Business and Finance
2nd Annual Franchise Game Symposium in Plano, Texas Breaks New Ground
Franchise gameThe first and only African American Franchise Symposium and Trade Show in the U.S., held its second annual event on August 16, 2024 in Plano, Texas. The event, which was spearheaded by The Franchise Player, Tarji Carter, marketing expert Dessie Brown Jr., and brand consultant Daylon Goff, was held on the Yum! Restaurants International Corporate Campus. The symposium brought together industry experts and leaders to debate the secrets to success, challenges, and opportunities in franchising.
(Photo credit: Donnie R. Word II)
This yr’s theme, “Own Your Future: Franchising as a Path to True Independence,” was the focus throughout the day. There were many notable highlights, but in keeping with Tarja Carter, “One of the most memorable moments at The Franchise Game 2024 was an incredible fireside chat with our esteemed guest, Roland Parrish, and the incredible Lady Jade. Roland’s story of how he used his success to revitalize a struggling community in Dallas through his foundation is truly inspiring. And his sponsorship of Charlie Pride’s internship with the Texas Rangers Baseball Club shows just how deep his commitment runs. But what really stole the show were the priceless gems he dropped, encouraging everyone to lead with integrity, not greed. His words hit home in a powerful way and left the audience feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to make a difference.”
James Fripp, Chief Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Officer at Yum! Brands made a big impact at this yr’s Franchise Game by offering two scholarships to the Yum! Franchising Bootcamp through the Executive Education Program on the University of Louisville! This opportunity is an actual game-changer for 2 lucky participants who will now have the prospect to delve into the world of franchising and gain invaluable knowledge to advance in their entrepreneurial journey. What a unbelievable gesture of support and empowerment from James and Yum! Brands!
This yr, there have been twice as many exhibitors, including Ben & Jerry’s, American Franchise Academy, Nebo Law Firm, Dine Brands (IHOP, Applebee’s and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop), GoTo Foods (Cinnabon, Carvel, Schlotzsky’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Jamba Juice, McAlister’s Deli and Auntie Anne’s), Smoothie King, Potbelly Sandwiches, KFC, European Wax Center, Inspire Brands (Dunkin’, Baskin Robbins, Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy Johns and Sonic Drive-In), EATS Broker (restaurant brokerage), ATenantCo (business real estate), Orchatect (IT infrastructure solutions) and Chick N Max.
I had the pleasure of participating in the symposium and trade fair, representing Ben & Jerry’s and reporting on the event BLACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP readers. In my role as a franchise development consultant for the brand, I shared with The Franchise Game participants details about Ben & Jerry’s industry-leading racial equity incentive program, which offers a big reduction in franchise fees and waives licensing fees for BIPOC candidates interested in ownership. “It’s definitely one of the most, if not the most aggressive incentive programs in the game,” Carter said. “We were also very grateful to partner with Ben & Jerry’s, who generously donated ten tickets for students at the University of North Texas at Frisco to participate in The Franchise Game and experience the world of franchising firsthand. It’s all about creating opportunity and access, and we’re so grateful for Ben & Jerry’s commitment to making a real difference!”
After the massive success of The Franchise Game 2024, planning is already underway for 2025. Carter said, “2024 was an absolute blast! We’ve doubled in size, with a bigger, better, and bolder program that sets the stage for something truly special. Our partnership with Yum! Brands has been phenomenal, and I’m excited to announce that we’re returning to their Plano Corporate Campus for The Franchise Game 2025 — and trust me, it’s going to be EPIC! We’re already gearing up for next year, ready to welcome more Texas entrepreneurs and give them the tools, connections, and inspiration they need to succeed as franchise owners. I can’t wait to see everyone there!”
To learn more about The Franchise Player and events, go to pl.franchiseplayer.com.
Business and Finance
The US dollar fell as voters headed to the polls
The US dollar dropped in value on November 5 as crowds of American voters went to the polls to forged their ballots.
The dollar even fell in betting markets like PredictIt and Polymarket indicated The probabilities of Trump winning the presidential election are increasing, Reuters reports. With Donald Trump returning to the White House with a Republican-led House and Senate, extreme currency movements ought to be expected.
Trump’s immigration and tariff policies are expected to fuel inflation, while tax cuts for the wealthy and deregulation could spur growth by pushing up longer-dated Treasury yields and pushing up the value of the dollar.
By contrast, a Democratic victory was expected to weaken the dollar as bets on Trump were withdrawn, and investors were concerned about the economic impact of upper taxes on the wealthy and stricter business regulations.
“We may be seeing some leveling off… my impression is that people are being cautious,” said Steve Englander, head of worldwide G10 FX research and macroeconomic strategy for North America at Standard Chartered Bank’s New York branch.
“Right now, the mood seems to be in favor of Trump,” Englander said. “On the other hand, for most of October and early November, Trump’s trading was characterized by a stronger dollar and higher yields.”
Globally, a Trump victory may lead to a weakening of the euro, Mexican peso and Chinese yuan, as these regions could face recent tariffs under his administration. Bitcoin rose 2.76% to $68,928, with Trump’s views seen as more favorable towards cryptocurrencies. Traders are closely watching the Federal Reserve’s two-day meeting that ends on Thursday, expecting the U.S. central bank to cut rates of interest by 25 basis points.
Elsewhere on Tuesday, the U.S. services sector rose to its highest level in greater than two years in October, with employment rebounding strongly. This suggests that the near halt in job growth last month was an aberration.
Business and Finance
First Black-owned gift wrapping brand sold at Lowe’s, Hallmark
Ardean Miller, pioneering entrepreneur Mah Melaninis breaking barriers because the founding father of the primary Black-owned gift wrapping brand, partnering with Hallmark and Lowe’s across the country. With a concentrate on cultural representation, she founded Mah Melanin to fill a niche available in the market for products that commemorate the wonder and variety of black culture.
“When I started Mah Melanin, I wanted to create something more than just beautiful gift packaging. I wanted to start a movement — a place where our stories are told, our beauty is celebrated, and our community is uplifted,” she says. “Partnering with these iconic retailers is a testament to the growing demand for products that reflect our experiences and heritage.”
Breaking down barriers and empowering communities
The partnership with Hallmark and Lowe’s represents a big step toward greater diversity and inclusion within the retail space, reflecting a broader cultural shift. This groundbreaking achievement highlights the growing recognition of the importance of culturally authentic products that encourage and empower.
Under her leadership, Mah Melanin has developed from a small start-up right into a nationally recognized brand. The company has gained endorsements from industry icons comparable to Teddy Riley, Master P and Denise Boutte, and has been noticed by major organizations including an NBA feature and a finalist on QVC’s “The Big Find.” These awards confirm the brand’s commitment to quality, creativity and resilience.
Inspiring the subsequent generation of Black entrepreneurs
He is devoted to not only the success of his brand, but in addition supporting the expansion of other Black entrepreneurs by offering mentorship, sharing resources and creating opportunities for collaboration. Through his efforts, he wants to construct a legacy that can encourage future generations to interrupt barriers and achieve greatness,” he adds.
Mah Melanin’s journey reflects a commitment to celebrating Black culture and amplifying Black and Brown voices through its products, making a profound impact available in the market and beyond.
Discover their products at MahMelanin.com and remember to follow the brand Facebook AND Instagram
Originally
Business and Finance
Jayson Tatum wants to invest in a potential WNBA team in St. Louis
The WNBA plans to add an expansion team to its current roster, and NBA champion Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics plans to grow to be an investor in bringing the team to his hometown of St. Louis.
According to , Tatum is connecting two billionaires who want to bring the league’s sixteenth team to Missouri City. The ownership group is headed by billionaires Richard Chaifetz and David Hoffman. Chaifetz’s previous investments include the Alpine F1 team, Major League Pickleball and the Drone Racing League. Hoffman is a developer and owner of the Florida Everblades, a minor league affiliate of the St. Louis Blues.
But despite interest in having a WNBA team in her city, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert says at the least 10 other teams will pose stiff competition.
“The good news is that we have a lot of demand from many cities,” Engelbert said before the WNBA Finals. “I might say about 10 or possibly even plus at this point because I believe the more people watch the WNBA and see what we’re developing here and see these players and the product on the court, the more persons are interested in having it in their cities “.
Tatum has informally agreed to invest in a potential WNBA team. He wants to present the group’s offer to other potential investors and the league itself behind the scenes.
The presentation shown to other potential investors outlines town’s basketball history, dating back to the times of the St. Louis Hawks, which won the NBA championship in 1958. The team can have a home at Chaifetz Arena, where the University of St. Louis is home. The 10,600-seat arena was named in honor of Chaifetz, who donated $12 million to his alma mater in 2007 just over 15 years ago in 2007.
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