- 15 September, 2006 -

The September 2006 issue of Black Enterprise magazine announced "B.E.'s 30 Hottest Franchises for 2006. Among the five named in the "Business Services" sector was RE/MAX International. The accompanying article by Pamela Gold Waldo, states, "?Each year, Black Enterprise identifies the best franchising opportunities for African Americans. This year, to spotlight the stars, BE has not only identified the hottest sectors poised to flourish in years to come, but also sought out franchisors with active minority recruitment programs. We've showcased franchises within high-growth categories with either low or moderate startup costs or a high number of black-owned units due to effective diversity programs." Other sectors rated included Children's Services, Consumer Services, Food & Dining, Health & Beauty and Home Services. The article continues to say, "Diversity is a widespread business trend, and franchisors are recognizing the benefits. To remain competitive in the marketplace, franchised companies are making a concerted effort to expand their businesses to minority communities." "We have always been proud of the diversity of our franchised owners as well as our sales associate membership who serve consumers in communities all over the world," said Margaret Kelly, RE/MAX chief executive officer. "I'm sure I speak for each of them in saying we are deeply honored by this recognition." RE/MAX is one of 114 franchise companies participating in the MinorityFran program of the International Franchise Association (IFA), an initiative designed to build on relationships forged with leading organizations through the IFA Diversity Institute, such as the National Urban League, Association of Small Business Development Centers, U.S Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce, and the Minority Business Development Agency. The goal of the program is to increase the numbers of minority franchisees, and to send the message to all communities that franchising is a smart and affordable way to realize the American Dream of small business ownership.

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