GWFA Hosts Joint Winter Meeting in Palm Springs

The Great Western Franchisee Association (GWFA) held its joint winter meeting Jan. 29-31, at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells in Palm Springs, California. The association hosted the Mountain Franchisee Association (MFA), Southwest Franchisee Association (SWFA) and Southern California Burger King Franchisee Association (SCBKFA). The event featured updates and informational sessions from the National Franchisee Association (NFA), Restaurant Services Inc. (RSI), Elevanta, BURGER KING® Corp. (BKC) and key vendors. Throughout the event, there was ample opportunity for franchisees and vendors to network and hear from one another.

Sunday, Jan. 29, opened with a welcome reception and trade show, followed by a Texas Hold ‘Em match later that night. Both franchisees and vendors could participate in the tournament.

The first full day of the session started with a breakfast, followed by opening remarks from GWFA President Ayaz Virji. Christy Williams, Elevanta CEO, then gave an Elevanta insurance update to the franchisees. Afterward, BKC gave an update surrounding the Fuel the Flame and Royal Reset agreements and other pertinent information.

After lunch, RSI provided supply chain updates, and franchisees then heard presentations from Restaurant Technologies, Keurig Dr Pepper, Skechers, rapid! and the Coca-Cola Co. Russ Lo Bello provided a technology update in between sessions. The night ended with the Shots in the Dark cocktail and dinner party.

The last day of the meeting began with a presentation from NFA Chair Dan Fitzpatrick. After a BKC Image Committee update, there was a question-and-answer session with the GWFA Board. Virji concluded the meeting with closing remarks.

A big thank you to our sponsors! Please stay tuned for updates regarding your next regional meeting. n