What can franchisees do when a franchisor rolls out major “System” changes that significantly impact their businesses? This roundtable will explore practical strategies for responding to — and even shaping — changes arising from mergers or acquisitions, rebranding efforts, technology upgrades, legal developments, or shifts in business models (such as moving from brick-and-mortar to e-commerce). 

We’ll discuss why timing is critical when addressing these changes and how franchisee associations can play a vital role in protecting franchisee interests while supporting the overall health of the franchise system. Participants will share experiences, learn from peers, and leave with actionable ideas to navigate change with confidence and clarity. 

Kristy Miamen is a partner at Dady & Gardner, P.A., who represents franchisees, distributors and dealers in disputes with their franchisors and suppliers. Kristy graduated summa cum laude in 2002 from St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin, and is a 2006 summa cum laude graduate of Hamline University School of Law. Kristy has been with the Firm since 2005 and has contributed extensive research, writing and editing to the 2006 Annual Franchise and Distribution Law Developments, which was authored by Michael D. Joblove and Scott E. Korzenowski. In 2009 Kristy spoke at the 32nd Annual Forum on Franchising in Toronto, Canada on the topic of the "The Accidental Franchise," a workshop that addressed the risks involved when an inadvertent franchise is formed. Kristy is a former associate editor of The Franchise Lawyer. Kristy is admitted to practice in both state and federal courts in Minnesota.