Privacy Policy
Effective Date: 1/1/2025
At Franchise Journal and its affiliated companies, we take privacy seriously. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information—and how we communicate with you in a modern, technology-driven environment.
This applies to all brands, platforms, events, and services operated by our organization, including but not limited to Franchise Journal, The Franchise Consulting Company, and The Great American Franchise Expo.
By using our websites, services, or submitting your information, you agree to the practices outlined below.
1. Information We Collect
We collect information to better serve you and deliver relevant opportunities.
Information You Provide
This includes:
- Name, email address, phone number
- Mailing address
- Business and financial information (when applicable)
- Interests, preferences, and responses to forms or surveys
Information Collected Automatically
When you interact with our platforms, we may collect:
- IP address and device information
- Browser type and usage behavior
- Pages visited, links clicked, time on site
- Cookies and tracking data
Information from Third Parties
We may receive additional data from:
- Marketing partners
- Advertising platforms
- Data providers
- Event registrations or referral partners
2. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to operate and grow our business—and to create better outcomes for you.
This includes:
- Connecting you with franchise and business opportunities
- Matching you with consultants, brands, or service providers
- Providing customer support and responding to inquiries
- Sending updates, newsletters, and relevant offers
- Improving our platforms, services, and user experience
- Conducting internal analytics and performance tracking
- Preventing fraud and maintaining system integrity
3. AI, Automation & Modern Communications
We operate in a technology-forward environment and use artificial intelligence and automation to improve speed, accuracy, and experience.
How We Communicate
We may contact you via:
- Phone calls (including automated or AI-generated voice)
- Text messages (SMS/MMS)
- Chatbots and messaging platforms
These communications may be:
- Human-generated
- AI-assisted
- Fully automated
What This Means
Our systems may:
- Follow up on your inquiries
- Schedule appointments
- Qualify interest and match opportunities
- Provide support and information
- Send reminders and updates
Your Consent
By submitting your information, you consent to receiving communications through these channels, including automated and AI-powered outreach.
Consent is not a condition of purchase.
Opt-Out Anytime
You can opt out at any time:
- Email: click “unsubscribe”
- Text: reply “STOP”
- Direct request: info@franchisejournal.com
4. Telephone & Text Messaging Compliance
We comply with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and similar regulations.
By providing your phone number, you agree that we may contact you using:
- Autodialed calls
- Pre-recorded or AI-generated voice messages
- Text messages
Message and data rates may apply.
5. Sharing Your Information
We do not sell your personal information in the traditional sense. However, we may share your information as necessary to operate our business.
We may share information with:
Affiliated Companies
Including:
- The Franchise Consulting Company
- The Great American Franchise Expo
- Franchise Journal
- Other entities under common ownership
Service Providers
For:
- Technology infrastructure
- CRM and communication systems
- Payment processing
- Marketing and analytics
Business Partners & Brands
When you request information or express interest, your data may be shared with relevant:
- Franchisors
- Consultants
- Vendors or partners
Legal & Compliance
We may disclose information when required to:
- Comply with law
- Respond to legal requests
- Protect our rights and users
6. Data Use for AI & System Improvement
We may use data (primarily aggregated or anonymized) to:
- Improve our systems and automation
- Enhance AI performance
- Personalize user experiences
We do not use personally identifiable information to train AI systems in a way that directly identifies you without your consent.
7. Cookies & Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to:
- Improve functionality
- Personalize content
- Analyze performance
- Deliver targeted advertising
You can control cookies through your browser settings, though some features may not function properly if disabled.
8. Your Privacy Rights
Depending on your location, you may have the right to:
- Access your personal data
- Request correction or deletion
- Opt out of certain data sharing
- Limit use of sensitive information
To exercise your rights, contact: info@franchisejournal.com
9. Data Retention
We retain information only as long as necessary to:
- Provide services
- Meet legal obligations
- Resolve disputes
- Enforce agreements
Retention periods vary based on data type and use.
10. Security
We implement industry-standard safeguards, including:
- Secure servers
- Encryption
- Access controls
However, no system is completely secure. Use our services with that understanding.
11. Third-Party Websites
Our platforms may link to third-party sites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Review their policies before providing information.
12. Public Content
If you post content publicly (reviews, forums, etc.), that information may be visible to others and used accordingly.
13. Children’s Privacy
Our services are not intended for children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect their information.
14. International Users
If you access our services outside the United States, your information may be transferred to and processed in the U.S.
15. Changes to This Policy
We may update this policy periodically. Continued use of our services means you accept those changes.
16. Contact Us
For questions or requests regarding your data:
Email: info@franchisejournal.com
