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WASHINGTON — Joseph Tocco, owner of . of Macomb, MI, recently was presented the Franchisee of the Year Award, Large Category, by the International Franchise Association (IFA), according to a press release.

“The strength of the U.S. economy significantly relies on the hard work of franchisees,” IFA President and CEO Robert Cresanti said in the release. “IFA is proud to recognize the outstanding efforts of Joseph Tocco with the Franchisee of the Year Award and thank him for his work in the promotion of franchising as well as for his daily contributions that not only showcase how local business owners propel the economy, but also foster community ties throughout the U.S.”

Tocco was among 53 franchise system owners recognized during the IFA’s Franchise Action Network Annual Meeting in late September. Award recipients were chose by their franchise companies for efforts to “enhance the growth and development of franchising.

Over 400 franchise leaders met during the IFA event in Washington along with congressional officials.

“Lawmakers in Washington would do well to remember that, with sound regulatory policies, franchise businesses can create the jobs necessary for sustained economic recovery and job growth,” Cresanti added in the release. “Unchecked regulatory overreach by a single agency, run by officials with a defined, narrow and parochial interest, has the capacity to derail significant economic activity in the United States; destroying the dreams of small business ownership one small company at a time.”