Buying a Franchise in 2025: If Not Now, When?
2025 is THE year to own a business. If you’ve been considering buying a business, particularly a franchise, there’s never been a better time than now. By Jack Monson
31
03, 2025
31
03, 2025
Global Financial Training Program: Your Gateway to Success in Commercial Finance
With a 12-year low in small-business bank loan approvals and the launch of tens of thousands of new businesses annually, the need for financing options is greater than ever. Fortunately, Global Financial Training Program offers a unique pathway to a lucrative career in commercial finance. By Shelby Green
31
03, 2025
Renew Medic: Family Business Facilitates Growth
Married Renew Medic owners Robert and Narda Johnson have nothing but good things to say about running a business together. Bringing their nephew, Evan Shepard, into the business 10 years ago has also resulted in great success for the family. By Erika Ortega
28
03, 2025
PuroClean Expands Expert Restoration and Remediation Services Across California
The Paramedics of Property Damage® Target the Golden State for Additional Franchise Growth Opportunities
TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the nation’s top franchise brands in property restoration and remediation, is actively seeking expansion opportunities in California. The award-winning franchise brand was recently named one of the 10 Best Franchises to Buy by Franchise Times. 10 conversion and new ownership territories are available specifically in Sacramento, Roseville, Fairfield, Chico, and Santa Rosa.
PuroClean has an established presence in several communities across California. The brand now aims to expand its reach even further in response to the increase in both severity and frequency of natural disasters. In addition to PuroClean’s quick response and continued efforts on the front lines of the recent wildfires that ravaged homes and communities in Los Angeles, their everyday emergency response services are a core component of the business. With the state’s diverse climate and rapidly growing population, PuroClean is positioned to leverage emerging market opportunities in a key area.
“Expanding throughout California presents incredible opportunities for growth,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “With each new location, we’re bringing trusted remediation and restoration services to more communities, helping families and businesses recover quickly and effectively from unexpected property disasters.”
Beyond residential services, PuroClean is a reliable partner for commercial property restoration. Offering a comprehensive range of solutions — including water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, and biohazard cleanup services — PuroClean is dedicated to restoring properties and providing peace of mind after emergencies.
“We’re excited to expand our presence across California, a state experiencing an increasing need for quality remediation services, as part of our ongoing franchise development strategy,” said Tim Courtney, PuroClean Vice President of Franchise Development. “With California’s unique challenges, we’re looking for passionate entrepreneurs who are eager to make a real impact by helping communities recover and rebuild through expert restoration and remediation services.”
For more than 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs, serving communities across the United States and Canada through a network nearing 500 offices. With franchises anticipated to grow 2.4% in 2025, faster than the broader U.S. economy, the brand is seeking potential franchise owners to join their growing network, including individuals in the home service industry, such as construction professionals, home remodelers, property maintenance technicians, and more, who may be looking to add a restoration component to their business.
For more information about PuroClean, call 800-351-2282 or visit www.PuroCleanFranchise.com.
About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leading, world-class service brand for property water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, and biohazard clean-up services, working with both residential and commercial customers across the U.S. and Canada. Founded in 2001, PuroClean is a diverse, fast-growing network of nearly 500 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. For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit www.PuroClean.com.
28
03, 2025
Bob Funk, Jr. Promoted to President of Express Employment International
OKLAHOMA CITY — Express Employment International is pleased to announce the promotion of Bob Funk, Jr., to President, effective immediately.
As President, Funk Jr. will lead the company’s Sales and Marketing teams, along with his current role leading international efforts and business intelligence, ensuring ongoing innovation and expansion.
“Bob is the perfect fit to step into this role because, having grown up with Express, he is deeply connected to our brand and mission,” Express International CEO Bill Stoller said. “His passion for empowering entrepreneurs and his drive to provide hope through employment to millions of individuals and families are core to who he is. With his innovative mindset and strong leadership, I am confident that Express will continue its growth and success.”
Funk Jr., a seasoned leader within the organization, earned his bachelor’s degree in international business from Oklahoma Baptist University. He began his career with Express Employment Professionals at the franchise level in 1996 and joined Express International in 2013. Over the years, he has served in key roles such as Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning and Corporate Development and Vice President of Sales and Corporate Development.
In addition to his role with Express International, Funk Jr. is an accomplished entrepreneur and the Managing Partner of Oklahoma Temporary Services, overseeing 58 Express-affiliated franchise locations. A dedicated community leader, he actively supports numerous causes, including Habitat for Humanity and Palomar, among others.
A dedicated advocate of career and technical education, Funk Jr. champions the importance of technical education in shaping the future workforce and empowering individuals to reach their full potential through his involvement with the Association of Career Tech Educators.
He also serves on the Executive Committee of the Greater Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce, is a Board Member of Express Employment International, a graduate of Leadership Oklahoma City Class XXXI, and an active member of Downtown Rotary Club 29.
“Having always believed in the power of our work to create lasting change, I’m passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and providing hope through meaningful employment to millions of individuals and families,” Funk Jr. said. “Our work isn’t just about creating jobs; it’s about changing lives and building stronger communities. I’m honored to step into this role and look forward to continuing our work to make a lasting difference.”
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., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
About Express Employment International
Express Employment International supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and affiliated 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. Express Employment International boasts a team of more than 500 professionals in Oklahoma City and a network of sales and support teams internationally. For more information, visit www.ExpressPros.com.
28
03, 2025
Jim Howe Named as President of FASTSIGNS® by Parent Company Propelled Brands®
The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise Poised for New Growth and Innovation with Howe at the Helm
CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today the appointment of Jim Howe, former president of Propelled Brands’ company NerdsToGo®, as president of FASTSIGNS, effective immediately.
“Jim is the perfect fit to lead FASTSIGNS, bringing his strategic vision and deep expertise in franchising to drive the brand’s objectives and large-scale initiatives forward,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of Propelled Brands. “I’ve witnessed Jim’s positive impact firsthand across the Propelled Brands network for over a decade, and I’m honored to appoint him to this role.”
Howe brings more than 30 years of franchising experience to his new role, including 11 years as vice president, leading operations and franchise support at FASTSIGNS. Most recently, he served as president of NerdsToGo®, the managed IT services brand for small businesses under the Propelled Brands® umbrella. During his tenure, Howe demonstrated exceptional brand stewardship, leading NerdsToGo’s transformation into a Managed Service Provider (MSP), positioning him for success in his new role as FASTSIGNS president.
“It’s an incredible honor to return to FASTSIGNS as president,” said Howe. “Having been part of the brand’s journey for over a decade, I’m eager to build on its legacy of innovation and drive continued growth by empowering our franchisees and strengthening our network.”
As president of FASTSIGNS, Howe will be responsible for increasing franchisee profitability through effective leadership, innovation, new revenue streams, and operational efficiencies, as well as driving growth in the number of franchise locations. He will focus on franchisee/franchisor collaboration, sharing best practices, optimizing processes, increasing franchisee profitability and satisfaction, as well as deepening customer relationships to bring the brand promise to life.
About FASTSIGNS®
FASTSIGNS® is the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry. With 40 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps customers bring their vision to life and achieve more than they ever thought possible. As the largest service-oriented business within the Propelled Brands® family, FASTSIGNS spans over 785 independently owned and operated centers across the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®).
FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and with awards that include being ranked #1 in its category on ENTREPRENEUR’s highly competitive Franchise 500® List in 2025 for the ninth consecutive year, and being named a 2024 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review for the sixth consecutive year.
For more information or to learn about opportunities, visit fastsigns.com or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).
About Propelled Brands®
Propelled Brands® is a multi-brand platform company dedicated to accelerating the growth of service-oriented businesses with an unrelenting focus on franchising best practices and franchisee profitability and satisfaction. We have a robust franchise business model that provides a clear growth trajectory for the unique position, purpose and momentum of each brand. While there are many paths to success, there’s only one direction we know: forward. Our portfolio includes highly recognized and award winning brands: FASTSIGNS®, MY SALON Suite®, Camp Bow Wow® and NerdsToGo®. Propelled Brands is looking to partner with other service-oriented franchise concepts.
For more information or to learn about opportunities, visit propelledbrands.com or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).
23
03, 2025
PrideStaff Celebrates a Third Consecutive Year on ClearlyRated’s Best Staffing Firms for Women List
FRESNO, Calif. — PrideStaff, a nationally franchised staffing organization, is pleased to announce that it has once again been named to ClearlyRated’s list of Best Staffing Firms for Women for cultivating an exceptional workplace environment where female employees thrive. Through dedicated support for development and leadership, PrideStaff enables women to achieve their career goals.
Fewer than .1% of staffing firms qualify for this elite designation, which is based on stringent criteria that include the following:
- A firm must invite feedback from 100% of its internal staff on their overall experience within their organization.
- Women must comprise at least 47% of the workforce, rate the firm highly, and be highly represented in leadership roles.
This year, PrideStaff also earned its second consecutive Best of Staffing® Client and Talent 15-Year Diamond Awards from ClearlyRated for providing superior service to their clients and candidates, as well as ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Employee 5-Year Diamond Award for providing an exceptional experience for their employees.
“Being named to ClearlyRated’s Best Staffing Firms for Women list for a third consecutive year is so much more than another professional accolade. This is objective proof of PrideStaff’s unwavering commitment to creating a collaborative and empowering workspace,” stated PrideStaff Co-CEO Tammi Heaton. “We are proud to have many women in leadership roles at all levels within our organization. This distinction makes it clear that here, each employee has the opportunity to rise to their greatest heights.”
Heaton added, “The most important aspect of this award is that it’s based on anonymous feedback from female employees. I’m grateful for every individual in the PrideStaff system who contributes to this welcoming, rewarding work culture. Their tireless efforts have made us a leader in client and talent service excellence and have also made PrideStaff a great place to work.”
“I’m excited to unveil the companies recognized on the third annual Best Staffing Firms for Women list,” stated Baker Nanduru, CEO of ClearlyRated. “As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, these exceptional firms deserve applause for championing and empowering their female employees. Despite persistent challenges like pay disparity and limited advancement opportunities, these firms are at the forefront of fostering growth and elevating women in the workforce. Congratulations and heartfelt thanks to these outstanding organizations for their unwavering commitment to gender diversity and equality.”
About PrideStaff
PrideStaff was founded in the 1970s as 100% company-owned units and began franchising in 1995. It operates offices in North America to serve thousands of clients and is headquartered in Central California. With 45-plus years in the staffing business, PrideStaff offers the resources and expertise of a national firm, with the spirit, dedication, and personal service of smaller, entrepreneurial firms. PrideStaff is the only nationwide commercial staffing firm in the U.S. and Canada with over $100 million in annual revenue to earn ClearlyRated’s prestigious Best of Staffing® 15-Year Diamond Awards two years in a row, highlighting exceptional client and talent service quality.
For more information on our services, or staffing franchise information, visit our website.
About ClearlyRated
ClearlyRated is the leading CX platform designed specifically for staffing & recruiting firms. We offer firms a sophisticated alternative to manual processes and basic survey tools, then pair that with world-class customer care and support. Ours is an efficient, industry-focused solution that provides data-driven insights to equip service teams with a real-time understanding of client and internal employee interactions and satisfaction.
About Best of Staffing
ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award is the only award in the U.S. and Canada that recognizes staffing agencies that have proven superior service quality based entirely on ratings provided by their clients, placed talent, and internal employees. Award winners are showcased by city and area of expertise on ClearlyRated.com—an online business directory that helps buyers of professional services find service leaders and vet prospective firms with the help of validated client ratings and testimonials.
Net promoter, NPS, and Net Promoter Score are trademarks of Satmetrix Systems, Inc., Bain & Company, and Fred Reichheld.
23
03, 2025
Be Here Salon Named Finalist for 2025 NAHA Most Inspiring Salon, Redefining Inclusivity, Innovation and Luxury Self-Care
Recognition highlights founder Vee Vargas’s commitment to promoting self-care through personalized experiences, community empowerment and sustainability
CARROLLTON, Texas — MY SALON Suite®, a salon suite franchise focused on providing beauty, health and wellness professionals a personal space to build their business, announced today Be Here salon, a luxury, inclusive salon experience founded by industry veteran Vee Vargas, has been named a finalist for the prestigious “2025 Most Inspiring Salon” award by the North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA). This recognition highlights Be Here’s commitment to the level of care and service that MY SALON Suite® champions for professionals.
A seasoned hairstylist of 13 years, Vargas joined the MY SALON Suite network when she founded Be Here in Oakland, California, launching her dream to create a suite space that offers a tranquil, customized salon experience that prioritizes relaxation and personalization. Beyond hairstyling, Vargas has dedicated her career to fostering inclusivity and accessibility within the beauty industry. In 2022, she launched Be Infinite, a non-profit cosmetology apprenticeship program designed to provide marginalized communities with pathways to economic empowerment and creative expression. The program integrates trauma-informed teaching and an inclusive curriculum, ensuring the next generation of beauty professionals is equipped with both technical skills and emotional intelligence. Donations to the cause can be made at https://givebutter.com/c/beinfinite333.
“Creating a salon environment where patrons can take a step back from the hustle and bustle of everyday life has been extremely rewarding for me, and MY SALON Suite has given me the freedom to build a business that truly reflects my vision of self-care and inclusivity,” said Vargas. “Beyond the service experience we provide, I’m deeply grateful to have a platform that allows me to extend my impact beyond hairstyling and support my community through Be Infinite. This recognition from NAHA reinforces the importance of community involvement and investing in future industry leaders and it is a tremendous honor to be a finalist.”
Outside of Be Infinite, Vargas is committed to social responsibility through Be Here’s status as a Certified Sustainable Salon, operating under the mission of “Keeping People and the Planet Beautiful.” The salon is dedicated to diverting over 95% of its waste from landfills. In 2024 alone, Be Here successfully prevented more than 45 pounds of beauty waste from ending up in landfills.
“Vee has gone above and beyond to build a salon that prioritizes wellness and community impact,” said Susan Boresow, president of MY SALON Suite. “I’m proud that NAHA has recognized Vee and Be Here for their impact beyond providing beauty services and look forward to how she will continue to grow in her mission.”
For over three decades, NAHA has honored the visionaries shaping the future of beauty and wellness. As the industry’s most prestigious competition, NAHA celebrates the artistry, skill and innovation of North America’s top hair professionals. Be Here is among five finalists selected for the “Most Inspiring Salon” category. Hosted by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA), winners will be announced on June 1, 2025, at the awards ceremony at Chapin Theater in the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
To view the 2025 NAHA finalists, visit https://www.probeauty.org/north-american-hairstyling-awards/?utm_source=naha&utm_medium=2025.
To learn more about Be Here Salon or book an appointment, visit https://www.beherewithvee.com/.
For more information about the MY SALON Suite franchise, visit https://www.mysalonsuite.com, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679.
About MY SALON Suite®:
MY SALON Suite is a nationwide network of turnkey beauty salon suite studios designed to empower independent salon professionals to provide beauty services to their own respective clients. The co-working style space represents the latest concept in the beauty services industry, bringing together a community of independent beauty professionals in one luxurious location. Founded in 2010, MY SALON Suite has since expanded to more than 350 locations across the U.S. and Canada, providing entrepreneurship opportunities to over 10,000 Members.
With industry-leading knowledge, operational processes, and support services, MY SALON Suite provides Members with the tools and resources they need to build, open, and manage upscale private salon suites. This supportive environment allows established beauty service professionals to invest in themselves and their professional success by running their own salon business.
For more information about MY SALON Suite, please visit: https://www.mysalonsuite.com/.
23
03, 2025
Gotcha Covered to serve west Denver with new center
Owners Travis Sulstrom and Chris Weir want to add beauty and value to area homes
DENVER — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, has announced the opening of Gotcha Covered Denver West. The new location is owned and operated by Travis Sulstrom and Chris Weir.
With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, the new center provides the best in soft and hard window treatments to property owners in Arvada, Evergreen, Genesee, Golden, Greenwood Village, Ken Caryl, Lakewood, Littleton, Morrison and Westminster by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.
“Travis and Chris both have experience in the corporate world, which provides them with the critical skills in leadership, operational efficiency and customer service that will make them excellent new center owners,” said David Dunsmuir, president of Gotcha Covered. “The west Denver area is home to a variety of neighborhoods and communities that will benefit from Gotcha Covered’s window treatment solutions. We know that Travis and Chris will provide those communities with the first-class service they deserve.”
Prior to joining Gotcha Covered, Sulstrom worked as a business analyst for DIRECTV and product owner for AT&T. Weir worked in community and business banking for more than 25 years.
“We spent years working for the corporate machine and share a dream of never working for anyone ever again,” Sulstrom said. “Gotcha Covered Denver West gives us a chance to work hard for ourselves and build a company that Denver can be proud of.”
Both Sulstrom and Weir have lived in the Denver area for about 15 years and enjoy everything the community has to offer.
“We love this community and want to be able to add beauty and value with our custom window treatments,” Weir said.
Adding 30 new franchise locations in 2023, Gotcha Covered currently has more than 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.
To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered Denver West, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/denver-west/.
About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.
23
03, 2025
Express Employment Professionals Celebrates Global Triumphs at 2025 Annual Conference in Dallas, Texas
OKLAHOMA CITY — Express Employment Professionals franchisees from around the globe recently convened in Dallas, Texas, to mark a year of outstanding sales and accomplishments at the 2025 International Leadership Conference (ILC). This annual event brought together leaders from the staffing giant to celebrate their successes and set the stage for another year of excellence.
The event featured EGOT actress Viola Davis and James Lawrence, a Guinness World Record holder known as the “Iron Cowboy,” and networking and training for roughly 1,400 attendees.
“ILC is more than just an annual event; it’s an opportunity to connect with industry leaders and peers,” noted Bill Stoller, CEO of Express Employment International. “The honor of exchanging knowledge and insights with such talented individuals propels Express to new heights, equipping us with the strategies and resources needed to excel this year and beyond.”
The Employee of the Year award, the inspirational highlight of each year’s conference, was presented to Darren Walton for his unwavering resilience and extraordinary dedication during challenging times.
Despite enduring a severe car accident that left him in a coma and an assault that hospitalized him just two days after starting his current job, his ability to rise above adversity and his steadfast devotion to his role have made him a beacon of inspiration for all.
“For nearly four years, Darrin has consistently gone above and beyond in his role,” said Samantha Beaster, manager partner and director of operations for the west Indianapolis, Indiana, Express office. “He is the definition of dedication — working overtime to lend a helping hand, being a true team player and exemplifying everything we value in an Express associate. Employees like Darrin are why our local office is celebrating its 30th anniversary this April!”
Walton returned the praise, saying the experience showed him how the company values everyone and provides incredible growth opportunities.
“Express shows that everyone, from new workers to new franchisees, is a valued team member,” he added. “I’ve given speeches and had people clap for me, but the support in that room, at that moment, showed me that this is a family. How has it impacted me? I want to grow within the company and be a part of Express’ magic.”
Express franchise owners Tina and Tom Williams were also recognized from the stage as this year’s Franchisees of the Year for their exemplary demonstration of Express values — People, Teamwork, Built to Last and Integrity.
Their contributions to Express have been invaluable. From providing insights through franchisee focus groups to volunteering for Express Leadership Academy initiatives, Tina and Tom have played a crucial role in the growth and success of the organization. They even piloted an app, sharing key learnings and sparing other franchisees potential hassles.
The couple’s advocacy work and involvement in state legislative efforts have helped numerous businesses remain competitive. This kind of dedication is rare and has earned them the respect and admiration of their peers.
“Tina and Tom’s contributions have fundamentally strengthened our organization,” Stoller added. “They exemplify the innovation and community engagement spirit that drives our success. Their ability to inspire and lead by example has elevated their own franchises and set a benchmark for others to follow.”
Express boasts more than 870 franchise locations in five countries across the globe, garnering $3.7 billion in sales and employing 427,000 associates in 2024.
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., 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 427,000 people globally in 2024 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.