Stephen Lutfi Named 2026 Franchisee of the Year by IFA

The award recognizes Lutfi for his commitment to community involvement and his ability to cultivate a high-performing workforce. Since joining the family business in 2012 and acquiring his first Batteries Plus units three years ago, Lutfi has scaled his portfolio to 17 stores. His management philosophy centers on direct engagement with employees at all levels, a strategy he credits to the mentorship of his father, a veteran of the quick-service restaurant industry.

Joe Malmuth, Chief Development Officer at Batteries Plus, noted that Lutfi’s success stems from his focus on building genuine relationships with staff, which fosters organizational trust. This collaborative approach has allowed the group to integrate acquired locations effectively while maintaining service standards. Lutfi’s recognition highlights the broader impact of the industry, which currently supports 8.8 million jobs and generates over $907 billion in annual economic output across the United States.