December 2023 | Page 3 of 6 | Franchise Dictionary Magazine

28 12, 2023

PuroClean Partners with Local Businesses and Kids In Distress (KID) To Create Holiday Magic, Collects Hundreds of Toys for Donation

Paul Zboichyk2024-01-15T12:49:05-05:00December 28th, 2023|Tags: biohazard cleanup, Fire and Smoke Damage Mitigation, mold removal, property restoration, PuroClean, water damage remediation|

Property Restoration and Remediation Franchise Hosts First Annual Toy Drive

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, a leading brand in property restoration and remediation throughout the country, has recently wrapped up their PuroClean Cares™: Season of Giving toy drive campaign. The brand and local business partners generously donated to Kids In Distress to help support struggling families throughout South Florida who are unable to afford high-cost items and toys for their children and loved ones. Kids In Distress, Inc. (KID) is a nationally accredited organization dedicated to preventing child abuse, preserving families, and treating children who have been abused and neglected.

“KID does so much for so many disadvantaged families every single day, and it was truly an honor to partner with them. They have spent forty years providing crucial services to families, kids, and teens in need, so joining forces was a no-brainer,” Alex Pericchi, Vice President of Marketing and Online Learning, said. “This massive toy drive would not have happened without them and the work they have done and continue to do every day.”

The PuroClean home office and franchise offices across South Florida, along with dozens of community members and local business partners gathered over 500 donations, funneling them from drop-off locations near and far to be delivered to KID.

By joining forces with KID and local businesses, PuroClean aims to reach a wider audience, ensuring that the Season of Giving campaign has a far-reaching impact that will inspire all PuroClean locations to go above and beyond in giving back to their communities.

“We initiated this effort in hopes of bringing joy and cheer to our local communities this holiday season. Every child deserves to experience magic and love during the holidays, no matter their circumstances,” said Steve White, President and Chief Operating Officer. “We are overwhelmed with gratitude for our team members, franchise owners, and participating partners who came together to make this happen.”

Partners include the owners and team members of the following local Southern Florida PuroClean locations; Ricardo Herdan, David Shiffman, Carlos Niemes, Joaquin Seminario, Kay Henriques and Hugo Urribarri. Other local business partners include Allegra Printing, Bright Pink Agency, the City of Tamarac, Rotelli Pizza and Pasta, Comfactor Air, State Farm – Sharon King, BurgerFi HQ, Dermalife Veins and Unique Cleaners.

About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leading, world-class service brand for property water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage mitigation, mold removal, and biohazard clean-up services, working with both residential and commercial customers across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Founded in 2001, PuroClean is a diverse, fast-growing network of over 450 North American franchise locations, each independently owned and operated. With a commitment to respond within two hours, the professionals at PuroClean are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest cutting-edge mitigation technology to complete the remediation task at hand.

28 12, 2023

Cruise Planners Unveils Cutting-Edge AI Technology Tool at Annual Convention

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-28T17:20:25-05:00December 28th, 2023|Tags: Cruise Planners, home based franchise, travel advisor franchise network, vacations and travel experiences|

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network, unveiled several new technology tools at their annual convention, CP World at the Broward Convention Center on November 27^th.

One of the most exciting announcements was Maxx Intelligence which integrates advanced artificial intelligence to enhance the travel planning experience for both travel advisors and their clients. This innovative technology is designed to empower Cruise Planners’ network of travel advisors with the ease of enhanced content – all within their one-stop shop, proprietary CRM and booking tool, CP Maxx.

Key Features of Maxx Intelligence:

AI-Powered Recommendations: Maxx Intelligence harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to analyze vast amounts of travel data, providing advisors with recommendations tailored to each client’s preferences.
Improved content generation: Maxx Intelligence uses the power of AI to help advisors curate content within their tools to make creation of compelling stories a breeze.
Predictive Analysis: The tool utilizes predictive analysis to anticipate travel trends, allowing advisors to offer proactive recommendations and stay ahead of market demands/trends.
Personalization: Maxx Intelligence allows travel advisors to easily create marketing and newsletter content, blog pages, enhance cruise and vacation proposals, and so much more.

“Maxx Intelligence is the result of Cruise Planners innovative spirit and the drive to be the first to harness new technology for our network of advisors. Instead of being fearful or “waiting to see what happens,” we encourage our advisors to embrace change and leverage technology to help them be even more successful,” said Michelle Fee, Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. “We are thrilled to provide our travel advisors with this cutting-edge tool, which will elevate their ability to deliver unparalleled service and experiences to our treasured clients.”

For a list of all of the announcements from the Cruise Planners annual convention, click here.

About Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners was founded in 1994 and is the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network. As a leader in the travel franchise industry, Cruise Planners positions a nation-wide network of 2,500 franchise owners for success by providing innovative marketing programs, proprietary and cutting-edge booking and technology tools, as well as professional development and travel agent training with the industry’s top executives. The company continues to be an industry leader and was named the No.1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 18 consecutive years and awarded by Franchise Business Review as “Best-In-Category” for 3 years and ranked in the top 20 on Travel Weekly’s 2022 Power List.

Visit our website, www.cruiseplanners.com, for more information or to view the complete list of awards and honors. For those interested in becoming a franchise owner, please visit https://www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com/.

28 12, 2023

Job Seekers Buck the Trend, Opting for Purpose over Corporate Promotion

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-28T17:13:35-05:00December 28th, 2023|Tags: business services, Express Employment Professionals, professional education, staffing solutions|

New Survey From Express Employment Professionals

Latest Results from The Harris Poll

OKLAHOMA CITY — While U.S. hiring managers and job seekers feel career advancement is valuable, many job seekers are more focused on achieving personal fulfillment and work/life balance.

This is according to a recent survey from The Harris Poll commissioned by Express Employment Professionals.

More than half of employed job seekers (56%) feel they are performing above and beyond at their company now compared to a year ago — and hiring managers are seeing similar effort (53%).

From the perspective of hiring managers, the definition of professional success for employees is advancing in their careers (73%). And 58% report that the only way for employees to achieve professional success at their company is to “climb the corporate ladder.”

Around 7 in 10 job seekers (71%) are similarly aligned on the definition of professional success (i.e., advancing in their career) and believe climbing the corporate ladder is the only way employees can achieve this (57%).

Most hiring managers also feel the best way for employees to add value to a company is advancing their careers (70%) — a similar proportion of job seekers concur (71%).

Meaningful Work vs. Advancement

Despite a strong majority of job seekers (86%) and hiring managers (83%) saying most employees want to advance in their careers, 57% of job seekers say they are not interested in “climbing the corporate ladder.” Workers appear more focused on personal fulfillment and balancing their personal and professional lives.

Most job seekers say it is more important to them to have a meaningful job than a high-level job title (83%) and define success more by work/life balance than climbing the corporate ladder (80%).

More than 4 in 5 hiring managers report similar perspectives; 85% say it is more important for workers to have a meaningful job than a high-level job title, and 84% report more employees define success by work/life balance than climbing the corporate ladder now compared to three years ago.

As a result, workers may choose to remain in their current role. However, more than half of hiring managers (55%) feel employees who have no desire to advance are looked upon negatively at their company; 64% of job seekers agree.

When thinking of employees who don’t wish to advance their careers, more than half of hiring managers (55%) describe employees negatively — most commonly linking these employees with a lack of drive (34%), being uncommitted (22%) and unengaged (22%). And more than half of hiring managers (56%) report employees who are not interested in “climbing the corporate ladder” have less long-term potential in their company.

While some companies seemingly desire employees with the drive to rise through the ranks, nearly 9 in 10 hiring managers (89%) agree that employees who are content in remaining in their current role still contribute to the success of a company. In addition, these employees may be thought of as more self-aware, as around a quarter of hiring managers describe them as knowing their limit (25%) and knowing what they want (24%).

“Whether it’s an entry-level position or an executive role, every job contributes significantly to the overall functionality and success of the workforce,” said Bill Stoller, Express Employment International CEO. “People’s ambitions vary, but one thing that all employees should have in common is to find continuing education opportunities to excel in their duties and always strive for improvement.

“Businesses would also be prudent to discover how team members individually define purpose to avoid mistaking contentment with complacency.”

Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals between June 13 and June 26, 2023, among 1,010 U.S. hiring decision-makers.

The Job Seeker Report was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals between June 13 and June 26, 2023, among 1,006 adults ages 18 and older.

For full survey methodologies, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

If you would like to arrange for an interview with Bill Stoller to discuss this topic, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

About Bill Stoller
William H. “Bill” Stoller is chairman and chief executive officer of Express Employment International. Founded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the international staffing franchisor supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and related brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, employing 579,000 people globally in 2022 and more than 10 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

24 12, 2023

Zoom Drain appoints new member, advisors to its board of directors

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-24T10:14:10-05:00December 24th, 2023|Tags: drain and sewer services, Installation, Maintenance, Repair, Zoom Drain|

The home service franchisor strengthens its franchising and industry knowledge with the addition of new board members

PHILADELPHIA — Zoom Drain, a leading operator of drain and sewer services throughout the United States, has appointed a new board member and two advisors to its board of directors in response to its rapid expansion in the franchising industry.

Zoom Drain President Ellen Rohr is assuming a key position on the board of directors which marks a significant step toward driving the franchise’s expansion. Her transition from president to this influential board role underscores her commitment to fostering growth and development within the growing organization.

The company also welcomes two additional accomplished franchising experts as advisors to the board. The appointment of Sherry Rose, CEO of Stellar Service Brands, and Jessica Wescott, COO/CFO of Stellar Service Brands, signify a strategic move to enhance the company’s leadership and commitment to advancing the franchise to even greater success.

“Zoom Drain is an attractive franchise opportunity, and we’ve grown rapidly over the past 18 months as a result of our outstanding franchise program,” said Zoom Drain CEO Jim Criniti. “We want to maintain the culture that attracted our remarkable franchisees to Zoom Drain, so I’m confident the franchising expertise the new makeup of our board brings will help us continue to expand strategically and with purpose.”

Rohr started in the home service industry as the wife of a plumber. She got involved in the company’s management after her husband’s business partner died. Later she became president of a home service company that she helped grow from zero to $40 million in franchise sales in less than two years. In 2016, she came to Zoom Drain with a plan to expand the Philadelphia-based company into a franchising powerhouse.

Rose has worked in the franchising industry for nearly 20 years, serving as the vice president for franchising and customer service for ServiceMaster Corporation before joining the Stellar Service Brands team in 2020, where she held the position of chief operating officer before being appointed as the CEO in January 2022.

Wescott has a long history working in franchising. She served as the vice president of development and finance for MOOYAH Burgers, Fries and Shakes and as the COO and CFO of the Fuzzy’s Taco Shop franchise. She joined Stellar in July 2022.

Zoom Drain began in 1995 after Criniti borrowed $3,000 from his mother-in-law to start the drain cleaning business. It launched its franchising program in 2015 and partnered with MPK Equity Partners in 2020 to help grow its franchising business. The company has added 48 new franchisees in 153 territories, for a total of 60 franchisees since 2021.

For more information about Zoom Drain, visit https://www.zoomdrain.com/.

About Zoom Drain:

Zoom Drain is an operator and franchisor of drain and sewer services focusing on the repair, maintenance, and installation of everything “below the drain.” Zoom Drain provides expertly trained wastewater specialists for emergencies and planned maintenance of drains and sewers. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Zoom Drain currently has more than 60 locations across the U.S. and continues to grow. For more information, please visit https://www.zoomdrain.com/.

20 12, 2023

Take 5 Oil Change reaches milestone with 1,000th location grand opening

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-20T22:14:20-05:00December 20th, 2023|Tags: automotive services, Car Wash, Collision, Driven Brands, Glass, Maintenance, Oil Change, Paint, Vehicle Repair|

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Take 5 Oil Change, a leader in the quick lube industry, celebrated a momentous occasion today with the grand opening of its 1,000th location. This marks an extraordinary achievement, propelling the brand’s growth by more than 1,400% since its acquisition by Driven Brands in 2016.

Following on the grand opening of its 300th franchised location in the U.S. earlier this year, Take 5 Oil Change continues to solidify its position as a leading player in the quick lube industry. The stay-in-your-car oil change franchise climbed the ranks on the Franchise Times’ Top 400 and Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 lists in 2023, coming in at #87 and #106, respectively.

“This is a major milestone for our brand, which started with humble beginnings as a local oil change shop in New Orleans back in the 1980s,” said Mo Khalid, EVP and Group President, Maintenance, Driven Brands. “Since acquiring Take 5 Oil Change with only 50 locations, we have seen tremendous growth and have more in the pipeline to look forward to.”

The newest service center, operated by franchisee Purple Square Group and located in Fort Pierce, Florida, hosted a 1,000^th grand opening celebration in honor of the milestone. The event featured Take 5’s partners and premier oil suppliers, RelaDyne and Mobil 1. RelaDyne showcased a sprint car exhibition and hosted a meet and greet with accomplished sprint car driver, Logan Schuchart. Mobil 1, one of Take 5’s newest collaborators, added to the excitement with a NASCAR vehicle display and an immersive racing simulator, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees.

As part of its commitment to local communities, Take 5 Oil Change will make a charitable donation of $5,000 to GraceWay Village, which serves the Fort Pierce community. GraceWay Village is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting residents who face challenges related to poverty, food scarcity, homelessness, and other pressing needs. Take 5 Oil Change’s support of local communities runs deep. Throughout 2023, Take 5 Oil Change locations collectively raised over $1.1 million for children’s hospitals nationwide and organizations supporting active duty military, veterans, and their families.

About Take 5 Oil Change
Established in 1984, Take 5 Oil Change® is a quick lube service featuring a unique drive-thru concept that allows customers to never leave the comfort of their car. The brand offers an on average 10-minute oil change service and ancillary services such as air filter replacement, wiper blade changes, and coolant exchanges. Take 5 has more than 900 company-owned and franchised service centers throughout the United States and Canada. Take 5 Oil Change is a member of Driven Brands, the largest automotive services company in North America. For more information, visit https://www.take5.com/oil-change/. To learn more about Take 5 Oil Change franchise opportunities, visit https://take5franchise.com/.

About Driven Brands
Driven Brands™, headquartered in Charlotte, NC, 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®, Take 5 Car Wash®, Meineke Car Care Centers®, Maaco®, 1-800-Radiator & A/C®, Auto Glass Now®, and CARSTAR®. Driven Brands has more than 4,900 locations across 14 countries, and services over 70 million vehicles annually. Driven Brands’ network generates approximately $2.3 billion in annual revenue from more than $6.2 billion in system-wide sales.

20 12, 2023

Zoom Drain appoints seasoned franchise manager as vice president of franchise operations

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-20T22:09:42-05:00December 20th, 2023|Tags: drain and sewer services, Installation, Maintenance, Repair, Zoom Drain|

The drain and sewer cleaning company has hired Joseph Schneeweis to develop and guide their rapidly growing franchise program

PHILADELPHIA — Zoom Drain, a leading operator of drain and sewer services throughout the United States, announced today that it has appointed longtime franchising management expert Joseph Schneeweis as vice president of franchise operations to lead the company through its next phase of growth.

Schneeweis comes to Zoom Drain after serving several years as the franchise operations manager of ServiceMaster Corporation, an umbrella franchisor with seven brands consisting of more than 3,200 franchisees across 4,600 locations.

“We’re excited to have Joseph join the Zoom Drain team,” said Zoom Drain CEO Jim Criniti. “The professional experience he brings from inside the franchising world will be integral to the development of our franchise operations. Joe’s consistent track record of building and managing franchisee programs will ensure that our franchisees have the systems, programs and communications they need to scale their businesses within the Zoom Drain system.”

Criniti said the company’s recent rapid growth necessitated the development of this new role with the organization, and Schneeweis is tasked with helping develop and guide Zoom Drain’s franchise program.

Schneeweis’s appointment will allow Zoom Drain President Ellen Rohr to complete her transition to a position on the company’s board of directors, where she can provide guidance as Zoom Drain continues its franchising expansion. Criniti, Rohr and partner Al Levi worked together to build the company into a powerhouse franchisor, adding 48 new franchisees in 153 territories over the past 18 months.

“We wouldn’t be who we are today without Ellen,” Criniti said. “Ellen is a big picture person. She is a visionary and her transition to our board of directors will be pivotal to the continued growth of our company.”

Schneeweis’s experience in the franchising industry is deep and varied. At ServiceMaster, he consulted with and managed more than 74 business owners who produced $48 million in annual revenue.

Before moving to ServiceMaster, Schneeweis served as the regional vice president of Clear Choice USA, a replacement window and window treatment company with more than 150 franchise locations across the United States and Canada.

“It’s exciting to be coming into the Zoom Drain family at this time of accelerated growth,” Schneeweis said. “This is a wonderful opportunity to put the skills I’ve learned with other franchising organizations to use in developing a program that will speak to the needs of our franchise owners while ensuring their experience within our organization is smooth and efficient.”

Zoom Drain began in 1995 after Criniti borrowed $3,000 from his mother-in-law to start the drain cleaning business. It launched its franchising program in 2015 and partnered with a private equity firm, MPK Equity Partners, in 2020 to help grow its franchising business.

For more information about Zoom Drain, visit https://www.zoomdrain.com/.

About Zoom Drain

Zoom Drain is an operator and franchisor of drain and sewer services focusing on the repair, maintenance, and installation of everything “below the drain.” Zoom Drain provides expertly trained wastewater specialists for emergencies and planned maintenance of drains and sewers. Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Zoom Drain currently has more than 60 locations across the U.S. and continues to grow. For more information, please visit https://www.zoomdrain.com/.

20 12, 2023

Window Hero Lake Norman owners win Franchisee of the Year Award

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-20T22:05:06-05:00December 20th, 2023|Tags: exterior cleaning services, Gutter Care, HomeFront Brands, Pressure Washing, Window Cleaning, Window Hero|

North Carolinians AJ Bodick and Garrett Chisum also win the CARES Award at the 2023 HomeFront Brands convention

STATESVILLE, N.C. — Window Hero Lake Norman owners AJ Bodick and Garrett Chisum were presented with both the Franchisee of the Year and the CARES awards at HomeFront Brands’ inaugural franchisee convention for their hard work and dedication to their franchise brand.

As the Window Hero Franchisees of the Year, Bodick and Chisum were honored for their commitment to building their business and their positive impact on the franchise and the community. They received trophies and a $1,500 voucher for digital marketing services.

The two also won the CARES Award, named for HomeFront Brands’ core values of community, accountability, respect, excellence and service. This award is given to a HomeFront Brands’ franchisee that has captured the admiration of their peers and is determined by a vote of the franchisee community.

“AJ Bodick and Garrett Chisum are devoted to serving their community and their unwavering ability to strive toward excellence every day,” said HomeFront Brands Chairman and CEO Jeff Dudan. “Since our founding in 2022, HomeFront Brands has had remarkable growth, and one of the factors contributing to our success is AJ and Garrett’s exceptional dedication to our franchise family’s core values.”

HomeFront Brands presented a CARES Award and a Franchisee of the Year Award to a franchise owner from four of its most prolific brands, including Window Hero, Top Rail Fence, The Designery and Temporary Wall Systems.

“What an honor it is to win the first Franchisee of the Year Award for our Window Hero location,” Bodick said. “We have worked extremely hard to make our location successful and to provide our clients with the most professional exterior cleaning experience possible. It’s a treat to be recognized for this hard work.”

Chisum agreed and added that the team is also happy to have received the CARES Award.

“It’s extremely humbling to be chosen for the CARES Award by our peers,” he said. “It is always our goal to offer exceptional customer service and community support as a part of what we do daily. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication.”

Bodick and Chisum have been friends for 18 years and are passionate about the region they grew up in. Bodick and his wife Jessie and their two children, Xander and Ivy, enjoy organized outdoor games like tee ball or soccer while Chisum and his wife Emma and daughter, Alice, are more up for hanging out with friends.

Bodick has owned and operated Window Hero Lake Norman since 2017. Chisum signed on in 2022 when the location became a part of the HomeFront Brands franchise family.

To learn more about Window Hero Lake Norman, please visit https://windowhero.com/locations/lake-norman/.

About Window Hero

Window Hero is a trusted and reliable company specializing in a wide range of exterior cleaning services. Whether it’s window cleaning, gutter care, pressure washing, soft washing, gutter guard installation or even solar panel cleaning, Window Hero has the right team of experts, skills and equipment to get the job done right. Window Hero offers routine maintenance and one-time deep cleaning services. Founded in 2005 as Labor Panes, founder Tyler Kirk started the company as a residential window cleaning service before expanding it to offer a variety of exterior cleaning, repair and maintenance services. For more information about Window Hero, please visit https://windowhero.com/.

About HomeFront Brands:

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands — Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, BiltRite Home Inspections, Top Rail Fence and Mozzie Dome – to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands’ current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit http://HomeFrontBrands.com.

20 12, 2023

South Carolina entrepreneur wins Top Producer of the Year for two Charleston businesses

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-20T21:58:46-05:00December 20th, 2023|Tags: community-based franchise opportunities, HomeFront Brands, Temporary Wall Systems, The Designery, Top Rail Fence, Window Hero|

Local owner Nate Van Valkenburg takes home the prize for both his Window Hero Charleston and The Designery Charleston locations

CHARLESTON, S.C. — HomeFront Brands, the parent company of both Window Hero Charleston and The Designery Charleston, has awarded local owner Nate Van Valkenburg as the Top Producer of the Year for both his South Carolina ventures.

The awards were presented to Van Valkenburg earlier this month at HomeFront Brands’ Homecoming Convention at the company’s headquarters near Charlotte, North Carolina. The conference brought together franchisees, corporate employees and vendor partners to celebrate HomeFront Brands’ impressive growth since its inception in late 2022. HomeFront Brands is a property service franchise platform with six emerging concepts in its portfolio, including Window Hero and The Designery.

“It’s exciting when an entrepreneur wins an award in the same category for two locations, and Nate was able to accomplish that,” said HomeFront Brands Chairman and CEO Jeff Dudan. “The success of our Homecoming Convention showcased the tremendous growth HomeFront Brands has undergone during our first year. Nate Van Valkenburg is a sales champion who has set a standard of achievement that has helped HomeFront Brands excel in our expansion efforts.”

The Top Producer of the Year is bestowed upon the franchisee that has soared to the highest echelons of sales excellence, showcasing an unwavering dedication to success and an unmatched ability to drive revenue. HomeFront Brands presented Top Producer awards to a franchise owner for each of the four franchises featured at the convention.

“It’s a great honor to receive this award for both my Charleston ventures,” Van Valkenburg said. “We would not have won these awards without all the great people who make Window Hero and The Designery prosperous. From the support we’ve received at HomeFront Brands to our local staff and the clients we serve, the road to our success has been paved with support.”

Van Valkenburg attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and worked in the exterior cleaning business for several years before starting his own business. He and his wife, Ali, live in Charleston with their daughter.

For more information on Window Hero Charleston, please visit https://windowhero.com/locations/charleston/ and for more information on The Designery Charleston, please visit https://thedesignery.com/locations/charleston/.

About Window Hero

Window Hero is a trusted and reliable company specializing in a wide range of exterior cleaning services. Whether it’s window cleaning, gutter care, pressure washing, soft washing, gutter guard installation or even solar panel cleaning, Window Hero has the right team of experts, skills and equipment to get the job done right. Window Hero offers routine maintenance and one-time deep cleaning services. Founded in 2005 as Labor Panes, founder Tyler Kirk started the company as a residential window cleaning service before expanding it to offer a variety of exterior cleaning, repair and maintenance services. For more information about Window Hero, please visit https://windowhero.com/.

About The Designery

The Designery was founded in 2007 as A1 Kitchen and Bath, a product wholesale outlet serving the Chattanooga, Tennessee market. In 2019, it rebranded as The Designery and established a franchise model to expand its unique concept: to simplify the kitchen, bath and closet design process by offering premium products, design expertise, project management and trusted professional installation. Its selection of high-quality cabinets, flooring, countertops and accessories makes it a destination for any remodeling, renovation or new construction project. It is a one-stop shop for homeowners and a trusted partner or contractors, with knowledgeable staff to walk clients through every step, from design to project management and installation. The Designery’s immersive showroom and personalized guidance bring luxurious designs to life without the luxury price tag. To learn more about The Designery, please visit https://thedesignery.com/.

About HomeFront Brands

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands – Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, BiltRite Home Inspections, Top Rail Fence and Mozzie Dome – to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands’ current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit https://homefrontbrands.com/.

20 12, 2023

1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle leads efforts to help local homeowner in crisis

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-20T21:51:39-05:00December 20th, 2023|Tags: 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, carpet and upholstery cleaning services, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold damage remediation, property restoration, water and flood damage restoration|

The trusted property restoration provider partnered with NW New Generation Services and Premier Restoration Services to repair, restore and rebuild Patricia Scibilia’s severely damaged bathroom

SEATTLE — 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, a leader in the property restoration industry tirelessly devoted to Restoring What Matters Most™, recently lived up to its motto when the company helped Seattle-area homeowner Patricia Scibilia during an unexpected crisis.

The 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle team, including Rich Rye, director of sales and marketing, project coordinator Nina Coy, project manager Josh Jimenez and owners Tod and Joanne Sandberg, spearheaded efforts to offer free abatement, remediation and restoration services to repair and upgrade Scibilia’s severely impacted bathroom after inspections revealed thousands of dollars’ worth of water damage, asbestos and microbial growth.

In addition to suffering major damage to her home, Scibilia is still grieving the loss of her daughter, who recently passed away.

“When Nina told me 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle would provide their services at no cost, I was speechless,” Scibilia said. “When I asked why they wanted to help me, she told me that maybe my late daughter was still looking out for me. This abounding kindness and thoughtfulness meant the world to me.”

During an August inspection, Jimenez and his team identified severe damage to Scibilia’s bathroom vanity and crawlspace and the subfloor beneath. The team also discovered that these areas were contaminated with asbestos. Over the following months, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle worked with NW New Generation Services and Premier Restoration Services on the extensive project, which was completed in November.

“When we learned about Patricia’s unfortunate situation, including the recent loss of her daughter, we were determined to help,” Rye said. “I’m so grateful to Tod and Joanne for agreeing to donate 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle’s services, and to Nina and Josh for their hard work and commitment throughout the process, as well as to Efren Monares and his team at NW New Generation Services and Greg Barrett and his team at Premier Restoration Services. It’s been incredibly gratifying to see our community come together to help one of our neighbors in need.”

In addition to repair, remediation and restoration of Scibilia’s bathroom, the project included the donation and installation of new flooring, new medicine cabinets and a new vanity and mirrors.

“This was a dream come true, with a brand-new vanity and gorgeous, updated features the icing on the cake,” Scibilia said. “I will be forever grateful for the kindness and generosity Rich and 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle and the other companies have shown. Their efforts have truly changed my life.”

Since its founding in 2002, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE has become a trusted name in the property restoration industry through its efficient services and unwavering commitment to restoring what matters most. 1-800 WATER DAMAGE places an emphasis on building lasting relationships with residents and businesses through quality customer service. The brand provides a wide range of services, including flood and water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, sewage cleanup, commercial restoration services, and mold removal and remediation.

1-800 WATER DAMAGE has the added advantage of being backed by BELFOR Franchise Group, a leading global residential and commercial services franchisor. For decades, BELFOR Franchise Group has empowered entrepreneurs by offering industry-leading training, support and equipment, turnkey business models, and ongoing coaching and business development. BELFOR Franchise Group’s national acclaim aids 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle as it continues to serve as a trusted resource for local homeowners in the midst of unforeseeable crises.

To request service or more information, call (206) 381-3041 or email 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle.

About 1-800 WATER DAMAGE

Founded in 2002, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE has become a leader in the property restoration industry and continues to make a major difference in the lives of homeowners when they’re needed most. 1-800 WATER DAMAGE technicians across North America are equipped with the knowledge and tools to get the job done right the first time. In addition to long-lasting solutions that stand the test of time, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE places an emphasis on providing the ultimate customer experience as they restore homes and properties to a pre-damage condition. From the initial assessment to finetuning a game plan for each individual cleanup and restoration job, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE handles all the details so customers can focus on what matters most to them.

To learn more about 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, and to schedule a service, visit 1800waterdamage.com.

About BELFOR Franchise Group

BELFOR Franchise Group is a leading global residential and commercial services franchisor. For decades, BELFOR Franchise Group has empowered entrepreneurs by offering industry-leading training, support and equipment, turnkey business models, and ongoing coaching and business development. BELFOR Franchise Group is the parent organization for 13 of the strongest service-based franchise opportunities for home and commercial cleaning and restoration. The franchise brands include 1-800-BOARDUP, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, Blue Kangaroo Packoutz, Chem-Dry & Upholstery Cleaning, COOL-BINZ, DUCTZ International, HOODZ International, N-Hance Wood Refinishing, The Patch Boys, redbox+ Dumpsters, Safer Home Services, WINMAR, and Z PLUMBERZ.

For more information, please visit belforfranchisegroup.com.

19 12, 2023

Take Your Pup for a Day of Play at Two New Dogtopias in Houston

Paul Zboichyk2023-12-19T21:20:36-05:00December 19th, 2023|Tags: Dogtopia, exercise and safe socialization for dogs, pet care franchise, pet services industry|

Houston Welcomes the First of Two New Dogtopia Dog Daycare, Overnight & Spa Facilities is Now Open

HOUSTON — Dogtopia, the nation’s leading dog wellness brand, is excited to announce the expansion of their presence in Houston with the opening of two new locations inside the loop. The first facility, located at 1315 Waugh Dr., has been a part of the Houston community for some time and reopened with all new facilities and increased capacity on December 18. The second location, situated at 2311 Washington Ave., is scheduled to open in mid-January. In addition to the three Dogtopias currently open in Houston, the two new locations will offer award-winning daycare, overnight, and spa services to even more dog parents in the area.

Providing personalized care for Houston pups in a fun, enriching, and safe environment, Dogtopia sets the industry standard among dog daycares with its focus on three key benefits: socialization, exercise, and education. Dogtopia allows dogs to enjoy plenty of exercise, play with like-minded dogs, and learn important social skills, all under the supervision of professionally trained Canine Coaches. In keeping safety at the forefront, each of the indoor playrooms includes dogs of similar size and play style and is built with compressed rubber flooring to reduce the impact on pups’ paws and joints.

The two new establishments are under the ownership of Amber Woods, a dedicated local entrepreneur with a deep love for dogs. Woods is an existing Dogtopia franchisee, as the owner of Dogtopia of Houston – West Alabama Street and the co-owner of a Soccer Shots Houston, a partnership she has maintained with her husband for 14 years. As their soccer franchise flourished, Amber had a longing for a fresh challenge that would transcend her other full-time commitments. Guided by her lifelong love for animals, Dogtopia naturally emerged as the perfect next step in her entrepreneurial journey. As a Houstonian, Amber saw the increased need for high quality dog daycare services in central Houston. She understood that these new locations would not only facilitate the brand’s growth but, providing added convenience for dog parents seeking spacious and sociable environments for their furry companions.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to open these two Dogtopia facilities in Houston, addressing a significant need for dog parents in the area who currently lack a dedicated space for their pets’ care,” said Woods. “At Dogtopia, we extend the same love and care to our customers’ pets as if they were our very own. We can’t wait to meet even more furry friends!”

In addition to providing quality care for local pups, Dogtopia also runs the Dogtopia Foundation, a nonprofit with the mission to enable dogs to positively change our world. The Foundation funds programs focused on three worthy causes: service dogs for veterans, therapy dogs for students, and employment initiatives for adults with autism. One hundred percent of funds raised are donated directly to the supported organizations. These two new locations have already raised enough funds to sponsor 4 service dogs for veterans, and they are just getting started. To learn more, visit www.dogtopiafoundation.org.

Dogtopia of Houston – Waugh Drive is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The store is closed for daycare on Sunday, but open for overnight stay drop off and pick up from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For more information on Dogtopia of Houston – Waugh Drive, call 713-522-8144, or visit https://www.dogtopia.com/houston-waugh-drive/.

Dogtopia of Houston – Washington Ave. is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The store is closed for daycare on Sunday, but open for overnight stay drop off and pick up from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For more information on Dogtopia of Houston – Washington Ave., call 281-869-8330, or visit https://www.dogtopia.com/houston-washington-ave/.

About Dogtopia:
Founded in 2002, Dogtopia is an early pioneer and innovator in the dog daycare industry, offering an experience focused on wellness, quality of care, safety, and transparency in the market. The ultimate destination for improving the physical and mental wellbeing of dogs and pet parents, Dogtopia helps our furry friends live long, healthy, and happy lives with services that address canine wellness in a holistic manner. Pet parents have the assurance of leaving their beloved furry family members in the hands of trained professionals in an environment created with the safety of dogs in mind, including spacious playrooms assigned by size and play style, comfortable rubber flooring to reduce impact on joints and paws, and webcams for pet parents to check in on their pups. For more information, visit www.dogtopia.com.

Monthly Archives: December 2023