Events / Faegre Drinker Franchise Summit 2026
Past Event · 2026
Faegre Drinker Franchise Summit
Faegre Drinker’s annual Franchise Summit brought franchise professionals together for two days of discussion, networking and practical insight into the business, legal and operational issues shaping franchise systems.
The Art and Science of Successful Franchising
The 2026 Summit focused on durable franchise success, combining high-level strategy with actionable takeaways for leaders across the franchise community. The program included panel discussions, breakout sessions and roundtables built around the issues franchisors are navigating now.
Leadership & Growth
Sessions explored franchise leadership, mindset, culture and strategies for building stronger systems over time.
AI & Emerging Issues
The agenda addressed AI’s growing role in franchising and what franchise leaders need to understand as technology changes.
Economics & Franchisee Relations
Unit-level economics, private equity, development strategy and franchisee relations were among the major business themes.
Why These Conversations Matter
Unit-Level Economics
Growth is sustainable only when franchisees and locations can perform at the unit level.
Franchise Development
Strong development strategy needs visibility from candidate engagement through opening and beyond.
Franchisee Support
Healthy systems give franchisees clear standards, accessible support and a consistent operating model.
Data & AI
Connected business data and AI can help leaders identify issues faster and make better decisions across the network.
Continue the Conversation With FranConnect
FranConnect helps franchise systems connect development, operations, training, performance and analytics so leadership can act on the same issues discussed at the Summit with greater visibility across the business.