In the realm of business conferences, there are few gatherings as unique and inspiring as the Wild Birds Unlimited Enterprise Leadership Conference. This annual event brings together franchise owners and franchise support center staff. Held against the backdrop of a shared passion for nature and entrepreneurship, the conference is not just a meeting of minds but a celebration of community and conservation. At the heart of the Wild Birds Unlimited Enterprise Leadership Conference lies a deep-rooted passion for birds and the natural world. Founded on the belief that a love for birds can translate into a successful business venture, the conference aims to empower attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the industry. Workshops and seminars cover a diverse range of topics, from bird feeding trends and product innovations to marketing strategies and customer engagement techniques.
One of the standout features of the conference is its commitment to continuous learning and growth. Participants have the opportunity to hear from industry experts, authors, and conservationists who share their insights into avian behavior, habitat preservation, and environmental stewardship. These sessions not only enrich attendees’ understanding of birds but also inspire them to become advocates for conservation in their local communities. This year, we had the privilege to hear from 2 amazing authors.
Christian Cooper is a NY Times best-selling author, with his debut memoir, Better Living Through Birding. He is also the Host and a Consulting Producer for National Geographic’s hit series: Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper. Practically born with a pair of binoculars in his hands, he served as president of the Harvard Ornithological Club in his college days; currently as a vice president of New York City Audubon he advocates for greater, safer access to green spaces for all, with a focus on outreach to youth in underserved communities. A longtime activist on issues of racial justice and LGBTQ equality, Christian combined his passions in the BLM graphic short story “It’s a Bird” from DC Comics, and he continues to seek synergy at the intersections of storytelling, progressivism, and environmentalism.
Holly Merker, co-author of Ornitherapy for Your Mind, Body and Soul, is a professional birding guide, writer and public speaker, who specializes in delivering nature-based wellness programming using birds. She has presented at numerous WBU Franchise Store locations and is passionate about connecting the next generation to birds and nature, fostering conservation leaders while directing and facilitating many youth birding programs.
Beyond the educational aspect, the conference fosters a sense of camaraderie among attendees. Networking events and social gatherings provide opportunities for franchise owners to connect with peers, share success stories, and discuss challenges. These interactions often lead to collaborative efforts and partnerships that strengthen the Wild Birds Unlimited network as a whole.
Innovation is another cornerstone of the conference, with sessions dedicated to exploring new technologies and trends in the bird feeding industry. From eco-friendly bird feeders to sustainable business practices, attendees are encouraged to embrace innovation while staying true to the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
A highlight of the conference is the recognition of outstanding achievements within the Wild Birds Unlimited franchise network. Awards are presented to franchise owners who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, customer service, and community engagement. These accolades not only honor individual accomplishments but also inspire others to strive for excellence in their own businesses.
The highest honor given to a Franchise Store Owner. This lifetime achievement award is presented to a WBU Franchisee that has consistently followed the WBU system and has contributed to the growth and improvement of Wild Birds Unlimited through time, energy, enthusiasm and sharing with others. This award went to Barb and Chip Whipkey, owners of the WBU stores in Lexington Park and La Plata, MD.
Save the Song Birds Hero award recognizes store owners that have used creative and inspiring actions to go beyond an average store’s daily business or are sharing the Save the Song Birds message and helping their customers be the heroes who help save the song birds. This years recipients are Frank DeMartino from Ventura, CA, Lutrelle and Carey O’Cain from Hendersonville, NC, and Laurel and Mitch Zoet from Brighton, MI. There are many additional award members as well and we congratulate them all for their hard work and dedication.
As the Wild Birds Unlimited Enterprise Leadership Conference continues to evolve, its impact extends beyond business success. It serves as a testament to the power of passion, community, and environmental stewardship in driving meaningful change. By empowering franchise owners and enthusiasts alike, the conference plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of bird feeding and conservation efforts worldwide.
The Wild Birds Unlimited Enterprise Leadership Conference stands as a beacon of inspiration for nature lovers and entrepreneurs. It embodies the belief that business success and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, demonstrating the profound impact of aligning passion with purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned franchise owner or a newcomer to the world of bird feeding, this conference offers a transformative experience that celebrates the beauty of birds and the spirit of entrepreneurship.
