Welcome
Twenty-nine years ago, a small, visionary group of professionals convened in Chicago to exchange ideas and information, and to get better acquainted with franchise law. This group's efforts pioneered the frontiers of franchising, and have allowed us to gather once again for the 30th Annual Forum, the preeminent event in the field of franchise law. And, what better place to launch the Forum’s next thirty years than in enchanting Phoenix at the spectacular JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort surrounded by the beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the McDowell Mountains, each day brings a new celebration of franchising, friends and festivities. Whether this will be your first time attending or your thirtieth, you will find that the varied offerings of educational programs, networking events and social outings combine to make the Thirtieth Forum a destination must this year.

The Forum kicks off with our highly-regarded and popular intensive seminars. This year, we've put together an all-star “how to” workshop to address the implementation of the new FTC revisions, including panelists from the FTC, the states and in-house counsel. They will share practical advice that you can put to immediate use.

Also, for those new to the field (or looking for a refresher), the Fundamentals of Franchising® session is a must-attend. Learn the nuts and bolts of franchise law before heading into the Forum’s Main Program.

After Wednesday’s intensives, we start with the Forum's high impact plenary sessions covering both the innovative and traditional. Highlights include:
  •  The nationally recognized and dynamic communications expert Brian Johnson who will teach you the techniques to enhance your speaking skills in all settings.
  •  The 2007 Annual Developments session will take you through the most intriguing and important legal developments of the past year.

We’re still at the edge of the Annual Forum’s frontier. This year’s workshops will provide something for everyone. Whether your practice is primarily transactional or litigation, franchisor or franchisee, you will find an array of educational programs designed to appeal to all levels of experience and expertise. This year we are also proud to feature the largest number of programs featuring FTC and state representatives. Among this year’s topics are:

  • the proposed new Business Opportunities Law
  • the use of brokers in franchise transactions
  • the new federal E-Discovery Rules
  • the impact of the Ninth Circuit's Nagrampa decision
  • new twists and tactics for franchisee representation
  • litigation strategy and a heated debate on whether franchise agreements have become too complex
  • structuring international master franchise relationships and avoiding nasty international legal traps
  • a Forum first, we’re pleased to partner with the Petroleum Marketing Committee for a workshop on the Fundamentals of Petroleum Marketing Law


There is no such thing as all work and no play at the Annual Forum! Starting Wednesday, join us at the Welcome Reception to mingle with old and new friends while overlooking and enjoying the hotel’s desert botanical garden and a spectacular sunset. For those attending the Forum for the first or second time and our Young Leadership Division members, the always popular Newcomers’ Event is your chance to make friends among those new to the Forum. Don’t go it alone – meet others just like you.

After a tantalizing day of exceptional programs on Thursday, start unwinding at LADR’s annual reception before you head off to the much anticipated hoedown. The Annual Dinner on Thursday is a celebration, cowboy style, at the Desert Foothills Ranch. You won’t want to miss the fun as we star gaze in the open dessert, dine and line dance the night away.

We’re not forgetting our spouses, families and guests - we’ll whisk them off on an excursion to Pueblo Grande Museum, site of the ancient Hohokam Village, for a fascinating look at Southwestern tribal life, followed by a relaxing lunch at one of Scottsdale’s finest restaurants.

On Friday, our guests will have another opportunity to mingle with a culinary excursion to one of the area's renowned cooking schools. As our workshops come to a close, join us for the International Division’s afternoon reception. Afterwards, come for an elegant, yet casual evening at the Silverleaf Country Club. Feast your eyes on its magnificent architecture and beautiful surroundings while we recap yet another successful Annual Forum with our old and new friends.

There’s no need to rush home as we have two unique events planned for Saturday. The Annual Community Service Event will benefit the Free Arts of Arizona which provides art programming to area children in need. Not only will you be supporting a worthy cause, but you will have fun doing it.

As the saying goes, “If you haven’t seen Sedona, you haven’t seen Arizona.” Join us for a very special trip to the most beautiful and inspiring corner of Arizona. Our Sedona excursion will take you to one of the great wonders of nature—the red rock canyons. There you will enjoy a day of scenic hiking, thrilling jeep rides or just strolling through the town’s treasured art galleries. A trip not to miss!

Our 30th Annual Forum celebrates what the Forum does best—educates, entertains, enlightens and enriches. Join us in celebrating the Forum’s milestone achievement. And here’s to the Forum on Franchising—thirty years and thriving!

Sincerely,

HARRIS J. CHERNOW
Chernow Katz, LLC

and

LESLIE SMITH-PORTER
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC

Annual Forum Co-Chairs