January 2023 | Page 6 of 7 | Franchise Dictionary Magazine

11 01, 2023

Unity Rd. Shop Owner Awarded Recreational License For Cannabis Business in New Jersey

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:48:34-05:00January 11th, 2023|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.|

Local Entrepreneur Receives Approval To Begin Build Out For One of First Newly Licensed Dispensaries in the Garden State; National U.S. Dispensary Franchisor Expands To Fourth U.S. Market.

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Unity Rd., the first true national cannabis dispensary franchise in the U.S., announced today that the brand is officially entering the Garden State. The local Unity Rd. shop owner and entrepreneur, Dishen Patel, received approval for a recreational business license from the state of New Jersey and the municipality of Franklin Township in Somerset County to open and operate a new cannabis business.

This approval is among the first recreational business licenses the state has awarded outside of existing medicinal cannabis businesses that were converted after the recreational sale of cannabis was legalized by the state. The Franklin Township Unity Rd. is expected to open in the first half of 2023.

Patel has spent the past decade in private equity investing in consumer-driven brands, including several restaurant concepts that utilize a franchise business model. He has also previously acquired brands and transitioned them into franchise companies.

“I was seeking next-generation business opportunities in hypergrowth industries in which I had a passion,” Patel said, recognizing that the $28 billion U.S. cannabis market is on track to reach $46 billion by 2026. “I know how to run a retail business, but the cannabis space is layered with complexities. I needed a direct route to alleviate barriers to entry and set myself up for success, while confidently making decisions.”

The Company signed a licensing agreement with Patel as a vendor contractor, stating that it will provide him with consulting services across real estate, licensing, compliance, operations, product procurement and marketing, among others.

Patel continued, “With the Unity Rd. team guiding me at every step, I am able to yield their expertise to operate and grow my future dispensary, while keeping my attention focused on what matters most – providing my neighbors with a trusted local cannabis source they can rely on in the New Jersey community.”

While New Jersey’s Medicinal Cannabis Program has been live since 2012, legal recreational cannabis sales in the state launched on April 21, 2022, nearly totaling $1.9 million the first day. In the initial ten weeks, the market quickly hit $80 million in legal sales and reached $4.6 million in tax revenue, according to New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission.

“Unity Rd. strives to empower entrepreneurs who understand the intricacies that come with cannabis but also believe in the potential benefits and growth opportunities that the space brings to the table,” said CEO of Unity Rd., Mike Weinberger. “Being able to enter the market with a devoted local entrepreneur such as Dishen, who understands the inner workings of the business model, will streamline the process of operating a compliant and successful cannabis business, while positively impacting the community.

Patel joins three additional entrepreneurial groups that have signed agreements with the Company to develop Unity Rd. shops across New Jersey and are currently in various stages of development.

Weinberger added, “As the market for legal cannabis continues to grow, aspiring entrepreneurs are witnessing the birth of an entirely new industry filled with incredible opportunities, but the chance to get in early will not last forever.”

Cannabis is a highly regulated industry with laws that differ from state-to-state and change day-by-day. These market conditions make it next-to-impossible for industry newcomers to enter – let alone operate a successful business. Unity Rd. breaks down these barriers, helping independent business owners bring the benefits of the growing industry to their hometown to strengthen their communities, invest in local programs and build a legacy.

To learn more about the Unity Rd. franchise opportunity, contact franchise@unityrd.com, call 720-923-5262 or visit unityrd.com.

ABOUT UNITY RD.:

Unity Rd., the cannabis dispensary franchise from Item 9 Labs Corp., 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 four shops open across the U.S. along with multiple agreements signed with 20 entrepreneurial groups who are developing the brand in 10-plus states. In 2021, Unity Rd. became the first member of its kind to join the International Franchise Association (IFA), solidifying its position as the first true cannabis dispensary franchise in the U.S. The franchise was also named one of the “Best Cannabis Companies to Work For” in the dispensary category for Cannabis Business Times’ 2022 and 2020 lists. For more information, visit unityrd.com.

11 01, 2023

Gotcha Covered opens new location in South Florida

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:41:59-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: blinds, custom window treatments, draperies, Gotcha Covered, shutters|

Leading window treatment franchise to provide premium window treatments, consultation services to Miami homeowners.

MIAMI — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, is expanding to South Florida after announcing the opening of Gotcha Covered of South Miami. The new home-based center is owned and operated by Mercedes Garcia Otegui.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, this business will provide the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in South Miami including Key Biscayne, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Pinecrest and Fisher Island. The center will offer a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

“At Gotcha Covered, we pride ourselves in providing communities across North America with premium window treatments while also creating the best customer experience,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. “Our franchise owners love helping homeowners and businesses create the perfect ambiance for their spaces, and we know Mercedes (Garcia Otegui) will provide the residents of Miami with an amazing experience.”

A mother of two, Otegui holds a master’s in studio arts for The University of Sydney, a certificate in business management from The University of California at Berkeley, and a post-baccalaureate diploma in counseling from The University of California at Berkeley.

Otegui has previous experience in real estate investment, corporate marketing, product development and entrepreneurship. While looking for business opportunities, she stumbled across Gotcha Covered with the help of a franchise broker.

“The moment I found Gotcha Covered, I knew it was the right franchise for me. The overall experience has been great,” said Otegui. “There are several aspects of the franchise that I love, from the work-life balance to the possibility of using my experience and connections in real estate and construction to grow my business.

“I look forward to growing my franchise into a successful business that offers opportunities to someone looking to start a career in something new while also offering the residents of Miami with high-quality window treatments.”

Adding 40 new franchise locations in 2022, Gotcha Covered currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of South Miami, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/south-miami/.

About Gotcha Covered

Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

11 01, 2023

Tint World® Ranked for 10th Consecutive Year Among the Top Franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:29:54-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: automotive styling, Automotive Styling Centers, award-winning franchise, Tint World, window tinting and security film services|

Prominent business publication names the National Automotive Styling Centers™ franchise to its influential lists of top-performing opportunities for the 10^th consecutive year.

BOCA RATON, Fla. — Tint World^®Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, was recognized for the 10^th consecutive year as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500^®, the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking. The 44^th annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500^®is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the 2023 Franchise 500^®ranks Tint World^®368^thfor its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchise industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur editor in chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44^th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative, and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”

In Entrepreneur‘s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 44-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500^®in ranking order.

Over its 44 years in existence, the Franchise 500^®has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World^®‘s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

“This is the 10^th year in a row that Tint World^®appears in the prestigious Entrepreneur Franchise 500^®, which confirms that our strategy for growth is working,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World^®. “Our vision and commitment to franchisees distinguishes us in this industry, and we’re continuing to offer proven, repeatable systems and innovative support to drive their success in 2023.”

To view Tint World^®in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2023 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands Jan. 17.

Tint World^®Automotive Styling Centers™ offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, 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 window tinting, protective films, vehicle wraps, audio and electronics, security systems, car and truck accessories, wheels and tires, detailing and ceramic coating, and installation services.

Tint World^®Mobile Services™ include marine, residential, and commercial window tinting films, solar films, decorative films, safety and security films, and protective ceramic coatings. 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  https://www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities.

11 01, 2023

FASTSIGNS® Ranked #1 in Category on Entrepreneur’s Highly Competitive Franchise 500® List for the Seventh Consecutive Year

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:20:58-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, Propelled Brands, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise Receives Recognition Following Record-Breaking 2022.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise in the nation, announced today it has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500® for the seventh consecutive year. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500® ranks FASTSIGNS as #62 overall for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength, stability, and brand power.

“After a year of record-breaking success for FASTSIGNS, receiving recognition as the #1 franchise opportunity for signage, graphics, and visual communication once again is a testament to the strength of our brand and the hard work of our franchisees,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “Demand for our services remains high and FASTSIGNS franchisees continue to be the go-to resource for visual communications in their communities. I look forward to seeing our momentum of growth continue this year by offering a variety of franchising options, from owning a franchise to adapting an existing sign business through a conversion or co-branding with a complementary business as we expand into new markets.”

The recognition follows the brand’s most successful year to date with FASTSIGNS building on a growing sales track record and surpassing $700 million in network sales for the first time in company history. FASTSIGNS has experienced strong growth and continues to expand the franchise network, awarding 20 franchises in 2022 to develop locations in markets such as Santa Clarita, CA, Ocala, FL, Gastonia, NC and Sioux City, IA. The impressive growth underscores FASTSIGNS’ adaptability to a rapidly changing business environment and economy and the continued demand for signage and visual graphics making it a recession resistant business.

“FASTSIGNS has a broad range of products and services that are needed in all kinds of economic environments by a large variety of businesses and organizations,” said Al Cothern, FASTSIGNS franchisee of West Palm Beach, Florida, who opened his first franchise during the previous recession in 2009. “FASTSIGNS helped me just by standing behind all the things they promised. The business model does work as they said it would, the marketing support is excellent, and the operational support provided by the business consultants is always there.”

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchising industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur editor in chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative, and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”

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.

FASTSIGNS is currently seeking qualified franchisees with an emphasis on existing businesses to co-brand or convert. Owners of sign businesses can convert the business into a FASTSIGNS center to benefit from the proven business model and support system, or add a FASTSIGNS center to an existing business to receive training and support from the franchise system for just $15,000 down.

To date, FASTSIGNS operates more than 760 locations in 46 states and eight countries. Of these FASTSIGNS franchisees, around 14% are veterans.

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

To view FASTSIGNS in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2023 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands January 17th.

About FASTSIGNS®

FASTSIGNS is a leading national visual ideas company that creates a wide variety of comprehensive sign and graphics solutions. With over 35 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps you achieve more than you ever thought possible. We are the worldwide franchisor of more than 760 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers. FASTSIGNS locations span across the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and through franchising awards which include being ranked #1 on Entrepreneur’s Highly Competitive Franchise 500® List for the Seventh Consecutive Year for 2023 as well as being named a 2023 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, and is now the multi-brand franchisor for FASTSIGNS®, NerdsToGo®, MY SALON Suite® and Salon Plaza® brands. To learn more visit 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).

11 01, 2023

MY SALON Suite Ranked Among Top Franchises in Entrepreneur’s Highly Competitive Franchise 500®

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:14:35-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: business services, My Salon Suite, NerdsToGo, Suite Management Franchising|

Salon Suite Franchise Receives Recognition Following Record-Breaking 2022

CARROLLTON, Texas — MY SALON Suite, a salon suite franchise that focuses on providing stylists and beauticians a personal space to build their business and the beauty industry’s future, announced today it has been recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500®, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the 2023 Franchise 500® ranks MY SALON Suite as #66 overall for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“MY SALON Suite’s tremendous growth and recent successes are a testament to the strength of the brand,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer. “The concept utilizes a semi-absentee model that is ideal for multi-unit and multi-brand franchise partners looking to diversify their portfolio. I look forward to seeing what other milestones the brand will reach in the year ahead.”

The recognition follows a record-breaking year for MY SALON Suite, building on a growing sales track record. The brand opened 42 franchise locations and one corporate location in 2022 to reach a milestone of over 250 locations, expanding nationwide with plans to grow the brand internationally in 2023. In addition, Suite Relief Fund™, MY SALON Suite’s annual fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, raised over $123,000 in one month and set a new record for the brand.

“I went into business to be able to build something that would positively impact the lives of others and build long-financial stability for my family,” said Ray Harrigill, MY SALON Suite franchisee with locations across Louisiana and Mississippi. “We were looking for a business that complemented and leveraged the skills of the team we had in place with our other businesses. We love to see our tenants and customers succeed, and we love to see our team thrive. We are excited about the growth and future of the brand.”

“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchise industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur editor in chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative, and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”

The initial investment for a MY SALON Suite franchise is approximately $664,738 – $1,479,827, including a $50,000 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $1.5 million, of which $500K is liquid. Additionally, MY SALON Suite 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 $25,000.

For more information about the MY SALON Suite franchise, visit https://www.mysalonsuite.com/franchise, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679. MY SALON Suite will be exhibiting at the upcoming 23rd Annual Multi-Unit Franchising Conference in Las Vegas on April 25 – 28, 2023 (Booth #1021).

To view MY SALON Suite in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2023 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands January 17th.

About Suite Management Franchising

Suite Management Franchising, the parent company of MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza, is a salon suite franchise created for entrepreneurial-spirited individuals interested in diversifying their portfolio while living a semi-absentee lifestyle. Founded to inspire and empower the modern-day salon owner, the company offers a unique opportunity for a diverse range of beauty and health professionals to run their businesses successfully. Salon members are provided ongoing training, support, and a strong referral network to help their business generate a six-figure income. Featured in Entrepreneur magazine’s “Top New Franchise” list, the brand is widely recognized for its rapid expansion and noteworthy success. A strategic alliance partnership with Propelled Brands, the nation’s largest family-owned collection of salons, continues to propel the brand’s growth. With 250 locations in 35 states across the United States and Canada, the franchise concept plans to add 200 franchise partners and 500 salons in the next three years.

For more information about Suite Management Franchising, visit mysalonsuite.com/franchise. To learn more about MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza, visit mysalonsuite.com and salonplaza.com.

11 01, 2023

Jennifer LoBianco Named Chief Marketing Officer for Best Life Brands

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:07:38-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: Boost Home Healthcare, estate sale franchise, family caregivers, in-home senior care, personal and companion care, senior care, Senior placement|

TROY, Mich. — Best Life Brands, LLC (“Best Life Brands”) today announced Jennifer LoBianco as chief marketing officer.

“Jennifer has been outstanding as our senior vice president of marketing with her ability to juggle the direction and strategy of four brands. She has contributed massively to everything we have done since she joined our business in 2021,” said J.J. Sorrenti, CEO of Best Life Brands. “As our new CMO, she has huge potential to positively impact our growth, as well as play an important role interacting with our franchisees and with our executive leadership team.”

Prior to joining Best Life Brands in 2021 as senior vice president of marketing, LoBianco served in several executive roles, including chief marketing officer for Huntington Learning Center, a national education franchise, where she directed brand, franchise development and franchisee marketing programs. Before that, she was the chief marketing officer for American Financial Resources and VP client strategy for a franchise focused marketing firm.

“I recognize and deeply value the importance of Best Life Brand’s mission to serve seniors and their families on the continuum of care,” LoBianco said. “I look forward to creating new opportunities to expand our offerings, increase demand for our services, attract more franchisees and engage customers.”

To learn more about Best Life Brands, visit https://www.bestlifebrands.com/.

About Best Life Brands, LLC

Based in Troy, Mich., Best Life Brands, LLC is a holding company that includes ComForCare and At Your Side, premier franchised providers of home care; CarePatrol, the nation’s largest franchised senior care solutions organization; Blue Moon Estate Sales, the leading estate sale franchise in the U.S., and Boost Home Healthcare, dedicated to providing superior in-home nursing, therapy, and home care services, which together include more than 500 franchise locations across the U.S. and Canada. With a private equity investment from The Riverside Company, Best Life Brands is a platform of award-winning complementary businesses that serve people along the continuum of care.

11 01, 2023

IMAGE Studios Salon Suites expands to 200 territories awarded nationwide

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T10:02:59-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: IMAGE Studios®, real estate business model, salon industry|

SALT LAKE CITY — IMAGE Studios is thrilled to announce that it has awarded 200 locations in 24 states across the country, which is a significant growth milestone for the brand. The company is the leading luxury brand in the salon suite industry nearly doubling its operating units in the past six months and has been recognized by numerous industry accolades. IMAGE Studios was ranked 238 on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies, won the top Stevie award for Workplace Design, and was named one of Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces in 2022.

IMAGE Studios was founded in Salt Lake City, Utah by Jason Olsen, and provides turnkey state-of-the-art salon studios to a range of beauty professionals, including lash artists, makeup artists, injectors, hair stylists, estheticians, and med spa professionals. The company supports its professionals with marketing and finance classes, business coaching and support, and a custom smartphone app that helps professionals run their entire businesses from the palm of their hands. As a result, franchisees are experiencing record occupancy rates in every market across the country.

About IMAGE Studios®

To learn more about IMAGE Studios and to find out what franchise opportunities are available in your area please visit www.imagestudiosfranchise.com.

11 01, 2023

Premier Martial Arts Ranked ‘No. 1 Children’s Fitness Franchise’ in Entrepreneur’s Annual Franchise 500®

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-11T09:39:42-05:00January 11th, 2023|Tags: martial arts skills, Premier Martial Arts, youth enrichment growth-focused platform|

DALLAS — Premier Martial Arts, a franchise brand that specializes in teaching karate, krav maga and kickboxing for children and adults and part of the youth enrichment growth-focused platform Unleashed Brands, receives the distinguished honor of being listed as No. 1 in the Children’s Fitness Programs category and No. 140 overall in Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500®, the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking. This is the first year the brand has been included in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry.

In Entrepreneur‘s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 43-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order. Receiving No. 1 in the Children’s Fitness Programs category is especially impressive for the brand as the category is notoriously competitive.

As the interest in mixed martial arts increases and reaches an all-time high, Premier Martial Arts is growing to fill the need for sports that inspire discipline and develop character in children. Premier Martial Arts has seen significant growth in the past year with the opening of 110+ studios across the country with an additional 65+ leases signed for development in the next year. Premier Martial Arts helps students find confidence, strength, and focus to live their best life and understand their true worth.

“We are incredibly proud to be included in this year’s list for the first time and to be named as the top children’s fitness franchise, is a tremendous honor,” said Unleashed Brands CEO Michael O. Browning, Jr. “To be recognized by Entrepreneur is an accomplishment that would not have been possible without our dedicated franchisees and support team.”

Over its 43 years in existence, the Franchise 500® has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Premier Martial Arts’ position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.

Premier Martial Arts’ mission is to provide the skills needed to help its students succeed in life, such as confidence, focus, self-esteem, and physical well-being. The brand’s studios have certified, professional instructors that are trained in modern teaching techniques and martial arts skills. The organization was founded in 2004 and quickly grew to more than 70 locations in the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. In 2018, the company began franchising and now has more than 260 locations.

To learn more about Premier Martial Arts and its franchising opportunities, visit premiermartialartsfranchise.com.

About Unleashed Brands

Unleashed Brands currently includes portfolio brands Urban Air, Snapology, The Little Gym, XP League, Class 101 and Premier Martial Arts and was founded to curate and grow a portfolio of the most innovative and profitable brands that help kids learn, play and grow. Over the last 10 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform and know-how for scaling businesses focused on serving families. Its mission is to impact the lives of every kid by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences that help them become who they are destined to be. For more information, please visit www.UnleashedBrands.com.

About Premier Martial Arts

Premier Martial Arts’ empowers lives through Martial Arts and helps students find confidence, strength, and focus to live their best life and understand their true worth. The brand’s studios have certified, professional instructors that are trained in modern teaching techniques and martial arts skills. Founded in 2004, the brand has already sold 700 franchises and continues to expand in new communities. For more information including franchise opportunities, please visit www.premiermartialarts.com.

10 01, 2023

Two Maids Caps Banner Year with New Mission and Franchising Milestones

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-10T09:34:14-05:00January 10th, 2023|Tags: multiple cleaning packages, professional-grade cleaning supplies and products, residential cleaning franchise, Two Maids|

Leading Residential Cleaning Brand Celebrates Successful 2022 and Lets Life Shine by Focusing on Cleaners and Expanding Charitable Programs.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Two Maids, the leading residential cleaning franchise, announced today a total brand refresh and enhanced mission to focus on the people at the core of the brand’s success. The refresh of their Two Maids brand, formerly Two Maids & a Mop, comes on the heels of a milestone 2022 that saw the franchise concept open its 100^th location and a 22% increase in sales leading a network-wide revenue total of over $52 million.

The new Two Maids mission will put an enhanced focus on building deeper relationships with and empowering franchisees to enhance each franchise operator’s commitment to their cleaners with opportunities for continued education and ongoing support services. Two Maids is also committed to strengthening their support of the communities the brand serves by aligning with two non-profit organizations, Cleaning for a Reason and the Alliance for Hope International.

Cleaning for a Reason provides free home cleaning to patients battling cancer, since 2006 they have provided free home cleaning for more than 47,000 patients with an estimated value of more than $15 million dollars. Two Maids is enhancing their long-standing relationship with Cleaning for a Reason by becoming an Elite Franchise Partner. Through the existing relationship with Cleaning for a Reason, Two Maids has served more than 1,700 patients by providing over $500,000 of free cleans over the last decade.

The Alliance for Hope International is one of the leading systems and social change organizations in the country focused on creating innovative, collaborative, trauma-informed, hope-centered approaches to meeting the needs of survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children, through several initiatives including a network of more than 150 family justice centers across the nation. Two Maids and the Alliance for Hope are coming together to develop a mutually beneficial relationship with a focus on supporting and caring for survivors of domestic violence, a deeply humanitarian issue that impacts over ten million people in the United States per year including both Two Maids cleaners and customers.*

“At the heart of our business Two Maids is built to serve. Our mission has always been about more than just clean homes, our franchise family deeply values our franchisee’s cleaners and customers and know they are the core of what makes life shine,” said Paul Ebert, president of Two Maids. “We have always strived to cultivate an uplifting company culture where ideas are heard and each associate feels cared for and supported. We believe in taking care of people – be it our franchisees, their cleaners, customers, or those in our communities who may need a little help.”

Two Maids opened their 100^th franchise location in the United States in Q3 of 2022 with additional openings in the following quarter and marking a 20% total increase from 2021.

“We are excited to launch our new look and tagline ‘Let Life Shine,’ we know that we will continue to exceed the expectations of our customers by providing them the same excellent customer service and clean homes that they expect from Two Maids.” added Ebert. “At the same time our organization is taking this opportunity to establish our franchise locations as the preeminent place to work in the cleaning industry. We will do that by demonstrating that we are powered by caring, not only caring about improving the homes of our customers but the lives of the cleaners who are providing the service, and the communities that we serve.”

To learn more about the Two Maids brand and franchise development opportunities, visit https://www.twomaidsfranchise.com/.

*According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://ncadv.org/STATISTICS.

About Two Maids

Founded in 2003 in Pensacola, Florida, Two Maids™ currently operates in more than 80 markets across the United States. Designed to provide greater flexibility for customers, the brand offers multiple cleaning packages ranging from one-time cleans to routine services and takes pride in providing safe and reliable professional-grade cleaning supplies and products. Two Maids™ has received numerous accolades including being ranked on the 2021 Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list, for the third consecutive year, and named 2020’s fastest-growing cleaning company in America by Inc. Magazine for the fifth time in the past seven years. For more information, visit www.twomaidsandamop.com.

9 01, 2023

CMIT Solutions Announces Acquisition By HKW

Tatyana Stemkovski2023-01-09T09:52:37-05:00January 9th, 2023|Tags: CMIT Solutions, cybersecurity, IT service provider, proactive computer maintenance|

AUSTIN, Texas — CMIT Solutions LLC (“CMIT”), a leading IT Managed Service Provider (MSP) franchisor, today announced the transition of ownership from Craftsman Capital to HKW, a middle-market private equity firm focused on growth companies in the US and Canada. The move is part of CMIT’s aggressive strategy to double systemwide revenue to $200 million by 2028.

Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, HKW invests in profitable middle-market companies in the Technology sector. As a rapidly growing IT and cybersecurity organization, CMIT is strongly aligned with HKW’s investment focus. CMIT’s systemwide revenue surpassed $100 million in 2022, more than a year ahead of its projected timeline, through a focus on enhanced marketing, sales, and operational efficiencies.

“HKW shares our goal of accelerating our company’s growth while creating more value for our clients,” said Roger Lewis, CEO of CMIT. “Their expertise and support will be instrumental as we achieve the next phase of our maturity through new initiatives in marketing, sales, and operations, including adding centralized fulfillment capabilities.”

Also announced today is HKW’s acquisition of HTW, Inc. (“HTW”), an MSP which will serve as the foundation of a corporate affiliate, which will establish a nationwide fulfillment center. The program leverages the acquisition of one of CMIT’s top-performing franchisees with existing capacity to serve multi-location accounts. The corporate affiliate will strengthen CMIT’s ability to support larger enterprise customers. A central team of IT and security professionals will provide clients with solutions for larger and more complex projects. Additionally, these resources shared among franchise locations will enable the company to better support clients who need specialized expertise.

“The MSP and cybersecurity industry continues to expand as businesses seek solutions to address increasing cyber threats and IT complexity,” Daniel Kim, Partner at HKW, said. “We recognize the tremendous opportunity in front of CMIT. We’re excited to be part of helping the company build its scale to meet the growing demand for technology and security services in the coming years.”

The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About HKW

HKW is a middle-market private equity firm investing in companies with talented management teams in the US and Canada. HKW targets companies in the Technology, Health & Wellness, and Business Services sectors. Since 1982, HKW has sponsored 69 platform transactions of middle-market companies throughout North America and 75 add-on acquisitions. For more information on HKW, please visit hkwinc.com.

About CMIT Solutions

CMIT Solutions LLC (CMIT) is a leading Managed Services Provider (MSP) franchisor delivering information technology (IT) and cybersecurity solutions to businesses. Through a large network of enterprise-class technology resources, the company supports businesses anywhere in the United States and Canada, and its locally owned franchise model enables CMIT to serve customers through high-trust, direct relationships. CMIT offers a wide variety of services and products, including IT management and maintenance, cybersecurity monitoring, help desk support, data backup and recovery, and more. The organization has ranked in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500^® list for eight consecutive years and is designated as a World Class Franchise by the Franchise Research Institute. For more information on CMIT, please visit cmitsolutions.com.

Previous 567 Next

Monthly Archives: January 2023