November 2021 | Page 5 of 9 | Franchise Dictionary Magazine

29 11, 2021

College Hunks Hauling Junk And Moving® Makes Historic Move, Sponsors Howard University Men’s Basketball

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-29T12:41:46-05:00November 29th, 2021|Tags: College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, donation pickups, junk removal, residential and commercial moving|

The first company to endorse a Historically Black College & University team in the NIL era.

WASHINGTON — College HUNKS Hauling Junk and Moving®, a national industry leader in moving and junk-removal, recently signed a historic endorsement deal with the Howard University Men’s Basketball players. This deal marks the first full-team endorsement of a Historically Black College & University, and the sponsorship covers the entire roster for the 2021-2022 season. College HUNKS celebrated the moment with the Howard basketball players at a signing event at the original HUNKS headquarters in Rockville, MD.

“One of our Core Values is Building Leaders, so we are proud to support college athletes as they set the path for their future endeavors,” said Nick Friedman, Co-Founder of College HUNKS. “This partnership holds even more significance since Washington, D.C. is where Omar and I were born and raised and where College HUNKS originated as a business. Our sponsorship of the Howard University Men’s Basketball players also ushers in a new era for NIL in the Washington D.C. metro area and, more importantly, for HBCU athletes nationwide.”

“College HUNKS is an iconic brand, and Howard University is an iconic institution, so it makes sense to align our mutual passions for building leaders,” said Tai Bibbs, Men’s Basketball Team Captain at Howard University. “My teammates and I are looking forward to partnering with College HUNKS to promote their amazing employment opportunities for frontline staff, their moving and hauling services for clients, as well as their franchise opportunities for aspiring business owners.”

Since the NCAA passed a new policy that opened up sponsorship opportunities for college athletes, College HUNKS has shown its support across the country. The company launched into these efforts by being the first to sign a collegiate athlete when they teamed up with University of Miami Quarterback D’Eriq King. The brand also signed the University of Central Florida Women’s Basketball players, the first female team to receive a NIL deal. And most recently signed a deal with the San Diego State football team and are exploring other sponsorship opportunities in key markets. College HUNKS partnered with NOCAP Sports, which specializes in connecting brands with college athletes, to sponsor the Howard Basketball team, in which NOCAP coordinated with player Khalil Robinson and team captains Tai Bibbs, Steve Settle III and Randall Brumant.

“Our business started as an underdog with a beat-up cargo van in college, so aligning with student-athletes that historically have not received large media attention is important to our brand purpose. College HUNKS has a diverse team, and we strive to brighten the spotlight within and outside of our brand to build leaders and make a positive impact,” continued Friedman. “By sponsoring the Howard University players and being the first to partner with an HBCU basketball team, we hope to inspire and help people across the country learn about the amazing employment opportunities with our company as well as opportunities for financial freedom through franchise ownership.”

Howard University holds a distinctive significance to College HUNKS Co-Founders Nick Friedman and Omar Soliman. The duo grew up in Washington D.C. and attended Howard University homecoming events during their youth. Friedman also played on the Howard University intramural club basketball team and won the national championship with the team in 2007.

“Community engagement is at our core, and when we are able to partner – whether that be through college athlete endorsements or the numerous social causes that our franchise partners pursue throughout the year – we can further live our values and company purpose that help distinguish our brand,” added Friedman.

College HUNKS has several franchise locations in the greater D.C. Metropolitan area, including Northern Virginia, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Annapolis, Bel Air, Frederick, Upper Marlboro, and Washington, DC.

For more information, visit www.collegehunkshaulingjunk.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

About College HUNKS Hauling Junk and Moving

College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving® was originally founded by two college buddies with a beat-up cargo van and now has over 170 franchises providing full-service tech-enabled residential and commercial moving, junk removal, donation pickups, and labor services in the United States as well as Canada. H.U.N.K.S., which stands for Honest, Uniformed, Nice, Knowledgeable, Service, is a socially conscious, values-based organization and has a national partnership with U.S. Hunger, which strives to end childhood hunger. For every service the HUNKS complete, two nutritious meals are donated to a family or child in need. Within three years of this partnership, donations have exceeded two million meals. Today, the company strives to become recognized as an iconic brand, renowned for its world-class company culture and service, while also providing a viable employment and franchise opportunity to pursue personal and professional fulfillment. https://www.collegehunkshaulingjunk.com.

23 11, 2021

Chick’nCone Seeks National Expansion Through One-of-a-Kind Franchising Opportunity

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-23T17:20:34-05:00November 23rd, 2021|Tags: Chick'nCone, fast-craft restaurant concept, hand-cut chicken tenders in freshly made waffle cones, revolutionizing traditional comfort food|

Fast-Craft Restaurant Concept Set to Have 50 Locations Open by the End of 2022.

EASTON, Pa. — Chick’nCone – the fast-craft restaurant concept famous for serving crispy, hand-cut chicken tenders in a freshly made waffle cone – is looking to capitalize on the growth it experienced throughout the course of the pandemic as it expands into new markets throughout the country. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the brand has grown from four open locations to 24. It now believes that the timing is ripe to start actively looking for experienced entrepreneurs to join its family-driven brand and show the world what makes Chick’nCone #socluckingood.

Chick’nCone’s success can be attributed to its unique menu offerings and the simplicity of its franchise-ready business model. The brand has been able to create an entirely new category of menu items, transforming the familiar comfort food of chicken and waffles into its photo-worthy and on-the-go staple. Since its founding in 2014, the brand has been praised for its natural ability to be showcased on social media. Its concise, yet scalable menu, does not necessitate the need for large retail space, allowing for creative opportunities to grow and innovate into the future.

“We truly believe that what we have created here is something exceptional,” said Co-Founder and CEO of Chick’nCone, Jonathan Almanzar. “The pandemic has definitely thrown some hurdles our way, from nearly halting all of our production and development, to a nationwide chicken supply shortage. But through it all, our team has persevered and established the foundation of a buzzworthy brand. I’m excited and eagerly awaiting what the future has in store for us and our entire Chick’nCone family.”

Almanzar, a man coming from humble beginnings in the small-town communities of Crowley County Colorado, imagined his idea for the Chick’nCone brand based on a small restaurant concept next to his grandmother’s home growing up. The restaurant, called Chicken and Cone, specialized in pasta dishes and ice cream. With the help of his hometown friend and now COO of Chick’nCone, Aaron Havens, the duo discussed creating a restaurant concept of their own, based on a revolutionary central idea, fried chicken in a waffle cone. The rest was history.

Today, Chick’nCone has 24 locations open and operating throughout the United States, Canada and the United Arab Emirates, with plans to have 50 locations open by the end of 2022. The brand’s blooming success can be attributed to its concise menu, small commercial footprint, and the fact that it is pioneering a category of food that has never been seen before.

Chickn’Cone is now searching for experienced franchisees, looking to become multi-unit operators, who align with the family-focused culture of the brand. With a franchise fee of $45,000, the estimated initial investment to open a Chick’nCone franchise is $141,000 – $181,000. For more information on Chick’nCone, or if interested in a franchising opportunity, please visit https://chickncone.com/.

About Chick’nCone

Founded in 2014, the Chick’nCone brand prides itself as a fast-craft pioneer, serving crispy, hand-cut chicken tenders in freshly made waffle cones. The brand has introduced an entirely new category of menu items and is revolutionizing traditional comfort food into a quick and mobile manner. Chick’nCone currently has 24 locations open throughout the United States, Canada and United Arab Emirates, with 58 locations in various stages of development. For more information, please visit https://chickncone.com/franchising/.

22 11, 2021

Mr. Handyman® to Gift Milwaukee Power Tools to 10 Random Winners this Holiday Season in Ultimate Holiday Tool Giveaway

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-22T10:16:10-05:00November 22nd, 2021|Tags: commercial and residential property maintenance, exemplary customer service, home repair and improvement, home repair franchise, Mr. Handyman, professional craftsmanship|

Leading Home Maintenance, Repair, and Improvement Franchise Will Give Away Premium Power Tools to Two Lucky Winners Each Day from December 10-14.

WACO, Texas — Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly® company and the nation’s leading home maintenance, repair, and improvement franchise, is giving away Milwaukee® power tools to 10 random winners this holiday season for its second annual Ultimate Holiday Tool Giveaway. Power tools are essential resources for home improvement projects, and Mr. Handyman® is here to help cross some items off holiday wish lists this year.

To enter the Ultimate Holiday Tool Giveaway, participants can visit Mr. Handyman’s official entry page on Facebook and submit their names into the drawing as early as Monday, November 15, 2021. Starting Friday, December 10, 2021 through Tuesday, December 14, 2021, winners will be chosen twice a day for five days. Void where prohibited by law. Rules and limitations apply.

Whether home improvement enthusiasts choose to keep the power tool for themselves or gift it, there is an opportunity to win a cordless drill, multi-tool, random orbit sander, impact driver, reciprocating saw, jigsaw, angle grinder, circular saw, air compressor or table saw.

“We work hard year-round to bring joy and comfort to homeowners through our assistance with home improvement projects,” said J.B. Sassano, President of Mr. Handyman®. “Power tools play a vital role in that, so we’re proud to be a part of a gift that keeps on giving this holiday season with these top-of-the-line power tools prizes.”

To learn more about the Ultimate Holiday Tool Giveaway, please visit the Mr. Handyman’s blog and Facebook page.

If you don’t have the time to complete a home project on your list and want Mr. Handyman’s help, contact your nearest Mr. Handyman® location. For additional home improvement inspiration for the holidays, visit Mr. Handyman’s website.

About Mr. Handyman®

Mr. Handyman® is North America’s leading commercial and residential property maintenance, repair and improvement company. With about 300 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, Mr. Handyman® is recognized as one of the fastest growing, handyman service franchise systems. Acquired in 2015, Mr. Handyman® is part of Neighborly®, the world’s largest home services franchisor of 29 brands and nearly 5,000 franchises collectively serving 10 million+ customers in nine countries, focused on repairing, maintaining and enhancing homes and businesses, united under one platform serving 10 million+ customers in nine countries. Neighborly® brands are found at Neighborly.com or on the Neighborly App. For more information about Mr. Handyman®, visit MrHandyman.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

22 11, 2021

Unity Rd. Joins the International Franchise Association, Solidifies Position as First Cannabis Dispensary Franchise to Become Members

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-22T10:04:58-05:00November 22nd, 2021|Tags: cutting-edge franchise model, decade of proven cannabis operation, emerging industry, franchise innovation, Item 9 Labs Corp., producer and retailer of cannabis, Unity Rd.|

An Industry First, Dispensary Franchise Demonstrates a Model Brand Utilizing the Franchise Business Model for National Growth and Success.

PHOENIX — Unity Rd., the cannabis dispensary franchise from Item 9 Labs Corp. (OTCQX: INLB), continues to set the pace for growth and success in becoming the first brand of its kind to be named an International Franchise Association (IFA) member. Further solidifying its position as an industry trailblazer, Unity Rd. has broken barriers as the first national cannabis dispensary franchise model in the United States in response to increased demand from consumers and entrepreneurs alike.

The world’s largest membership organization for franchises and franchise suppliers, the IFA is a prominent organization for industry-leaders, education, networking and growth opportunities. For more than 60 years, the IFA has represented excellence in franchising education, advocacy and advancement through the collective power of their membership. With more than 1,000 franchise brands across 300 industries, Unity Rd. is currently the sole franchise model to represent the plant-touching cannabis space.

“It’s an honor to be the first cannabis dispensary franchise to become members of the IFA,” shared Mike Weinberger, chief franchise officer at Unity Rd. “The franchise business model is proven to help current and future entrepreneurs succeed across a wide variety of sectors, but the cannabis industry has yet to tap into franchising. This is a high recognition in the franchising world, and we are confident it will be a mutually beneficial relationship as Unity Rd. continues to be a brand of ‘firsts’ and make our franchise opportunity more accessible nationwide.”

Unity Rd. is primed for aggressive growth as states continue to legalize cannabis use for adults. Currently, the franchise has nearly 20 entrepreneurial groups developing the brand across the nation. Even with the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic, the demand for cannabis products surged to unparalleled levels and many states experienced record sales throughout the year. By the end of 2021, adult-use and medical cannabis sales in the U.S. are expected to reach upwards of $26.4 billion.

Unity Rd.’s proven performance coupled with high-tier franchise support has resulted in eager and sophisticated entrepreneurs and multi-unit operators flocking to the franchise opportunity. The brand is actively seeking qualified franchise partners in target development markets including Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Oklahoma and the Northeastern United States.

Learn more about Unity Rd. franchise opportunities,
contact franchise@unityrd.com or 720-923-5262, or visit unityrd.com.

A Support System Backed by Industry Veterans and a Reliable Supply Chain

Despite the complexities of the cannabis industry, Unity Rd. has developed a streamlined approach and offers the safest route for entrepreneurs looking to stake their claim in this fast-growing industry. The Unity Rd. team boasts more than 200 years of combined legal cannabis and franchising experience, and provides guidance every step of the way – from securing a dispensary license to managing cash flow and product selection. The veteran team shares their knowledge and trusted resources, as well as provides the ongoing support needed to compliantly and successfully operate a dispensary.

In addition to offering the franchise opportunity to entrepreneurs who may be new to the industry, Unity Rd. also partners with existing dispensary owners via its Local Alliance Program, providing access to the buying power, resources and supportive network normally reserved for multi-unit operators.

Unity Rd. franchise partners receive even more resources and supply chain connections as the brand was acquired by Item 9 Labs Corp.—a publicly-traded, award-winning cannabis operator—in March 2021. The combination of the Unity Rd. cannabis retail franchise and premium Item 9 Labs products makes Item 9 Labs Corp. one of the first vertically integrated cannabis franchise companies in the nation. As Unity Rd. grows its franchise network, Item 9 Labs plans to develop or partner with cultivation facilities in states where Unity Rd. franchise partners open cannabis retail shops. This move will give Unity Rd. operators front-of-the-line access to a reliable product supply chain.

ABOUT UNITY RD.:

Unity Rd. is bridging the two previously disconnected worlds of cannabis and franchising. The industry trailblazer is the first to bring the cannabis dispensary franchise model to the United States—with duality of prowess in both industries to back it up. Built up from a collective 200 years in the legal cannabis industry and franchising, the company helps eager operators enter the complex industry with ease. The marijuana franchise pioneer offers its partners the knowledge, resources, and ongoing support needed to compliantly and successfully operate a dispensary. Launched in 2018, Unity Rd. has signed multiple agreements with nearly 20 entrepreneurial groups across the country. Recently, it was named one of the top cannabis retail leaders in the nation by MJBizDaily magazine and one of the “Best Cannabis Companies to Work For” in both the dispensary and cultivation categories in Cannabis Business Times’ elite 2020 list. The company is also the first cannabis business to earn a Franchise Times Dealmakers award. For more information, visit unityrd.com.

16 11, 2021

East Coast Wings + Grill Breaks into South Carolina with New Franchise Agreement

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-16T03:03:45-05:00November 16th, 2021|Tags: East Coast Wings + Grill, fast-casual restaurant, full-service family-dining franchise|

Popular Family-Dining Restaurant Appoints Chief Development Officer to Spearhead Additional Growth.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — East Coast Wings + Grill, a full-service, family-dining restaurant franchise, announced it has a new franchise partner who has signed a franchise agreement for Florence, South Carolina – the first of many deals to come as the regional brand expands throughout the Southeast.

The single-unit deal is with franchise partners Deep and Charmi Patel. The experienced owners are a part of successful businesses throughout Florence, which include convenient stores and a QSR restaurant location.

The South Carolina franchise agreement follows the brand’s recent investments and focus on franchise sales and expansion strategy, which included a refreshed website and several measures to reduce overhead and further strengthen unit economics.

“We had a vision last year to reengineer the website and restructure our franchise sales strategies for the next five years to better attract and serve entrepreneurs in restaurant category,” said Sam Ballas, CEO of ECW+G. “Part of the adjusted strategy involved putting the right people in the right seats at the company,” Ballas said, alluding to moving former Executive VP of Operations Mark Lyso to the role of Chief Development Officer.

Lyso, a 23-year franchise veteran, will lead franchise development strategy and build a franchise sales team to catapult the brand’s growth nationwide. Before joining ECW+G in 2017 in an operations role, Lyso spearheaded growth in franchise development roles for brands including Sizzler and Pizza Rev.

“Over the next three years, Mark (Lyso) will be expanding his development department with individuals who understand that strong unit-level economics is the foundation on which ECW+G is built,” Ballas noted.

East Coast Wings + Grill continues to remain at 46 percent side-door/carryout sales and experience a steady flow of 54 percent dine-in revenue. They are up 26 percent higher than pre-pandemic sales.

“The unwavering strength of our existing operators speaks volumes to the refined and reduced labor business model,” Lyso said. “We’ll be able to strategically place our streamlined operations into regional markets with the right franchise partners who understand you need a forward-thinking solution to generate and sustain profits in the changing restaurant landscape.”

To learn more about East Coast Wings + Grill and its franchise opportunity, please visit www.eastcoastwingsfranchise.com.

About East Coast Wings + Grill

East Coast Wings + Grill is a full-service, family-dining franchise that spotlights buffalo wings. The thoughtfully-crafted menu also offers a variety of other options to satisfy every family member’s taste buds. With more than 60-nationwide locations currently operating or in various stages of development, the franchise recently secured a top spot on Restaurant Business Magazine’s “Future 50” list of fastest-growing, U.S. mid-sized restaurant chains for the second-consecutive year. Entrepreneur magazine also named East Coast Wings + Grill one of the nation’s top franchise investments, and Franchise Times magazine ranked the company No. 383 on its “Top 200+” list of top revenue-producing U.S. franchises. The concept has also been recognized by The Franchise Grade and Franchise Business Review for transparency during the franchise sales process, franchisee support and overall franchisee satisfaction. For more information about East Coast Wings + Grill or its franchise opportunities, visit www.eastcoastwings.com or www.eastcoastwingsfranchise.com.

16 11, 2021

Molly Maid® Celebrates the Gift of Giving for the Holidays

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-16T02:50:16-05:00November 16th, 2021|Tags: gift of time, Molly Maid, nation's leading residential cleaning franchise, Neighborly, residential cleaning|

The Nation’s Leading Residential Cleaning Company Is Getting Festive by Offering the Chance to Win a $500 Gift Certificate.

WACO, Texas — This holiday season, Molly Maid, a Neighborly company and the nation’s leading residential cleaning franchise, announced their Holiday Clean Home Giveaway sweepstakes. For the seventh year, the franchise is giving homeowners the chance to lighten their workload at home by offering participants across the nation an opportunity to win a free home cleaning through the Holiday Clean Home Giveaway sweepstakes.

Molly Maid will award five winners with $500 gift certificates, which they can use during the holidays or save for later. Participants can visit https://neighborly-brands.app.do/holiday-clean-home-giveaway-2021 to enter. The contest is open now through December 31, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. CST.

“It’s the holiday season and what better way to celebrate than with the Holiday Clean Home Giveaway sweepstakes. As we know, this is one of the busiest times of the year for homeowners, so we’re thrilled to bring back this sweepstake and give the gift of cleaning to hopefully relieve excess stress for a few during the holidays,” said Vera Peterson, President of Molly Maid.

To offer someone you know a little break this holiday season and a clean home, Molly Maid gift certificates are available at https://www.mollymaid.com/gift-certificates/. For the complete contest rules for the Holiday Clean Home Giveaway, head to https://www.mollymaid.com/holiday-clean-home-giveaway-rules2/.

About Molly Maid®

Molly Maid® is a residential cleaning franchise with more than 500 franchise locations that collectively perform more than 1.7 million U.S. home cleanings annually. Franchising since 1984, and acquired in 2015, Molly Maid® is part of Neighborly®, the world’s largest home services franchisor of 29 brands and nearly 5,000 franchises collectively serving 10 million+ customers in nine countries, focused on repairing, maintaining and enhancing homes and businesses, united under one platform serving 10 million+ customers in nine countries. Neighborly® brands are found at Neighborly.com and on the new Neighborly App. Molly Maid® established the Ms. Molly Foundation in 1996 to raise awareness and support for victims of domestic violence. For more information about Molly Maid®, visit MollyMaid.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

16 11, 2021

NerdsToGo Seeks Franchise Expansion in the Greater Pittsburgh Region, With Goal Set to Develop Eight New Units Across the Market

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-16T02:40:18-05:00November 16th, 2021|Tags: business services, computer and technology services, NerdsToGo, Propelled Brands|

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo®, a leading computer and technology repair services franchise, is looking to expand its footprint in the Greater Pittsburgh region by eight new units, as the ever-increasing demand for in-home technological solutions continues to rise.

“Working remotely has become a part of everyday business with companies of all sizes choosing to leave the classic office setting for a stay-at-home business model,” said Mark Jameson, chief support and development officer at Propelled Brands. “We see amazing growth potential in the Pittsburgh area, and with the support and resources we offer along with our proven business model, our franchisees will flourish in this market.”

In September 2020, NerdsToGo was acquired by Propelled Brands. Under new leadership, the NerdsToGo brand and its franchisees will receive ongoing training, support, and unparalleled resources to position the brand as a leader among the industry and the local communities it serves.

“NerdsToGo fills a gap that exists between the large corporate IT services companies and the mom and pop stores that are out there,” said Chuck Bailey, the Pittsburgh West NerdsToGo franchise owner. “When Propelled Brands acquired NerdsToGo, I knew they would take the FASTSIGNS business model and bring those tools to the NerdsToGo franchise. Looking at the FASTSIGNS legacy, Propelled Brands is setting up NerdsToGo to be a lean, mean, franchising machine, and I am excited to be a part of that transformation.”

NerdsToGo is currently seeking qualified franchisees to be owner-operators to help the brand grow in this market. Prospective franchisees do not need experience in information technology but should have a strong desire to grow a successful business in their local community, developing relationships with small business owners to become their outsourced IT department.

The initial investment for a NerdsToGo franchise is approximately $146,200 – $217,050, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000 of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, NerdsToGo 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.

For more information about the NerdsToGo franchise, visit https://www.nerdstogo.com, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679.

About NerdsToGo, Inc.®
NerdsToGo, Inc. launched its original location in Guilford, CT in 2003 and quickly became the emerging leader in providing computer and technology-based services to both the small and medium-sized business market and the residential market. NerdsToGo began franchising in 2017 and quickly grew to 25 independently owned franchise locations in 16 states. In 2020, Fastsigns Holdings Inc. acquired GTN CAPITAL GROUP, LLC, the parent company of NerdsToGo.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, the corporate umbrella that includes FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE® in Australia where FASTSIGNS centers operate under the SIGNWAVE brand, 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.

NerdsToGo locations provide the total solution in computer and technology support to customers, and the company’s signature service is delivered by sending a Nerd onsite to customer locations in a well-branded, eye-catching Nerd Van. Customers can also receive service through remote support or by visiting a local NerdsToGo service center. NerdsToGo acts as the IT department for small to medium sized businesses by helping to design, implement and support IT networks, provide data backup & continuity services, cybersecurity solutions, cloud services, remote support, vendor management services and overall routine maintenance.

For information about the NerdsToGo franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679).

14 11, 2021

Cruise Planners Founder & CEO Michelle Fee receives first “Executive of the Year Award” at Travvy Awards

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-14T03:27:00-05:00November 14th, 2021|Tags: American Express Travel, Cruise Planners, home based franchise, travel advisor franchise network, vacations and travel experiences|

Cruise Planners Founder and CEO Michelle Fee honored by Travvy Awards with “Executive of the Year” title.

MIAMI — For the first time in the history of the 7^th Annual Travvy Awards presented by TravelPulse Magazine, Cruise Planners Founder and CEO Michelle Fee was honored with the inaugural “Executive of the Year Award.” The ceremony took place on November 11^th at the Miami Convention Center during the three-day CruiseWorld industry showcase.

“I am deeply honored to be the recipient of the first Executive of the Year Award by TravelPulse Magazine,” said Michelle Fee, Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. “To be recognized for this in one of the toughest years in our industry’s history just proves that perseverance and tenacity will help us overcome any obstacle. I’m so proud of my entire team, and the network of Cruise Planners advisors who work tirelessly alongside me every day to move our incredible industry forward.”

The Travvys recognize the top suppliers, destinations, technology providers and attractions and is voted on by travel advisors in the industry. However, unlike the majority of Travvy Awards cateogories, the “Executive of the Year Award” is not voted on and is instead, a Northstar executive decision based on the following criteria:

This leader is someone very special who continually goes above and beyond and who leads with integrity and grace.
This is a person who is a passionate and positive leader and sets the example every day for others in their company and in our industry.
This leader has made outstanding contributions to their organization and is one who exemplifies the increasingly strategic role necessary to survive in business today.

In light of the hardships the travel industry endured during the pandemic, Fee never stopped championing the 2500 agents under the Cruise Planners franchise by pivoting and providing crucial support and initiatives that highlight her collaborative spirit. Her exemplary leadership and visionary skills resulted in implementing a new virtual series called “Where2Next”, engaging over 18,000 subscribers and generating over $20 million in sales during one of the worst times in travel history.

In addition, Cruise Planners also took home the following awards:

Gold, Best Host Agency
Silver, Best Travel Consortium, Cooperative, or Franchise Group
Silver, Best Travel Technology Provider

“We couldn’t be prouder of Michelle for the steadfast commitment she provides to ensure Cruise Planners’ leadership in the industry.” said Vicky Garcia, COO and Co-Owner of Cruise Planners. “She constantly breaks barriers and pushes for greatness every day, with integrity, grit and humor.”

While the world came to a literal standstill, Fee quickly jumped into action with twice weekly livestreams to the Cruise Planners network keeping them abreast of breaking news and insider conversations with supplier executives. And through her leadership, her team announced over 20 new initiatives that were unveiled at the 2021 Cruise Planners Conference, held in Cancun, Mexico this past October with over 600 advisors.

Fee began her career in1994 as an owner of a traditional brick-and-mortar travel agency and then co-founded one of the first home-based franchise agencies. Her commitment to innovations in technology and marketing has been instrumental to the growth of the company and Cruise Planners is consistently at the top of the leader board and achieved its’ 18th consecutive year ranking as Entrepreneur’s No. 1 Travel Franchise amongst the Annual Franchise 500 – no small feat for a female-owned business.

As an American Express Travel Representative, Cruise Planners sells over half a billion dollars in travel annually, and her recognitions include:

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Hall of Fame Honoree
EY Entrepreneur of the Year^® for Hospitality and Leisure
Florida Trend‘s Florida 500 Most Influential Business Executive in Hospitality
South Florida Business Journal‘s 250 Power Leaders
South Florida Business & Wealth‘s Distinguished CEO Apogee Award Winner
Godmother of AmaWaterways’ AmaSerena
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Woman of the Year

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

14 11, 2021

Interim HealthCare Inc. Acquires Treasure Coast Franchise

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-14T03:16:06-05:00November 14th, 2021|Tags: diabetes, homecare services, hospice and healthcare staffing services, Interim HealthCare, senior care|

Business expansion signals strategic plans for continued momentum and meeting market demand.

SUNRISE, Fla. — Interim HealthCare Inc., the nation’s leading franchise network of home care, senior care, home health, hospice and healthcare staffing services, today announces the acquisition of Interim HealthCare of the Treasure Coast following the retirement of owners, Jan Wahby and Shawn Griffin.

Serving the communities of West Palm Beach and Port St. Lucie, Florida, Interim HealthCare of the Treasure Coast will continue to operate in a sustainable model of clinical excellence, outstanding quality, care delivery and sales performance.

This expansion of Interim HealthCare Inc. represents its humble beginnings as both a franchise- and company-owned hybrid model. While Interim HealthCare Inc. does not intend to completely pivot from its current model, leadership remains open to new possibilities for meeting the market’s overwhelming demand for home healthcare services across the whole continuum of care, with the overarching goal of growing its network.

“We believe the most successful organizations are those that are willing to push beyond traditional boundaries,” said Jennifer Sheets, president and CEO of Interim HealthCare Inc. “When opportunities surface that allow us to expand our client base and strengthen our business, we will pursue them.”

For owners Jan and Shawn, they are both excited and honored to see their business ‘return’ to Interim HealthCare Inc., where their legacy of hard work and dedication will continue moving the business forward.

“In preparing for our retirement, we were thrilled to have Interim HealthCare Inc. raise their hands to take over and continue serving these communities,” said Jan Wahby and Shawn Griffin, 14-year franchise owners of Interim HealthCare of the Treasure Coast. “We’ve spent our careers dedicated to providing comprehensive home healthcare and personal care and support to West Palm Beach and Port St. Lucie, and this personal decision was made easier knowing our amazing employees, clients, patients and families would remain a priority.”

Earlier this year, Interim HealthCare Inc. acquired Interim HealthCare of San Diego, marking the first managed acquisition within the network domestically in over a decade.

Despite strain on the healthcare system caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for a full continuum of home healthcare and personal care and support services has only continued to grow globally. As COVID-19 remains the industry’s current challenge, hospitals and healthcare systems are turning to home healthcare as consumers reconsider their choices for accessing care services.

To learn more about buying and operating an Interim HealthCare franchise business, please visit: www.interimfranchising.com. Those who currently own another home healthcare business and may be interested in exploring potential transition options may email: exploreselling@interimhealthcare.com.

About Interim HealthCare Inc.

Founded in 1966 and First in Home Care®, Interim HealthCare Inc. is unique in combining the commitment of local ownership with the support of a national organization that develops innovative programs and quality standards. The only major franchise brand in its category to offer the full continuum of care, the company strives to improve the delivery of home healthcare and staffing services through 330 plus locations servicing the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. Ranked number one for the third year in a row by Entrepreneur magazine, franchisees employ nurses, therapists, aides, companions and other healthcare professionals who provide 25 million hours of home care service to 200,000 people each year, meeting a variety of home health, senior care, hospice, palliative care, pediatric care and healthcare staffing needs. For more information or to locate an Interim HealthCare office, visit www.interimhealthcare.com.

10 11, 2021

Study Shows 70 Percent of Consumers Report Transparency Is “Very Important” When Selecting an Automotive Repair Shop

Tatyana Stemkovski2021-11-10T10:51:53-05:00November 10th, 2021|Tags: car care industry, Driven Brands, Meineke Car Care Centers|

Meineke’s eInspection Tool Meets Need by Providing Customers with Real-Time Updates.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Four out of five consumers say transparency is “very important” when choosing an automotive repair shop, according to a new Maru public opinion poll.

The researchers’ findings boost the argument that new technologies, such as Meineke’s® eInspection offering, are crucial in fostering transparency and building trust with consumers. Thanks to the commitment to transparency, customers are empowered to make informed decisions about auto repair services straight from their phones, when they receive real-time service updates, inspection pictures and repair videos from Meineke technicians.

The study showed that consumers want more from their auto repair shop than regular service alone, and local Meineke franchisees have experienced customers’ preferences firsthand.

“Now more than ever, my customers want to know exactly what is going on with their vehicle,” said Bert Figearo, who owns 22 Meineke centers in Las Vegas. “They want transparency about the pricing of our repair services, and they want to understand the work that is being done on their vehicle.”

The eInspection tool allows customers to better understand services offered and recommended, including oil changes, exhaust and mufflers, brakes, tires and wheels, air conditioning, steering and suspension, and more. As a result, customers can make informed choices about their vehicles.

The survey, conducted in early October, assessed consumers’ preferences when selecting an automotive repair shop. Researchers also found that more than half of consumers are more likely to choose an auto repair shop that offers a loyalty program (59 percent) and gives back to its local community (54 percent).

“At Meineke, we’re proud to offer eInspection and a rewards program, so that our customers can see what technicians are working on in the garage, and they can earn points toward free maintenance services,” said Kaitlin O’Malley, digital marketing manager for Meineke. “We’re also excited that consumers share our commitment to supporting charitable organizations like Operation Homefront, which provides financial relief to military families in need.”

Consumers interested in visiting their local franchise can learn more about Meineke’s® eInspection, Rewards Program, philanthropic work and services at www.Meineke.com.

About the Survey
From October 1^st to October 2^nd 2021 an online survey of 1,519 randomly selected American adults who are Maru Springboard America Community panel members was executed by Maru/Blue. For comparison purposes, a probability sample of this size has an estimated margin of error (which measures sampling variability) of ±2.5%, 19 times out of 20. The results have been weighted by education, age, gender and region to match the population, according to Census data. This is to ensure a sample representative of the entire adult population of America. Discrepancies in or between totals are due to rounding.

About Driven Brands

Driven Brands™, headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is the largest automotive services company in North America, providing a range of consumer and commercial automotive needs, including paint, collision, glass, vehicle repair, oil change, maintenance and car wash. Driven Brands is the parent company of some of North America’s leading automotive service businesses including Take 5 Oil Change^®, Meineke Car Care Centers^®, Maaco^®, 1-800-Radiator & A/C^® and CARSTAR^®. Driven Brands has more than 4,300 locations across 15 countries and services over 50 million vehicles annually. Driven Brands’ network generates more than $1 billion in revenue from more than $4 billion in system-wide sales. For more information on the power of Driven Brands, visit www.DrivenBrands.com.

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Monthly Archives: November 2021