The International Franchise Association was founded in 1960.
The International Franchise Association, commonly called the IFA, was created to represent franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers connected with franchising. It developed as the franchise sector expanded across the United States and businesses sought a unified industry organization.
The IFA is a trade association rather than a franchise brand. Its activities include education, advocacy, industry research, and professional events. This distinction matters because a trade association supports many franchise systems instead of operating restaurants, hotels, shops, or service outlets under one consumer-facing name.
Franchising grew rapidly after the middle of the 20th century, particularly in food service, lodging, automotive services, and business services. The IFA’s founding date therefore falls during a period when franchise networks were becoming a major expansion method for American companies. It remains one of the best-known organizations associated with the franchise industry.