We are proud to share exciting news for the Top Rail Fence family. Sean Raftery, who operates Top Rail Fence Colorado, has been named a 2026 IFA Franchisee of the Year. This recognition places Sean among a select group of franchise owners honored by the world's oldest and largest franchising organization.

For our national network, Sean's award is more than a personal milestone. It's a clear signal of the caliber of people who choose to build their businesses under the Top Rail Fence banner—owners who combine business excellence with a genuine commitment to their communities and teams.

What is the IFA Franchisee of the Year award?

The International Franchise Association named 89 individuals as 2026 Franchisees of the Year, celebrating outstanding franchise owners for excellence in entrepreneurship, community outreach, workforce development, and service to others.

Recipients don't apply for this honor. Each one is nominated by their parent brand, then selected based on a demanding set of criteria:

  • Community involvement that strengthens the areas they serve
  • Fostering a strong workforce by creating jobs and building careers
  • Assisting fellow franchisees when called upon
  • Embodying the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of franchising


The IFA carries real weight in this space. Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, it is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. Its members span more than 300 business categories, from home services to hospitality.

The scale of franchising underscores why this recognition matters. According to the IFA, there are approximately 832,000 franchise establishments across the U.S., supporting nearly 8.8 million direct jobs and generating $907.3 billion in economic output. Being selected from that vast landscape is no small feat.

"Franchisees of the Year demonstrate what franchising is all about – individuals who have committed their lives and careers to the betterment of those around them, building something bigger than themselves," said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association.

What Sean Raftery's award says about the Top Rail Fence network

When a franchisee earns national recognition, it tells a story about the brand behind them. Sean's award reflects the standards our entire network works to uphold: quality craftsmanship, dependable service, and real investment in local communities.

Top Rail Fence owners share a commitment to delivering durable fencing solutions built from top-quality materials, backed by experienced teams who treat every project with care. Sean's success in Colorado shows what's possible when that commitment is paired with strong local leadership.

For prospective franchisees and customers alike, this honor offers reassurance. It confirms that the Top Rail Fence name is associated with owners who lead well, serve their communities, and hold themselves to a high standard.

Celebrating excellence across the country

Sean Raftery and his fellow 2026 recipients will be honored at a luncheon on September 15 and throughout the IFA26 Advocacy Summit, held September 14–16, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

We extend our sincere congratulations to Sean on this well-deserved recognition. His achievement is a proud moment for the entire Top Rail Fence family and a reminder of the excellence that defines our network.

You can read the full announcement and see the complete list of honorees on the IFA website.

Frequently asked questions

Who won the 2026 IFA Franchisee of the Year award from Top Rail Fence?

Sean Raftery, owner of Top Rail Fence Colorado, was named a 2026 IFA Franchisee of the Year—one of just 89 individuals recognized nationwide. Sean serves communities across Colorado through his locations in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins.

What does the IFA Franchisee of the Year award recognize?

The award recognizes franchise owners for excellence in entrepreneurship, community involvement, workforce development, and service to others. Winners are nominated by their parent brand and selected for their leadership and impact.

How prestigious is the IFA award?

Very. The International Franchise Association is the world's oldest and largest franchising organization, with over 60 years of history. Recipients are chosen from a U.S. franchise sector that includes roughly 832,000 establishments.

When will the 2026 franchisees of the year be honored?

Recipients will be celebrated at a luncheon on September 15 and throughout the IFA26 Advocacy Summit, September 14–16, 2026, in Washington, D.C.