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The 2026 Multi-Unit Franchising Conference (MUFC) brought the action back to Las Vegas’ Caesars Forum, March 24–27, drawing more than 2,600 attendees and 350-plus exhibitors and sponsors for four days of networking, learning, and motivation.
Across packed sessions and hallway conversations, franchisees shared what’s working, where they’re investing time and money, and how they’re scaling their businesses. The focus was on building stronger teams, managing costs, and leveraging technology to drive performance.
As always, much of the action unfolded in meetings between operators, brands, and suppliers. Those are the kinds of conversations that can turn into partnerships.
A high-impact keynote lineup and the annual MVP Awards added energy and recognition to the mix, but the core message was clear: Growth favors those willing to step up.
The conference kicked off informally with its usual golf tournament at the Sienna Gold Club. That evening, first-time franchisees had the chance to mingle at a special welcome mixer. This brought together the new attendees and the conference advisory board for conversation, networking, refreshments, and discussions of how to make the most of the conference experience.
New to MUFC this year was a Sponsor & Exhibitor “Kick-Off Party,” an exclusive event for franchisor and supplier sponsors and exhibitors.
The conference formally kicked off the next morning when 2026 Chairman Mitch Cohen addressed the group. He described the conference’s power and shared how it had benefited him over the years.
“There is a quality of conversation in this room,” he said. “We are not just business owners; we are problem-solvers.” He also told the crowd that networking at the conference “is more valuable than any single deal you’ll ever sign.” He touted the benefit of the conference’s exhibit hall and added, “Never a better time to be in franchising; never a better time to be a franchisee.”
The following pages provide further insight into the events, speakers, and content at this year’s MUFC.
Next year’s conference will be at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, April 27–30, 2027. Visit multiunitfranchisingconference.com in the coming months for more information.