Monthly Archives: October 2021

7 10, 2021

Batteries Plus Takes Charge in Q3, Signs Agreements for 20 New Stores

2021-10-07T17:09:04-04:00October 7th, 2021|Tags: , , , |

Leading Specialty Retailer Surpasses Year-End Goal, Inks Record-Breaking 66 Signings Since January 2021.

HARTLAND, Wis. — The nation’s largest and fastest-growing battery, light bulb, key fob and repair franchise, Batteries Plus, announced today significant third quarter growth with the signing of 20 new store agreements, bringing the brand’s total signings for the year to 66. Included in the 20 new store agreements was a 10-unit signing which will expand the brand in Nevada and Utah, a three-unit signing in Philadelphia, PA and multiple two-packs set to expand Batteries Plus into Sacramento, CA and Wichita, KS. Additional single-unit signings will grow the brand in Georgia, Texas, Illinois and California.

Excitement around the brand’s growth is driven in large part by Vice President of Franchise Development and Relations and Certified Franchise Executive (CFE), Joe Malmuth. Batteries Plus has its sights set on an additional 15-20 signings before the end of the year – solidifying the record-breaking success the brand has seen in 2021.

“Entrepreneurs and current store owners want to join and reinvest in our system because we offer a stable, lucrative business model and our third quarter growth is a testament to the strength of our brand,” says Malmuth. “We are very proud of our continued success and look forward to strengthening our presence in key markets throughout the country with dedicated and passionate owners.”

The brand has noted an exciting trend of multi-unit ownership, showcased nicely by the 10-unit signing in the third quarter. Malmuth projects additional large-scale agreements to transpire before year’s end – putting the brand far ahead of its intended goal of 55 total signings in 2021. This year’s growth has been coast-to-coast with signings set to develop the brand in the Pacific Northeast, the Southwest (including Arizona and Utah), the South (including Florida, Texas, Louisiana and Alabama) and the East Coast (including New Hampshire, Long Island and the Raleigh-Durham area).

“Our focus for 2021 has been to promote infrastructure investments that will continue to help our existing franchisees navigate the uncertain environment brought on by the pandemic. At the same time, we have kept our sights set on expansion of our brand through new ownership,” said Scott Williams, CEO of Batteries Plus. “As we look ahead to the end of the year and early 2022, we will put our efforts toward bringing our unmatched products and services to communities across the country that are currently underserved by our brand.”

This year, Batteries Plus has taken proactive steps to spare its franchisees from inventory obstacles plaguing retailers around the globe. With a solid model in place and team members available to answer questions and address concerns, the company has helped their franchisees avoid major business obstacles. This year has also brought development and expansion for the Batteries Plus leadership team – further solidifying a strong foundation for continued franchisee support – and a partnership with Samsung in which the brand became the first retail partner in Samsung’s Independent Service Provider program. The partnership provides Samsung users access to receive best-in-class smartphone repair services at Batteries Plus locations across the country.

Before signing on the dotted line, Batteries Plus provides prospects with comprehensive data that reveals projected territory performance details. Within two weeks of a new signing, a member of Batteries Plus flies to the market to tour new sites. A key growth factor is the brand’s transparency with investors and the ability to see projected territory performance metrics before signing a deal. With the multi-billion dollar markets the franchise model is built on (Batteries, $110B; Bulbs, $118.3B, Device Repair, $4B, Key Fobs, $4.82B, Smart Home Technology $28.86M), multi-unit owners are able to quickly open locations with speed and efficiency.

With over 760 store locations in operation and development nationwide, Batteries Plus franchise owners are passionate about providing essential products and services for their local communities. Batteries Plus has also carved out a unique niche in the industry with its ‘plus’ services – including battery installation and key fob programming – capitalizing on both its knowledge and service offerings. Positioned for the battery-powered future, Batteries Plus supplies fundamental products that power people’s lives – wheelchairs, mobility scooters, thermometers, etc. Batteries Plus was ranked on Franchise Times Top 400 list, coming in at #130.

To learn more about Batteries Plus, including information on the franchise opportunity or tour a store virtually, visit batteriesplusfranchise.com.

ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS:

Batteries Plus, founded in 1988 and headquartered in Hartland, WI, is a leading omnichannel retailer of batteries, specialty light bulbs and phone repair services for the direct-to-consumer and commercial channels. The retailer also offers key programming, replacement and cutting services. Through a nationwide network of stores, the company offers a differentiated value proposition of unrivaled product selection, in-stock availability and customer service. Batteries Plus is owned by Freeman Spogli, a private equity firm based in Los Angeles and New York City. To learn more about one of Forbes®’ Best Franchises to Buy in America, visit https://www.batteriesplusfranchise.com.

7 10, 2021

FASTSIGNS Ranked a Top Franchise for Veterans by Entrepreneur Magazine

2021-10-07T16:50:56-04:00October 7th, 2021|Tags: , , , , |

The Leading Sign, Graphics, and Visual Communications Franchise Makes the 2021 List at #5 out of 150.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS, the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise, is ranked fifth on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2021 list of Top Franchises for Veterans.

This is the fifth year FASTSIGNS has been included on this list that highlights a wide variety of franchises that provide advantageous opportunities for veterans. FASTSIGNS, which is already associated with low start-up costs, provides veteran-friendly financing options including 50 percent off the initial franchisee fee for veterans and first responders as well as reduced royalties for the first 12 months of business.

“FASTSIGNS is proud to support and offer our veterans the opportunity to open their own business and become successful entrepreneurs,” said Mark Jameson, Chief Support and Development Officer at Propelled Brands. “Over the past several years, we have seen many veterans become highly successful franchisees due to their strong work ethic and motivation to succeed. Because of this, we look forward to each chance we get to add a veteran to our growing network of FASTSIGNS franchisees.”

To develop the list of the Top Franchises for Veterans, Entrepreneur invited hundreds of companies to take part in a survey that requested information regarding each company’s veteran programs. Such information included the company’s veteran incentives and how veteran franchisees are attracted to and supported by the company, as well as how each company scored in the 2020 Franchise 500 list.

“What makes FASTSIGNS stand out is the high-quality support offered by Catherine Monson and the team at FASTSIGNS International,” said Darrin Lawrence, Army veteran and FASTSIGNS franchisee in Richardson, Texas. “During the pandemic, I could see FASTSIGNS working constantly to ensure their franchise centers were deemed essential businesses. Their support allowed me to open my doors in 2020 when everything else was shutting down and helped me transition into my current role as an owner and operator.”

The total investment for a FASTSIGNS franchise is approximately $233,555$307,308 including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000 of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, FASTSIGNS offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee — a savings of $24,875.

To date, FASTSIGNS operates more than 750 locations in 46 states and eight countries. Of these FASTSIGNS franchisees, around 10% are owned by veterans.

To view FASTSIGNS in the full Entrepreneur magazine Top Franchises for Veterans listing, visit https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/topfranchiseveterans.

For more information about owning a FASTSIGNS franchise, visit https://www.fsfastsigns.com/own-a-fastsigns/.

About FASTSIGNS:

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 750 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in eight countries including the United States and Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and graphic solutions to help companies in all industries communicate their message and extend their branding across all of their customer touchpoints.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity and recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees. In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, the corporate umbrella that includes FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE® in Australia, NerdsToGo®, an emerging IT services franchise brand acquired in September 2020, and Suite Management Franchising, LLC, the parent company of MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza in June 2021. With a focus on business-to-business franchises and the people behind those businesses, Propelled Brands will help each franchise confidently navigate forward based on their unique position, momentum and purpose.

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. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).

7 10, 2021

Restoration 1® Named a 2021 Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador of Excellence by NOAA and the National Weather Service

2021-10-07T16:41:41-04:00October 7th, 2021|Tags: , , , , , |

Recognized for making significant contributions to building a Weather-Ready Nation.

WACO, Texas — From wildfires to hurricanes, tornadoes, and torrential rain, weather extreme events are becoming the norm. Restoration 1®, one of the fastest-growing and most-trusted restoration franchises in North America, has not only helped customers recover from these significant events, but through various channels regularly promotes weather awareness, safety and preparedness.

In recognition of the significant contributions Restoration 1 has made to building a Weather-Ready Nation, the NOAA and the National Weather Service has designated Restoration 1 as a 2021 WRN Ambassador of Excellence.

“We are extremely proud of this recognition and the important work we are doing to inspire others to take action and become weather-ready,” Sherry Rose, COO of Restoration 1. “Our teams all stand ready 24/7 and can scale quickly to address storm damage for both residential and commercial properties. We are highly trained in helping our communities recover from these extreme weather conditions.”

For more information and for a list of Restoration 1 locations, visit www.restoration1.com.

About Restoration 1®
Founded in 2008, Restoration 1 is an award-winning franchise that specializes in a wide array of emergency mitigations, restoration and reconstructions services. An industry innovator, the Texas-based company uses advanced technologies and tools to perform restoration for both residential and commercial properties that have been damaged due to water, smoke, fire, mold, storms and more. There have been 350 agreements awarded throughout the U.S. with plans to expand to more than 500 locations nationwide in the next couple of years. For more information about Restoration 1, visit http://www.restoration1.com.

7 10, 2021

In Demand Technicians Fuel Fibrenew’s 200th U.S. Location and International Expansion

2021-10-07T16:32:01-04:00October 7th, 2021|Tags: , , , |

Sought-After Craftsmen called upon to address the ever-increasing leather, plastic and vinyl restoration needs.

BLACK DIAMOND, AB — Fibrenew, known for its vast vinyl, leather and plastic repair and restoration services, has officially surpassed 200 mobile franchise units in the U.S. While there are over 270 Fibrenew franchisees all around the world, the domestic growth is a testament to the ongoing residential and commercial repair needs that allow independently owned and operated artisans the freedom to create their desired scheduled.

The brand is currently operating in 42 U.S. states and is seeking qualified franchise partners to introduce the eco-friendly, convenient service with multiple revenue streams to the following states: Wyoming, South Dakota, Mississippi, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, Alaska and Hawaii.

The need for these specialists expands beyond international borders, as the franchise will open for the first time in Brazil and expand its Mexico presence by adding an owner in Cancun by yearend. This international expansion follows the company’s most recent launch in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.

Fibrenew has welcomed 42 new franchise partners this year, as people from all walks of life are seeking a business opportunity that provides flexibility, while meeting the needs of multiple sectors.

Demand for the trained Fibrenew technicians continues to rise as homeowners are seeking to extend the life of their existing leather and light upholstery pieces from blemishes, tears, to redye needs. Franchisees assist in additional residential and commercial building needs including vinyl siding repair, vinyl flooring damages and PVC plastic window casting on homes, garages and sheds.

“Our small business owners find joy in helping customers preserve items and in many cases increase the value of their assets, like a used car, RV, boat and/or restoring high-end vehicles,” said Jesse Johnstone, president of Fibrenew. “It’s rewarding and fun to see the work of our men and women business owners use their attention to detail and unique set of skills and our proprietary color matching technology to restore everything from couches, restaurant booths, medical exam tables, boat cushions, to all color damage needs.”

The abundance of service offerings and level of superior care are key strengths to the brands stability. With the ongoing factors that fuel the demand, the growth potential is endless as Fibrenew remains the leader within the space.

“Home service needs are up and demand for what we do and how we do it is global,” said Johnstone. “Unlike other franchise concepts, we offer a flat royalty fee, so franchisees are never charged on a percentage of the money they earn. Fibrenew franchisees are able to take ownership of the type of business they want to go after and scale their business to whatever size fits best with their lifestyle and schedule.”

About Fibrenew
Fibrenew is a leading mobile service franchise that specializes in the repair, restoration, and renewal of leather, plastic, vinyl, fabric, and upholstery. With a rich history that dates back to 1985, Fibrenew manufactures a highly-specialized proprietary product line and has pioneered the repair techniques and exclusive color matching technology used by its technicians every day. With 275 franchise locations and 320+ technicians across the USA, Canada, Mexico, Chile, and New Zealand, the company’s eco-friendly restoration services save customers time and money by offering an alternative to replacing their damaged couches and chairs, car and marine components, commercial furniture and more. For more information about Fibrenew franchise opportunities, visit https://www.fibrenew.com/franchising/

6 10, 2021

Retro Fitness and Sadhguru Agree to Collaborate to Promote Physical and Mental Health

2021-10-06T09:41:50-04:00October 6th, 2021|Tags: , , |

Leading Fitness Franchise Offers Holistic Approach to a Healthier Lifestyle for its Members.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. —  Retro Fitness, the leader in exercise, health and fitness that offers high-value, low price fitness memberships, is excited to announce its collaboration with Sadhguru, an internationally recognized speaker, yogi, mystic and visionary, to introduce a holistic approach of self-transformation through physical and mental well-being.

Nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness (51.5 million in 2019) an issue that is now at the forefront of our society especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Retro Fitness has kept its fingers on the pulse of consumers by monitoring mental health creating a greater understanding of its members, their needs, and lifestyles.   By recognizing the impact of mental health on society’s overall health and fitness journeys, Retro Fitness announces its plans to collaborate with credible global partners who can help provide mental health solutions to the brand and its members.  

Starting on October 1, the Retro Fitness mobile app in tandem with the website, will offer powerful episodes for members each week highlighting stress relief along with programming on depression, anxiety, and more as a pathway to an inner transformation and healing initiatives led by Sadhguru.  Sadhguru’s “Take Charge of Your Mind and Emotions,” is a concept that one can apply to all areas of their lives: whether that’s’ their exercise, health, fitness routines, or workplace atmosphere, etc.

“We recognize that mental health is no longer a taboo in American society, and that it is in fact inextricably intertwined with proper exercise, health and fitness,” said Victor Bao, CMO of Retro Fitness. Our healthy cooking segment led by Culinary Institute of America Alumni Chef Elizabeth Makos, which airs weekly on the Retro Fitness mobile application, along with our upcoming release of the Retro Fitness Cobra Membership program which brings at home and in gym fitness together in one single and simple membership, now adds mental health through this partnership with Sadhguru. As a leader in our Fitness Industry space, we continue to add value through these world-class partnerships.  Sadhguru is a gifted mental health expert who possesses a perspective on life and living that intrigues and challenges us all, and we’re thrilled to be able to share his energy with our community and to continue our efforts in creating a healthier America.”

“As Retro Fitness continues its journey of rapid growth and advancement in its 15th anniversary year, we are pleased to collaborate with a company that understands the greater calling to reach those in need of mental health outside the four walls of a health and fitness club with a holistic approach that’s unique in fitness segment,” said Sadhguru.

For more information on Retro Fitness, please visit RetroFitness.com and follow @retrofitness on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

For more information on Sadhguru, please visit isha.sadhguru.org/us/en.

About Sadhguru:
Sadhguru is a yogi, mystic and visionary. Named one of India’s 50 most influential people, Sadhguru’s work has touched the lives of millions worldwide through his transformational programs. Sadhguru has a unique ability to make the ancient yogic sciences relevant to contemporary minds. His approach does not ascribe to any belief system, but offers methods for self-transformation that are both proven and powerful. An internationally renowned speaker and author of the New York Times Bestseller Inner Engineering, A Yogi’s Guide to Joy, Sadhguru has been an influential voice at major global forums including the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, addressing issues as diverse as socioeconomic development, leadership and spirituality. He has also been invited to speak at leading educational institutions, including Oxford, London Business School, IMD, Stanford, Harvard, Yale, Wharton and MIT. In February 2017, Sadhguru was the recipient of the Padma Vibhushan Award by the Government of India, the highest annual civilian award, accorded for exceptional and distinguished service. Dedicated to the physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing of humanity and gifted with utter clarity of perception, Sadhguru possesses a perspective on life and living that never fails to intrigue, challenge and surprise all those he encounters.

About Retro Fitness:

Celebrating its 15 year anniversary, Retro Fitness is a leading national fitness franchise with more than 120 gyms open or in development across the country. With a new executive leadership team led by former Starbucks Senior Executive Andrew Alfano, Retro Fitness provides investors and franchisees with a full suite of world-class support services including real estate site selection, construction, training, marketing and operations support all to deliver a simple turnkey and operational health and fitness club. 

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

6 10, 2021

AlphaGraphics’ Victoria and Carmine Camerato win coveted Franny Award

2021-10-06T09:28:21-04:00October 6th, 2021|Tags: , , , , |

Leading marketing and print solutions provider announces exemplary franchisees.

DENVER — AlphaGraphics, a leading franchisor of printing and marketing solutions, recently announced Victoria and Carmine Camerato, owners of AlphaGraphics Boston, AlphaGraphics Waltham, and AlphaGraphics Woburn, as the 2021 winners of the Franny Award, one of the franchise’s highest and most coveted honors.

The award was developed not only to recognize general excellence as a franchisee but also showcases the franchise owner that is a proven leader that displays brand stewardship and operational success.

“Year after year, the Franny Award is given to the franchisee that goes above and beyond the general requirements of an AlphaGraphics center owner,” said Bill McPherson, vice president of franchise development. “This year, we are excited to award Victoria and Carmine this prestigious honor. Their success is a direct representation of the dedication and commitment they have to both the community and the brand. We know that the two will continue providing value and excellence to the AlphaGraphics family.”

Winners of the Franny Award are chosen using several criteria including sales achievement, an exemplary business operation, network leadership and a proven track record of contributing to the overall success of the brand with positive representation of the AlphaGraphics community.

Victoria and I are incredibly grateful and honored to receive the 2021 Franny Award,” Carmine Camerato said. “Over the past 20 years, we have worked together side by side with our teams and customers to achieve our business success. We are thankful to the countless peers and corporate staff in the AlphaGraphics network who have supported us throughout the years. We feel very blessed.”

AlphaGraphics was founded in 1970, and the company began offering franchise opportunities in 1979. For more information, visit http://www.alphagraphics.com.

About MBE Worldwide

MBE Worldwide S.p.A. (“MBE”), a privately-owned company based in MilanItaly, is a third-party provider of shipping, fulfillment, print and marketing tech-enabled solutions to small and medium enterprises and retail consumers via a Network of mainly independently owned and operated locations. MBE Service Centers facilitate the activities of entrepreneurs, people and businesses through an easy-to-access distribution Network and customized services and products delivered with a distinguished and unique level of customer service. MBE presently operates under multiple brands: Mail Boxes Etc. (excluding the US and Canada), AlphaGraphics, PostNet, Spedingo.com, Print Speak, PACK & SEND and Multicopy and its global Network counts currently more than 2,800 locations in 53 countries, with 11,000+ associates and FY2020 System-wide Sales of €879 Million (US$1,004 Million).

For additional information please visit MBE Worldwide Group websites at www.mbecorporate.com – www.mbeglobal.com – www.postnet.com – www.alphagraphics.com – www.spedingo.com/en – www.printspeak.com –  www.packsend.com.au – www.multicopy.nl –  www.mbe.it –  www.mbe.es –  www.mbe.de – www.mbefrance.fr – www.mbe.pl –  www.mbeportugal.pt – www.mbe.co.uk

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.

4 10, 2021

Zoom Room Achieves Record Growth and Quadruples Its Footprint Across the Country

2021-10-04T10:24:03-04:00October 4th, 2021|Tags: , , , |

Revolutionary Dog Training Organization Exhibits Impressive Expansion Nationwide.

REDONDO BEACH, Calif. — Zoom Room, the venture-backed, revolutionary indoor dog training gym, announced its strong growth since the beginning of the pandemic, including the signings of 30 new franchise agreements, quadrupling its footprint within the year. Zoom Room entered 2020 with nine locations in four states and now has 41 units open or in development across 14 states (15 operational and 26 in the process of opening). By January 2022, Zoom Room expects to have 20 units open and 30 in development for a total of 50 locations.

“The pandemic has accelerated the trend of retail flight while increasing the number of entrepreneurs looking to start a new venture. The pet sector has always fared well even during the most economically-challenged times; the recent boom in dog ownership is no exception. We credit our extreme growth curve to astute investors responding well to Zoom Room’s ability to serve the needs of dog owners with a demonstrably profitable business model, thus meriting our brick-and-mortar place in communities across the country,” said Mark Van Wye, CEO of Zoom Room.

PetPoint, a software program utilized by some 1,200 shelters nationwide, shared that within the past year, pet adoption rates have increased 700%, and Americans are expected to spend a record $100B on their pets this year. Despite the economic uncertainty during the global pandemic, Zoom Room was well-positioned and prepared with their safety protocols in place as the demand for dog training remained high. Zoom Room built a sense of community and transformed dog training into an infinitely repeatable affair with its mission of positive reinforcement methods, emphasizing socialization while focusing on the relationship between dog and owner.

“Zoom Room has seen a tremendous growth in sales with an increase of 99% in same-store sales compared to the prior year,” said Anthony Polazzi, President of AP Franchised Concepts, the Venture Capital firm backing Zoom Room. “We’re excited to support Zoom Room in expanding into multiple markets where the pet industry is booming. Zoom Room has one of the strongest and healthiest profit margins and is truly a company to watch within the franchise industry.”

Zoom Room offers genuine 360° support to its franchisees, beginning with a dedicated real estate team to identify a site with optimal demographics and assistance navigating business formation and financing. Offering retail zoning and requiring only 2,700 sq. ft., Zoom Room is replicable, scalable, and feasible for any city or suburb. With an unusually low startup cost in the pet space, the franchise brand includes easy build-out and low payroll costs with staffing needs limited to only two people at a given time. The company also provides meticulous training as well as state-of-the-art marketing support for its franchisees.

This unparalleled framework and support the Zoom Room franchise system provides won over five-unit franchise developers, Ken and Cindy Mizell, who own and operate locations in North Dallas. “We fell in love with Zoom Room’s unique concept, whose sole purpose is to build and foster the bond between pet parent and dog through classes that emphasize socialization, positive reinforcement, and education. We immediately recognized the profitable business model that could be attained through Zoom Room’s small retail footprint requirements, low payroll costs, and economies of scale that being part of a franchise system offers.”

With impressive profitability and growth trajectory, Zoom Room, a true industry disruptor, attracts those who recognize that the pet industry is the best-kept secret for investors, even though absolutely no prior experience in pet care is needed. The model’s six-figure profitability is driven by passionate loyalty. Clients are retained for years with lifetime spending almost 50x the cost to acquire. Zoom Room boasts more 5-star ratings than any other dog training business in America, plus a willingness-to-recommend score comparable to the level of Apple or Amazon.

James Gies, franchise owner of a Zoom Room near Orlando, made the decision to invest in his own Zoom Room training center after years of experience in overseeing a chain of boutique dog services. “The thriving pet industry provides a substantial opportunity to build a profitable and sustainable business getting to do what brings joy to my life while making an impact in the community. As new dog ownership continues to rise and pet adoptions continue to soar, I plan to capitalize on the success of my Winter Park location and expand with two additional Zoom Room locations.”

After reading about the meteoric rise in the pet food industry and the projected correlated growth of the whole pet industry over the next ten years, corporate marketers, Mark and Kate Scholz, decided to match their family’s commitment to the community and their love for dogs with the potential for immediate profitability. “We knew Zoom Room was the right franchising choice for us and signed up for three units, and are already thinking about adding two more. Our locations are in Austin, Texas and we just love our dogs here! At Zoom Room, we can add to the community by providing a safe and authentic space for dogs and their owners to socialize, learn and be active.”

For more information about Zoom Room, visit https://zoomroom.com/. For those interested in learning about franchise opportunities: https://zoomroom.com/franchise/.

ABOUT ZOOM ROOM

Founded in 2007, Zoom Room® is a venture-backed and revolutionary indoor dog training gym with locations across the U.S. With an emphasis on socialization, positive reinforcement, human education and the value of interactive learning, the company aims to strengthen the bond and communication between dogs and their owners. Zoom Room’s key revenue streams include dog training classes, socialization events and retail products. Zoom Room celebrates responsible pet owners who love to socialize with their dogs and embrace positive dog training methods in a fun, friendly environment for working out with your dog. They are the authors of Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps, the best-selling dog training book of 2020 and Ultimate Puppy Training for Kids. Rooted in the belief that it’s important to give back to the community, Zoom Room works closely with animal rescue and welfare organizations both locally and nationwide. Learn more at https://zoomroom.com/.

4 10, 2021

Cruise Planners Continues to Focus On the Future of Travel

2021-10-04T10:07:36-04:00October 4th, 2021|Tags: , , , , |

With a “Back to the Future” Themed Annual Convention, Cruise Planners celebrates the future of travel by bringing their network together in Mexico.

CANCUN, Mexico — Cruise Planners travel advisors were excited to safely return to its largest in-person event by hosting its annual convention in Cancun, Mexico at the El Dorado Royale. With clever “Back to the Future” movie nods and creative sessions focused on energizing Cruise Planners travel advisors, the five-day event was jam packed with information, entertainment and innovation.

“Cruise Planners’ conventions never disappoint. They are always filled with fun, engaging high-quality productions, videos and best of all, their exciting new innovation announcements,” said Vicki Freed SVP, Trade, Sales Support and Service for Royal Caribbean International. “Cruise Planners certainly did not stop during the pandemic and they will go into the future stronger than ever.”

Cruise Planners leaders reflected on the success of several new programs introduced in 2020 – mainly as a result of the pandemic.  The Where2Next™ Virtual Travel series proved to be enormously successful with twelve events completed to date and over $20 million in total sales resulting from the events.  The Task Manager tool which allows advisors to create a series of tasks and sets reminders and is integrated throughout their entire CRM system, helps advisors never miss a step in servicing their clients.  Over 125,000 tasks have been created so far.  And the All-Inclusive Resort Tool bringing hundreds of resorts into one easy to search and filter location within Cruise Planners’ proprietary booking tool, CP Maxx.

During the executive opening, Cruise Planners executive team including Michelle Fee, CEO and founder; Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner; Brian Shultz, CIO; Theresa Scalzitti, CSO; and Scott Koepf, SVP of Strategic Development shared over twenty major announcements to the network including:

  1. SOAR Dashboard Analysis – Highly Detailed Business Analytics dashboard for Advisors containing 120 different metrics to analyze their business and includes a heightened focus on setting and tracking business goals
  2. Enhanced Sales Opportunities Tool – Allows advisors to easily track the sales stage of their leads and integrates with Task Manager for follow-up reminders
  3. White-Label Websites– Customized, professional websites for cross marketing with local businesses and organizations
  4. Landing Page Templates – Helps advisors easily create professional landing pages on their websites to promote groups, promotions, blogs and more
  5. Enhanced Website Customization Options – Ability to further customize the homepage of their site to showcase franchisee’s unique attributes, services and specialties
  6. Enhanced Social Media and Digital Services – A new, third level of social media and digital footprint management.  The new “CP Pro Elite” program includes daily posting to Facebook and Instagram, Facebook digital ad boosts, directory listings and reputation management, all in one easy to use dashboard
  7. Enhanced Trigger Emails – New cleaner and more concise messaging
  8. Shore Excursion Marketing Email Triggers – Automated emails focused on shore excursion sales leading to a 40% higher conversion
  9. Client Lead Form & Contact Sharing – Automated Advisor Contact Sharing built into the client lead form
  10. Care Team – One Stop Customer Service for franchisees including Phone, Email and Chat communication methods
  11. Hotel Booking Engine – Coming soon, a new hotel booking engine that incorporates American Express hotel programs, enhanced commissions, customer savings
  12. Automated Marketing Program – New marketing program that encompasses emails, push notifications and more utilizing AI and big data
  13. Dedicated Supplier Landing Pages – Robust landing pages on all consumer websites for top suppliers showcasing supplier videos, exclusive offers, featured itineraries and more
  14. Automated Client Texting Communications – Text communications sent automatically for important date reminders such as deposit and final payment dates, as well as, the ability to send quotes and other information in the method preferred by clients
  15. Destination Content Provider – Destination content on over 9,000 destinations will be available throughout their websites, customer marketing tools and more
  16. CP Destination Hub – Central place for all destination content including community sourced information from the Cruise Planners network such as hotel, restaurant, transfer and activity recommendations
  17. Sherpa Travel Restrictions Interactive Map – Interactive map with real-time travel restriction information available on consumer websites and advisor CRM to help easily stay up to date on the ever-changing restrictions by country
  18. 2022 Events – With 5 Bootcamps, 2 Elite Events, 3 CP Tech Days, Land and Luxury Event and the Annual Convention, there are 12 In Person Events available for advisors in 2022 in addition to 6 STAR University training events for new franchisees
  19. Romance Travel Specialist Program – Advisors will be able to receive this designation after completing robust wedding and honeymoon training program 
  20. Task Manager Integration in the Mobile App – The very popular Task Manager tool will now be fully integrated into the advisor’s mobile app which allows them to quote, sell and service from anywhere

“The Power of Cruise Planners is strong, we are ready to put the pandemic behind us and focus on the future of travel,” said CEO and Founder, Michelle Fee. “Our travel advisors have been incredibly resilient and our entire team’s performance continues to solidify our leadership in the industry.”

Fee continued, “We are fighters, we aren’t going to stop innovating, marketing, and helping our network grow into the future.  There’s no turning back – there’s only looking ahead.”

Day 1 ended with Keynote speaker, Shari Wallack, President of Buy the Sea.  Wallack published her memoir, From Hell to Challah and shared her inspirational message about struggle and perseverance during the pandemic.  Wallack hopes that travel advisors can grow, learn, and benefit from her story.

“The future is bright with Cruise Planners,” Fee said about sales for 2022 and beyond.  Cruise Planners, together with strong supplier partnerships, will help rebuild the travel industry and propel us into the future.”

About Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel advisor franchise network and an American Express Travel Representative, has more than 2,500 franchise owners who independently book vacations and travel experiences for their clients. Headquartered in Coral Springs, Fla. since 1994, Cruise Planners provides its travel advisors with access to award-winning, innovative marketing; cutting-edge mobile technology; dynamic, hands-on training; lead-generating tools, as well as professional coaching and development. Cruise Planners has achieved top producer status with every major cruise line, many land vendors and maintains a philanthropic drive earning an International Franchise Association FranTech award for innovation and Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly. Learn more at http://www.cruiseplanners.com

1 10, 2021

Premium Service Brands Adds Handyman Franchise House Doctors to Its Thriving Roster; Second Acquisition in Two Weeks

2021-10-01T11:03:45-04:00October 1st, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

Following the acquisition of The Grout Medic on September 17, House Doctors will be the ninth brand joining the Premium Service Brands family, with all current Handyman Pro franchisees transitioning into the House Doctors system.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Multi-brand home services franchisor Premium Service Brands has announced the acquisition of 36-unit handyman franchise House Doctors. The franchise, which was previously owned and operated by Saltire Brands, LLC, will join Premium Service Brands’ impressive roster of integrated home service concepts that includes kitchen-remodeling brand Kitchen Wise, painting brand 360° Painting, cleaning brand Maid Right, outdoor surface cleaning brand Renew Crew, home-repair brand Handyman Pro, junk removal franchise Rubbish Works, garage-door services brand ProLift Garage Doors and recently-acquired tile and grout cleaning franchise The Grout Medic.

“House Doctors is an innovative and constantly-evolving home-services provider with qualified and passionate owners all over the country,” said Jim Hunter, CEO of House Doctor, who will remain on the team to assist with the transition of House Doctors to Premium Service Brands. “Teaming up with Premium Service Brands, the leading home services name in North America, is an incredibly exciting moment for the brand and the franchisees. The robust support provided by Premium Service Brands’ multi-brand system will allow House Doctors to continue growing its infrastructure with high-quality service for customers and well-positioned business ownership opportunities for franchisees.”

Founded in 1995, House Doctors has been helping homeowners with home repair and light remodeling projects for over 25 years, as well as providing franchisees with a simplified, home-based business model. According to Premium Service Brands CEO Paul Flick, the brand is the perfect complement to Premium Service Brands’ existing portfolio of franchises and will help connect customer bases and increase referrals between brands.

And this year, Premium Service Brands franchisees are being given more concepts to choose from than ever before. House Doctors marks the second acquisition in the last two weeks for the multi-brand franchisor, who recently announced the addition of 63-unit tile and grout cleaning franchise The Grout Medic. PSB also acquired junk removal franchise Rubbish Works in late 2020.

ABOUT PREMIUM SERVICE BRANDS:

Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, Premium Service Brands (PSB) is the leader in home services franchise opportunities. More on franchising opportunities at: https://www.premiumservicebrands.com/.

1 10, 2021

Senior Helpers® Opens State-of-the-Art Caregiver Training Facility in Scottsdale, Ariz., October 1

2021-10-01T10:54:40-04:00October 1st, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

National In-home Senior Care Company Invites Professional Caregivers, Family Caregivers and Members of the Local Community to Hone Skills at Premier Training Venue.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.Senior Helpers®, the nation’s premier provider of personalized, in-home senior care, today announced the official opening of the Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving at its Scottsdale, Arizona, location. The Center of Excellence in Caregiving will open to the public on October 1 and serve as a comprehensive training facility where Senior Helpers-certified caregivers, family caregivers, and members of the community who assist the elderly can expand their skills and knowledge of administering specialized care that is designed to meet the needs and requirements of senior citizens at various stages. With the goal of elevating the overall level of care provided to the elderly in Scottsdale and the surrounding communities, the new location joins existing Senior Helpers corporate training facilities in Baltimore and Chicago.

“It has always been our mission to provide high-quality care to the senior population within our community, and we are extremely grateful and excited to be expanding our Scottsdale location,” said Tiffany Phelan, owner, Senior Helpers Scottsdale. “The new Center of Excellence will allow us to be even more involved with the caregiver community and broaden our reach among families who have loved ones in need.”

Tiffany and Shaun Phelan have owned the Senior Helpers Scottsdale franchise for 15 years and this expansion will bolster the location’s capabilities to serve professional and family caregivers, as well as members of the community who are interested in a caregiving profession. The franchise has partnered with organizations and experts in various fields to develop different training sessions, which will be available for free at the new Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving in the weeks following the grand opening. Each training session will feature a unique curriculum for different areas of care, including hospice-specific training, patient autonomy and dementia care, giving attendees hands-on experience in an apartment setting complete with a living room, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.

Senior Helpers operates with a vision to be the leading home care company in each community it serves and its caregivers in Scottsdale are trained to offer the highest level of care possible based on the company’s Senior Gems® Alzheimer’s and Dementia care program. The Center of Excellence in Caregiving aims to support caregivers’ professional growth and give members of the community—caregivers and those assisting elderly loved ones alike—the tools and experience to hone their caregiving skills, ensuring that local seniors can continue to enjoy the comfort of their own homes despite age-related illnesses and mobility challenges.

“We’re thrilled to be opening a Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving at our Scottsdale location,” said Peter Ross, chief executive officer, Senior Helpers. “Shaun and Tiffany Phelan have a passion for their community and a strong dedication to compassionate senior care, and this new facility can only enhance the quality of services we provide to seniors and families throughout the surrounding area.”

The newest Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving is located at 9832 N Hayden Rd, Suite 103, Scottsdale, Ariz. For more information, please visit www.seniorhelpers.com/az/scottsdale. For inquiries about training session availability, please call Tiffany Phelan at (480) 621-6672 or email tphelan@seniorhelpers.com. Senior Helpers Scottdale is also hiring caregivers. For more information on available jobs call Jorge Pena at (480) 621-6672 or email jpena@seniorhelpers.com.

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 was the first national in-home care provider to be certified as a Great Place to Work. The company has been named by Fortune Magazine as one of the best places to work in the aging services category and one of the best places to work in the state of New York. Senior Helpers is named to the Entrepreneur 2020 Top Low-Cost Franchises list as well as one of Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise Companies. Moreover, the company is an approved partner in the Military Spouse Employment Partnership. Senior Helpers is also an active member of 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 http://www.seniorhelpers.com.