Bush set to speak at franchise ass'n convention in Feb.

A convention next year of the International Franchise Assocation will host former President George W. Bush as its keynote speaker, the group said Wednesday.

Bush will headline the group's 50th annual convention in San Antonio, Texas early next February, the industry group announced.

The appearance marks yet another turn the former president has taken since leaving office to raise his public profile. He has spoken at several business functions, and recently appeared as a motivational speaker.

"We are thrilled that President Bush will keynote the IFA 50th annual convention,” said IFA Chairwoman Dina Dwyer-Owens, CEO and chairwoman of The Dwyer Group in Waco, Texas.  “We look forward to his insights and perspective on the challenges facing our country and our businesses.”