September 2019 | Page 2 of 3 | Franchise Dictionary Magazine

16 09, 2019

Re-Bath Ranked as One of America’s Top Remodelers by Qualified Remodeler Magazine

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-16T11:32:06-04:00September 16th, 2019|Tags: aging and accessibility solutions, bathroom remodeling industry, complete bathroom remodeling company, home improvement franchise, residential market, tub and shower updates|

Bathroom Remodeling Franchise Makes Home Improvement an Effortless Experience

PHOENIX — Re-Bath, the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling company, is pleased to announce its recognition on Qualified Remodeler’s 2019 Top 500 list for the third consecutive year. The one-stop-shop remodeler credits its people, expertise, industry reputation, and varied product offerings to its prestigious ranking as No. 2 National Company and No. 7 overall.

“We are honored to be recognized by Qualified Remodeler as a top-ranked company in this space. I am very proud to be associated with the more than 1,200 talented people in our organization, our franchise owners, their staff, our company owned stores, our manufacturing team, and our support teams at the corporate office who have all contributed to this accomplishment,” said Brad Hillier, CEO of Re-Bath. “It’s their commitment to delivering an effortless customer experience that sets this company apart. And, to our customers, thank you for trusting Re-Bath with your bathroom remodeling needs, we are honored that you chose us. We remain committed to providing an effortless remodeling experience, leaving our customers with a bathroom they love.”

Re-Bath has grown into a trusted and respected brand known for providing expert, affordable, and effortless bathroom remodeling solutions that transform homeowners’ bathrooms in days, not weeks. Whether seeking a tub or shower area update, better accessibility and safety in your bathroom or a complete bathroom remodel, Re-Bath makes bathroom remodeling easy. The company’s exclusive remodel process removes old materials and fixtures and replaces them with beautiful new options in a wide variety of colors and styles.

When hiring Re-Bath, expect a one-stop service that covers the entire process – from design to done – in three easy steps: consultation, removal, and installation. Re-Bath’s team of complete bathroom remodeling professionals will deliver the style you want you want at the budget you need, and never allows functionality to compromise beautiful design.

Today, Re-Bath serves more than 100 cities across 43 states and is the nation’s largest franchised remodeling business.

To learn more about Re-Bath and your bathroom remodeling needs, visit https://www.rebath.com/.

About Re-Bath
Re-Bath is the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling franchise that has grown to nearly 100 locations across the country. The parent company’s first entry in the bathroom remodeling industry occurred in 1978 and focused on the hospitality sector. In 1991, Re-Bath launched its first franchise location to focus on the residential market. The company offers complete bathroom remodels, tub and shower updates, plus aging and accessibility solutions. From simple bathtub replacements to complete bathroom redesigns, Re-Bath makes bathroom remodeling effortless, convenient and affordable, all with professional, friendly and factory-trained installers. Re-Bath is a one-stop service that covers the entire process – from design to done – in three easy steps: consultation, removal, and installation. Re-Bath assembles its own exclusive line of products at its headquarters located in Phoenix, Ariz., and offers best-in-class products from national brands for its customers. For more information please visit www.rebath.com or www.rebathfranchise.com for more details on the franchise opportunity.

16 09, 2019

Overcoming your biggest fears

Alesia Visconti2019-09-16T14:07:27-04:00September 16th, 2019|

Today’s post might not be long, and the concept is simple. But don’t get us wrong; today’s post is important. It’s one you don’t want to pass up if you’ve ever feared anything in your life.

Got your attention yet?

Fear. Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of losing, fear of anything.

Fear is the number one thing holding us back and stopping us from being successful. The definition of fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain or a threat. Fear, oftentimes, is the one thing that stops us from trying new things, keeps us from moving forward and makes us think so negatively that sometimes we become paralyzed.

We could give you a list of a million quotes and self-help tips that have to do with fear and how to overcome it. We could tell you that it’s not a big deal and that you are worrying too much. There is one quote that may inspire you, however. The great mythologist and author Joseph Campbell once said, “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” It’s a powerful statement that essentially says, the only way for you to overcome your fears is to face them head on. If you fear flying, get on a plane (maybe a short flight for starters). If you fear public speaking, enroll in Toastmasters and learn how to speak eloquently in any situation.

In the end, here’s the best advice: just do it. Look your fears in the face and just stomp right-on over them. Conquer your fears, overcome your fears or just don’t have any fears. Whatever works for you; just do it. Don’t let fear hold you back from living the life you’ve always dreamed of living.

13 09, 2019

Catherine Monson Recognized as a 2019 Most Admired CEO

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-13T11:03:56-04:00September 13th, 2019|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

CARROLLTON, Texas — The Dallas Business Journal recently named Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. as a 2019 Most Admired CEO. The 20 North Texas CEO honorees this year come from a range of industries including architecture, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, real estate, technology and transportation.

The Dallas Business Journal created The Most Admired CEO Awards in 2018 to recognize executives not only for impressive stewardship of their companies, but also for cultivating an inclusive, collaborative culture. Honorees hold their employees, products and services in the highest regard, run their companies with integrity and efficiency, and inspire those around them.

Selected from hundreds of nominees, the 2019 honorees will be recognized at an Awards Dinner on September 25 at the Belo Mansion in Dallas. Dallas Business Journal readers will be given an opportunity to select their favorite CEOs in a Readers Choice Survey. The survey will be conducted digitally prior to the awards event, and winners of the readers’ survey will be revealed during the celebratory evening.

“I am honored to be named one of the Dallas Business Journal’s Most Admired CEOs,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “I am truly thankful to get to work with an incredible corporate team and our amazing franchisees who dedicate their time and energy to growing and promoting the FASTSIGNS brand by providing outstanding comprehensive visual communications solutions to their customers.”

About Catherine Monson

Catherine became CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. in 2009, bringing over 25 years of franchising and management experience. In 2009, she received the International Franchise Association (IFA) Bonny LeVine Award in recognition of her contributions to the growth of the franchising industry and in 2010, the Dallas Business Journal named her a top Women Industry Leader in the Dallas Metroplex. In 2012, Catherine appeared on the Emmy Award-winning series Undercover Boss to learn new ways to advance the FASTSIGNS® brand. In 2013, she was named an “Innovator and Influencer” by Sign and Digital Graphics Magazine. In 2015, she received the IFA’s first Franchise Action Network “FAN of the Year” award for her advocacy work on behalf of the franchising community. In 2016, she was selected as a Soderstrom Society Inductee for her contributions to the printing and graphic communications industry and was also honored with the 2016 Leadership Award from the Women That Soar organization. Under Monson’s leadership, FASTSIGNS International, Inc. received the 2016 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition presented by the Department of Defense to employers for their exemplary support of National Guard and Reserve members. In 2017, Monson received the Distinguished Women Award presented by Northwood University in Midland, Michigan. In 2018, she was honored by the Sales and Marketing Executives International (SMEI) with their Ambassador of Free Enterprise Award. Catherine has served on the Board of Directors of the IFA since 2008 and is currently Vice Chair and will become Chairwoman in February 2020. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors of Brain Balance, a franchise company with a non-drug alternative for children with behavioral challenges, and on the Board of Directors of the franchisor Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest growing swim schools. She is a keynote speaker at many franchise industry events, as well as at many sign and visual graphics industry events.

For more videos on Catherine Monson, visit https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7qJckb26TTPGWl9wQJNjKA. Visit the section, “Get to Know the FASTSIGNS CEO Catherine Monson,” and click to the right.

About FASTSIGNS^®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in nine countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). Locations are slated to open in two additional countries – Malta and Spain – in 2019.

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points.

FASTSIGNS centers provide architectural and interior decor graphics, fleet vehicle graphics, digital signs and digital signage content, event graphics, displays, banners, posters, ADA signage, safety and identification signs and much more, as well as handle everything from design to project management to installation.

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is a recipient of many awards, including being ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past three years, and Best-in-Category in the business services sector on Franchise Business Review’s list of the top 200 franchises for multiple years.

Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com.

Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS.

13 09, 2019

Largest Ball of Lint: Dryer Vent Wizard Attempts to Set GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Title

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-13T10:56:20-04:00September 13th, 2019|Tags: dryer vent cleaning and maintenance, dryer vent repair and replacement franchise, home based franchise, owner operated franchise opportunity, residential and commercial clients|

National Dryer Vent Maintenance and Repair Franchise to Create World’s Largest Ball of Lint, Then Set on Fire to Raise Awareness for Fire Safety

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. — After months of collecting dryer lint from more than 9,000 communities across the country, Dryer Vent Wizard, North America’s leading dryer vent maintenance and repair franchise, will attempt to set the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the largest ball of lint next week. In an effort to raise awareness regarding the dangers of dryer fires, the company’s corporate team and franchisees will gather at 27245 Halsted Road in Farmington Hills, Michigan Thursday, Sept. 19 between noon and 3 p.m. to compile the massive lint ball, weighed on a construction crane, and then set it ablaze with the local fire department.

Dryer Vent Wizard started the lint collection in April 2019 and encouraged the company’s 95 franchisees to save lint they cleaned from clients’ homes as part of the record-setting attempt. At the event, a shipping container full of lint will be assembled into a giant ball, hoping to weigh in at more than 99 pounds to beat the minimum record criteria. The company is hoping to smash this weight, as it has already collected more than 1,000 pounds of lint.

“Thanks to our franchisees’ tireless efforts collecting and sending in lint from across North America, we are ready to set this GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title – and then light it on fire,” said Jason Kapica, President of Dryer Vent Wizard. “Setting the lint ball on fire is a symbol of the prevalence of dryer vent fires. Our mission is to create something big that brings awareness to this important home safety issue.”

Dryer Vent Wizard will be partnering with Farmington Hills, MI Fire Department to extinguish doubt as to whether lint is a fire hazard. They plan to hose down the blazing lint ball to highlight how the lack of proper maintenance not only shortens the life of the appliance, but can have severe consequences to the safety of the homeowners.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are an average of 15,970 dryer fires in the U.S. annually. “Failure to clean” was cited as the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in residential buildings. Hiring a professional to clean dryer vents should be an annual task for homeowners as well as businesses.

For more information about Dryer Vent Wizard franchising, visit www.dvwfranchise.com.

About Dryer Vent Wizard
Headquartered in Farmington Hills, Mich., Dryer Vent Wizard is a North American franchise that specializes in dryer vent repair, replacement, alteration, cleaning and maintenance for both residential and commercial clients. The company was founded in 2004 by Dave Lavalle, who also founded Mr. Handyman, and currently operates more than 95 locations across the U.S. and Canada, serving over 9,000 communities. Dryer Vent Wizard is a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). For more information about Dryer Vent Wizard and to learn more about franchise opportunities, visit www.dryerventwizard.com.

11 09, 2019

Blo Blow Dry Bar Supports Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with Annual Fundraising Campaign

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-11T12:08:42-04:00September 11th, 2019|Tags: beauty services, Blo Blow Dry Bar, exceptional customer experiences, North America's original blow dry bar, salon industry, world's largest blow dry bar franchise|

TORONTO — Blo Blow Dry Bar, the original blow dry bar and the world’s largest blow dry bar franchise, is running its Blo for a Cause initiative to raise money for pediatric cancer treatment and research. Throughout the month of September, Blo locations across the U.S. will be accepting donations for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. On Saturday, September 28, Blo Blow Dry Bar will also donate $2 from each blow out to the lifesaving mission of St. Jude.

“As a survivor of childhood Hodgkin’s lymphoma, this cause is very near and dear to my heart and as a company, we’re proud to advocate for pediatric cancer treatment and research,” said Vanessa Yakobson, CEO and partner of Blo Blow Dry Bar. “St. Jude has made significant strides in increasing the childhood cancer survival rate and we hope that our contributions will help support their continued efforts to end childhood cancer.”

In addition to its fundraising efforts for St. Jude, Blo locations in Canada will also be accepting donations throughout September for its Canadian charity partners, Sick Kids Foundation and BC Children’s Hospital. Blo Blow Dry Bar first launched Blo for a Cause in 2016 and over the past three years, the company has raised more than $39,000 for pediatric cancer treatment and research. For more information or to make a donation online, please visit www.blomedry.com/donate.

Recognized as the original blow dry bar, Blo Blow Dry Bar believes in creating an inclusive space where people of all ages, ethnicities and orientations can feel welcomed, represented and gorgeous. Combining a chic and modern design with a fun and lively environment, Blo creates a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests from start to finish. Expertly trained bloers are available for consultation seven days a week to meet the needs of all customers. Blo’s main hair menu includes seven signature styles to choose from, ranging from a sleek ponytail to flirty and bouncy curls.

For more information on Blo Blow Dry Bar, visit www.blomedry.com, or stay up to date on latest news on Facebook or Instagram.

About Blo Blow Dry Bar
Blo Blow Dry Bar is the original blow dry bar and the world’s largest blow dry bar franchise. The company transformed beauty norms and reinvented the salon industry when it launched the “no cuts, no color” concept: only blow outs. Since opening its first location in Canada in 2007, Blo has grown to over 130 locations across the U.S., Canada and the Philippines and continues to expand rapidly. With a mission to enhance the lives of those in the community through the power of flawless blow outs and beauty services, Blo Blow Dry Bar offers perfectly styled hair and exceptional customer experiences seven days a week. For more information visit www.blomedry.com.

10 09, 2019

FASTSIGNS® Recruiting Franchise Candidates At National Business Media Show In Columbus Sept. 12-14

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-10T12:51:29-04:00September 10th, 2019|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

No. 1-ranked Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Continues to Grow Its Successful Co-brand and Conversion Program throughout East Coast

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today that it will be attending and sponsoring the National Business Media Show at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio, Sept. 12-14, 2019.

As part of its aggressive growth throughout the East Coast and nationwide, the brand is recruiting existing business owners interested in adding a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully converting their store to a FASTSIGNS franchise. Currently, franchise opportunities exist throughout Ohio in markets like Cleveland, Cincinnati, Newark, Springfield, Mansfield and Muncie, as well as Indianapolis, IN.

“FASTSIGNS’ co-brand and conversion programs are an opportunity for established entrepreneurs to expand their business with the help of an award-winning franchisor. FASTSIGNS franchisees benefit from not only our name recognition and strong reputation, but also from our constant research and new product development, and a business model that has proven to drive sales and reduce supply costs,” said Mark Jameson, Executive Vice President of Franchise Support and Development.

FASTSIGNS’ co-brand and conversion franchise offerings can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee.

“I was looking for ways to bring my small business to the next level, and once I came across FASTSIGNS, I quickly learned that the return would be greatly worth the investment for both myself and my business as a whole,” said Josette Brinkman, who recently converted her existing business, Signed By Josette, LLC to a FASTSIGNS center in Findlay, Ohio which is slated to open Oct. 1. “FASTSIGNS has phenomenal brand recognition, and every corporate team member or fellow franchisee I’ve met has been committed to ensuring I have all of the necessary information needed to successfully launch as the newest center for the brand in Ohio. I’m extremely excited to get started and look forward to the opportunity to offer more solutions than just signs for my local community with the help of FASTSIGNS.”

FASTSIGNS is offering a special incentive for first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, which includes a 50 percent reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. was ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and 95 overall on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2019 Franchise 500^®, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Acknowledged by entrepreneurs and franchisors as a top competitive tool of measurement, the Franchise 500^® recognizes FASTSIGNS, the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100, for its exceptional performance in areas including financial strength and stability, growth rate, and brand power. FASTSIGNS was recently named to the 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. FASTSIGNS also made Franchise Direct‘s list of the Top 100 Franchises 2019 and ranked #2 on this year’s Franchise Gator Top 100 list, both ranking the best franchises for 2019. Franchise Business Review has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years, as well as naming FASTSIGNS to its “Innovative Franchises” list in 2017, and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchise lists in 2019. In 2018, Franchise Business Review named FASTSIGNS a “Best-in-Category” franchise. This year, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) awarded FASTSIGNS International, Inc. the Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the seventh consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee training and support.

About FASTSIGNS^®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in nine countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). Locations are slated to open in two additional countries – Malta and Spain – in 2019.

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points.

FASTSIGNS centers provide architectural and interior decor graphics, fleet vehicle graphics, digital signs and digital signage content, event graphics, displays, banners, posters, ADA signage, safety and identification signs and much more, as well as handle everything from design to project management to installation.

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is a recipient of many awards, including being ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past three years, and Best-in-Category in the business services sector on Franchise Business Review’s list of the top 200 franchises for multiple years.

Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com.

Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS.

10 09, 2019

Senior Helpers® Debuts New Assessment Approach Based on “Micro” Social Determinants of Health (MSDOH)

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-10T12:44:29-04:00September 10th, 2019|Tags: Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, dementia, family caregivers, in-home senior care, pairing clients with compatible caregivers, personal and companion care, senior care, trained and certified caregivers|

New Approach Improves Care & Reduces Cost for Seniors

NEW YORK — Today, Senior Helpers^®, the nation’s premier provider of in-home senior care, announced that it has begun deploying the industry’s first data-driven client assessment process based on the concept of “Micro” Social Determinants of Health (MSDOH).

Called LIFE Profile (for Life Independence Function Evaluation), the new assessment for senior care uses a framework to measure a client’s ability across five key categories which include daily living activities, home safety, medical condition management, caregiver stress and quality of life. This new process for evaluating the ongoing care requirements delivers improved client care, reduces overall system costs and provides the basis for a shift in the historic approach to ongoing care management.

To develop LIFE Profile, Senior Helpers partnered with Performance Based Healthcare Solutions, LLC in Houston, TX whose 18-years of research provided the structure for the new approach. LIFE Profile was validated by Senior Helpers in national pilot tests during 2018 and 2019. The tests demonstrated that LIFE Profile and the related care plan do a significantly better job of helping clients successfully age at home.

“Beyond providing improved care for our clients, LIFE Profile and the related care planning process has the potential to significantly change the approach to caring for seniors in the US, while simultaneously lowering health care costs,” said Peter Ross, CEO of Senior Helpers. “The dramatic reduction in readmission rates achieved with the LIFE Profile assessment demonstrates that Senior Helpers’ new framework, and the use of Micro Social Determinants of Health, offers the promise of both better care for seniors and lower costs for society.”

The LIFE Profile assessment was used to develop care plans for seniors who were recently discharged from a skilled nursing facility (SNF) to their home. Those who were evaluated with LIFE Profile and followed the recommended care plan had a 30-day readmission rate of just three percent. This compares to the national average readmission rate of more than 21% for those who do not use LIFE Profile. Importantly, the clients who were assessed using LIFE Profile continued to do well and did not have an increased readmission rate at 60-days or 90-days after discharge.

Senior Helpers has begun to deploy its new LIFE Profile assessment across the country. Eventually, LIFE Profile is expected to be available through more than 300 offices nationwide.

Researchers have long known that Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), which considers the conditions where people live, learn, work and play significantly influence health outcomes. However, incorporating the SDOH elements into care planning for seniors has proven to be very difficult. Working with industry specialists, Senior Helpers developed a new approach that incorporates what they call ‘Micro’ Social Determinants of Health (MSDOH). The MSDOH information is used to recognize those tasks that clients can do for themselves versus those that require additional support. Over the past year, the company piloted the LIFE Profile approach nationally and were able verify a significant improvement in client outcomes.

“It is estimated that nearly two-thirds of patients with multiple chronic conditions and functional limitation lack adequate help for their activities of daily living, and more than half lack satisfactory help with their care coordination,” said Dr. Alan Abrams, a geriatric clinical advisor, member of the Senior Helpers Board of Directors and the former Chief Medical Officer of the Beth Israel Deaconess Care Organization. “The health care costs associated with functional limitation, such as difficulty performing activities of daily living, are expected to grow to $182 billion per year by 2020. We feel that LIFE Profile offers the potential to significantly reduce these costs.”

Information about Senior Helpers new LIFE Profile assessment can be found on the Senior Helpers website here. Details from the pilot test are available in a whitepaper published by Senior Helpers, available here.

About Senior Helpers^®

Senior Helpers^® is the nation’s premier provider of in-home senior services ranging from specialized care for those with diseases, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, to personal and companion care to help individuals looking for a little assistance with daily activities. Founded in 2002 with a vision to help seniors age with dignity despite age-related illnesses and mobility challenges, Senior Helpers^® has hundreds of franchised and owned businesses that have cared for tens of thousands of seniors.

Senior Helpers^® has been named by Fortune Magazine as one of the best places to work in the country in the aging services category, is included in Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise Ranking, is an approved partner in the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, and active in the Healthcare Leadership Council—an exclusive alliance of leading healthcare companies from all health sectors committed to advancing the American healthcare system. Learn more by visiting www.seniorhelpers.com.

10 09, 2019

Expedia® CruiseShipCenters® Sails Ahead; Signs 300th Franchise Agreement

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-10T12:33:35-04:00September 10th, 2019|Tags: booking cruises and vacations, brick and mortar travel agency, Expedia CruiseShipCenters, expert advice for travelers, top cruise travel agency franchise in North America, Vacation Consultants|

Cruise Industry Leader Makes Waves in Franchising with Strategic Multi-unit Growth

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Expedia CruiseShipCenters, a leading cruise travel agency franchise, announced the awarding of its 300^th franchise agreement, reaching a major milestone for the rapidly expanding retail travel agency franchise. The milestone was achieved as a result of two multi-unit agreements that will bring Centers to Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. Expedia CruiseShipCenters signed its first multi-unit agreement in 2018 and the multi-unit franchise opportunity has proven to play a strong, strategic role in the brand’s rapid expansion.

This milestone only builds momentum for the brand as it works toward an overall growth vision of reaching 500-locations in North America over the next five years. As the cruise industry continues to surge with 30 million passengers expected to cruise by 2027 – a 34 percent increase from five years prior – Expedia CruiseShipCenters is poised to capitalize on the growing industry. The cruise industry has made tremendous waves this year with a $69B investment that will debut 24 new ocean liners and 20 new river ships by year-end.

“The industry is hot and as we continue to grow and innovate, we aim to become the number one retail cruise agency in North America,” said Matthew Eichhorst, President of Expedia CruiseShipCenters. “This 300^th signed agreement milestone is a true testament to the strong Franchise Partners we’ve grown with and our incredible corporate team. It is a time to celebrate and continue to build as we march toward our next growth goals.”

This milestone was achieved on the foundation of a strong 2018 as Expedia CruiseShipCenters awarded 26 new franchises and achieved over $790 million in gross bookings. Most notable, Expedia CruiseShipCenters was ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine’s annual Franchise 500 ranking. The prestigious ranking is a testament to the brand’s ability to grow its footprint across North America while continuing to provide unparalleled franchisee support and customer service.

At Expedia CruiseShipCenters, customers can choose from numerous vacation possibilities over land, sea and air, including customized trips, coach and rail tours and insurance – all at Expedia Group prices. Centers offer personal vacation consultations in person, through email or over the phone, so customers have the freedom to book when, where, and how they choose. As part of the Expedia Group family of brands, customers get to enjoy the best of two worlds; competitive pricing on a wide range of travel products and expert, personalized advice from a real person connected to a locally owned business.

With plans to open 35 new franchise locations throughout 2019, Expedia CruiseShipCenters continues to provide business opportunities for driven team leaders who want to build income, equity, and a great lifestyle with a retail business they are passionate about. The brand has eyes set on key development markets including Florida, Texas, California, Georgia, Illinois, and Washington.

To learn more about Expedia CruiseShipCenters please visit https://expediafranchise.com/.

About Expedia CruiseShipCenters

Expedia CruiseShipCenters provides exceptional value and expert advice for travelers booking cruises and vacations through its network of over 291 retail travel agency franchises. As part of the Expedia Group family of brands, the company’s more than 6,400 Vacation Consultants facilitate the booking of a wide range of vacation products including cruises, flights, hotels, vacation packages, tours, excursions and more. The company has been navigating spectacular vacation experiences for customers across North America for 30 years. For more information on Expedia CruiseShipCenters, visit www.expediafranchise.com.

Expedia and CruiseShipCenters are trademarks or registered trademarks of Expedia, Inc. or its affiliates in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners. © 2019 Expedia, Inc. All rights reserved. CST # 2029030-50 and CST # 20893-43

9 09, 2019

Arizona Monsoon Rains Bring Hordes Of Mosquitoes

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-09T11:23:05-04:00September 9th, 2019|Tags: Authority Brands, eliminating mosquitoes and ticks from outdoor living spaces, Lyme disease, Malaria No More, Mosquito Squad|

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Recent reports have shown that cases of West Nile Virus in Maricopa County have already exceeded last year’s total and with monsoon rains well on their way, mosquito bites are also expected to multiply this year. Because Arizona continues to present an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, their influx has doubled each year, a pattern that will likely continue.

Mosquito Squad of Greater Scottsdale is urging homeowners to take preventative measures and is sharing insight into what they can expect when the monsoon rains arrive in force.

Female mosquitoes have been laying billions of eggs and those eggs are just waiting (they can wait up to 2 years) for a little rain to hatch and invade the yards of residents throughout the state. One female can breed up to 1 billion eggs in a month, which can hatch in just 3 days.

As trusted experts in mosquito control, Mosquito Squad of Greater Scottsdale wants to ensure that locals are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to help relieve the mosquito infestation in their yard after the rains.

In addition to tipping over toys, bowls, and other areas of standing water in the yard, also be mindful of the water in less obvious places, like the bottom of a pool toy chest, in the dish under an outdoor plant, or water sitting in drains.

To avoid getting bit when going outside, put on a good repellent containing DEET and dress in light colored, non-clingy clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors and have a difficult time penetrating loose clothing.

Set up a large fan on the patio, as mosquitoes cannot fly against heavy wind.

Mosquitoes are also attracted to the bacteria on smelly feet and the sweat emitted from beer drinkers. So beer drinking guys with smelly feet need to beware! Clean those feet and switch to wine to bring down the risk of a bite.

For consumers who use mosquito foggers or zappers, it’s important to know that the foggers are only effective for a short time and the zappers will actually attract mosquitoes from neighboring properties and could end up worsening the situation.

Most importantly, call the professionals for a yard treatment. Using a barrier treatment at home reduces the need for using DEET-containing bug spray and other repellents. Mosquito Squad uses the latest EPA-registered mosquito control barrier treatments, larvicide and all-natural products to eliminate mosquitoes from yards and outdoor spaces. The brand protects families (and pets) from the nuisance and danger of mosquitoes, ticks and scorpions by offering top-of-the-line services that help customers take back their yards.

For additional information on the services available through Mosquito Squad of Greater Scottsdale, please visit https://www.mosquitosquad.com/scottsdale/ or call 480-500-7282.

About Mosquito Squad
With approximately 250 franchise locations in the United States along with international operations in Kenya and Indonesia, Mosquito Squad specializes in eliminating mosquitoes and ticks from outdoor living spaces, allowing consumers to enjoy their yards, outdoor living spaces, special events and green spaces. For more information, visit http://www.MosquitoSquad.com, http://MosquitoSquadFranchise.com and https://www.theauthoritybrands.com/. Follow Mosquito Squad on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and trends.

About Authority Brands
Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Authority Brands, LLC is the parent company of seven leading home service franchisors, America’s Swimming Pool Company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, The Cleaning Authority, Homewatch CareGivers, Mister Sparky electric, Mosquito Squad, and One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning. Together, these brands provide home services through more than 1675 locations operated by 920 franchise owners in the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Kenya and Indonesia. Authority Brands is dedicated to supporting individual franchisee growth through providing strong marketing, technology and operational support.

5 09, 2019

FASTSIGNS® International, Inc. Appoints New Chief Information Officer

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-09-05T13:30:03-04:00September 5th, 2019|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the franchisor of more than 700 FASTSIGNS® locations in nine countries worldwide, has welcomed Shayne Mehringer as the company’s new Chief Information Officer.

Shayne Mehringer is a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) who began his career with IBM and brings over 20 years of executive leadership experience with an extensive background in franchising, information technology, business startups and acquisitions. In his most recent role as CIO for Neighborly (formerly the Dwyer Group), the multi-brand franchisor based in Waco, he was responsible for the company’s global technology strategy and digital footprint for their 22 brands, representing over 3600 franchises. In that role, he worked to improve program performance, manage risk for Neighborly franchise brands and provide business transformation oversight.

During his time as CIO for Neighborly, Mehringer was also the president of ZorWare, LLC, which is a subsidiary of Neighborly that delivers technology solutions to franchisees, such as point-of-sale and accounting software. In addition, Mehringer has served as Senior Vice-President for a Mark Cuban-owned data center and cloud services company in Dallas, Texas, and he has spent over a decade launching and managing a series of startups in manufacturing, technology consulting, commercial printing and e-commerce. In 2008, he sold these businesses and held a seat on the Board of Directors and served as President of the operating entities until 2011.

“We are thrilled to welcome Shayne Mehringer to our team. With an extensive background in franchising and information technology, he is the perfect addition to support our franchisees,” said Catherine Monson, CEO at FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “We look forward to Shayne’s expertise and assistance to take us into our rapidly expanding future at FASTSIGNS.”

A native Texan, Mehringer is also actively involved with the International Franchise Association.

About FASTSIGNS^®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in nine countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). Locations are slated to open in two additional countries – Malta and Spain – in 2019.

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points.

FASTSIGNS centers provide architectural and interior decor graphics, fleet vehicle graphics, digital signs and digital signage content, event graphics, displays, banners, posters, ADA signage, safety and identification signs and much more, as well as handle everything from design to project management to installation.

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is a recipient of many awards, including being ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past three years, and Best-in-Category in the business services sector on Franchise Business Review’s list of the top 200 franchises for multiple years.

Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com. Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS.

Monthly Archives: September 2019