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By Mary Poston, Polaris Consulting, LLC Congress has taken steps to reduce the likelihood of a federal government shutdown this fall. The House and Senate have each passed continuing resolutions (CRs) that would keep the federal government funded through December, moving the immediate funding deadline beyond the November midterm elections. However, the two chambers approved different versions, meaning lawmakers must still resolve their differences before a...

By Kelly Rodenberg The strength of the Association of Kentucky Fried Chicken Franchisees has always come from its members. AKFCF was built to unite KFC franchisees, protect and advance their interests, and provide a place where franchisees can stay informed, collaborate, and help move the system forward. Today, that mission is as important as ever.As business conditions change, brand priorities evolve, and new opportunities emerge, staying...

By Kelly Rodenberg As we turn the page on another quarter, I’m reminded of the resilience, innovation, and camaraderie that define our AKFCF family. In a world that continues to evolve at breakneck speed, our strength lies not just in our ability to adapt — but in our commitment to lead.This past quarter has been a testament to that spirit. From embracing tough discussions to refining...

By Kevin Schlutz For many years, franchise leaders have been searching for a way to replicate the information and best practices sharing that happened at local co-op meetings back in the day. Those were also the days when you had several fellow franchisees within an hour’s drive. Now with consolidation and national ads, those days are gone and we’ve been left with only in-person meetings 2-3...

By Nolan Wallace, Polaris Consulting, LLC Last month, the House Appropriations Committee reported all 12 Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations bills out of committee, starting the next phase of budget negotiations as Congress moves closer to the September 30 government funding deadline. The budget negotiations are relevant for small business owners due to the potential effects on agency funding, regulatory enforcement, workforce programs, nutrition programs, transportation, and...

By Nolan Wallace, Polaris Consulting, LLC After Congress moved forward on its latest reconciliation package earlier this month, business groups are already looking ahead to the possibility of a “reconciliation 3.0” bill focused on affordability, tax policy, and small-business relief. For small business owners, reconciliation may prove to be one of the few realistic paths for moving tax and spending changes through a divided Congress. If passed,...

By Kelly Rodenberg Strong leadership does not happen by accident. Within the AKFCF, developing leaders is a deliberate investment in the future of the Association and in the franchisees it serves. As the AKFCF continues its longstanding mission to support franchisees, encourage collaboration, and strengthen the system, leadership development remains one of the most important ways it prepares members to serve with confidence and purpose.One of...

By Kelly Rodenberg The AKFCF 2026 Convention was one for the books! With 1,217 attendees gathering at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, the week was packed with inspiration, connection, and plenty of memorable moments. Attendees clearly felt the impact — 91% rated their overall experience as Excellent or Good, and 89% left feeling more informed, energized, and ready for what’s next. Leadership, Learning & Standout Speakers Hearing...

By Amber Peoples The hope for a second reconciliation bill in the 119th Congress is not entirely lost. Some Republican members are willing to fight for it before midterm elections. On July 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill, the first major tax package of Trump’s second term. This landmark legislation made permanent certain tax provisions from 2017’s Tax Cuts...

By Kevin Schlutz The Greater Midwest turned out for the AKFCF Convention in DC last week. Fortunately, milder weather greeted us this time in our nation’s Capital. As we held our regional breakout meeting, it was time to elect new officers for the next two years starting in April. Here is the slate which was elected: • Chris King – President • Heather Bowling – Vice President • Vijay...