October 2020 | Page 6 of 10 | Franchise Dictionary Magazine

23 10, 2020

AlphaGraphics named to Franchise Times Top 200+ Ranking

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-23T10:03:16-04:00October 23rd, 2020|Tags: AlphaGraphics, marketing products and solutions, print and marketing franchise, printing services franchise, visual communications|

Top trade publication recognizes leader in print and marketing solutions as one of the top U.S.-based franchise brands.

DENVER — AlphaGraphics, a leading provider of print and marketing solutions, has been named to the Franchise Times Top 200+ list for 2020, the second consecutive year the company has been recognized on the prestigious list of the top franchises in the United States. The company ranked No. 217 on the list.

“The entire AlphaGraphics team, from senior leadership to franchise owners, is committed to the growth and success of this company,” said Bill McPherson, vice president of franchise development at AlphaGraphics. “Recognition like this, from a respected franchise institution, is a testament to our team’s hard work and AlphaGraphics’ proven franchise system.”

The Franchise Times Top 200+ is an annual ranking system for franchise companies. Franchise Times chooses the top 500 brands based on sales and overall growth from the previous year. The project is the result of a five-month research and reporting effort each year that results in the most credible and objective franchise ranking available.

“Our continued success this year demonstrates the value of the AlphaGraphics brand,” said Ryan Farris, COO of AlphaGraphics. “Our franchisees have overcome significant challenges with grit and ingenuity, and that gives us all confidence for greater achievements as we move into the future.”

With more than 285 locations in six countries, AlphaGraphics was the first U.S. printing franchise to expand internationally, as well as the first retailer in desktop publishing. AlphaGraphics was founded in 1970, and the company began offering franchise opportunities in 1979. AlphaGraphics services include printing, marketing, signs and much more.

For more information, visit http://www/alphagraphics.com.

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.

SOURCE AlphaGraphics

About AlphaGraphics

AlphaGraphics, Inc., with more than 285 locations in 6 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.

22 10, 2020

AtWork Announces Strong Sales Growth as Fourth Quarter Begins

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-22T11:07:09-04:00October 22nd, 2020|Tags: AtWork Group, franchise growth, staffing franchise, temp-to-hire and direct-hire services|

Sales through the third and fourth quarters are significantly stronger than the same timeframe in 2019.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — AtWork, one of the nation’s largest and fastest growing staffing franchises, announced today that, despite the ongoing pandemic, sales numbers are beginning to improve, outpacing even those of 2019 during the same timeframe.

Though the pandemic took a major toll early in the year, by the end of the second quarter, revenue had begun to climb steadily back to pre-COVID levels. This climb has intensified recently with 20% year-over-year growth for the month of October. During the week prior to this release, 31% year-over-year growth was experienced with the sales forecast for the coming weeks looking to be just as impressive.

“We’re so excited that, despite the pandemic, we continue to outpace not only our industry’s recovery, but even our own stellar results from last year,” said Jason Leverant, President and COO of AtWork Group. “As always, AtWork is serving the needs of our talent and clients from both a business development and customer service perspective. It is a direct reflection of our mission statement, to be “AtWork For You” to our clients and talent on a daily basis, and our growth is the result of this continued commitment.”

To learn more about this current growth trend, visit https://youtu.be/42z9g2WqVwE.

About AtWork Group

For information about franchise opportunities, visit atworkfranchise.com.

22 10, 2020

Chem-Dry Grows Amid Pandemic with Signed Agreements to Open 64 New Franchises Across the Nation

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-22T10:37:31-04:00October 22nd, 2020|Tags: BELFOR Franchise Group, carpet and upholstery cleaning service, carpet cleaning franchise, Chem-Dry, green-certified solution, proprietary Hot Carbonating Extraction cleaning process|

Leading Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Franchise Ready to Meet Rising Demand for Healthier, Safer Homes & Workspaces.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As worry mounts about the safety and health of homes and workplaces amid the pandemic – coupled with the start of the peak cold and flu season – residential and commercial cleaning service brands are experiencing unprecedented demand.

To serve this growing need, Chem-Dry, the world’s leading carpet and upholstery cleaning service with a network serving over 11,000 locations a day across 55 countries, has signed agreements to expand its footprint with 64 new franchises nationwide thus far this year.

One of the driving factors for this growth is that Chem-Dry has continued to innovate with new products and services since the start of the pandemic, including the launch of its new MicroPro Shield^TM Service. This new service first disinfects hard surfaces and sanitizes soft surfaces using a hospital-grade disinfectant that is approved by the EPA for use against SARS-CoV-2 (the cause of COVID-19), and then applies a protective antimicrobial coating that kills bacteria and algae on contact for up to 90 days. System-wide sales of Chem-Dry’s overall sanitizing services are up over 300% thus far this year compared to last year.

These franchise agreements will expand Chem-Dry’s presence and allow it to offer its wide array of services to more consumers in the following regions:

30 franchises across the central region in markets including Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas and Austin
18 franchises across the western region in markets including Salt Lake City, Oakland, Santa Barbara, San Jose, Tucson and Spokane
16 franchises across the eastern region in markets including Atlanta, Miami and Boston

“New franchisee prospects are telling us they’re inspired to join our mission of creating safer, healthier homes and businesses and providing peace of mind for families, business operators and employees,” said Ed Quinlan, President of Chem-Dry, part of the BELFOR Franchise Group family of brands. “Another common theme among interested Chem-Dry franchisee candidates is innovation. They feel confident and excited about being part of a worldwide network that has a history of and ongoing commitment to developing new technologies and products that protect homes and businesses from harmful germs and bacteria, such as MicroPro Shield.”

Over its 43-year history, Chem-Dry has become the recognized market leader by building a network of over 2,000 locations across the U.S that cover roughly 93% of the country’s population. To meet the growing demand for its innovative services, the company is actively seeking community-minded entrepreneurs to join the mission of delivering safer, healthier spaces across the country. With prime territories available nationwide, Chem-Dry is an industry-leading brand in a large and growing category, that offers its franchise network world-class training and support.

About Chem-Dry

Founded in 1977, Chem-Dry is the world’s leading carpet and upholstery cleaning service with a network spanning over 55 countries and serving over 11,000 homes and businesses a day worldwide. Its green-certified core cleaning solution and proprietary Hot Carbonating Extraction cleaning process provide a deeper clean, allow surfaces to dry faster, and leave homes and workplaces healthier. In addition to being ranked the number one carpet cleaning franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 32 consecutive years and ranked among the top 10 concepts in the magazine’s list of Top Home-Based Franchises for 19 consecutive years, Chem-Dry has been ranked as the world’s Best House & Office Franchise in the 2018 Global Franchise Awards. Chem-Dry is part of the BELFOR Franchise Group family of residential and commercial services brands. For more information about Chem-Dry and to find a local operator, visit www.chemdry.com, or for more information on franchise opportunities, visit www.chemdryfranchise.com.

21 10, 2020

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. CEO to Deliver Keynote at Canadian Franchise Association’s Business Recovery Summit

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-22T10:59:00-04:00October 21st, 2020|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

Catherine Monson will share insight on Operations and Franchise Support.

CARROLLTON, Texas — Catherine Monson, CEO at FASTSIGNS International, Inc. and Chair Woman of the International Franchising Association will deliver the keynote at the Canadian Franchise Association’s Business Recovery Summit series on October 21.

This event is the 3rd installation in a four-part series that has been taking place during October 2020 with virtual conferences and events to help franchisors and franchisees manage, adapt, and grow their business in the “next normal” during COVID-19 recovery. On October 7, the Franchisee Recovery Summit was held, and on October 14, the Franchise Recruitment topic was addressed. On October 21, the Operations and Franchisee Support Summit will be held, and the Franchise Marketing Summit will take place on October 28.

“I’m thrilled to speak with attendees about leading amid adversity,” said Catherine Monson. “I will be teaching them how to develop the skills and habits to have mental fortitude and a positive mental attitude, so they can successfully lead through challenging times.”

Through the summit, franchisees have had the ability to attend events that address pressing issues and major challenges impacting key components of franchising, to gain insight and enable delegates to gain a better understanding of the current franchising landscape, successful strategies employed by others, and data and intelligence to best adapt to changing consumer needs and behaviours.

The CFA’s Franchise Operations Summit on October 21 has been designed to provide insights, information, and strategies to help franchisors and franchise operations professionals better support their franchisees as they work together toward business recovery.

About FASTSIGNS^®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. celebrates its 35^th anniversary in business in 2020 as the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 735 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in 9 countries including the United States and Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, France and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and 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 touchpoints.

FASTSIGNS has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past four years, and in 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 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 a Top Growth Franchise for 2020. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list, and in 2019, FASTSIGNS was named to America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. FASTSIGNS has also received the Canadian Franchise Association Franchisees’ Choice for 8 consecutive years.

Franchise Business Review has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years, and FASTSIGNS was also included on its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019. FASTSIGNS has been awarded for franchisee satisfaction for multiple years by Franchise Business Review, in addition to a 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans and a Top Franchise for Second Career by Franchise Business Review. In addition, FASTSIGNS was recognized by Franchise Business Review in its 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans report and was recently named a Top Franchise for Veterans by Entrepreneur in 2020.

In 2020, Fastsigns Holdings Inc. acquired GTN CAPITAL GROUP, LLC the parent company of NerdsToGo, an emerging IT services franchise brand. Learn more about sign and 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.

21 10, 2020

JAN-PRO of Utah Launches its “Pay it Forward Franchise Opportunity” to Award Franchises to Struggling Utahns

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-21T10:33:07-04:00October 21st, 2020|Tags: commercial cleaning franchise, Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting, JAN-PRO Franchising International, service excellence to customers, support to franchise owners|

Locally owned cleaning franchisor wants to give back to unemployed and underemployed members of our diverse community.

SALT LAKE CITY — JAN-PRO of Utah, the Regional Franchise Developer is hoping to help Utahns who are struggling by providing a franchise at no-cost to deserving Utah residents.

The owners of JAN-PRO of Utah, are launching Elevate1Life, a non-profit that will award franchise licenses throughout the next year to people who are looking to change their lives for the better. The first franchise will be awarded to a Utah veteran.

“Not only is it the right thing to do to help our Veterans, but personally, my Father served and 2 of my Brothers (Rob & Ron) served during the Vietnam war era,” said JAN-PRO of Utah President Tom Richter. “In fact, Rob was wounded and almost died in Vietnam, so the sentiments and support with the Veteran Community runs strong in our family.”

With tens of thousands of people including veterans unemployed in the state, JAN-PRO hopes to find eligible candidates who are currently unemployed or underemployed to give their life a kick start.

“We have always wanted to be more involved in the community,” said JAN-PRO of Utah President Tom Richter. “Our culture is to donate time, money, and volunteer hours throughout Utah, and this is another way we can give back in a greater way during this unprecedented time. My inspiration comes directly from JAN-PRO’s founder Jacques Lapointe who was motivated to help people create a better life for them and their families via our Franchise model.”

Elevate1Life along with JAN-PRO of Utah will review applications and determine the winning franchise owners. The first winner will be announced on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2020. In addition to being awarded a franchise license, winners will receive additional support and services from the following community partners: The Mill @ Salt Lake Community College, Veterans Business Resource Center (VBRC), EDCUtah, GOED, Salt Lake Chamber, Mission Six Zero / Warrior Rising, Utah Black Chamber, South Valley Chamber, Zions Bank, Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC), Suazo Business Center, Associated General Contractors of Utah, e-2 Total Solutions and BP Media.

“This opportunity is not only about giving someone a hand up during this difficult time, but it is truly about creating leaders in our community,” said Richter. “We will be offering the winners leadership and entrepreneurial education, along with cleaning training to help them learn and grow with this opportunity.”

JAN-PRO of Utah is taking on the responsibility of keeping Utahns safe and businesses clean. While the brand has always placed importance on a clean and healthy workspace, now more than ever Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting is emphasizing to building owners how important it is to take action and keep workspaces clean in order to help protect their employees and provide that “Peace of Mind” knowing they have done everything in their power to help take care of their employees, tenants and clients.

“We have seen a major increase in request for special Cleaning & Disinfecting services during this pandemic. We are on the frontlines helping businesses combat COVID-19. Now is the time to join JAN-PRO to help our community,” said Richter.

To view the rules and regulations and apply for the opportunity please visit Elevate1life.org.

The deadline to submit for the November selection process is October 30^th.

About Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting

Founded in 1991, by Jacques Lapointe, Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting is the largest commercial cleaning franchise in the country with over 8,000 small business owners. In Utah there are 70 of these business owners who provide the cleaning services in Utah. The commercial cleaning brand culture is built on trust, reliability and excellence in cleaning. Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting requires its franchise owners to complete extensive training on Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting brand standards, the latest technologies, Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting branded programs, and the latest cleaning techniques and a checklist of services. The combination of proprietary processes like the Enviroshield^®disinfecting process — the same cleaning process used to sanitize hospital operating rooms — an extensive cleaning regimen each visit, and ongoing training keep the Jan-Pro Cleaning & Disinfecting brand the leader in commercial cleaning. For more information, please visit https://jan-pro.com/utah

20 10, 2020

Anago Cleaning Systems Welcomes New Master Franchise in Boise, Idaho

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-20T14:22:25-04:00October 20th, 2020|Tags: anago cleaning systems, commercial cleaning franchise system, commercial cleaning service, Master franchise opportunities|

Husband and Wife Team Expand Anago into the Pacific Northwest.

BOISE, Idaho — Anago Cleaning Systems, an industry-leading commercial cleaning franchise with over 1,700 Unit Franchises throughout the U.S. and Canada, announced its latest expansion into Boise, Idaho. Gwen and Michael Becknell will take the helm of Anago of Boise and have purchased the rights to the entire state of Idaho. Gwen and Michael will concentrate their initial efforts in the Treasure Valley but expect rapid expansion as Idaho continues to be among the nation’s top cities for growth and opportunity.

“Gwen and Michael are career leaders with notable experiences in operational infrastructure, business development, and global management,” said Adam Povlitz, President & CEO of Anago Cleaning Systems. “We’re honored to have such high-caliber Master Franchise owners in the Boise market and look forward to offering Anago unit franchise opportunities to entrepreneurs in the entire state.”

Gwen and Michael are retired professionals with decades of business and operational leadership experiences. Gwen took early retirement after a 22-year executive career with Hewlett Packard in San Diego and is also a licensed executive coach. Michael retired honorably after a 23-year military career as a United States Naval Aviator, where he earned a master’s degree in strategy and policy. Gwen and Michael moved to Idaho in 2018 and love everything Boise has to offer. They also recognize the growth that the state has experienced in recent years. From 2010 – 2018, Boise saw an 18.2% population jump and, according to Forbes, was the fastest-growing city in the country between 2017 and 2018. In 2019, Boise was ranked among the best place to live for millennials, as well as the best U.S. city to buy a house.

“My husband and I were challenged with dual careers that required us to travel often through the years. However, we never lost sight of how important it was to focus on our family,” said Gwen. “After a lot of research and discussion about different franchising opportunities, we decided on commercial cleaning because of the opportunities the industry presents not only for the Boise business community but the opportunity to work and mentor first-time entrepreneurs as they explore business ownership at the unit level.”

Referring to Anago’s high rankings, including being named #14 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2020 Fastest Growing Franchises list, Gwen commented that choosing Anago was an easy decision based on its franchising structure, organizational support, and decades of industry knowledge.

To explore Regional franchise opportunities with Anago, visit http://www.AnagoMasters.com.

About Anago Cleaning Systems

Anago Cleaning Systems is an international commercial cleaning franchise brand. Utilizing the Master Franchise System, Anago supports over 40 Master Franchisees and over 1,700 Unit Franchisees. Founded in 1989, Anago has set the worldwide standard in business support and structure for local and regional companies to provide unparalleled cleaning services to businesses of all kinds. Anago was ranked #38 overall by Entrepreneur magazine in its latest Franchise 500^® ranking. For further information, visit its website at AnagoMasters.com.

19 10, 2020

AlphaGraphics’ agBox concept offers custom business experiences

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-19T11:49:38-04:00October 19th, 2020|Tags: AlphaGraphics, marketing products and solutions, print and marketing franchise, printing services franchise, visual communications|

New curated experiences for employees and customers can be built to fit any occasion, from virtual conferences to holidays.

DENVER — AlphaGraphics, a leading provider of print and marketing solutions, is now offering agBox (Build Outstanding eXperiences), an innovative way for businesses to build and share unique branded experiences for virtually any occasion, from conferences and training to holidays, celebrations and company milestones.

The agBox concept allows companies to curate and deliver fully immersive experiences for employees, partners and customers with custom gift and event boxes. With the array of opportunities to present agBox experiences and AlphaGraphics’ full suite of print, design, promotion and marketing solutions, the agBox concept is suitable for any event and offers nearly limitless options for customization and personalization.

“Social distancing and remote work have meant that many companies have been looking for new ways to connect with both employees and customers,” said Stephanie Johnson, vice president of marketing at AlphaGraphics. “AgBox not only offers a new tool to overcome those challenges, it’s going to transform how we think about business experiences overall. The enhanced experience of agBox is critical in our current challenging circumstances, and it’s proving to be equally effective in more traditional business environments. We’re confident agBox will inspire innovation and engagement through immersive experiences for years.”

Opportunities to enhance brand identity with one-of-a-kind agBox experiences include business and professional events like conferences, training and trade shows; initiatives such as product launches and new partnerships; birthdays, holidays and company milestones; and welcome kits for new employees or clients.

The agBox concept leverages AlphaGraphics’ position as a leading provider of full-service printing, design, marketing and promotional services. As a convenient one-stop source for business experiences, the company is equipped to guide customers throughout the agBox process, from concept, product selection, packaging options and delivery.

“We’re uniquely situated to provide this option for our customers,” said Ryan Farris, president and COO of AlphaGraphics. “With AlphaGraphics’ comprehensive range of products and services, our business centers offer quality, convenience and customer experience for businesses, which has helped create an important new revenue source during a challenging economic period.”

With more than 285 locations in six countries, AlphaGraphics was the first U.S. printing franchise to expand internationally, as well as the first retailer in desktop publishing. In 2019, AlphaGraphics was named to the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 and the Franchise Times Top 200+. AlphaGraphics was founded in 1970, and the company began offering franchise opportunities in 1979.

For more information about AlphaGraphics, visit http://www.alphagraphics.com. For more information about agBox, visit http://xmpl.xmpiecloud.com/agBox/agBox.html.

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 6 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.

16 10, 2020

Tint World® expands to Iowa with newest location

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-16T11:05:52-04:00October 16th, 2020|Tags: automotive styling, Automotive Styling Centers, award-winning franchise, Tint World, window tinting and security film services|

Urbandale store is first in the state for the National Automotive Styling Centers™ franchise.

URBANDALE, Iowa — Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, has announced the opening of a new location in Urbandale, Iowa, under the ownership of local entrepreneurs Earl and Shirley Macleod. This location is the first of three under the Macleod’s ownership, and the franchise’s first center in the state.

“We are happy to bring a great franchise like Tint World® to Iowa and our local community,” Earl Macleod said. “Tint World® allows us to bring quality auto styling services to the citizens of Urbandale in a way they haven’t seen before.”

Tint World® Urbandale will provide a full range of automotive styling and safety services including automotive tint, automotive paint protection film, vehicle wraps, ceramic coating, mobile electronics, advanced driver-assistance systems, car stereo upgrades, work truck upfitting, and residential and commercial window film installation.

“The new Iowa location allows us to continue our rapid expansion throughout the United States, and we believe Earl and Shirley Macleod have the passion to make it a success,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World®. “They will be great additions to the Tint World® family.”

Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ offer sales and installation of auto and marine accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheel and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection film, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World® is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.

About Tint World®

Founded in 1982, Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ is America’s largest and fastest growing automotive accessories and window tinting international franchise, specializing in car and truck accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, custom wheel and tire packages, maintenance, and repair services.

Tint World® services include residential, commercial, and marine window tinting films, solar films, decorative films, safety, and security films. Tint World® has locations in the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with master franchise opportunities available worldwide. To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com or www.TintWorldFranchise.com.

14 10, 2020

Retro Fitness Secures New Investment from Arena Capital Partners to Expand into the Boston Area

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-14T11:17:42-04:00October 14th, 2020|Tags: fitness franchise, gym concept, Retro Fitness|

Leading Fitness Franchise continues to Expand Following a Strong Increase in Demand throughout the Pandemic.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Today, Retro Fitness, a leader in the high-value, low price fitness space, announced a prominent investment from Boston-based venture capital firm, Arena Capital Partners. The partnership supports the high demand for the fitness franchise to expand and develop health clubs throughout the greater Boston market, with plans to initially open 10-12 locations.

Over the next year, the expansion across Boston is slated to create hundreds of jobs for the local community with the ability to service over 40,000 members, elevating the focus on health and wellness starting in Middlesex and Essex counties.

With exercise, health and overall fitness top of mind across the country, Retro Fitness saw a spike in franchise sales amid the pandemic. Over the past several months, Retro Fitness franchise sales have spiked significantly with a 300% increase from single to multi-unit ownership among existing franchisees, and a 200% increase in sales of new fitness locations. This was a direct result of its new leadership team that brings a new strategic vision and expertise to Retro Fitness’ highly profitable franchise model. Amplifying their growth, this multi-million dollar investment from Arena Capital will introduce the franchise to new territories in Boston.

“We’re thrilled to be able to expand Retro Fitness into the greater Boston area, delivering a world class member experience. The pandemic highlighted the immediate need for people to get fit and healthy. Exercise is medicine and health clubs are now really seen as an extension of healthcare as people need to get healthier,” said Andrew Alfano, CEO of Retro Fitness. “We owe our continued growth to the commitment and experience of our new executive leadership team, independent franchisees, and investors including Arena Capital Partners, as we help to increase the awareness of exercise, health and fitness in the greater Boston market.”

The investment from Arena Capital is one of the many steps Retro Fitness is taking to strategically meet and exceed their growth demands. Retro Fitness is continuing to identify new and emerging markets across the US, giving investors and area developers an opportunity to join an organization poised for growth and continuing to shatter consumer expectations in the fitness and wellness industry.

“We understand that this is a pivotal growth moment for the fitness industry and we’re excited to invest in an organization that’s providing unmatched opportunity for investors,” says Ryan Debin, Managing Partner at Arena Capital Partners. “We are dedicated to seeking new real estate ventures and franchises that focus on the overall wellbeing of the surrounding communities and we’re confident that Retro Fitness will bring great service and high-quality fitness to the Boston area.”

About Retro Fitness:

Founded in 2004, Retro Fitness began as a regional gym concept in the Northeast and has evolved into a leading national fitness franchise with more than 140 gyms open or in development across the country. With a new executive leadership team led by former Starbucks Senior Executive Andrew Alfano, Retro Fitness has successfully navigated the pandemic, while not over yet, and is emerging from the crisis healthy. This coming off of the best Q1 in the history of the company prior to shutdown. Throughout their growth and experience, the brand has become skillfully adept in understanding the needs of their franchisees, now providing a full suite of support services including real estate site selection, delivering a turnkey box, offering training and development both on-site and at our support center as well as having all marketing and brand support being done in-house.

For more information on being a Retro Fitness franchisee, please visit http://www.retrofitness.com/franchising.

14 10, 2020

FASTSIGNS® Ranked #6 On Annual List Of Top Franchises For Veterans By Entrepreneur Magazine

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-10-14T10:53:24-04:00October 14th, 2020|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Recognized for Its Commitment to Helping Veterans Become Franchisees.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has been named a top franchise opportunity for veterans by Entrepreneur magazine on its 2020 Top Franchises for Veterans ranking. FASTSIGNS ranked #6 –the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise in the top 30 franchise opportunities.

Entrepreneur‘s Top Franchises for Veterans ranking highlights the top 150 franchises offering incentives and other programs to help veterans become franchisees. FASTSIGNS participates in the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) VetFran program that provides military veterans with special incentives and assistance to open a franchise. FASTSIGNS also offers a special incentive for veterans, which includes a 50 percent reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875. FASTSIGNS is the only franchise in its industry to offer a 50-percent discount to any veteran, without stipulations.

“We take great pride in the programs we’ve developed at FASTSIGNS, which are designed to support and guide veterans as they transition back into civilian life or look to open a business of their own. Currently, over 12 percent of franchisees in the FASTSIGNS system are military veterans, and that number continues to grow each year,” said Mark Jameson, Chief Support and Development Officer. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to the veteran community, as well as the unlimited potential for success that partnering with FASTSIGNS can bring.”

Darrin Lawrence, who recently opened his first FASTSIGNS center in Richardson, Texas, is a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard and Army Reserve. With 22 years in the military, he offers leadership, a mission-focused work ethic and the strong ability to follow detailed instructions.

“Having an Army background, I appreciate a structured environment and proven processes that lead to success. Over the years, FASTSIGNS’ turnkey business model has given many veterans, including myself, the opportunity to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves,” said Lawrence. “Since signing my franchise agreement in April 2019, FASTSIGNS has supported me every step of the way, providing me with unparalleled resources and an impressive franchisee network that I can tap into and utilize at any time. I’m proud to be a part of the FASTSIGNS system and am grateful for the tools they’ve equipped me with as a small business owner.”

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked one of the top franchise opportunities for veterans. Last year, FASTSIGNS was recognized by Franchise Business Review in its 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans report. Franchise Business Review surveyed over 26,000 franchisees to compile the list of 80 top-rated franchises.

In 2020, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and #55 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 a Top Growth Franchise for 2020. Additionally, Franchise Gator named FASTSIGNS to its Top 100 Franchises of 2020 list, and Franchise Business Review named FASTSIGNS one of its Top Franchises for Second Careers. In 2019, FASTSIGNS was named to America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine, and made Franchise Direct’s list of the Top 100 Franchises. Franchise Business Review has also recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years as well as its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchises lists in 2019.

About FASTSIGNS®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. celebrates its 35^th anniversary in business in 2020 as the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 735 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in 9 countries including the United States and Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, France and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®).

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and 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 touchpoints. 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.

In 2020, Fastsigns Holdings Inc. acquired GTN CAPITAL GROUP, LLC the parent company of NerdsToGo, an emerging IT services franchise brand. Learn more about sign and 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: October 2020