First Webinar is March 26th with Host Lynda Burzynski

SAN JOSE, Calif., March 20, 2009 - Franchise Update Media Group (FUMG), the leading industry resource for franchise development, today announced the launch of its latest educational forum, the Franchise CEO Network, with host Linda Burzynski. The first webinar is Thursday, March 26, and begins at 11:30 a.m. EST.

The one-hour program will feature the presidents and CEOs from leading franchisor organizations in a candid conversation about leadership, management and corporate performance. Each week will feature different guests discussing the most important issues and trends facing the franchise industry today. Discussion topics for the first show include the mission and vision of the Franchise CEO Network, how to motivate franchisees in today's tough economy, and key steps presidents and CEOs should take to add units throughout 2009.

"Today's tough economy is a real stress-test of management skills and direction that demands leadership and execution with vision to see beyond tomorrow,"said Therese Thilgen, presdent of FUMG. "The Franchise CEO Network offers a unique communication platform for our guests and audience to interact and exchange knowledge, best practices and resources in a trusted and secure environment."

Guests on the debut show include Steve Olson, publisher of FUMG; Paul Mangiamente, president and CEO of Salsarita's Fresh Cantina; and Keith Gerson, president and COO of PuroSystems.

"The Franchise CEO Network offers our audience the opportunity to enhance the skills and strategies that are necessary to guide their franchise enterprises through these difficult times so that they can emerge stronger than ever," Burzynski said. " Our discussions will provide in-depth insights from successful franchisors who can share practical advice and proven strategies on how to grow even during turbulent economic times."


The Franchise CEO Network webinars will be conducted on either the third or fourth Thursday of each month, and registration is free. To learn more about the Franchise CEO Network, host Linda Burzynski and her guests, or to sign-up for the webinar, please visit www.franchiseceonetwork.com.

About Franchise Update Media Group

Founded in 1988, Franchise Update Media Group (FUMG) produces online franchise sites, magazines, research, books and conferences in franchising. Targeting franchise audiences online, in print and in person, FUMG delivers a unique combination of education and lead-generation sources that helps franchisors, multi-unit franchisees and suppliers achieve their growth objectives. For more information, please visit www.franchiseupdatemedia.com.