Opening a restaurant is tough. You can go it alone as an independent owner, or you can join a franchise family. The difference between these two paths could determine whether you thrive or just survive. This October, Clean Eatz franchise partners from 120 locations across the country will gather for their annual conference; “In Your Corner,” and their tagline says it all: “Epic Teams Hit Harder.“
Our Numbers Tell the Story
Why does franchise support matter so much? The statistics paint a clear picture. About 92% of franchises are still open after two years, while only 80% of independent businesses survive that long. That’s a huge difference. The main reason? Franchisees get support from their franchisor and fellow franchisees.
The franchise industry keeps growing stronger. Franchises are expected to contribute $893 billion to the U.S. economy in 2024. These numbers represent real people who found success by working together.

More Than Just a Meeting
The 10th annual Clean Eatz conference runs from October 8-11. It’s much more than a typical business meeting. Many independent restaurant owners often face problems alone, as they struggle with supply chain issues or wrestle with local marketing challenges. But Clean Eatz franchisees come together every year to share what works. They solve problems as a team. They build relationships that last all year long.
This year brings something new: For the first time, franchise owners can bring their store managers too. This change shows that Clean Eatz understands something important. Success requires strong teams at every level, not just at the top. When your whole management team feels connected to the Clean Eatz family, your business gets stronger.

Building Teams That Win Together
The conference theme “Epic Teams Hit Harder” isn’t just a catchy phrase. The event includes business sessions like operational roundtables and vendor showcases. But the real value comes from the connections between franchise partners. These relationships become lifelines when problems pop up later.
Think about what happens when you own an independent restaurant. A supplier suddenly can’t deliver. You need to change your marketing fast. You’re on your own to figure it out. Clean Eatz franchisees have it different: They have an entire network of experienced operators. Most have faced similar problems before. One quick phone call to a fellow franchisee can save weeks of frustration.
The vendor show is another big advantage. Franchisees can see newly approved products and supplies. This gives them buying power that single restaurants can’t match. The franchise has already vetted these suppliers, approved some productions and negotiated fair prices for all franchisees. Independent operators could never obtain these prices and services on their own.
Why Proven Systems Work
Here’s an impressive fact: About 90% of franchisees renew their agreements when they expire. This high renewal rate tells us something important. Franchisees are happy with their choice. They see real value in being part of a franchise system. Annual events like “In Your Corner” help create this satisfaction. They strengthen the support network that makes franchising attractive.
The conference schedule balances work and fun. There’s a morning 5K run on the beach. There’s an awards dinner to celebrate achievements. Every activity helps build community bonds. This is what sets franchising apart from going solo.
Industry experts lead educational sessions throughout the conference. They cover market trends and growth strategies. These aren’t generic business tips. They focus specifically on what Clean Eatz locations need to know. Independent operators would pay thousands of dollars for this knowledge. Many couldn’t even find this specialized training on their own.
Looking Ahead: The Franchise Advantage
Are you thinking about opening a Clean Eatz of your own in the next year or two? This conference shows exactly why franchise ownership makes sense. You’re not buying a business model: You’re joining a community that genuinely wants you to succeed.
The conference demonstrates why franchises outperform independent startups so often. When you face a tough decision, you’re not alone. You have easy access to dozens of other partners who’ve been there before. They’ve likely solved the problems you’re facing. They’re very happy to share from the lessons they’ve learned.
This October’s gathering will showcase new developments for Clean Eatz. Franchisees will learn about menu innovations that have been tested across the system. They’ll see marketing strategies that really work. This constant improvement keeps the brand fresh and competitive. Both corporate leadership and franchisee feedback drive these changes.
What Really Matters
Independent restaurant owners often feel isolated and overwhelmed. Running a restaurant is hard work and doing it solo makes it even harder. The “In Your Corner” franchise conference shows a better way. Clean Eatz franchisees gather each year to strengthen their support system. They share successes and solve problems collectively, as a team.
For people considering new franchise opportunities, this event reveals the true value of joining a franchise system. Yes, you get a proven brand name. Yes, you get operational systems that work. But more importantly, you become part of a team that has your back.
The restaurant industry is tough. Many independent restaurants fail in their first few years. Having a network “in your corner” can make all the difference. You’re not just another restaurant owner trying to make it. You’re part of something bigger that is growing and thriving, increasing the value of your investment year after year.
The Bottom Line
As Clean Eatz prepares for this year’s franchise conference, they’re doing more than planning meetings. They’re strengthening the foundation that helps franchisees succeed. This is key to what makes franchising different from independent business ownership.
The conference proves that their tagline is true. When epic teams come together, they really do hit harder. For prospective franchisees, that’s a powerful message. In a world where going it alone is risky, having an entire team in your corner might be exactly what you need to win.
To learn more about becoming a Clean Eatz franchise partner, please request our information kit today.