Sean Sarrami and his partners knew there had to be a better breakfast restaurant out there than what was currently available – one that emphasized fresh ingredients, variety and great portions. With experience in hospitality, Sarrami saw an opportunity to create a breakfast and lunch franchise concept that could accommodate customers of all dietary restrictions and serve tasty dishes. In 2016, Pür & Simple® was born. By Kelsi Trinidad
Adria Hartwig, franchise development director at City Wide Facility Solutions, has noticed a shift in the motivation behind franchise ownership: Parents are more dedicated to helping their children find quality long-term employment. By Erika Ortega
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada has held a significant place in the heart of Schooley Mitchell, an independent cost-reduction consulting firm, for a long time. For many years, employees at the corporate office have participated in fundraising events such as The Big Bike, Ride for Heart and the foundation’s annual walk. By Kelsi Trinidad
The Jobs of Today Are Not the Jobs of Tomorrow, but Training Opportunities Are Abundant
By Bill Stoller, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Express Employment International
OKLAHOMA CITY — A few years after one of the hottest job markets in decades, which led to soaring wages and opportunities for job seekers, stabilizing economic conditions are allowing businesses to reassess their operations, including headcount.
Job seekers are feeling the shift: 31% fear losing their jobs before finding new ones, according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey. A similar study from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York also shows rising job seeker uncertainty, with fewer people employed, a record number looking for work, and a higher likelihood of unemployment.
So, if unemployment remains relatively low at 4.3% and the U.S. currently has 8.2 million open jobs, why are so many job seekers saying they aren’t receiving offers?
The skills mismatch.
The jobs of yesterday are not the jobs of tomorrow, especially considering the new kid in town — generative AI.
According to the World Economic Forum, 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted in the next five years with cognitive skills at the top of the ideal candidate wish list for recruiters. A similar 2023 Express-Harris Poll survey found hiring managers deem dependability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn absolutely essential.
Just as I tell myself the 1970s were “only” 30 years ago, the next five years will be gone in the blink of an eye, and the skills mismatch will either continue to worsen or businesses and individuals can invest in reskilling today.
I’ll be the first to admit that finding the time to reskill or upskill can be daunting, especially heading into the busyness surrounding the end of the year. Kids’ activities, work obligations, and holidays dominate schedules. But with increasing competition for employment, job seekers can’t afford to wait.
Fortunately, short, focused certificates or courses, known as microcredentials, are flexible and efficient training options widely available in-person and online. Instead of, or in addition to, higher-education degrees, microcredentials focus on specific skill sets such as accounting, business management, anatomy and physiology essentials, and drilling basics. Some are even stackable to achieve associate and bachelor’s degrees.
Several companies also offer certificates and microcredentials for the general public, like Google and LinkedIn. For example, Google offers certificates for data analytics, cybersecurity, IT support, and more through the Coursera platform.
At Express, we are proud to be part of the skills mismatch solution by offering our own training and certifications:
Before committing to microcredential coursework, research how to demonstrate proof of completion for a future employer. Often, programs will issue a unique digital badge from third parties such as Credly or a competency-based transcript. Digital badges can be added to your LinkedIn profile or resume.
Microcredentials appear to be gaining traction as 77% of hiring managers in the 2023 Express-Harris Poll survey said they are just as valuable or more valuable than traditional degrees, and 81% agree they provide the workforce with skilled workers in a timely manner.
On the employer side, shrinking budgets are elevating reskilling urgency, providing a way to fill roles without hiring new talent.
Sixty-eight percent of hiring managers say they plan to reskill employees this year—a 13% increase since 2021. The most popular reskilling option is to offer company-led training programs (71%) followed by on-the-job training by other employees (62%) or third-party training courses (46%).
Jumping on the AI train, 16% say they will use artificial intelligence to help train workers.
Whether you choose to completely overhaul your skill set or close gaps in knowledge, as H. Jackson Brown, Jr. said, “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” The future of work is here, and you don’t want to get left behind.
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 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.
TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, a leader in the disaster restoration services industry, proudly announces its new corporate membership with the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC). This strategic partnership underscores PuroClean’s commitment to supporting veteran business owners and promoting opportunities in the rapidly growing disaster restoration industry.
Through this collaboration, PuroClean aims to increase awareness among veteran entrepreneurs about the lucrative and essential services provided within the disaster restoration sector. As part of this initiative, PuroClean is excited to introduce the PuroVet program, designed specifically to empower veterans transitioning into business ownership.
Veterans who choose to franchise with PuroClean will benefit from a substantial 25% discount on their franchising fee, offered under the PuroVet program. This discount is a gesture of gratitude and recognition of the skills, discipline, and leadership qualities that veterans bring to the table—qualities that are invaluable in the restoration industry.
This initiative is spearheaded by Frank Torre, a passionate advocate for veterans and a descendant of a proud military family. Torre’s father was a U.S. Marine during World War II, serving with distinction in the elite Carlson’s Raiders unit. His dedication to supporting veteran business ownership is deeply personal and driven by his family’s legacy of service.
“We are honored to join forces with the NVBDC and to support our nation’s heroes as they transition into successful business ownership,” said Frank Torre. “The PuroVet program is our way of giving back to those who have given so much to our country. We believe that veterans, with their unparalleled work ethic and commitment to excellence, are uniquely positioned to thrive in the disaster restoration industry.”
Retired US Marine Colonel Gerhard, a long-time friend of Frank Torre, expressed his support for the initiative, saying, “Having known Frank for many years, I can attest to his deep commitment to supporting our nation’s veterans. Veterans possess a unique set of skills and experiences that make them ideal candidates for entrepreneurship. PuroClean’s PuroVet program is an exceptional opportunity for our veterans to leverage those strengths in a field that values leadership, resilience, and dedication. It’s inspiring to see Frank and PuroClean not only recognizing these qualities but also actively supporting our veterans as they transition to civilian life.”
The NVBDC is the leading third-party certification organization that ensures credible documentation of veteran status, ownership, and control. By becoming a corporate member, PuroClean is furthering its mission to provide meaningful opportunities for veterans and to strengthen the veteran business community.
General Dick Miller, President of the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), added his endorsement of the initiative, saying, “The PuroVet program is a shining example of how corporate America can play a pivotal role in empowering our veterans. Frank Torre and PuroClean are setting a standard for what it means to truly support those who have served our country. By offering veterans a significant discount on franchising fees and opening doors in the disaster restoration industry, they are not just providing opportunities—they are building a foundation for long-term success. We are proud to have PuroClean as part of the NVBDC family.”
Veteran business owners interested in learning more about the PuroVet program and the opportunities within the disaster restoration industry are encouraged to visit PuroClean’s website or contact their local PuroClean representative.
Keith King, Founder and CEO of the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), also praised the initiative, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome PuroClean as a corporate member of NVBDC, their participation exemplifies the growing recognition among top companies of the value that veteran-owned businesses bring to the table. We look forward to a strong and mutually beneficial partnership with PuroClean as we continue to open doors for veterans in business.”
About PuroClean:
PuroClean is a leading franchise in property damage restoration, specializing in water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup. With a network of franchise offices across the U.S., PuroClean is committed to providing top-tier service to its customers and offering valuable opportunities to its franchisees.
About the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC):
The NVBDC is the premier third-party veteran business certification organization, dedicated to certifying veteran-owned businesses of all sizes and connecting them with corporate partners that value veteran-owned businesses.
This is The Brand’s Fifth Location in The Lonestar State
AUSTIN, Texas — Blingle!, the premier outdoor lighting franchise, announced today the signing of its newest franchise location in Austin, which is owned and operated by friends Chelsea Turner and Kelli Katzman. With the heart of operations based out of Liberty Hill, the new location will serve the greater north Austin area as far west as Bertram over east to Taylor, and as far south as Manor with reach into north Austin.
After moving to Austin at two separate times, Turner and Katzman had no clue in 2012 when they met while working at the same pharmaceutical company just how strong their friendship would be. Turner, originally from Missouri, was ready to ditch those frigid Midwest winters and randomly placed her finger on a map, and now 14 years later, she is bringing her own business to Austin. Katzman on the other hand, an Ankeny, Iowa native, graduated from the University of Iowa, and went to visit a friend in Austin for a week, and before she knew it, was an Austin resident herself.
Katzman and Turner covered the same territory in pharmaceutical sales and realized how well they complemented each other to build success. Before doing pharmaceutical sales, Turner worked in corporate sales and started her own door-hanging business. Katzman started her career in sales for a copier business followed by manufacturer and pharmaceutical sales before being recruited by Johnson & Johson (J&J) for medical device sales. When the opportunity arose with an opening on the team at J&J, Katzman knew just who the perfect person was for the job, and she brought Turner over.
After over a decade of working together in pharmaceutical and medical device sales, Turner and Katzman were ready to leave corporate America. Knowing how well they work together, and how their strengths play off each other, they decided to partner up to open a business. They knew they wanted to bring something to their beloved community of Liberty Hill, but at first, did not know what that business would be. After diligently doing research, the duo found Blingle!. They immediately put their sales hats on and saw the potential for growth, making the decision an easy one.
“We are excited about bringing this service to our community,” said Turner. “This brand has a design aspect that is fun and creative that allows for us to be personable. This just made sense for us.”
“We want to build this brand in Central Texas,” added Katzman. “Our goal is not only to provide great products and services to our customers, but also be able to give back to our community in various ways.”
Blingle! of Central Texas is anticipated to open in mid-September of this year.
“We are excited to have Kelli and Chelsea join the Blingle! family,” Josh Skolnick, Founder of HorsePower Brands said. “To be able to bring the premier products and service that we have to offer to the Austin community is a great opportunity.”
To learn more about Blingle! please visit: blingle.com. For more information about franchising opportunities, please visit: blingle.com/franchising and horsepowerbrands.com.
ABOUT BLINGLE!
Founded in Omaha, Neb. in 2014, Blingle!, a part of HorsePower Brands, specializes in providing year-round premium lighting services for homes, businesses and events. Blingle!’s services cover all outdoor lighting needs, including landscape, permanent, holiday, patio, event, and commercial lighting. As the premier lighting service, Blingle! uses state-of-the-art designs and products to transform outdoor spaces and create memorable illuminations with spectacular lighting. Blingle! is Ida Dark Sky approved, and accredited by the Better Business Bureau and The Institute of Wedding and Event Design. Additionally, Blingle! was named an Elite Service and Screened and Approved by HomeAdvisor. To learn more about Blingle! and HorsePower Brands, please visit https://www.blingle.com/ or https://horsepowerbrands.com/.
Nation’s Leading Dog Wellness Franchise Partners with Obsess to Bring an Interactive Tool to All Pet Parents
PHOENIX — Dogtopia, the nation’s leading dog wellness franchise, recently announced the launch of its new virtual world with Obsess, an AI-powered interactive tool creating the next-generation online shopping interface. The tool lets dog moms and dads experience everything Dogtopia has to offer without leaving their homes.
The innovative virtual world provides a convenient way for pet parents to learn more about Dogtopia’s daycare, boarding and spa offerings and how they help dogs live long, healthy and happy lives. Jam-packed with immersive features, this tool will prepare parents for their dog’s Meet & Greet and answer frequently asked questions. Additionally, it will enhance the experience for existing Dogtopia parents with entertaining and educational elements.
Not only can dog parents tour the virtual daycare, but they can also participate in a scavenger hunt to win a prize, take an educational quiz about dogs and learn more about Dogtopia’s services. Pet parents can also peruse products from the Dogtopia Shop, which features at-home items for both dogs and parents, and discover more about the Dogtopia Foundation.
“As the world advances technologically, Dogtopia is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation to ensure the best experience for all dogs and their families,” said Neil Gill, President and CEO of Dogtopia. “We are thrilled to introduce this cutting-edge virtual world and provide parents with a modern, immersive way to explore our wellness offerings and choose Dogtopia with confidence.”
Dogtopia has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. The company’s live webcams provide parents peace of mind and the ability to check in on their pups when they are away. Its mobile app has been ahead of its time in the industry, offering curbside drop-off and pickup concierge services long before the pandemic. To top it off, Dogtopia has a new device releasing soon that will allow parents to monitor their dog’s daily activity—a first in the dog daycare space.
The virtual world can be found here. For more information about Dogtopia or to find a location near you, visit www.dogtopia.com.
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 holistically address canine wellness. 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 the impact on joints and paws, and webcams for pet parents to check in on their pups. For more information, visit www.dogtopia.com.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Grasons, the leading franchise in estate sales and business liquidation services and member of Evive Brands, reports growing success among its franchisees who are leveraging the company’s multi-revenue stream model to meet increasing market demand.
Grasons franchisees benefit from eight different revenue streams:
This comprehensive service offering positions Grasons franchisees to address a wide range of client needs, from individual homeowners to commercial enterprises.
“Our Grasons multi-faceted business model allows our franchisees to diversify their income sources and adapt to various market opportunities,” said Ryan Parsons, Evive Brands CEO. “This flexibility is crucial in today’s dynamic economic environment.”
Christian Campbell, owner of Grasons of Tri-County, NJ, recently demonstrated the power of this model by successfully managing a high-profile art gallery liquidation in Princeton, NJ. The four-day event featured over 200 rare and high-end pieces, showcasing Grasons’ expertise in business liquidations.
“The art gallery sale shows how Grasons equips us to handle diverse and high-value liquidations,” said Campbell. “Our comprehensive training from Grasons enabled us to professionally manage this complex event, maximizing value for our client while tapping into multiple revenue streams.”
Vincent Stirone, who owns multiple Grasons franchises in California, adds, “The ability to offer such a wide range of services has been key to our growth. It allows us to serve diverse client needs and maintain a steady business even in changing economic conditions. Every estate sale is a different journey and it’s immensely rewarding to help families during those times.”
As the U.S. faces demographic shifts with over 10,000 Americans turning 65 daily and projections of store closures reaching 50,000 in the next five years, Grasons franchisees are uniquely positioned to serve both individual and commercial clients across all eight revenue streams.
Grasons’ comprehensive five-day training program covers all aspects of these services, ensuring franchisees are prepared to excel in each area. This multi-faceted approach allows Grasons franchisees to build resilient businesses capable of adapting to market demands.
For more information about Grasons franchise opportunities, visit www.grasons.com.
About Grasons
Grasons is a nationally recognized estate sale and business liquidation franchise and a proud member of Evive Brands, providing nationwide compassionate care for health and home. Grasons is committed to providing a respectful and efficient service, helping clients during transitional phases of life.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — As the senior care industry faces increased scrutiny, Assisted Living Locators is setting new standards for ethical practices while offering career transition opportunities for professionals from diverse backgrounds.
Angela Olea, RN, Founder and Brand President of Assisted Living Locators, emphasizes the company’s commitment to transparency and ethical standards in senior care referrals.
“We’re not just offering business opportunities; we’re leading an ethical revolution in our industry,” Olea said. “Our franchisees are trained to provide unbiased, comprehensive guidance to families, with full disclosure of our business model and a commitment to thorough vetting of care facilities.”
The company attracts professionals seeking purpose-driven second careers while upholding the highest ethical standards. Ashly Blackwell, a registered nurse and now owner of Assisted Living Locators Northern Arizona, exemplifies this transition.
“As a nurse, I’ve always prioritized patient care. Now, I apply that same ethic to guiding seniors and their families through critical care decisions,” Blackwell said. “The company’s commitment to transparency and ongoing support for families aligns perfectly with my values.”
Jasilika Davidson, a veteran and owner of Assisted Living Locators West Columbus, appreciates the company’s ethical approach.
“The discipline I learned in the military translates well to maintaining the high ethical standards Assisted Living Locators demands,” Davidson said. “We’re not just placing seniors; we’re ensuring their long-term well-being through regular follow-ups and adjustments as needs change.”
Mike McClernon, a former corporate executive now running Assisted Living Locators Long Island, values the company’s ethical business model.
“In my corporate career, I learned the importance of integrity. Assisted Living Locators takes this to another level with its commitment to transparency and ethical practices,” McClernon said.
Olea emphasizes that all franchisees undergo dementia care certification, setting a new industry standard for advisor qualifications.
“We’re raising the bar for the entire industry,” Olea said. “By combining ethical practices with diverse professional expertise, we’re creating a new paradigm in senior care referrals.”
Assisted Living Locators, a member of Evive Brands with 150 franchises across 39 states and Washington, D.C, offers no cost senior placement and referral services. The company’s ethical approach and diverse franchise opportunities are attracting professionals committed to making a difference in senior care.
For more information on Assisted Living Locators franchise opportunities, visit www.assistedlivinglocators.com/franchise.
Assisted Living Locators, under the Evive Brands umbrella, offers a comprehensive range of care options for seniors and families, guiding them through top-tier in-home care, diverse retirement options, assisted living, and memory care. The brand has been recognized in Entrepreneur’s “Franchise500®” and distinguished as a Top Senior Care Franchise by Franchise Business Review. For more information, visit www.assistedlivinglocators.com/franchise.
Premier Salon Suite Franchise Receives Prestigious Recognition for Semi-Absentee Opportunity and Scalable Business Model
CARROLLTON, Texas — MY SALON Suite, a salon suite franchise focused on providing beauty, health and wellness professionals a personal space to build their business, has ranked #17 on Entrepreneur‘s second annual Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners list. The recognition comes amid rapid franchise growth and major acquisitions by the brand, boosting the network to over 330 locations nationwide.
The ranking identifies the brands with the most appeal for prospective franchisees interested in multi-unit ownership, as well as existing franchisees looking to expand their portfolios. To determine the top brands for multi-unit ownership, Entrepreneur examined factors including available discounts to franchisees purchasing multiple units, the average number of units owned by each franchisee and the percentage of multi-unit franchisees in the brand’s network.
“Multi-unit franchising is a pathway to financial freedom, offering diversified revenue streams and reduced dependence on the performance of a single location,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer of Propelled Brands. “Ranking amid the top 20 of such a prestigious ranking underscores the strength of the MY SALON Suite business model and the incredible growth potential of the brand. As we continue our nationwide expansion, we look forward to providing further opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their portfolios and build their businesses.”
MY SALON Suite utilizes a semi-absentee model that is ideal for multi-unit and multi-brand franchise partners looking to diversify their portfolio without the need to oversee employees. Most owners only need to dedicate five to 10 hours a week, making the salon suite business model particularly appealing for entrepreneurs in high-demand industries, such as QSR, hospitality and storage. Approximately 80% of MY SALON Suite units are owned by multi-unit owners, and over 50% of franchisees own multiple units.
“I went into business to be able to build something that would positively impact the lives of others and build long-term financial stability for my family,” said Ray Harrigill, multi-unit and multi-brand franchisee with four open MY SALON Suite locations and six additional planned 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 initial investment for a MY SALON Suite franchise is approximately $984,999 – $1,577,236, including a $50,000 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $1.5 million, of which $500K is liquid. MY SALON Suite also offers special incentives for multi-unit signings, with a reduced $99,000 combined franchise fee when signing for three units or $150,000 for six units.
For more information about MY SALON Suite franchise opportunities, visit https://www.mysalonsuite.com/franchise, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679.
To view MY SALON Suite in the 2024 Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners list, pick up the July/August issue of Entrepreneur magazine or find the list online at https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/top-multiunit-ranking.
About MY SALON Suite®:
MY SALON Suite® is a franchise designed for individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit who are interested in diversifying their portfolio while enjoying a semi-absentee lifestyle. The company was established with the aim to inspire and empower the modern-day salon owner, providing a unique opportunity for a range of beauty and health professionals to successfully manage their businesses. MY SALON Suite Members are provided with ongoing training, support, and a robust referral network to bolster their business growth. The brand, which is ranked in the top 100 on Entrepreneur’s highly competitive 2024 Franchise 500® List, is widely recognized for its rapid expansion and significant success.
As a service-oriented business in the Propelled Brands® family, MY SALON Suite boasts over 330 locations in 35 states across the United States and Canada, with 165 franchisees and over 8,500 Members. To learn more about MY SALON Suite®, visit mysalonsuite.com. For franchise opportunities, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).