Franchise development is entering a defining moment, and the brands that adapt now will shape the future of growth. In this episode of Franchise Fuel: Smarter Growth, Vern Nicholson, Vice President of Strategy and Growth at Vetro Media USA, breaks down what franchise leaders must understand to win in 2026 and beyond.
With AI-driven discovery reshaping how candidates find, evaluate, and shortlist franchise opportunities, traditional marketing alone is no longer enough. Vern explains why AI-SEO, also known as Generative Engine Optimization, is becoming essential across platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and iHeart, and how podcasting and video-first creative now play a central role in brand discovery.
The episode explores Vetro Media’s omni-channel approach, combining AI search visibility, curated data, video-first strategy, and access to a national audience of more than 25 million people. Vern also shares how free marketing audits, strategy sessions, video creatives, and quarterly press releases are helping franchise brands enter 2026 with clarity and confidence.
Finally, Vern reflects on Detroit’s transformation and why it serves as a powerful metaphor for franchising today. Change is here. The brands that prepare now will lead what comes next.
