It’s that WOW time of year again! Get ready for our annual special section in the October edition: WOW: 50 Women of Wonder! This is our moment to celebrate and honor 50 outstanding women franchisors who make a significant impact. These trailblazers forge ahead, no matter the obstacles, shaping the future of franchising with their resilience and vision. By Rose Mango
Premier Assisted Stretching Franchise Welcomes Newest Location Under Local Leadership
SEWICKLEY, Pa. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s premier assisted-stretching brand featuring a patented strapping system on proprietary tables, is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in Sewickley, PA. This marks Stretch Zone’s 400th location in the United States, a monumental milestone for the company, and is operated by Bridget & Dwayne Phaure, multi-unit Stretch Zone franchisees.
Bridget and Dwayne Phaure were drawn to Stretch Zone because of their shared passion for helping communities thrive. With a deep belief in providing services that benefit nearly everyone—from athletes seeking to prevent injury to individuals working to regain mobility—they knew Stretch Zone was the perfect fit. “We strive to deliver outstanding customer service and to mentor a team that’s just as passionate about helping people live their best lives,” says Bridget. The couple opened their first studio in Cranberry, and with the success of that location, they are excited to expand their footprint in Western Pennsylvania with Stretch Zone Sewickley, their second studio in the region.
For Bridget, the Sewickley location holds special meaning. Her grandparents lived in the Sewickley area in the 1960s while working in the steel industry, making this new venture feel like a tribute to her family’s legacy. “It’s like they’re with me on this journey,” Bridget reflects. “My grandma would be so proud knowing we’re back here, giving back to this great community.”
Bridget’s favorite part of owning Stretch Zone studios is hearing the inspiring “why” behind each member’s decision to come to the Zone. “Everyone has a different story, and it’s amazing to see the impact we can have—from teenagers to seniors, including members who start with cane support and progress to walking out on their own. It’s such a cool experience,” she shares.
Stretch Zone Sewickley represents a continued commitment to enhancing quality of life in the region. With practitioner-assisted stretching designed to help people move easier, play harder, and even sleep better, Bridget and Dwayne look forward to helping Sewickley residents rediscover the mobility and wellness many thought they had lost. Their team of highly qualified health professionals is ready to deliver the unmatched service and results that set Stretch Zone apart.
Stretch Zone is the only nationally accredited stretch franchise, thanks to its patented equipment and proprietary training methodology. The brand uses a science-backed approach to stretching, helping your muscles relax and move more freely for better flexibility and mobility. With a welcoming environment and an open studio layout, Stretch Zone emphasizes a gradual, personalized approach that helps members safely increase their mobility and range of motion over time. With several membership options, there’s a plan that suits every lifestyle and price point.
Stretch Zone Sewickley is located at 400 Beaver Street, Sewickley, PA, 15143. Operating hours are Sunday 12pm-5pm, Monday-Friday 7am-8pm, and Saturday 8am-5pm (hours of operation are subject to change). The studio phone number is (412)-912-0032. The first visit is free for any new Stretch Zone member. For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com.
About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone was created with a deep passion for improving lives. The brand has redefined how we approach stretching, with a mission to enhance the quality of life in communities nationwide. By utilizing our proprietary tables and patented strapping system, Stretch Zone helps individuals achieve long-term results in flexibility and mobility. With 400 locations across 41 states, the brand has experienced remarkable growth and continues to gain national recognition, ranking on the 2024 Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times’ 2024 Top 400 List. Stretch Zone is seeking experienced franchisees who share a passion for health and wellness and are dedicated to making a lasting impact on their communities. To learn more, visit stretchzone.com.
Premier Assisted Stretching Franchise Welcomes Newest Location Under Local Leadership
ROGERS, Ark. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s premier assisted-stretching brand featuring a patented strapping system on proprietary tables, is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in Rogers, AR. This marks Stretch Zone’s 401st location in the United States and is operated by Chris Blaine, multi-unit Stretch Zone franchisee.
After 15 years as a franchise owner with Home Instead, Chris Blaine was ready for a new venture that aligned with his passion for wellness and meaningful community impact. A friend’s success with a Stretch Zone location in Kentucky first introduced him to the concept—and the potential. Now, Chris is opening his third Stretch Zone studio, bringing the brand’s unique approach to practitioner-assisted stretching to Rogers, Arkansas.
For Chris, Stretch Zone was a natural fit for the active lifestyle of Northwest Arkansas residents. “Our members will benefit from increased flexibility, greater range of motion, and pain relief,” he shares. “It’s about helping people feel younger, lighter, and more energized—those are the comments we hear time and time again from clients.”
What excites Chris most about Stretch Zone ownership is witnessing those real-life transformations. “Seeing the difference that stretching makes in our clients’ quality of life never gets old,” he says. “Flexibility allows people to pursue the fitness and activities they enjoy most. Stretch Zone isn’t just a wellness offering—it’s a foundation for living fully.”
With the opening of the Rogers studio, Stretch Zone continues to expand its footprint in communities that value proactive health and mobility. “Rogers is a perfect match for Stretch Zone,” Chris notes. “It’s a vibrant area with people who prioritize movement and wellness. We’re proud to join that momentum and introduce a service that supports longevity, energy, and a better way to move.”
Stretch Zone Rogers is located at 2301 W Pleasant Grove Road, Suite 104, Rogers AR, 72758. Operating hours are Monday-Friday 7am-8pm, Saturday 8am-4pm, and is closed Sunday. The studio phone number is 479-616-1050. The first visit is free for any new Stretch Zone member. For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com.
About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone was created with a deep passion for improving lives. The brand has redefined how we approach stretching, with a mission to enhance the quality of life in communities nationwide. By utilizing our proprietary tables and patented strapping system, Stretch Zone helps individuals achieve long-term results in flexibility and mobility. With nearly 400 locations across 41 states, the brand has experienced remarkable growth and continues to gain national recognition, ranking on the 2024 Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times’ 2024 Top 400 List. Stretch Zone is seeking experienced franchisees who share a passion for health and wellness and are dedicated to making a lasting impact on their communities. To learn more, visit stretchzone.com.
Premier Assisted Stretching Franchise Welcomes Newest Location Under Local Leadership
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s premier assisted-stretching brand featuring a patented strapping system on proprietary tables, is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in Scottsdale, AZ. This marks Stretch Zone’s 399th location in the United States and is operated by Jerry Cahoon, first-time franchisee and proud local business owner.
Jerry’s journey into Stretch Zone began with a single session that changed everything. “One stretch at Stretch Zone was all it took—I felt the difference immediately and knew others needed to experience this too,” said Cahoon. A former tech professional, Jerry has pivoted from digital innovation to physical wellness, driven by a passion to help people reconnect with their bodies and improve their quality of life.
What excites Jerry most about this new venture is bringing transformative wellness to a community that’s already so focused on active, healthy living. “Old Town Scottsdale is vibrant, energetic, and wellness-forward. Stretch Zone fits right in, and I can’t wait to help people move better and feel better,” he shared.
Jerry attributes much of the studio’s early success and momentum to his exceptional team. “While I may own the business, it’s our team that brings the vision to life. Their dedication to member care and mobility is what makes this studio truly special,” he said.
Stretch Zone provides a unique approach to improving mobility, offering customized stretching plans designed to meet the specific needs and goals of each of our members. The opening of this Scottsdale location represents the continued growth of Stretch Zone’s presence, bringing this premium wellness service to a city with a thriving health-conscious culture. “Scottsdale is more than just beautiful—it’s a community that values health, movement, and high performance. We’re excited to be a part of that,” Jerry added.
Stretch Zone is the only nationally accredited stretch franchise, thanks to its patented equipment and proprietary training methodology. The brand uses a science-backed approach to stretching, helping your muscles relax and move more freely for better flexibility and mobility. With a welcoming environment and an open studio layout, Stretch Zone emphasizes a gradual, personalized approach that helps members safely increase their mobility and range of motion over time. With several membership options, there’s a plan that suits every lifestyle and price point.
Stretch Zone Scottsdale Thomas is located at 2825 N Scottsdale Road, Suite 152A, Scottsdale, AZ, 85257. Operating hours are Monday-Friday from 6am-9pm, and Saturday-Sunday from 8am-4pm. The studio phone number is 480-866-8523. The first visit is free for any new Stretch Zone member. For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com.
About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone was created with a deep passion for improving lives. The brand has redefined how we approach stretching, with a mission to enhance the quality of life in communities nationwide. By utilizing our proprietary tables and patented strapping system, Stretch Zone helps individuals achieve long-term results in flexibility and mobility. With nearly 400 locations across 41 states, the brand has experienced remarkable growth and continues to gain national recognition, ranking on the 2024 Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times’ 2024 Top 400 List. Stretch Zone is seeking experienced franchisees who share a passion for health and wellness and are dedicated to making a lasting impact on their communities. To learn more, visit stretchzone.com.
New Survey Finds 54% of Candidates Want Companies to Evolve Instead
OKLAHOMA CITY — In today’s competitive job market, hiring managers are facing a hard truth: sticking to traditional policies could cost them top talent.
This is according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.
Flexibility and adaptability are often essential in business, as change is an inevitable part of the process. But when it comes to company culture, U.S. hiring managers appear torn on who is responsible for adapting to the current landscape.
More than half of employers (56%) say it’s up to workers to adapt to company culture, while 44% argue it’s time for company culture to evolve with the times. What’s driving this mindset? A striking 88% of companies say they already have the tools to train new hires to fit in, with 42% strongly backing their ability to shape cultural alignment from day one.
But job seekers see things differently.
More than half (54%) believe it’s the company culture that needs to evolve, not the employees, while only 46% say it’s the workers who should adapt.
The divide is even more pronounced among women: 59% of female job seekers say company culture should shift with the times, compared to just 49% of men.
However, employers aren’t entirely stuck in their ways. Faced with rising concerns about turnover and hiring challenges, many companies are signaling a willingness to evolve.
A strong majority of hiring managers (84%) say their organization is open to changing its culture to meet business needs to attract more qualified candidates (39%), broaden their appeal to job seekers in general (32%), retain current employees (42%) and boost morale across the board (41%).
“When it comes to workplace culture, the most effective path forward is one where both employers and employees are willing to adapt,” said Express CEO Bob Funk, Jr. “Success isn’t about one side yielding to the other. It’s about meeting in the middle to build a culture that supports business goals while also resonating with today’s workforce.”
Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from Nov. 11 to 26, 2024, among 1,001 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 Nov. 21 to Dec. 10, 2024, among 1,039 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 Robert (Bob) Funk, Jr.
Robert (Bob) Funk, Jr., is the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Express Employment International, a global staffing franchisor founded and headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He leads a portfolio of workforce solution brands, including the flagship Express Employment Professionals franchise, along with several affiliated brands serving specialized markets. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations across 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.
Here it is! Part three of our series on life-work balance. In May, Alesia Visconti – CEO and President of FranServe, Inc. – introduced the concept of life-work balance and explained why she chooses to put life first. Then, in June, two seasoned FranServe consultants shared how this principle has impacted their lives and businesses. After receiving such a positive response, we spoke with more FranServe Affiliate Franchise Consultants to get their perspectives. By Nancy E. Williams
If you’re looking for a feel-good business with a proven track record, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt should be your top choice. With more than 400 locations worldwide and counting, the company is the largest self-serve frozen yogurt franchise in the world and is poised for growth in the coming years. By Shelby Green
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