How to Get the Most Out of a Franchise Exhibition
Frank Milner
January 23, 2026
How to Get the Most Out of a Franchise Exhibition: Insights from Frank Milner, President of Tutor Doctor
Franchise exhibitions offer aspiring business owners a prime opportunity to explore various franchise options, meet industry professionals, and gain insight into what is available in the market. With so many brands, booths, and conversations, these events can feel overwhelming. To ensure you get the most out of these exhibitions, preparation is key. Frank Milner, the president of Tutor Doctor, shares essential dos and don’ts for prospective franchisees to navigate the event with confidence and make informed decisions about their future business.
Preparation is Key: Do Your Homework
The first step to making the most of a franchise exhibition is preparation. Arriving with a clear plan and knowing what you want to achieve will save you time and help you make meaningful connections. Here's what you should focus on:
Research the Exhibiting Brands: Understand what each franchise offers and identify the ones that interest you. This way, you can prioritize your time and visit the most relevant booths.
Prepare Key Questions: It's essential to ask about the franchise's business model, the support they offer, and the financial commitments involved. These questions will help you assess if the opportunity aligns with your goals.
Set Clear Objectives: Are you attending to explore opportunities, or are you ready to take the next step toward franchise ownership? Knowing your goals will keep you focused and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.
Engaging Effectively with Exhibitors
Once you’re at the exhibition, making effective connections with franchisors is just as important as your preparation. To do so, approach exhibitors with confidence and professionalism. Remember, franchisors are looking for serious candidates, so you want to demonstrate your genuine interest.
Be Prepared for In-Depth Conversations: Instead of asking general questions, delve into specifics like market trends, the challenges of the franchise model, and available support systems. Doing your research beforehand will make these discussions more meaningful.
Take Notes and Collect Materials: Franchise exhibitions can be a whirlwind, so it’s important to keep track of key information. Take notes, collect brochures, and reflect on your conversations after the event to help you make informed decisions.
Don’t Fall into Common Pitfalls
While exhibitions are exciting, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Frank advises being mindful of common mistakes that can lead to poor decisions:
Don't Focus Only on Big, Well-Known Brands: While large franchises can be tempting, smaller or emerging franchises may be a better fit for your skills and business goals. Be sure to explore all options.
Avoid Making Rushed Decisions: Franchising is a significant commitment, so take your time to evaluate each opportunity thoroughly. Don’t rush into anything without considering the details and seeking professional advice if needed.
Beware of Sales Tactics: Some exhibitors may try to create urgency with flashy deals. Remember, a good franchise should align with your long-term ambitions, not just look like a great deal in the moment.
After the Event: Take the Time to Review and Follow Up
Once the exhibition is over, your work isn’t done. Frank suggests reviewing your notes, reaching out to franchisors for follow-up conversations, and requesting additional information. This will help you clarify any doubts and fully understand the details of their offerings.
Speak with Existing Franchisees: One of the best ways to get a true picture of a franchise’s operations is by speaking with current franchisees. Their firsthand experiences will give you valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of running the business.
Evaluate and Narrow Your Choices: After reflecting on the information you gathered, revisit the brands that stood out. Use your research and follow-up conversations to make a well-informed decision.
Conclusion: Find the Right Fit
Franchise exhibitions are a fantastic opportunity to explore various options, but they require careful preparation and strategic engagement. By doing your homework, asking the right questions, and staying objective, you’ll be in a better position to make the right choice for your future business. The key takeaway is to find a franchise that aligns with your values, skills, and long-term goals—not just the biggest name in the room.
Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and follow up to ensure you’re choosing a franchise that’s the best fit for you.
Next Steps: Learn More About Franchise Ownership
If you’re exploring whether franchise ownership could be the right move for you, the next step is simply to learn more - without pressure or commitment.
Credits
This blog was inspired by the article "How to Get the Most Out of a Franchise Exhibition" by Frank Milner, President of Tutor Doctor, and published in Elite Franchise Magazine. The insights shared are aimed at helping prospective franchisees navigate franchise exhibitions effectively, making informed decisions about their business ventures.