"We are forecasting that for the sixth consecutive year, franchise businesses will grow at rates that exceed the economy-wide growth of industries where franchises are concentrated. Franchise businesses are showing tremendous capability to provide new jobs for working families and new businesses for first-time business owners across all sectors in local communities, despite the fact that franchisees are facing many new regulatory threats at all levels of government." - Robert Cresanti, President & CEO, International Franchise Association

A tradition continues this week on Franchise Today as Robert Cresanti, President & CEO of the International Franchise Association provides his perspective on the state of franchising and outlook on the upcoming 56th Annual IFA Convention, this year in San Antonio, Texas. This marks the fifth year in a row the leader of the IFA is a guest on the show LIVE and just ahead of the industry's annual convention. Co-hosts Stan Friedman and Paul Segreto welcome Robert Cresanti in this, his first appearance on Franchise Today, having been appointed to the IFA top spot this past September.

Franchise Today airs LIVE Wednesdays at 11AM CT / 12PM ET with on-demand access on iTunes.