Monthly Archives: March 2024

21 03, 2024

AlphaGraphics named a Top 100 Franchise for Women by Franchise Business Review

2024-03-21T16:56:02-04:00March 21st, 2024|Tags: , , , , |

Female franchise owners are highly satisfied with the printing and marketing solutions company’s core values and franchise community

DENVER — AlphaGraphics, a leading franchisor of printing and marketing solutions, proudly announces that it has been recognized by Franchise Business Review as one of the franchise research firm’s 2024 Top 100 Franchises for Women. Only 100 brands were named to the annual list of winners.

AlphaGraphics was among 350 franchise brands, representing more than 8,500 female franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research on the Top Franchises for Women. The printing and marketing solutions company’s franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including leadership, training & support, financial opportunity, and work/life balance.

“We are honored to be recognized as a top franchise for women and pride ourselves on our commitment to expanding opportunities for everyone,” said Bill McPherson, vice president of retail network development. “It’s encouraging to see that the prospects, tools and resources we have provided throughout our franchising network have fostered this culture of inclusion and diversity.”

FBR’s survey showed that AlphaGraphics’ female owners were very satisfied with the company’s core values and franchise community. They were also pleased with the company’s training and support system and the leadership AlphaGraphics provides.

“Franchising is a terrific option for women seeking business ownership on a full- or part-time basis,” said Michelle Rowan, president and COO of Franchise Business Review. “With so many franchise opportunities to choose from, it’s critical to do in-depth research to understand how satisfied current female franchise owners are with the training and support, work/life balance, financial opportunity, culture, and leadership of any brand they’re considering before making an investment. When you look at the brands on this year’s list of the Top Franchises for Women, 89% of women said they enjoy being part of their franchise organizations, and 88% said they enjoy operating the business, making them all excellent options for women looking to make the transition to business ownership.”

To see the full list of the 2024 Top 100 Franchises for Women, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/top-franchises-for-women/.

About AlphaGraphics
AlphaGraphics, Inc., with more than 285 locations in 6 countries, is one of the largest U.S.-based networks of locally-owned and operated Business Centers offering a complete range of print, visual communications, and marketing products. Solutions include: full-service digital, offset, and large format printing; design services; mailing; one-to-one marketing solutions; promotional products; and web to print solutions. For more information about AlphaGraphics services, visit www.alphagraphics.com. To learn about franchise opportunities, visit www.alphagraphicsfranchise.com.

About MBE Worldwide
MBE Worldwide S.p.A. (“MBE”), a privately-owned company with its headquarters in Italy, is a Global Commerce enabler for SMBs and consumers thanks to its platform providing e-commerce, fulfillment, shipping, marketing and print solutions via multi-brand operations: PrestaShop, Mail Boxes Etc. (except the US and Canada), PostNet, PACK & SEND, Spedingo.com, AlphaGraphics, Multicopy, World Options UK and Print Speak. The combination of our retail platform – that currently counts 2,900+ Service Centers in 53 Countries with more than 12.000 associates – with our PrestaShop ecommerce platform served almost one million business customers in FY 2021 generating €1.01 billion (US $1.2 billion) of System Wide Sales and €24 billion (US $28.5 billion) of e-commerce Gross Merchandise Value.

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

About Franchise Business Review
Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures the satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,200 leading franchise companies. FBR publishes free and unbiased franchisee satisfaction research reports throughout the year online at www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com. To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/publications/.

19 03, 2024

Clean Eatz Cooks Up New Products to Bolster Customers’ Clean Eating Experience

2024-03-19T21:41:29-04:00March 19th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Health Food Franchise Debuts New LTO and Menu Innovations

WILMINGTON, N.C. — Clean Eatz, America’s leading health food restaurant and online meal plan franchise, has announced a variety of menu updates that will add to their cafes meal options and continue to stoke the brand’s presence in the online retail space for consumers nationwide. They include the limited-time addition of a Chipotle Chicken Mac & Cheese Bowl, the introduction of Lifestyle Waterz, and two new Protein Popcorn flavors.

Cheesy and bold are two words that describe the new Chipotle Chicken Mac & Cheese, which is available in all Clean Eatz Cafes until the end of April. The signature bowl consists of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, creamy queso cheese, whole grain pasta, and Clean Eatz Chipotle ranch sauce. Boldly seasoned, this spin on a classic dish proves you can eat Sunday dinner any day of the week. 408 calories, 8 grams of fat, 39 grams of carbs, and 45 grams of protein.

The new variety line of Lifestyle Waterz are a real thirst quencher, containing electrolytes, an immunity blend, and antioxidants, complete with zero calories or sugars. There are a total of 4 mouth-watering flavors: Tropical twist, watermelon, lemonade, and strawberry kiwi.

Kettle Corn and Churro have officially joined the Clean Eatz Healthy Protein Popcorn flavor selection. The innovative retail items, available for purchase online, are made with premium ingredients and packed with protein, and the perfect snack for health-conscious individuals who crave a tasty treat without compromising their nutritional goals.

“We’re constantly on the lookout to keep up with consumer food trends and purchasing preferences, which is what has fueled the creation of many of our fan-favorite menu items,” said Clean Eatz Co-Founder Evonne Varady. “It’s also what launched Clean Eatz into the retail space not long ago; what we saw as a natural progression towards making our health-conscious, affordable health foods as accessible to the masses as possible.”

To learn more about how you can bring Clean Eatz to your community, visit https://cleaneatz.com/franchise.

ABOUT CLEAN EATZ

Clean Eatz, which launched in 2011 and started franchising in 2015, was co-founded by husband-and-wife duo Don and Evonne Varady, as a means of helping individuals and families change their lives by providing them with better nutrition options, a steady dose of health and wellness education, and a diverse support community that’s committed to helping each other in becoming their best selves. By supplying such healthy alternatives, the Clean Eatz brand has continued to win over communities with their dine-in, grab-n-go, catering, marketplace, and weekly online meal plan selections. With 100-plus locations operational and 87 in development, the franchise will likely be coming to an address near you soon.

19 03, 2024

Apex Leadership Company Amplifies Nationwide Expansion Through Key Franchise Agreements in New Markets

2024-03-19T21:35:01-04:00March 19th, 2024|Tags: , , |

New Business Owners Propel Apex into More Schools with Innovative Fundraising Model

HOUSTON — Apex Leadership Company, a premier child enrichment and fundraising franchise, is strategically expanding into new territories across the United States, marked by the signing of new franchise agreements in IllinoisSouth CarolinaNew JerseyNew York, and California. This notable expansion highlights the growing demand for Apex’s innovative approach to school fundraising, which integrates fitness, fundraising, and leadership into comprehensive programs that pours millions of dollars into schools nationwide.

A closer look at Apex Leadership Company’s newest markets and the franchisees that will be serving schools by Fall 2024:

  • O’Fallon, IL – Tonya Meyer is transitioning from a 20-year career in corporate accounting and human resources to focus on her passion for community and education. Her dedication to accessible and enriching education aligns perfectly with the franchise’s mission.
  • Rock Hill, SC – David Harris is bringing more than 25 years of experience in the IT sector to the brand. He has signed an agreement to open in Rock Hill. His collaboration with Apex is driven by his aspiration to affect positive community change through leadership and service.
  • North Plainfield, NJ – Derrick and Nyja Canada blend Derrick’s event marketing background and former professional basketball career as a Harlem Globetrotter with Nyja’s community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit. The Canadas’ journey with Apex signifies a commitment to family, community, and business, set to inspire leadership and engagement in New Jersey.
  • Brooklyn, NY – Victor Humphrey will leverage his extensive human resources background in his new role with Apex. Humphrey’s rich experience positions will aid him in advancing Apex’s mission to positively impact educational and community outcomes.
  • San Francisco, CA – Pamela Resser will continue on her entrepreneurial journey with Apex, building on a solid business acumen and a passion for mission-driven endeavors. Resser’s venture with Apex promises to bring enhanced benefits to children and communities in the Bay Area, reinforcing her commitment to enriching lives.

Franchisees Derrick and Nyja Canada shared their enthusiasm for joining the Apex family, stating, “Growing up in families deeply rooted in education, giving back to our community has always been a priority for us. Now, as our kids are growing up, we’re more committed than ever to making a difference in our community. When we stumbled upon Apex, it felt like fate. The values of leadership, community, and empowerment resonated deeply with us. We’re beyond excited to bring this innovative approach to the North Plainfield community and show our kids firsthand the impact of teamwork, leadership, and giving back. It’s not just about fundraising; it’s about shaping the future generation. We can’t wait to see the positive ripples spread throughout our community and beyond.”

These strategic partnerships are set to broaden Apex Leadership Company’s footprint in the K-8 event fundraising space, attracting a group of experienced and passionate entrepreneurs, Apex reinforces its position as a frontrunner in merging fitness, fundraising, and leadership to serve schools and communities nationwide.

“We are thrilled to see such strong demand for our franchise model as we enter these vibrant communities,” said Jamie Krasnov, CEO of Apex Leadership Company. “Each new market represents an opportunity to empower schools, children, and communities through our innovative fundraising programs. We look forward to making a positive impact and fostering leadership and growth in these areas.”

For further information on Apex Leadership Company and its franchising opportunities, please visit https://franchise.apexleadershipco.com/.

About Apex Leadership Company
Apex Leadership Company is a fundraising franchise in more than 33 states across the country, with a suite of product offerings that service elementary and middle schools as well as club and sports teams. Apex combines the elements of fun and exercise into one-of-a-kind youth fundraising programs. Since its inception, the Apex brand has served close to 6,000 schools — including 5 million students — and raised $165 million dollars (net) for schools nationwide with its events that began with the Apex Fun Run and have evolved to include Apex Virtual, Glow Run, Remix, Apex Games, Color Games, and Anython. For more information, please visit www.apexleadershipco.com.

19 03, 2024

101 Mobility Celebrates Excellence with Inaugural Franchise of the Year Award at Annual Conference in Nashville, TN

2024-03-19T21:26:53-04:00March 19th, 2024|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

PHOENIX — During its recent Annual Conference in Nashville, TN, 101 Mobility introduced an important new component to its awards program: the Franchise of the Year Award. This award honors franchise owners who demonstrate a strong commitment to the brand’s core values of commitment, collaboration, and excellence, recognizing franchisees for outstanding performance in execution, support, advocacy, and engagement. These contributions significantly enhance the resilience and growth of the 101 Mobility system.

This year, the Franchise of the Year Award was proudly presented to Larry Wright, the owner of the 101 Mobility franchises in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. Wright’s exceptional leadership has not only led to remarkable business growth but has also had a significant impact on the lives of individuals in his community.

As a respected veteran and former executive at Accenture, Wright has overseen a substantial sales increase in his franchises, achieving a remarkable 27% growth from 2022 to 2023. Since assuming control of his franchises in April 2016, he has instilled a culture of excellence, innovation, and support, thereby raising service and operational standards across the 101 Mobility network.

In addition to his leadership at the local level, Wright is an active member of the Franchise Advisory Council (FAC), where he contributes valuable insights and leadership that help propel the brand forward. He also plays a crucial role in the Vehicle Wrap Task Force, which focuses on rebranding the company’s fleet of vehicles. His participation in this initiative has been key to enhancing brand visibility and ensuring consistency across all franchise locations.

Wright’s efforts extend beyond achieving financial success. He has been pivotal in building a community spirit and support network among franchisees, proactively offering employees enhanced training opportunities, including advanced sessions at 101 Mobility’s headquarters. This underscores his commitment to the professional growth of his team and to providing exceptional service quality.

Joe Loch, President of 101 Mobility, expressed his admiration for Wright’s work, stating, “Larry Wright’s efforts in Arizona perfectly capture the essence of our mission. He has built a team that is committed to enhancing the lives of community members through increased freedom, independence, and safety. His invaluable support guides our brand towards a bright future.”

Beyond his business endeavors, Wright is deeply committed to giving back to the community. He supports various local organizations, including NPH USA, which transforms the lives of orphaned, abandoned, and disadvantaged children in Latin America and the Caribbean through healthcare, education, and spiritual formation. He also supports Ability 360, which offers comprehensive programs empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals. Wright’s involvement extends to the Direct Advocacy & Resource Center, advocating for people with disabilities, and the Foundation for Senior Living, which is committed to providing home and community-based services and developing energy-efficient, affordable housing to assist seniors and adults with disabilities in living independently.

About 101 Mobility:

101 Mobility is the leading provider of mobility and accessibility solutions, offering a wide range of products and services designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals. Committed to delivering personalized, client-focused solutions, 101 Mobility provides stairlifts, wheelchair ramps, home elevators, and more. Through its nationwide network of franchises, 101 Mobility ensures exceptional service and support, enabling families and businesses to achieve independence and thrive.

For more information about 101 Mobility and its commitment to improving lives through mobility solutions, please visit our website or contact us directly.

19 03, 2024

Gotcha Covered Named a Top 100 Franchise for Women by Franchise Business Review

2024-03-19T21:20:46-04:00March 19th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Independent survey shows female franchise owners are highly satisfied with the leading custom window treatment provider’s performance

DENVER — Gotcha Covered, the leader in custom window treatment across the U.S. and Canada and part of the innovative, growing Five Star Franchising platform of home service brands, has been named a Top 100 Franchise for Women by Franchise Business Review.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, Gotcha Covered provides homeowners and businesses with the best in soft and hard window treatments, including a variety of blinds, draperies, and smart home solutions.

“Gotcha Covered is committed to the success of all of our franchise owners, who come from a wide range of backgrounds and bring a diversity of expertise,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. “Franchise Business Review rankings stand out in the industry. They represent the real-world experience of franchise owners and show the true value of Gotcha Covered’s proven support and systems.”

Franchise Business Review, a franchise research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only reviews of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises in its annual Guide to Today’s Top Franchises, as well as in quarterly reports throughout the year that recognize the top franchises in specific sectors.

Gotcha Covered was among 350 franchise brands, representing over 8,500 female franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research on the Top Franchises for Women. Gotcha Covered franchise owners were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including leadership, training and support, financial opportunity, and work/life balance.

“Franchising is a terrific option for women seeking business ownership on a full- or part-time basis,” said Michelle Rowan, president and COO of Franchise Business Review. “With so many franchise opportunities to choose from, it’s critical to do in-depth research to understand how satisfied current female franchise owners are with the training and support, work/life balance, financial opportunity, culture, and leadership of any brand they’re considering before making an investment. When you look at the brands on this year’s list of the Top Franchises for Women, 89% of women said they enjoy being part of their franchise organizations and 88% said they enjoy operating the business, making them all excellent options for women looking to make the transition to business ownership.”

Gotcha Covered was named to Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises list in 2023 and 2024. In 2023, the company appeared on FBR’s lists of Top Low-Cost Franchises, Top Recession-Proof Franchises, Top Franchise Cultures and Most Innovative Franchises.

For more information on franchising with Gotcha Covered, visit gotchacoveredfranchising.com.

For more information about Five Star Franchising, visit http://fivestarfranchising.com/.

About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is the premier provider of custom interior window treatments in North America, offering solutions including blinds, draperies, shutters, smart home systems and much more. The company provides end-to-end consultation inspired by customer’s needs and goals, and proudly celebrates 99% positive customer reviews. Franchising since 2009 and acquired by Five Star Franchising in 2021, Gotcha Covered is quickly growing across North America with more than 160 franchise locations. For more information, visit gotchacovered.com. To learn about franchising with Gotcha Covered, visit gotchacoveredfranchising.com.

About Five Star Franchising
Five Star Franchising is an innovative, growing platform of seven home service brands with more than 900 franchises collectively across North America. The company empowers franchise partners’ success with industry-leading tools and support while maximizing profitable growth for their franchise owners. Five Star Franchising’s brands include Five Star Bath Solutions, Gotcha Covered, Bio-One, 1-800-Packouts, 1-800-Textiles, and Mosquito Shield as well as ProNexis, a leader in growth and customer experience solutions for home services franchises. Five Star’s commitment to its core values — Driven, Real, Innovative, Vital, and Enthusiastic (DRIVE) — ensures its brands are top performers in technology, marketing, operations, local market success, and people. For more information, visit fivestarfranchising.com.

About Franchise Business Review
Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures the satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,200 leading franchise companies. FBR publishes free and unbiased franchisee satisfaction research reports throughout the year online at http://www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com. To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/digital-guides/.

18 03, 2024

Celebree School Raises $215,000 for Children’s Hospitals Across the Country

2024-03-18T17:04:40-04:00March 18th, 2024|Tags: , , , , |

Early Childhood Education Franchise Hits Fundraising Milestone, Sets Ambitious Goals for 2024

BALTIMORE Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, announced a record-breaking philanthropic year, with over $215,000 raised and donated to medical centers across the country that support children of all ages. The donation amount represents the collective fundraising efforts of Celebree, Caliday, and the Huffman Family foundation.

With philanthropic efforts at the forefront of Celebree School’s focus, thousands of children will receive medical care and support from the contributions. Highlights of the fundraising successes included:

  • In October of 2023, Celebree School hosted its Fourth Annual Charity Golf Tournament and raised $64,000 for the MedStar Franklin Square NICU to support the hospital in providing life-saving care. Additionally, the tournament allowed the brand to donate $45,000 to the University of Maryland Medical Center, finishing off a three year long partnership that totaled $145,000 donated to the UMMS foundation.
  • In addition to Celebree School’s corporate team, franchise partners in Washington D.C. and Boston, Mass. also participated in the brand’s philanthropy mission. Celebree franchisee, Kate Mulcahy matched the Celebree School Enterprise donation of $10,000 to the Children’s National Hospital, leading to a donation of $20,000.
  • In Boston, Celebree School donated $12,500 to the Boston’s Children Hospital for a charity event where the team was able to tour the hospital with Celebree School franchisees, Nick and Nikki Foundas.
  • In Delaware, the foundation and Celebree donated over $15,000 to the Leukemia Foundation of Delaware. This organization focuses on vital cancer research that has and will continue to save the lives of many not only in Delaware, but across the USA.
  • Celebree School’s non-profit before and after care program, Caliday, hosted a charity walk to raise money for Kennedy Krieger Institute, an institution dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth adults with care and research focused on pediatric developmental disabilities. The “Gobble Gobble Walk N’ Wobble” event raised more than $2,000.

“I’m proud of the contributions The Huffman Family Brands has made to our communities this past year,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “At Celebree, our commitment to nurturing children and their families runs deep. Being able to make these donations and have an impact on families and children across the country aligns with our core mission and truly means the world to us.”

In 2024 Celebree School aims to beat its record of $215,000 by reaching for the total donations to exceed $225,000Richard Huffman has joined the board of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maryland to help families through their hardest days while their children are in the hospital. All proceeds from the 5th annual golf tournament will also go towards RMHC Maryland. This partnership with RMHCs across the United States is a continued commitment to also encourage our franchise partners to join their local chapter of the Ronald McDonald House in addition to other local philanthropic partners that connect closer to the community of each school.

Celebree School lives by its promise to Grow People Big and Small™, and was founded on the belief that success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and a connection that extends beyond the classroom to address the needs of the whole child and the whole family. Each Celebree School is a village made up of parents, children, and educators with a focus on curriculum-based care that prepares your child for kindergarten and beyond.

Programs are available for children six weeks to 12-years-old with unique curriculums designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about their world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities. Care is available part-time or full-time, and parents are allowed to drop in and visit at any time.

When franchisees invest with Celebree School, they’re investing in an award-winning organization with a strong culture, solid systems, and a proven business model backed with 30 years of experience in providing exceptional early childhood education.

In addition, the brand has been recognized its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power by Entrepreneur magazine twice. Celebree School claimed the No. 1 spot in the 2023 Top New and Emerging Franchises , and most recently, landed on the highly competitive  2024 Top Franchise 500 list – an enormous accomplishment for an emerging brand.

For more information on franchising opportunities, visit https://www.celebree.com/franchising/.

About Celebree School
Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs. With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines. In 2019, Celebree School launched its franchise offering. In 2024, Celebree School’s founder, Richard Huffman, will launch a new parent company called Huffman Family Brands, merging Celebree School and Caliday under one multi-brand company structure. Learn more about how we grow confident children who are prepared for school and life at Celebree.com. Connect with us on FacebookInstagram, and LinkedIn.

14 03, 2024

Leading Managed Services Provider Receives The Nerdy Award at 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention

2024-03-14T08:01:15-04:00March 14th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo®, a leading IT solutions provider, recently honored Mike Triolo, owner of NerdsToGo Cary, N.C., with The Nerdy Award at the 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida. The Nerdy Award recognizes a franchisee who best represents the concept and spirit of the NerdsToGo brand. A leading local managed services provider (MSP), Triolo was acknowledged for his commitment and success as his business continues to thrive and grow in one of the top tech hubs in the country.

“I am honored to have received The Nerdy Award and to be recognized among such an esteemed group of peers,” said Triolo, who increased his monthly recurring revenue tenfold over the prior year. “I’m eager to continue to leverage the incredible support and resources provided by NerdsToGo to deliver expert IT solutions in my community.”

“We were thrilled to honor Mike Triolo with The Nerdy Award for excellence which highlights the success that can be achieved within our network and the potential that our franchisees have to capitalize on the IT managed services sector’s robust revenue opportunities,” said Jim HoweBrand President of NerdsToGo.

The 2024 NerdsToGo Annual Convention spotlighted franchisee success and network growth, underscoring the MSP industry’s expansion and NerdsToGo’s growing national footprint.

Triolo, who serves on the NerdsToGo franchise advisory committee, shared high praise for this year’s convention. “The convention not only celebrated our network’s milestones, it set the stage for my own continued focus on IT solutions customized for small and midsize businesses. Delivering on our brand promise of being the go-to technology expert and trusted advisor for my customers drives everything I do,” said Triolo.

NerdsToGo franchisees in attendance participated in multiple events including networking, roundtable discussions, a vendor show and insights from leading IT industry thought leaders. The convention also emphasized the opportunities for franchise owners in the thriving managed IT services sector.

“This year’s convention was a vibrant showcase of the strength and success of our franchise community,” said Howe. “This convention’s palpable enthusiasm sets the stage for an exciting year ahead for our franchisees.”

NerdsToGo, Cary, N.C. is located at 8565 Chapel Hill Road and is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

About NerdsToGo®:

NerdsToGo® is a growing IT services franchise brand that provides a simple path to overcoming the pain points and complexities of technology. Friendly and approachable Nerds offer solutions for efficiency and security for small to medium-sized businesses, as well as the individual who needs help with personal computers, devices and home networks. NerdsToGo is a service-oriented brand in the Propelled Brands® family. Providing Managed IT Services for business, the Nerds can assess, design and support IT networks while providing remote support and vendor management.

For more information or to learn about opportunities, visit NerdsToGo.com.

14 03, 2024

Island Fin Poké Co. Celebrates Its Seventh Birthday by Thanking Its Ohana

2024-03-14T07:54:48-04:00March 14th, 2024|Tags: , , |

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get ready for the ultimate poké party! On Wednesday, March 20, Island Fin Poké Co., America’s favorite poké restaurant, is celebrating its seventh anniversary with an exciting sticker drop for its guests. This sticker is free to all guests who order a bowl on its anniversary and is available at all locations, until supplies last.

In 2017, Mark Setterington, CEO and founder of Island Fin Poké Co. created a poké concept that combined deliciously vibrant flavors and emphasized creating an Ohana-like, or family-like, atmosphere in every location. This ideology and foundation are what set up Island Fin Poké Co. to experience success over the past seven years in over 20 locations across the U.S.

“My concept behind this brand was to truly transport guests back to the islands of Hawaii through the flavors and atmosphere we radiate,” said Setterington. “Our birthday signifies our brand’s commitment to remain as authentic as we can for our guests and introducing a new style of fast-casual poké restaurant. I want to personally thank our Ohana because we would not be where we are today without your love and support!”

For this celebration, Island Fin created a colorful sticker that represents the peaceful Hawaiian shores and it’s exclusively available on March 20, until supplies last for any guest ordering a fresh poké bowl. This is the third of ten sticker drops this year, and if guests collect all ten, they can be entered in a raffle for the chance to win a customized Island Fin Poké Co. surfboard.

“Our birthday means so much to us because we love celebrating with our Ohana. We wanted to give it back to our biggest fans, so we created this exciting prize with a customized surfboard, and the winner will be announced later this year,” added Setterington.

In the past year, the brand has opened new locations in different communities and states, has introduced multiple new menu items, such as the most recent Nashville Hot Chicken Bowl, always offering their guests an IncrediBOWL experience during each and every visit. Island Fin plans to expand its menu offerings and expand into even more new communities throughout the year.

Island Fin has partnered with GNF Worldwide, the world’s leading franchising firm, and has been recognized by multiple distinguished franchising publications such as Entrepreneur Magazine, where they earned the reputation of 2023 Top New & Emerging Franchises.

For more information on the brand’s sticker drops, visit IslandFinPoke.com or stay tuned on social media for sticker drop announcements. For media inquiries, please email Bianca Kasawdish at Bianca@TeamInnoVision.com.

About Island Fin Poké Co.

Island Fin Poké Co. is a Florida-based fast-casual concept known for its Hawaiian-style build-your-own poké bowls. From farm-to-fork, the brand uses the freshest ingredients to bring traditional flavors from the islands to local communities nationwide. Founded in 2017, Island Fin Poké Co. has 23 locations open, with numerous others in various stages of development. Island Fin Poké Co. was ranked #29 on the 2023 Top New & Emerging Franchises list by Entrepreneur Magazine, listed in Fast Casual’s 2023 Top Movers & Shakers list, and recognized as a Top 100 Game Changer for 2022 by Franchise Dictionary Magazine. For more information, or if interested in joining the brand’s Ohana, please visit https://www.IslandFinPoke.com/.

13 03, 2024

FirstLight Home Care Announces National Caregiver of the Year

2024-03-13T23:46:58-04:00March 13th, 2024|Tags: , , |

FirstLight’s President and CEO surprised the winning caregiver in Southbury, CT

SOUTHBURY, Conn. — FirstLight Home Care, an award-winning provider of home care services, has named Susanne DiDonato as its National Caregiver of the Year.

Susanne was presented with the honor this week during a caregiver appreciation event at FirstLight Home Care’s Southbury, CT, office. She was nominated by our franchisees from FairfieldLitchfield and New HavenJohn and Wenjun Richards.

“Sue has a profound ability to connect with every client she works with,” said John Richards. “She isn’t just a caregiver. We and her clients consider her family. Sue is also a true problem solver who consistently displays dignity and respect. Her warmth, patience, and how she engages with every client set her apart. This is not just a job for Sue, it is a calling.”

Caregiver of the Year nominations were received from FirstLight offices nationwide. Sue was selected from more than 7,000 caregivers employed by the FirstLight Home Care franchise system. Nominees were evaluated on service excellence, quality of caregiving skills and bringing the FirstLight culture to life. Susanne was one of three finalists this year.

FirstLight’s President and CEO, Glee McAnanly, traveled to the office in Connecticut to surprise Sue and present the prestigious award.

Franchise owners John Richards and Wenjun Richards and their dedicated care team have provided in-home care to adults in their community for nearly a decade. For more information, visit  Southbury.FirstLightHomeCare.com.

About FirstLight Home Care
FirstLight Home Care, a leading provider of home care services, is a lifeline for seniors, veterans, adults living with dementia, and anyone 18 and older who needs care in the place they call home. FirstLight exists to help people have their best day, every day. The company’s mission is to provide compassionate home care so that all families who are served have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving the support they need to enjoy the quality of life they deserve. FirstLight’s network of professional caregivers is passionate about creating meaningful relationships and making a difference in the lives of others. The franchise system includes nearly 200 independently owned and operated home care locations throughout the United States. To learn more, or to find a local office, visit FirstLightHomeCare.com.

13 03, 2024

In a Sea of Applications, How Candidates Can Make a Splash

2024-03-13T23:17:50-04:00March 13th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Demonstrating Passion for the Role Key for Job Seekers Latest Results from The Harris Poll

OKLAHOMA CITY — As companies receive applications, information and candidates may blend — but U.S. hiring managers say certain factors can help prospective employees stand out.

This is according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.

Demonstrating passion for the role (52%), quantifying their achievements (43%) and showing that they’ve researched the company (43%) are among hiring managers’ top methods for a candidate to stand out to their company.

Having a personal referral from someone who works at the company (38%), showing their creativity (36%) and keeping the resume short/concise (36%) may also be beneficial.

Beyond Tangible Qualifications

About half of job seekers believe, to a company, dependability (52%) and work ethic (49%) are absolutely essential skills/traits for a candidate to possess when applying for a job.

At least 2 in 5 also believe communications skills (45%), ability to work well in a team (43%), willingness to learn (43%) and time management skills (40%) are also absolutely essential.

Perhaps a sign of a shift in the generational workforce, Millennials, Gen X and boomers/seniors are more likely to consider dependability absolutely essential compared to Gen Z (50%, 58%, 64% vs. 29%). However, Gen Z is far more likely to consider problem-solving skills absolutely essential compared to Millennials and Gen X (56% vs. 38%, 36%).

Distinguished From the Competition 

As U.S. job seekers consider which skills/traits may be important to have, they also think about the ways to stand out when applying to a job.

Nearly half of U.S. job seekers say that demonstrating passion for the role (48%) or quantifying achievements (48%) will make them stand out.

At least one-third also believe that keeping their resume short/concise (38%) or showing their creativity (33%) will separate them from the competition.

No more than 3 in 10 believe reaching out to the company (30%), having a visually appealing resume (30%), including links to relevant work (26%), including contact information upfront (23%), connecting on social media (15%) or including a photo (13%) would be beneficial.

Women are more likely than men to believe that demonstrating passion for the role (56% vs. 43%), showing they’ve researched the company (49% vs. 40%), having a personal referral from someone who works at the company (49% vs. 37%) or including a cover letter with the application (38% vs. 25%) would help them stand out.

“In the competitive landscape of job interviews, it is vital for candidates to grasp the importance of standing out,” said Bill Stoller, Express Employment International CEO. “It is not merely about meeting basic qualifications, but surpassing expectations with distinct strengths and qualities that make a lasting impact.”

Survey Methodology

The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals between Oct. 31 and Nov. 10, 2023, among 1,007 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 from November 9 to 26, 2023, among 1,002 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 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., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia 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., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia and New Zealand, employing 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.