VIDEO: Franchise Executives Share Tips on Building a Successful Team and Discuss Concerns about FranDev

Franchise development operates in a competitive environment, with executives constantly seeking to identify and bring in qualified candidates for their brand. Franchise Update asked several leaders how they build a successful frandev team, and their answers were quite consistent. 

They said hiring people with experience in franchise development is crucial to growing the brand. It is important to have people with that knowledge and background who can interact with candidates, help them understand ownership requirements, and move them through the process. While skills can be taught and developed, team members with relevant experience bring immediate value. 

We also asked executives if they had any concerns about the state of franchise development. Most comments centered around unknown issues such as the state of the economy over the past year or the impact of AI. Construction and real estate costs are higher, which can also slow the development timeline. AI can help create a faster, more efficient franchise development process. However, candidates may not get a complete view of a franchise opportunity that is right for them without traditional forms of personal interaction. 

In the latest “Development Dish” video, you’ll hear from: 

• Sharlene Smith, chief operating officer, Zaxbys
• Mike Cline, chief development officer, Alliance Franchise Brands
• Jon Fischer, head of development, Wetzel’s Pretzels
• Erik Hartung, executive vice president of development, Dog Haus 

The 2026 Franchise Leadership & Development Conference (FLDC) will feature more insights like this from some of the top minds in franchising. The conference will be held October 5-8 at the InterContinental Buckhead in Atlanta and will be one of the most impactful events in franchising this year.

Register now and explore the agenda at franchisedevelopmentconference.com/.