L’Express Franchise US will be attending the 66th Annual International Franchise Association Convention in 2026. As the largest and most influential gathering in franchising, IFA26 brings together franchisors, franchisees, suppliers, and industry leaders from across the country. Our team looks forward to connecting with fellow franchise professionals, sharing insights, and exploring the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of franchising.
IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas, on the 23rd, 24th and 25th of February 2026.
Location : Mandalay Bay Convention Center, 3950 S Las Vegas Boulevard, Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, NV, 89119
The franchising industry will gather in force at the International Franchise Association’s Annual Convention in 2026
The largest and most established event dedicated to franchising worldwide. Each year, the convention brings together thousands of franchisors, franchisees, suppliers, and service providers to discuss industry trends, share practical insights, and build connections that drive long-term growth.
A Focus on Evolution
The 2026 convention will center around the theme “Evolve,” reflecting the ongoing changes shaping franchising today. Organizers say the event has been intentionally redesigned to better serve the needs of modern franchise businesses, with a tighter agenda, updated programming, and new opportunities for meaningful engagement across the industry.
Learning and Innovation
Education remains a cornerstone of the IFA Annual Convention. Attendees will have access to franchise-focused learning that spans business development, leadership, technology, and personal growth. Six dedicated learning paths will offer targeted sessions and hands-on workshops, while innovation theaters and the AI + Technology Lab will showcase tools and solutions aimed at helping brands operate more efficiently and competitively.
Networking Made Easier
Networking is also a major focus of the 2026 event. The convention layout and schedule have been updated to encourage more organic interaction, with smaller meetup hubs, private meeting areas, and a pacing designed to allow for both planned meetings and spontaneous conversations. These changes reflect feedback from past attendees who value relationship-building as one of the convention’s greatest strengths.
A Streamlined Experience
The overall experience has been streamlined into a focused three-day program intended to maximize productivity without overwhelming participants. Attendees will be able to customize their schedules based on their interests, balancing education sessions with time spent meeting peers, exploring the exhibit floor, and participating in social events. New features, including expanded gathering spaces such as the Beer Garden, are designed to support informal networking in a relaxed setting.
Industry Leaders Take Part
The team from L’Express Franchise US will be at IFA26, ready to meet and network with fellow franchise professionals. It’s a great chance to swap ideas, discover new opportunities, and connect with brands and partners shaping the industry’s future.
Looking Ahead
As franchising continues to adapt to new technologies, changing consumer expectations, and evolving business models, the IFA Annual Convention remains a central meeting point for industry professionals. The 2026 event is positioned to offer both practical insight and valuable connections, reinforcing its status as a must-attend gathering for those invested in the future of franchising.
Join L’Express Franchise webinar – What does 2026 hold for franchisors?
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