Amber Walley Honored as Franchisee of the Year by IFA for Excellence in Franchising

Celebrating Community and Business Excellence: Amber Walley, Franchisee of the Year

Recently at the 65th Annual Convention of the International Franchise Association (IFA) held in Las Vegas, Capriotti's Sandwich Shop proudly announced that one of their dedicated franchise partners, Amber Walley, has been awarded the prestigious title of Franchisee of the Year for 2024. This accolade is not merely a title, but a recognition of outstanding commitment to the franchise model, demonstrating excellence in the business and community engagement.

Amber Walley's journey with Capriotti's began in 2008, when she first tasted the brand's unique offerings while working in Las Vegas’s vibrant hospitality scene. It was this experience that ignited her passion for quality food and community-oriented values, ultimately leading her to establish her own Capriotti's franchise in Youngstown, Ohio, in 2023. Her impressive background in fine dining has empowered her to create a brand that resonates with the local community while delivering exceptional service and food quality.

Since opening her Youngstown location, Amber has made significant strides in community involvement and support. She has organized numerous fundraising events, collaborated with local charities, and initiated food donation drives aimed at serving those in need. Her efforts exemplify the spirit of giving back, which is a core tenet of the Capriotti's brand. Matt Haller, President and CEO of IFA, articulated the essence of the Franchisee of the Year award: “They represent the best of franchising, embodying the American Dream, creating economic opportunities, and serving their communities.”

Ashley Morris, CEO of Capriotti's, also expressed her pride in Amber’s accomplishments and her commitment to the brand. She emphasized that Amber’s dedication and operational excellence not only elevated the Capriotti’s experience in her hometown, but also set a standard for other franchise owners. “We look forward to seeing her continued success and impact within Ohio as she represents what it means to be part of the Capriotti’s family,” said Morris.

The Franchisee of the Year awards highlight the outstanding contributions of franchise owners who excel in service to their communities, foster a supportive workforce, and help other franchisees thrive. With nearly 830,000 franchised businesses in the U.S. that provide almost 9 million jobs and contribute over $896 billion to the economy, the significance of such awards becomes even clearer. Research suggests that franchised businesses generally offer higher wages, better benefits, and greater opportunities for underrepresented groups, such as minorities and veterans.

Amber’s recognition at the IFA serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing franchisees alike. It shines a light on the tremendous impact one individual can have within their community while also succeeding in their business ventures.

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, founded in 1976, has developed a reputation for high-quality, fresh food, including their signature sub, The Bobbie®, which has been celebrated as “The Greatest Sandwich in America.” With over 175 locations nationwide and an ambitious plan to expand to more than 750 by 2032, the future looks bright for Capriotti’s and its dedicated franchise partners, including Amber Walley.

For those interested in learning more about Capriotti's Sandwich Shop and franchise opportunities, more information is available at www.ownacapriottis.com.

In conclusion, Amber Walley's achievement reflects not only her individual efforts but also the broader dedication of Capriotti's to foster community bonds and entrepreneurial spirit among its franchise partners. Her journey is a remarkable example of how passion and commitment can drive both personal success and community upliftment.