April 16, 2019
Max Muscle Franchisees Re: MaxIFOA
Dear Franchisees,
I want to take the opportunity to share my thoughts on the newly formed Max Independent Franchise Owners Association and the potential benefits an association can have for us as franchisees and business owners. First and foremost, an independent association can represent much more than the apparent reason that MaxIFOA was formed. We all know that the drive behind the formation of MaxIFOA was fueled by the struggles our system has experienced since the sale of MM Corporate and the frustration in lack of support and direction from the new corporate ownership. I personally think, regardless of the reasons that sparked the formation, an independent association for business owners in a specific industry and/or organization is vital in today’s business market to increase and maintain success.
With that being said, let me start with a little background on me and my
businesses. I’ve been a Max Muscle franchisee for 6+ years so while I’m not a
seasoned veteran in our system, I am by no means a new franchisee wondering
what direction is next. Fortunately, we are doing well and continuing to grow
and post a good profit each year. I say that to emphasize that those of us that
joined the MaxIFOA are not just those that feel that they are losing their
business and investment, although sadly, that is happening to some. I simply
understand and believe in the power and benefits of an association, especially
within a system that can and must do better. I also own and operate a high
volume liquor & wine store that I’ve owned for 14 years that has posted
record numbers over the last 3 years. With that being said, that business was
one of the opportunities that showed me the importance of an association. The
liquor/wine industry is state controlled in Mississippi so we must deal with
the state government on a regular basis. If you think a franchisor such as the
new ownership of Max Muscle is frustrating to deal with, imagine having to deal
with the government regularly for your business.
To put it bluntly, the success and impact of an association such as MaxIFOA hinges on 3 main components:
- The primary consultant, lobbyist, and/or advocate – In this case, Keith Miller is our Executive Director and will serve as a consultant for MaxIFOA. Keith’s experience as a long time Subway franchisee and consultant for Franchisee Advocacy makes him the perfect fit for this role.
- Board of Directors, including the Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary – Mark Sarale has stepped up to the role of Chairman and, I believe, with his business experience, and experience within the Max Muscle system, he will do a stellar job representing MaxIFOA. The board of directors are key for a strong association, and just like any management organizational chart, this can change as needed. It’s our association and every member will have a voice.
- Membership – membership base is extremely critical, simply for the fact that there is strength in numbers. We not only have an opportunity to communicate our needs to corporate with a strong voice, but we will have many other opportunities in which to benefit such as bigger and better discounts through vendors, business services, advertising agencies, etc. If structured properly and leadership governs appropriately, these benefits will far outweigh the cost of association dues (which by the way in tax deductible).
Allow me to close by saying that I do not personally know Keith Miller. I do, however, like to think that I am very good at business ownership, operation, and decision making. I also know that if this association does not mitigate the changes, demonstrate the improvement, and contribute to the benefits that I know a strong association is capable of, then you and I can make a business decision to either make changes or go another direction. I am urging those of you that have not joined MaxIFOA to make the business decision to join and be a part of something that can have real, positive impact within our franchise system, as well as your business.
If you have any reservations or would like more information on how an association can impact our system, please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss.
Sincerely,
Jason Sims
Max Muscle Nutrition Columbus, MS
(662) 327-6296 store
(662) 744-4502 cell