WASHINGTON - Aire Serv owners and corporate executives lobbied on Capitol Hill for small business owners during the International Franchise Association’s 9th Annual Franchise Appreciation Day. “Franchise Appreciation Day was an excellent way to bring small business concerns straight to our lawmakers,” said David Samuel, owner of the Aire Serv of southwest Missouri franchise. “Franchising is responsible for 21 million jobs and $2.3 trillion of private-sector economic output. We have a great impact on the economy, so it was great to be able to have our voices heard.”

Along with nearly 500 other business owners and franchising executives, including 12 Aire Serv franchise owners; Doyle James, president of Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.; and Chris Elmore, vice president of operations for Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.; met with the staff of the congressmen and senators from their respective states, discussing issues that affect small businesses such as immigration reform, small-business health plans, business activity taxes, and wages.

The IFA also recognized Aire Serv franchise owners David and Kristine Samuel with a Franchisee of the Year award for their outstanding performance and the contributions they have made to enhance the growth and development of franchising.

For more information, visit www.aireserv.com.

Publication date: 11/10/2008