Franchise owners representing four United Franchise Group™ brands have been recognized among the 2026 IFA Franchisee of the Year Award recipients, highlighting the leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact taking place across the UFG network.
The International Franchise Association named 89 franchise owners nationwide as 2026 Franchisees of the Year, celebrating entrepreneurs who exemplify the impact of franchising in their businesses and communities.
Celebrating Franchisee Excellence Across UFG Brands
This year’s UFG-affiliated honorees include:
- Kevin McCord, Signarama® — Lawrenceburg, Indiana
- Michelle Monhollen and Robert Steffek, Fully Promoted® — Centerville, Ohio
- Rachel Wheeler, Graze Craze® — Winter Park, Florida
- Steven Childress, Black Optix Tint® — Short Pump, Virginia
The Franchisee of the Year Award is one of IFA’s highest honors, recognizing franchise owners who demonstrate excellence not only in business performance, but also in community involvement, workforce development, and support of their fellow franchisees. For UFG, having honorees across four distinct brands reflects the entrepreneurial leadership taking place throughout the network.
Franchisee Success Strengthens the Entire System
IFA’s Franchisee of the Year recognition underscores the role local owners play in driving the broader success of franchise brands. Strong franchise systems are built not only through growth, but through franchisees who lead by example, invest in their communities, and help strengthen the network around them.
As UFG continues supporting entrepreneurs across its portfolio, recognition like this reflects the impact franchise owners can make both within their businesses and beyond them.
Congratulations to Kevin, Michelle, Robert, Rachel, and Steven on this well-earned recognition.