunities since 1993. As a past franchisor herself, Lynne understands the needs and growth pains of her clients. After successfully negotiating and concluding the transaction for their 783 Franchisee, franchise system, Lynne and her husband opened a boutique business consulting firm in order to provide advice to those similarly involved in startup and emerging businesses.

While Lynne has represented both Franchisor as well as Prospective Franchisee, her specialty is in the area of providing experienced counsel for Startup and Emerging Franchisor's who wish to establish or grow into a Regional, or National Franchise System. Lynne’s area of expertise transverses many different industries including restaurants, financial systems, construction, interior design, mining, senior care, and service industries including painting, installation, heating and air-conditioning. Lynne is the Senior Attorney in our Austin, TX office

After many years in the legal industry as an assistant and an attorney in the Tampa Bay area, Mr. Power has learned to effectively communicate with clients, negotiate on behalf of his clients, and run and operate a law firm. Jason has represented multiple franchisors, in every facet of their franchise, ranging from startup businesses to established franchisors. Along with franchisor representation, Jason has reviewed FDD's for and worked with franchisees in various industries to help with negotiations, contract drafting, and other contract evaluations.

Along with Jason's previous legal experience, he is taking courses to become a Certified Franchise Executive to better represent his clients in a broader range of franchise services. Jason earned his certification as a Florida County Court Mediator in 2007 and has utilized those skills in his everyday dealings with clients and colleagues. Before starting Shelton & Power, Jason worked as a legal assistant for a Brandon, FL personal injury law firm where he gained experience in client communications, negotiations, and everyday law firm operations.