Providing Security for Owners and Customers
Surveillance Secure services the electronic security needs of commercial, retail, education and government clients. By Nancy E. Williams
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12, 2019
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12, 2019
Dennis Campbell Joins Big Blue Swim School as Vice President of Franchise Development
Industry veteran helps execute growth plan to position the franchise as a national leader
CHICAGO — Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest growing swim school franchises, has announced the appointment of franchise veteran Dennis Campbell as Vice President of Franchise Development.
“I am excited to join the team as Big Blue Swim School’s Vice President of Franchise Development,” said Campbell. “Their best-in-class offerings, data-driven approach, and proprietary technology position them well for longevity and success in the swim instruction industry and I look forward to bringing Big Blue’s high-performing investment opportunity to franchise partners around the country.”
Founded by U.S. National Champion swimmer Chris DeJong, Big Blue Swim School takes a holistic approach to swim instruction, developing critical life skills like confidence and self-esteem consistent with children’s developmental levels. The brand has the depth of leadership and strong investment model to emerge as a leader in the swim school industry.
Campbell has more than 12 years of experience in franchise development and has a strong track record of helping brands expand through franchising. He most recently served as Vice President of Fuzz Wax Bar, Canada’s leading wax bar franchise, helping educate and guide potential franchise partners through the investment opportunity. Prior to that, he worked as the Vice President of Franchise Development at the premier in-home tutoring service franchise, Tutor Doctor.
“Since launching its franchise program, Big Blue Swim School has signed 58 franchise locations,” said Scott Thompson, Chief Development Officer at Big Blue Swim School. “Dennis’ knowledge and expertise in franchising will allow him to leverage Big Blue’s strong unit model to accelerate our growth in key markets around the country.”
With key differentiators such as LessonBuddy™, a proprietary and easy-to-use lesson management platform, a proven curriculum, and optimized operational model involving data-driven capacity planning, Big Blue is positioned to become a dominant player in the $3 billion swim school industry.
“In addition to the consumer proposition, strong support for both incoming and established franchise partners makes Big Blue a franchising opportunity not to be missed,” said Thompson. “Everyone on the development team is excited about the skill set and expertise Dennis is bringing to Big Blue Swim School.”
Big Blue Swim School is a mission-driven business focused on creating big, life-changing moments for kids and families. The semi-absentee business model supports franchise partners with proprietary technology, top-tier franchisor support, and strong unit economics. The company is currently rolling out an aggressive strategy to grow through franchising to 150 pools in 2021.
ABOUT BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL
Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong. The first location opened in Wilmette, Illinois, followed by four additional Chicagoland schools. In 2017, Level 5 Capital Partners acquired a stake in the brand. Through that investment, Big Blue plans to grow through franchising to 150 pools by 2021. Big Blue Swim School’s real estate expertise, strong brand, proprietary technology, and leadership support, coupled with its best-in-class consumer offerings, position its franchise partners for long-term success. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Big Blue Swim School, visit http://YourBigMomentStartsHere.com.
31
12, 2019
Right at Home to Move Headquarters to New Building in Omaha’s Aksarben Village
The in-home healthcare brand’s corporate team will enter the new office in mid-January, beginning a new era of growth for the company.
OMAHA, Neb. — Right at Home is about to get a new home. The premier in-home care brand, which provides services from more than 500 franchised and corporate-owned locations across the United States and in seven other countries, is moving its headquarters to a new building in Omaha’s Aksarben Village. The company will occupy the fourth and fifth floors at 6700 Mercy Road starting in mid-January.
The move marks a notable change for Right at Home, which outgrew its existing space a few years ago and has relied on an annexed location to accommodate its growing team. The new office will bring the entire corporate team back together under one roof just in time to celebrate the company’s 25th Anniversary year.
“It’s an exciting time for Right at Home,” said Brian Petranick, Right at Home President and CEO. “We continue to expand our foothold in the home care industry, allowing us to provide care to more seniors and adults with disabilities, which is sorely needed due to the waves of baby boomers turning age 65 every day. The new headquarters will allow us to enhance the support provided to all of our offices, utilizing the best of current technology. It will also provide a great environment for our current and future employees. We are truly thrilled with the new building and look forward to continuing on as a resident of Aksarben Village in Omaha for years to come.”
The new headquarters will feature innovative designs that enhance collaboration, promote employee health, and offer flexibility, making it appealing to the workers of today. There are a number of traditional meeting rooms, as well as open areas for collaboration. Right at Home employees will also enjoy “touchdown stations” that will allow them to work from virtually any point in the office, as well as ample “phone booths” for private calls. The focal point of the office is the two-story entry that captures the history, culture and spirit of Right at Home. The environment outside of the office also supports Right at Home’s commitment to its employees. Aksarben Village is one of the most vibrant and active areas of Omaha. Walking trails, a health club, multiple restaurants, outside seating, and Stinson Park are just some of the features of the area.
The space was designed to accommodate Right at Home’s expansion over the next 10 years and beyond as the company continues to fulfill its mission of improving the quality of life for those they serve.
ABOUT RIGHT AT HOME:
Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship, personal care and assistance to seniors and adults with a disability who want to continue to live independently. Local Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff, each of whom is thoroughly screened, trained, and bonded/insured prior to entering a client’s home. Right at Home’s global headquarters is based in Omaha, Nebraska, with more than 500 franchise locations in the U.S. and seven other countries. Right at Home was the highest-ranked senior care franchise opportunity on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list in 2018. In 2018 and 2019, Forbes magazine ranked Right at Home as one of the best franchises to own under $150,000. For more information on Right at Home, visit About Right at Home at http://www.rightathome.net/about-us or read the Right at Home franchising blog at http://www.rightathomefranchise.com/blog/. Right at Home’s services include physical assistance, hygiene, transportation, Alzheimer’s care, cancer recovery and more. Right at Home regularly celebrates its industry-leading caregivers and utilizes its proprietary CERT program (Caregiver Education Retention and Training) to make sure its employees are the best in the industry. To learn more about franchising opportunities, please visit http://www.rightathomefranchise.com/.
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12, 2019
FASTSIGNS® Continues Worldwide Growth with Signing of Master Franchise Agreement to Open Centers throughout France and Monaco
Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Will Open Its First Location in Paris in March 2020
CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has signed a master franchise agreement to open 12 centers throughout France and Monaco over the next three years. FASTSIGNS’ first location in France recently opened in Paris.
“We are thrilled to add France and Monaco to FASTSIGNS’ global footprint as we continue to target growth throughout Western Europe,” said Mark Jameson, Executive Vice President of Franchise Support and Development. “Our success in France will play an important role in further proving the strength of the FASTSIGNS business model internationally, particularly in major cities throughout Europe and around the world.”
Parisian entrepreneur Jean-Marc Tabel will lead FASTSIGNS’ development in France, beginning with the first center that opened at 227 Boulevard Raspail in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. Tabel has over 40 years of experience developing awnings, store décor, and printed materials.
“Throughout France, there are numerous privately-owned businesses that need marketing and branding services, and FASTSIGNS is surely the most advanced franchise opportunity in its industry. We are glad to be pioneers for the brand in our country,” said Tabel. “Joining FASTSIGNS met every criteria we were searching for in a business opportunity. With the amount of ongoing support and training that FASTSIGNS provides its franchisees, we are confident we will be successful.”
FASTSIGNS has reported exceptional results this year. The brand signed 40 franchise agreements to develop new, co-branded, and conversion centers worldwide and is projected to open over 30 locations this year. Internationally, FASTSIGNS opened its first locations in Chile and Malta and signed an additional master franchise agreement to develop centers in the Dominican Republic. FASTSIGNS is continuing to seek qualified candidates to grow its international footprint in target markets throughout the world, including Québec, New Zealand, and Brazil, as well as countries throughout North Africa, Southwest Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2019, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and 95 overall on its annual Franchise 500® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Entrepreneur also named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans in 2019. FASTSIGNS also was recognized as one of the top business opportunities for veterans in Franchise Business Review‘s 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans report. FASTSIGNS was named to the 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. FASTSIGNS 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. celebrates its 35th anniversary in business in 2020 as 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 10 countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, Spain, and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®).
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 has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past four years, a 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans by Franchise Business Review and a 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com.
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12, 2019
Valvoline Announces Opening of Company-Owned Quick-Lube Center in Columbus, Ohio Metro Area
New location marks company’s 27th service center in Greater Columbus and expands network of approximately 1,400 company-owned and franchised quick lube locations
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Valvoline Inc. – a leading worldwide supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services – announced today that it has opened a new company-owned Valvoline Instant Oil ChangeSM (VIOC) service center in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.
A core element of Valvoline’s strategy is to accelerate the growth of its industry-leading quick-lube model, which is all about delivering a quick, easy and trusted experience for every customer, every day. The service center is at 8231 E. Broad Street in Reynoldsburg. No appointments are necessary.
Valvoline Instant Oil Change service centers let customers stay in their cars and watch VIOC’s certified technicians perform their service. Technicians complete a professional ASE®-accredited training program that is ranked #4 globally by the Association for Talent Development’s 2019 BEST Award. In addition to full-service oil changes done in about 15 minutes, VIOC performs a wide range of preventive maintenance services, including transmission, radiator and air-conditioning services; safety parts replacement, including wiper blades and light bulbs; and tire rotation. Most locations also offer fuel system and battery services. VIOC services most vehicle makes and models, including luxury, diesel, and hybrid. Visit www.vioc.com to learn more.
About Valvoline™
Valvoline Inc. (NYSE: VVV) is a leading worldwide marketer and supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services, with sales in more than 140 countries. Established in 1866, the company’s heritage spans more than 150 years, during which time it has developed powerful brand recognition across multiple product and service channels. Valvoline ranks as the No. 3 passenger car motor oil brand in the DIY market by volume. It operates and franchises approximately 1,400 quick-lube locations, and it is the No. 2 chain by number of stores in the United States under the Valvoline Instant Oil ChangeSM brand and the No. 3 chain by number of stores in Canada under the Valvoline Great Canadian Oil Change brand. It also markets Valvoline lubricants and automotive chemicals, including the Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife technology motor oil for engines over 75,000 miles; Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic motor oil; Valvoline Premium Blue™ heavy-duty motor oil; Valvoline Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid; and Zerex™ antifreeze. To learn more, visit www.valvoline.com.
TM Trademark, Valvoline or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries
SM Service mark, Valvoline or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries
® Register mark owned by third party
23
12, 2019
Wendy and Erik Skaalerud Sign Lease for Denver Area’s First Big Blue Swim School in Centennial, Colorado
Denver-based entrepreneurs sign lease on the first of five Big Blue pools
DENVER — Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest-growing swim school franchises, is coming to Colorado thanks to Denver-based entrepreneurs Wendy and Erik Skaalerud. The pair recently signed a lease for their first pool, which will be located at the intersection of Himalaya and Smokey Hill Road in Centennial, Colorado.
As initial investors and franchisees of Orangetheory Fitness, Erik and Wendy grew their Denver footprint for Orangetheory to 30 locations before selling. The couple also started their own finance company 15 years ago—Capital Lending—to help small business owners get off the ground financially. When the two learned about Big Blue Swim School while looking for their next franchising endeavor, they were attracted to the high-quality investment opportunity and the best-in-class consumer offering.
“Big Blue offers a recession-resistant model with solid lasting power in the market, but most importantly, it’s a mission-driven business that helps prevent drowning by teaching a necessary and critical life skill,” said Erik Skaalerud. “We are excited to create a whole culture of quality swimmers and open the door to a new level of swim instruction in Colorado.”
The Skaaleruds signed a five-unit deal in March of 2019, becoming Big Blue’s first franchise partner. As they prepare to open the Centennial Big Blue Swim School, they will continue scouting real estate for four additional Big Blue pools in the surrounding areas.
“As we grow with Big Blue Swim School, we look forward to building an incredible community of families who value confidence, water safety and fun,” said Wendy Skaalerud. “Erik and I made a life commitment to align with people of integrity, kindness, grace and authenticity and the team at Big Blue fits the bill completely.”
Since opening in 2009, Big Blue has worked to change the way swim lessons are taught. “Everything we do is focused on showing kids they can do anything through the magic of weekly swim lessons,” said Chris DeJong, Founder of President of Big Blue Swim School. “This mission drives every operation at Big Blue and we think Erik and Wendy will deliver that mission with passion and enthusiasm.”
With an aggressive growth plan in place, Big Blue has already signed 58 units across the country. With a goal of reaching 150 units by 2021, the brand is uniquely positioned to be the leader in the $3 billion learn-to-swim industry. “The Big Blue brand offers franchise partners strong differentiators like a superior curriculum focused on distance-based learning, an innovative proprietary enterprise system, a data-driven real estate strategy and top-tier franchisor support,” said Big Blue’s Chief Development Officer, Scott Thompson. “Beyond that, Big Blue has the experience and data-driven approach needed to scale quickly.”
“We are very excited about Erik and Wendy’s first Big Blue Swim School opening in Centennial,” said Thompson. “Their franchise and business experience will help set them up to be strong and successful franchise partners in Colorado. Their passion for mission-driven work means they will deliver on the Big Blue mission to inspire big moments for kids in the communities they serve.”
ABOUT BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL
Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong. The first location opened in Wilmette, Illinois, followed by four additional Chicagoland schools. In 2017, Level 5 Capital Partners acquired a stake in the brand. Through that investment, Big Blue plans to grow through franchising to 150 pools by 2021. Big Blue Swim School’s real estate expertise, strong brand, proprietary technology, and leadership support, coupled with its best-in-class consumer offerings, position its franchise partners for long-term success. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Big Blue Swim School, visit http://YourBigMomentStartsHere.com.
23
12, 2019
Huntington Learning Center Announces Results Of SAT, ACT And Scholarship Survey For 2019
2019 Represents a Year of Significant Growth, Leadership Changes and Awards for the Leading Tutoring and Test Prep Company
ORADELL, N.J. — Huntington Learning Center, the leading tutoring and test prep company with approximately 300 locations across the country, recently announced the results of its annual SAT, ACT and scholarships survey for 2019. On average, students who participated in Huntington’s standardized test prep programs reported an increase of 229 points on the SAT, and 5.4 points on the ACT. Additionally, Huntington students reported receiving over $71,000 in scholarships on average, up from $57,000 in 2018. Total scholarships awarded to Huntington students surveyed was $187 million, up from $140 million in 2018.
“We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our students, parents, tutors and franchisees over the past year,” said Anne Huntington, President of Huntington Learning Center. “Our individualized programs have a proven track record of success, and we’re honored to be able to have a positive impact on so many students’ lives.”
These scores bring to a close a year of celebration for Huntington, which in 2019 received top honors from Training Magazine for its employer-sponsored training and development programs. Additionally, Huntington Learning Center was named a Top Franchise by both Entrepreneur Magazine and the Franchise Business Review, and received top honors from Newsweek for its excellent customer service.
Also this year, Anne Huntington was named President of Huntington Learning Center, and was honored as Woman of the Year in Franchising by the Stevie Awards, as well as named to NJBiz’s prestigious 40 Under 40 List and the Education Power 50 List. Anne and her mother, Huntington Co-Founder and CEO Eileen Huntington, were also named to Franchise Dictionary’s 50 Women of Wonder List.
2019 was a period of notable growth and expansion for the company, which opened up more than 40 franchising opportunities across the Northeast region — the company’s most significant period of franchise expansion since its inception in 1977. To date, more than 50% of these franchise locations have been sold.
For information about Huntington Learning Center franchise opportunities, please visit www.HuntingtonFranchise.com or call 1-800-653-8400.
About Huntington Learning Center
Huntington Learning Center is the nation’s leading tutoring and test prep provider. Its certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.HuntingtonHelps.com and for franchising opportunities www.HuntingtonFranchise.com.
20
12, 2019
FASTSIGNS International, Inc. Acquires Long Island-based Sign Me Up Signs & Advertising
Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Inks Deal to Convert All Seven Sign Me Up Locations As Part of Its Continued Expansion throughout New York
CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it acquired sign franchise Sign Me Up Signs & Advertising. Each of Sign Me Up’s six locations throughout Long Island and one in New Jersey will be converted to a FASTSIGNS center by February 2020, growing FASTSIGNS’ presence on Long Island to eight locations.
“We’re delighted to end 2019 with this acquisition, adding seven locations to the FASTSIGNS network. We are proud to have Sign Me Up co-founder Bryan Schwartz join FASTSIGNS as a franchisee,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “With dedicated members of the FASTSIGNS corporate team already on the ground in Long Island starting the rebranding and training process for each center, we are revving up to multiply our presence and further expand our reach in New York quickly. The addition of these seven locations is a true testament to the strength of the FASTSIGNS.”
The Sign Me Up locations that will be converted to FASTSIGNS centers are located in Oceanside, Wantagh, Lindenhurst, Centereach, and Bethpage, New York, and Elmwood Park, New Jersey. Additionally, the Sign Me Up corporate office and production center in West Babylon, New York, will also be converted to FASTSIGNS.
As part of its aggressive growth throughout New York, FASTSIGNS recently opened locations in Queens and Brooklyn, and continues to seek qualified franchisees to grow the brand throughout New York and the Northeast. For any existing business looking to expand into this fast-paced market, FASTSIGNS offers co-brand and conversion programs to help owners diversify their product lines and services to meet the growing demand for comprehensive signage and visual communications solutions. FASTSIGNS has helped countless owners of print shops, photography studios, camera stores, embroidery shops, and more, add a FASTSIGNS to their existing business or fully convert their store to a FASTSIGNS franchise. FASTSIGNS franchisees receive ongoing training and support to stay ahead of the competition and exceed the needs of their local business community. Both the co-brand franchise opportunity and conversion can be started with only $15,000 down on the initial franchise fee.
FASTSIGNS also offers 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 has reported exceptional results this year. In the U.S. the brand signed 40 franchise agreements to develop new, co-branded, and conversion centers and is projected to open over 30 locations this year. Internationally, FASTSIGNS opened its first locations in Chile and Malta and signed an additional master franchise agreement to develop centers in the Dominican Republic. FASTSIGNS is continuing to seek qualified candidates to grow its international footprint in target markets throughout the world, including Québec, New Zealand, and Brazil, as well as countries throughout North Africa, Southwest Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2019, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and 95 overall on its annual Franchise 500® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Entrepreneur also named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans in 2019. FASTSIGNS also was recognized as one of the top business opportunities for veterans in Franchise Business Review‘s 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans report. FASTSIGNS was named to the 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. FASTSIGNS 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.
20
12, 2019
Leading In-Home Senior Care Company Right at Home Shares 10 Tips for Winter Safety
Consistently wearing the right shoes, preparing for power outages and stocking up on prescription medication are a few ways seniors can stay safe this winter.
OMAHA, Neb. — Right at Home, a leading in-home care brand with more than 500 locations and over 20,000 clients, has compiled the top 10 tips for seniors to stay safe this winter, when impending snowstorms, freezing rain and sleet prove hazardous for seniors.
“Winter may be a time for holiday celebrations with loved ones, but the season also brings about a great deal of dangerous conditions, which is why seniors need to be careful to prevent falls and other injuries,” said Right at Home CEO and President Brian Petranick. “Even just a little bit of ice on the sidewalk, for example, can cause the most cautious senior to fall. Fortunately, there are several proactive ways seniors and their loved ones can ensure their safety both inside and outside the home.”
Here are Right at Home’s top 10 winter safety tips:
Watch Your Step
Look where you’re going when walking. Assume that all wet and dark areas on pavements are slippery and icy. Ice can be hidden underneath a layer of light snow. Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them first. If you must walk up or down a hill, consider walking along its grassy edge for better traction, and always look for something to grab onto in case you start to lose your balance. Adding salt, sand or cat litter to driveways and sidewalks can provide a layer of slip-free protection.
Choose Your Shoes Wisely
Most winter boots do not keep people upright in slippery conditions. Wear high-traction shoes and boots when venturing outdoors on walks or errands. Shoes and boots with good traction and non-skid soles can mitigate your fall risk, as can walking only on cleared pathways.
Learn to Walk Safely
Instead of walking your usual way, walk like a penguin. Take short, flat-footed baby steps, pointing your feet out slightly while spreading your body weight as evenly as possible over the entire surface of your feet. Walking sideways also helps increase your base of support and balance. In both instances, make sure your knees are slightly bent when walking.
Pro tip: Keeping your hands in your pant or coat pocket for warmth while walking decreases the ability to maintain balance. Make sure you wear gloves and keep both arms by your sides when walking. If you slip, this allows you to quickly extend your arms outward and regain balance. This also helps cushion the impact of falling and decreases the risk of a hip fracture if a fall does occur. If you must carry something in your hands when outdoors, try to keep it light. Better yet, wear a backpack.
Dress for Warmth
Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, a condition in which body temperature dips too low. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults with inadequate food, clothing or heating are among the most common victims of hypothermia. Make sure to dress in layers and do not let indoor temperatures go too low. If you need to step outside, wear warm socks and a warm hat, a heavy coat, gloves, and a scarf. In very cold temperatures, cover all exposed skin. Use a scarf to cover your mouth and protect your lungs.
Prepare for Power Outages
In many parts of the country, winter storms can knock out power lines from time to time. To stay warm during an outage, consider having a backup generator to allow access to a heat source. Also, keep plenty of blankets and sleeping bags so you can bundle up. Stockpile water and nonperishable food so you’ll have supplies available in case of an extended outage. You can fill your bathtub with water to flush toilets and for general cleaning.
Check on Your Prescription Medication
If you’re taking any prescription medication, make sure you have an adequate supply on hand at the first sign of extreme weather. You may have an auto-prescription enabled, but extreme weather can prevent you from picking up your medication. If you’re running low on important medications, contact your pharmacy benefits management company to see if they can expedite the shipment. You can also have your doctor call in your prescription to a local pharmacy.
Power Up for the Storm
Don’t forget about batteries! Make sure you put new batteries in flashlights, lanterns and radios. Have spare batteries available, too. Don’t forget to charge your phones and computers, including auxiliary power sources.
Create an Emergency Contact Plan
Have a plan in place to reach family members and friends if you lose phone and/or internet service. Keep important phone numbers written down in case you can’t access them on your cellphone or computer. Consider staying with a family member or neighbor if an incoming storm is expected to be severe.
Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Using a fireplace, gas heater or gas lanterns can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure your safety by checking the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector and buy an updated detector if necessary.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
The most important tip to keep in mind during the colder months is to ask for help. If you need to clear your property of snow and ice, do not hesitate to ask a family member or neighbor or to hire a professional. Arrange rides to the grocery store and doctor appointments. Many communities have shuttle services specifically for seniors. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help!
ABOUT RIGHT AT HOME:
Founded in 1995, Right at Home’s mission is to improve the quality of life for seniors and adults with a disability who want to continue to live independently by offering in-home companionship, personal care and assistance. The majority of local Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff, each of whom is thoroughly screened, trained, and bonded/insured prior to entering a client’s home. Right at Home’s global headquarters is based in Omaha, Nebraska, with more than 500 franchise locations in the U.S. and seven other countries. Right at Home was the highest-ranked senior care franchise opportunity on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 List in 2018. In 2018 and 2019, Forbes magazine ranked Right at Home as one of the best franchises to own under $150,000.
For more information on Right at Home, visit About Right at Home at http://www.rightathome.net/about-us or read the Right at Home franchising blog at http://www.rightathomefranchise.com/blog/. To learn more about franchising opportunities, please visit http://www.rightathomefranchise.com/.
19
12, 2019
AlphaGraphics recognized by Franchise Business Review for having exceptionally high franchisee satisfaction
Global leader in printing and marketing receives positive results following an annual survey of the franchisees
DENVER — AlphaGraphics, a global leader in printing and marketing solutions, has received positive feedback from franchisees following Franchise Business Review’s annual survey completed in September of this year.
Since 2017, when the brand was purchased out of private equity by MBE Worldwide, AlpahGraphics has seen increasingly positive results when measured by their franchise owners.
For 2019, key categories with the greatest positive score increases include:
- Core values: Up 15%
- Senior leadership: Up 12%
- Financial opportunity: Up 10%
- Franchisees’ general satisfaction of the business: Up 20%
- Franchisees supportive of the brand: Up 10%
“We had 70% of our franchisees participate this year,” said Bill McPherson, vice president of franchise development at AlphaGraphics. “Our owners are validating at a higher level than ever before that they are excited about the brand, the leadership and the future.”
Franchise Business Review is a leading market research firm in the franchise industry that specializes in assessing franchisee satisfaction and performance. The goal is to bring transparency to the franchise industry for prospective owners and to help franchisors achieve performance objectives.
“We find these survey results to be extremely useful in strengthening our brand,” said McPherson. “We have improved on our score each year that we’ve participated in the survey. Once again, our owners have provided insightful and valuable feedback that will continue to support the health of our company.”
AlphaGraphics was founded in 1970, and the company began offering franchise opportunities in 1979. AlphaGraphics services include printing, marketing, signs and other business solutions.
About MBE Worldwide
MBE Worldwide S.p.A. (“MBE”), is a privately-owned holding company based in Milan, Italy. Small and medium-sized enterprises and retail customers find shipping, fulfillment, printing, and marketing solutions through MBE’s network of independently owned and operated franchised locations. MBE Service Centers facilitate the activities of entrepreneurs, people, and businesses through an easy-to-access distribution network. Customized services and products are delivered with a uniquely high level of customer service. MBE presently operates under three different brands: Mail Boxes Etc., AlphaGraphics, and PostNet. Globally, the entire MBE network currently operates over 2,550 locations in 47 countries, with FY2018 system-wide sales of €861($956) Million.
About AlphaGraphics
AlphaGraphics, Inc., with more than 285 locations in 5 countries, is one of the largest U.S.-based networks of locally-owned and operated Business Centers offering a complete range of print, visual communications, and marketing products. Solutions include: full-service digital, offset, and large format printing; design services; mailing; one-to-one marketing solutions; promotional products; and web to print solutions. For more information about AlphaGraphics services, visit www.alphagraphics.com. To learn about franchise opportunities, visit www.alphagraphicsfranchise.com.