A Message FROM THE CHAIRMAN
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2016 Issue 4 | THE SCORE
This year ’ s event made its return to Las Vegas , and if you weren ’ t able to join us for this awesome event , you certainly missed out . With a theme of “ Blazin ’ Forward ,” the meeting offered sessions focused on today ’ s hot topics , as well as lively entertainment for all .
We enjoyed fantastic keynote speakers like Buffalo Wild Wings ® Chairman of the Board James Damian , who made us think about innovation and how the brand ’ s future looks ; BWW Vice President of Franchise Operations Dale Gallion , who guided us through a franchise operations update ; and Golden State Warriors GM Bob Myers , who hit the mark with his presentation was quite the year ! It saw the improbable become possible – Donald Trump was elected the 45th U . S . president , and the Chicago Cubs won the World Series ! FBS also capped the year off with a winning combination of engaging speakers and networking fun at the 2016 FBS Business Summit .
on taking a collaborative approach to decision-making .
The Summit also delved into emerging trends within the alcohol and restaurant industries . Sazerac President Mark Brown provided insight into where alcohol may be headed , and Wall Street analyst John Zolidis provided predictions for the casual-dining segment going forward .
We also had time to have some fun while building relationships at both our exhibitor trade show and during our annual Casino Night and Texas Hold ‘ em Tournament . As always , we concluded with a lively auction , graciously led by our very own auctioneer , Mike Jones .
This year , we also provided tangible benefits to our managers in the form of a course from Rapport Leadership on keeping a service culture alive . FBS wants to continue to offer valuable content for managers at this event in the coming years , and I encourage you to submit ideas for courses or training that you would find enticing as reason to register them .
Designed specifically to address issues important to you , as franchisees , I wholeheartedly believe the Summit is worth the relatively minor expense and time away from your business to attend . I hope to see everyone next year , Oct . 11-13 , when we are back in the Big Easy at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside .
As we move into the New Year , we will face an evolving regulatory environment . Misty Chally from FBS and Tim Ehlert from Buffalo Wild Wings addressed the election ’ s potential effects in Las Vegas , while attorneys from respected labor and law firms discussed the impact of the sea of regulations facing franchisees , but it ’ s on us to stay informed on how our businesses will be affected .
As an association , FBS will keep you updated throughout the year with emails , webinars and The SCORE on changes to business regulations and how to prepare . I encourage you all to take advantage of those opportunities . It ’ s all about engaging for success .
2017 brings a fresh start and a new season . Ringing in the New Year means college bowl games and the Super Bowl , which bring big business . I hope 2017 brings happiness to you and your family , as well as success to your business .
Wray Hutchinson