FBR Leadership

Franchise Business Review’s founder and CEO, Eric Stites, was working as a franchise broker when he noticed that prospective franchise buyers were increasingly seeking data to help guide their decision-making process. He believed that third-party research demonstrating franchisee satisfaction could help potential franchise buyers better understand which franchises offer the best franchise opportunities and formulas for success. This data could also provide insights to franchisors to help them improve franchisee satisfaction, grow their systems, and achieve business objectives

When Eric joined forces with Michelle Rowan in 2005, Franchise Business Review was born. Their mission was—and still is—to deliver data and insights that can drive better results for franchise companies and empower the franchise research experience for prospective franchise owners.

Today, Franchise Business Review is the leading market research firm in the franchise sector specializing in franchisee satisfaction and employee engagement. Since 2005, FBR has researched more than 1,100 franchise brands across all industry segments to deliver actionable data and insights to the franchising industry.

Eric Stites, founder & CEO

In addition to leading FBR’s research and data analytics, Eric consults with clients in the area of franchise performance, he’s an active member of the International Franchise Association (IFA), serves on the IFA’s VetFran and Franchise Relations Committees, and speaks frequently on topics related to franchise relations and best practices in franchising. Eric lives on the coast of Maine with his wife and two daughters, and enjoys spending as much time as possible on the ocean.

Michelle Rowan, president & COO

In addition to her role as FBR’s president and COO, Michelle is chair of the International Franchise Association Women’s Franchise Committee and a Certified Franchise Executive. She has facilitated CEO Performance Groups and Executive Networking Groups and is a frequent speaker at industry events (in person and virtual). When not at FBR, she hangs out with her daughter and husband at the tasting room and brewery they own in Kittery, Maine.