Alabama business owner honored at 2026 IFA Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Franchise Association (IFA) recently named Jennifer Ashcraft, owner of Capriotti's Sandwich Shop in Alabama, as a 2026 Franchisee of the Year. Ashcraft was honored at the IFA26 Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C. for being an outstanding franchise owner with excellence in entrepreneurship, community outreach, workforce development, and service to others. Nominated by their brand, the IFA Franchisee of the Year awards are given to top franchisees from IFA member brands across industries and communities around the country.

"Franchisees of the Year demonstrate what franchising is all about – individuals who have committed their lives and careers to the betterment of those around them, building something bigger than themselves," said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. "Through their leadership, they create jobs and build careers, give back to their communities, and support other franchisees, all while exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of franchising. We are proud to recognize Jennifer with IFA's highest honor for individual franchisees and celebrate her commitment to making a difference both within her business and beyond."

The Franchisee of the Year awards recognize leading franchise owners for their community involvement, fostering a strong workforce, assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon, and embodying the entrepreneurial spirit. Their outstanding performance and contributions help strengthen not only their business but also the entire franchise business model.

"I am incredibly honored to receive the IFA Franchisee of the Year Award," said Ashcraft. "For me, Capriotti's is a family business that I get to share with my loved ones and the communities that we serve. We are proud to help grow the iconic brand and feature the extraordinary, handcrafted subs that have made them beloved across the country for the past 50 years."

There are approximately 832,000 franchise establishments across the U.S., providing nearly 8.8 million direct jobs and generating more than $907 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than non-franchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities.

The recipients were honored at a luncheon and throughout the IFA26 Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C.

About The International Franchise Association:
Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the approximately 832,000 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.8 million direct jobs, $907.3 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development.

About Capriotti's® Sandwich Shop
Capriotti's® Sandwich Shop has been 'Simply the Best Since 1976.' The award-winning fast-casual restaurant brand is known for crafting extraordinary sandwiches and has earned recognition for its craveable menu, including being named to Fast Food Club's "Most Sensational Sandwiches" list, USA Today's 10BEST Sandwich or Sub Shop, and regularly appearing on Best Of lists for its standout offerings. Staying true to its roots, Capriotti's slow-roasts whole Butterball® turkeys in-house daily and hand-pulls them each morning to deliver unmatched flavor and freshness. With more than 150 locations across the U.S., the brand is home to fan-favorite subs like The Bobbie®— voted "Greatest Sandwich in America"— and unique offerings like the Capastrami®, Cole Turkey and premium American Wagyu Cheesesteaks. Capriotti's continues to expand across the nation and has been consistently ranked on Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers & Shakers list. Guests can join Capriotti's Rewards to earn points, unlock perks and get exclusive access to new offers. For more information, visit capriottis.com, or follow Capriotti's on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kampi Chaleunsouk
Kampi@inklinkmarketing.com 

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SOURCE Capriotti's® Sandwich Shop