IFA Economic Outlook report forecasts signs of recovery for franchise industry — even in recession

The American franchise industry expects to add nearly 14,000 establishments and 168,000 new jobs in 2012 — the latest indication that American franchising is healthy and growing, even in a sluggish economy.

The news comes from a recent report from IHS Global Insight for the International Franchise Association that predicts growth across the franchise industry in number of establishments, employment, economic output and contributions to U.S. gross domestic product.

The 2012 Franchise Business Economic Outlook projects that the franchise industry will add nearly 14,000 establishments in 2012, an increase of 1.9 percent; and 168,000 jobs, an increase of 2.1 percent. The report also projects 5 percent growth in economic output, from $745 billion to $782 billion; and a 5 percent increase in growth of ...