Trade associations saw a resurgence of perceived effectiveness in 2024 – rebounding after two years of decline – and International Franchise Association (IFA) was among the standout performers. She won recognition for her efforts in member mobilization, bipartisanship and coalition building, according to a survey by APCO Insight.

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The findings are part of APCO's 10th Annual Trademark Studywhich surveyed more than 330 congressional staffers, Biden administration officials and business leaders during June, July and August. The survey measured the effectiveness of trade associations across 15 critical criteria, including lobbying efforts, reputation management and coalition building skills.

IFA was named the best association in three of 15 key categories: membership mobilization, bipartisanship and coalition building, beating out heavyweights like the National Retail Federation and the American Bankers Association.

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IFA's recognition of its member mobilization and coalition building efforts reflects its active role in protecting the interests of franchisors, franchisors and suppliers. This year, its efforts to prevent reviewed Common employer rule and other advocacy projects significantly raised the organization's profile. This recognition highlights the association's ability to come together different voices within the franchise industry, particularly in a challenging legislative environment.

The 2024 ranking marked a shift from the previous dominance of producer associations, which benefited in 2023 from federal infrastructure InveStment. As the focus shifted to financial services and retail, associations such as the IFA adapted by emphasizing coalition building and cross-party cooperation to advance the interests of their members.

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The Trademarks 2024 study points to a year of strategic engagement and advocacy across key sectors. IFA's membership mobilization and coalition-building achievements illustrate the critical role trade associations play in shaping policy and representing their industries' interests, even amid complex legislative debates.

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