On Wednesday, January 29th, over 40 franchise owners met at The Senator Inn in Augusta to share best practices, and learn about various resources for Maine franchise owners.
Four impressive and informative speakers headlined the afternoon. Jim Coen, Executive Director of Maine Franchise Owners Association (MFOA) spoke about the importance of organizing franchise owners in Maine and about the Universal Franchisee Bill of Rights, who wrote it, and why it was written. Jeanne Paquette, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Labor, delivered an presentation on how the Maine Department of Labor, is committed to helping employers comply Keith Miller, Subway Franchisee and Chairman of the Coalition of Franchise Associations, provided a valuable speech on why the voices of franchisees are finally starting to be heard. Ending the afternoon, Ed Feibel, Eaton Peabody, Attorneys at Law, conveyed an informative presentation on the mandated Affordable Care Act and other approved benefit programs.
“This is a historic event and a rallying point for Maine-based franchise owners,” noted Coen.
Ed Feibel, Eaton Peabody
Marilyn Geroux, District Director U.S. Small Business Administration, thought the event was very informative for both attendees, SBA and SCORE. “I learned more about what the franchisees are involved in, and both SBA and SCORE were able to let attendees know how we could be of assistance to them,” she stated.
Geroux went on to say “The Affordable Care Act” segment was very very important. Many businesses are struggling with understanding the new healthcare laws and how they will affect their employees. I also sat in on the Maine Department of Labor session. Good content and very interactive.”
The Maine Department of Labor hosted a one hour workshop for “Maine Employers” and presented information about employer compliance and labor laws in Maine.
Later on in the evening, many legislators from across the state arrived at the inn to meet with franchise owners from their area and listen to an exceptional reading of the Franchisee Bill of Rights by none other than William Whipple.
According to Coen, attendance was great for both events, with over 40 franchise owners in attendance, and over 80 people in attendance for the meet and greet. “It was wonderful to have franchise owners attend from all over the state. I know how demanding running their business can be, and to take the time to attend our event is humbling. It was great to see legislators stopping by to learn about our mission as well as meet their constituents.”