October 2025 | Page 5 of 7 | Franchise Dictionary Magazine

18 10, 2025

Floor Coverings International Sets Record Growth in Q3 with 30 Signed Franchise Agreements

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-18T20:05:06-04:00October 18th, 2025|Tags: Floor Coverings International, Flooring Franchise, home improvement franchise|

No. 1 Flooring Franchise Bolsters National Footprint with 70 Signed Agreements YTD in 2025
August Alone Brought Expansion into Eight New Territories and Inked Seven Resales
Brand on Track to Reach 100 New Agreements in 2025 Amid Strong Industry Growth

ATLANTA — Floor Coverings International^® (FCI), the No. 1 flooring franchise in North America is powering ahead on its growth trajectory, signing 15 franchise agreements in August alone and 30 throughout the third quarter. With 70 signed agreements year-to-date, the brand is rapidly closing in on its goal of 100 new agreements by year’s end.

Prospects are taking note of the franchise opportunity as the flooring industry is projected to experience an annual growth rate of 2.4% for the next four years. This steady growth is driven by a consistent demand for both residential and commercial sectors. As part of the broader home services industry, flooring offers a low-cost entry point with strong margins.

“Signing 15 agreements in a single month marks a historic milestone for FCI,” said Tom Wood, President & CEO of Floor Coverings International. “Resales play a critical role in our growth strategy, allowing us to strengthen existing markets while welcoming talented entrepreneurs who bring fresh energy and vision. At the same time, expansion into new territories ensures we’re reaching more families nationwide. With this group of owners, I’m confident our brand will continue to thrive and establish deep roots in the communities we serve.”

Building on a Record Year of Development
With total investment costs for two territories ranging from $257,000 to $467,000*, Floor Coverings International offers an affordable and scalable opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to make a lasting impact in their communities. FCI is seeking entrepreneurs who think in the multi-millions, are forever learners, and have an empire builder mindset.

According to Floor Coverings International’s Franchise Disclosure Document, the top 50 percent of operators generated $1.75 million in average revenue in 2024 with the top 10 percent operators grossing $3.3 million**.

Floor Coverings International continues to lead the flooring category with its innovative Mobile Flooring Showrooms^®, data-driven performance systems, and deeply invested support teams, the brand remains on the fast track toward record-setting growth and long-term franchisee success.

For more information about the franchise opportunity, please visit https://flooring-franchise.com/ or call 833-902-4417.

About Floor Coverings International
Floor Coverings International is the #1 Mobile Flooring franchise in North America. Utilizing a unique in-home experience, the mobile showroom comes directly to the customer’s door with more than 3,000 flooring choices. Floor Coverings International has 250-plus locations throughout the U.S. and Canada with plenty of opportunity for continued expansion. For franchise information, please visit https://flooring-franchise.com/ and to find your closest location go to www.floorcoveringsinternational.com.

*See Item 7 of the current Franchise Disclosure Document for more information and context about the initial investment.

**Please see Item 19 of the current Franchise Disclosure Document for more information. Results may differ. There is no assurance that any franchisee will perform as well.

18 10, 2025

GYMGUYZ Inks Landmark Deal to Launch 80 Territories Across Saudi Arabia and UAE

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-18T19:53:10-04:00October 18th, 2025|Tags: customized and creative workouts, fitness specialist, GYMGUYZ, in-home and on-site personal training company|

Marks GYMGUYZ’s boldest international growth, with commitment to further development in Egypt and Morocco soon
The world’s largest in-home and on-site personal training franchise expands into four key Middle East markets

MELVILLE, N.Y. — GYMGUYZ, the world’s largest in-home and on-site personal training franchise, has announced a landmark master franchise agreement with Bait Al Batterjee Group (BAB) to expand the brand into Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Morocco. The deal represents one of the most ambitious international growth initiatives in GYMGUYZ history, with a minimum of 80 new territories planned across Saudi Arabia and the UAE alone.

“This marks a powerful new chapter for GYMGUYZ as we scale with intention and impact,” said Josh York, Founder & CEO of GYMGUYZ. “The Bait Al Batterjee Group brings unmatched experience, integrity, and regional expertise – exactly the kind of partner we want as we expand into one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. Together, we’re bringing world-class, personalized fitness directly to people’s doorsteps, and we’re just getting started.”

Middle East Expansion Details

The expansion will begin in Saudi Arabia in 2026, with additional growth in the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Morocco to follow. Final unit projections in Egypt and Morocco will be determined based on market demand and demographic analysis.
This four-country initiative builds on GYMGUYZ’s accelerating international growth momentum, following a recent launch in the United Kingdom.
BAB brings decades of experience scaling global fitness brands across the Middle East, including the successful launch and operation of over 20 Gold’s Gym locations throughout Saudi Arabia.
Led by President & Vice Chairman Makarem Batterjee, BAB oversees more than 25 subsidiaries and employs over 12,000 people across the Middle East and North Africa.
- Batterjee, President of Saudi German Hospitals Group and founder of Shababco Enterprises – which launched Saudi Arabia’s first female-only Gold’s Gyms – is a renowned entrepreneur, investor, and judge on Shark Tank Arabia. Recognized as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and holding an MBA from London Business School, he champions innovation, wellness, and social empowerment across the Middle East and North Africa.

“GYMGUYZ represents the future of fitness; agile, technology-driven, and deeply personal,” said Makarem Batterjee, President & Vice Chairman of Bait Al Batterjee Group. “The demand for convenient, results-focused wellness solutions has never been higher in our region, and this partnership allows us to meet that demand at scale. We’re shaping a healthier, more empowered future for communities across the Middle East and North Africa.”

Global Demand Fuels GYMGUYZ Expansion
Serving clients in thousands of cities worldwide, GYMGUYZ is rapidly expanding to meet surging global demand for convenient, personalized fitness – and attracting strategic investment to accelerate its global footprint.

“This deal significantly accelerates GYMGUYZ’s international footprint and revenue potential,” said Mark Farmer, VP of Franchise Development at GYMGUYZ. “With Bait Al Batterjee’s proven operational excellence and deep market knowledge, we’re positioned to scale aggressively across key Middle Eastern markets. This partnership opens new pathways for franchise development, fueling our growth engine and expanding access to personalized fitness on a global scale.”

The brand leverages proprietary innovations like the AI-powered GG Team App to streamline trainer operations, enhance client experiences, and equip franchisees with data-driven tools for success.

Franchise Opportunities
GYMGUYZ is actively seeking qualified single and multi-territory franchisees who are looking to help change lives through at-home workouts. To learn more about franchising with GYMGUYZ, visit https://www.gymguyz.com/franchise-opportunities/.

About GYMGUYZ:
GYMGUYZ is proud to be the largest in-home and on-site personal training company in the world. GYMGUYZ brings the workout to their clients and provides convenient, customized and creative workouts. Headquartered in Melville, N.Y., and founded in 2008 by fitness specialist Josh York, the brand utilizes a fleet of branded vehicles that bring enough state-of-the-art fitness equipment to provide a fantastic workout 365 days per year, along with an expert personal trainer to their customers’ doors. In 2019, the brand was recognized as No. 5 on Inc. Mag’s 10 Hottest Franchise Businesses in America, which highlighted their growth of more than 801% over the last three years. GYMGUYZ also scored the first and second place spots on Franchise Gator’s annual list of the Top 100 Fastest-Growing Franchises. The fastest-growing fitness concept in the U.S., GYMGUYZ is now servicing thousands of cities internationally, including the United States, United Kingdom and Canada. For more information on GYMGUYZ and franchising opportunities, visit http://www.gymguyz.com/.

15 10, 2025

The Designery opens fourth Florida location with new showroom in Tallahassee

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-15T00:00:58-04:00October 15th, 2025|Tags: Bath Design, Closet Design, HomeFront Brands, Kitchen Design, The Designery|

Owner George Maximos invites the community to explore the latest in kitchen and bath trends at the design company’s grand opening on Oct. 14

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Designery, an immersive, full-service kitchen, bath and closet design center featuring high-quality cabinets, countertops and flooring, will celebrate the grand opening of its fourth Florida location on Oct. 14 from 4-6 p.m. at the new showroom located at 3183 Capital Circle, Suite C in Tallahassee.

“Joining The Designery family has been a perfect fit for me,” said George Maximos, owner of The Designery Tallahassee. “Their dedication to innovation and craftsmanship is contagious, and I can’t wait to share that vision with the Tallahassee community. We’re here to make home renovations and design affordable and personal for every homeowner.”

The grand opening will be catered by Maximos’ restaurant, Yasuo Café, and will include special giveaway prizes. Throughout the event, Maximos and his team will be available to answer homeowners’ questions and provide expert insight into the latest kitchen and bath design trends.

“George brings a unique perspective and energy to The Designery,” said Casey Ridley, founder and president of The Designery. “His commitment to serving homeowners will strengthen our ability to deliver creative solutions and provide homeowners with fresh, innovative options for their spaces. We know he will be an invaluable member of The Designery’s franchise family.”

Maximos was born in Egypt and immigrated to the United States nearly 25 years ago. He first settled in Destin, Florida, before making Tallahassee his home 19 years ago. Over the years, he has established a career in accounting and project management, and since 2021, he has also successfully owned and operated his Mediterranean restaurant.

He is also passionate about supporting his community by hiring local talent and partnering with area schools and nonprofit organizations on meaningful projects. When he’s not working, Maximos enjoys life in Tallahassee with his wife, Christine, and their two daughters, Rita and Grace.

The Designery Tallahassee will serve residents in Betton Hills, Buck Lake, Chattahoochee, Crawfordville, Killearn, Lake Jackson, Lake Talquin, Quincy, Southwood and Tallahassee.

The Designery combines in-house design expertise with a vast product selection, offering homeowners and contractors more than 100 cabinet styles and a variety of closet color options. Its showrooms create the perfect environment for personalized design consultations, hands-on material and finish selections and immersive virtual reality design previews.

For more information about The Designery Tallahassee, visit https://thedesignery.com/locations/tallahassee/ or call them at (850) 808-8511.

About The Designery

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

About HomeFront Brands:

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

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

14 10, 2025

Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ Unveils Strategic Partnership with Susquehanna Growth Equity

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-14T23:54:25-04:00October 14th, 2025|Tags: Auto Accessories, Installation Services, Tint World, window tinting|

Leading Automotive Styling Franchise Partners with Growth Equity Firm to Accelerate Franchise Growth

BOCA RATON, Fla. — Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading automotive styling and window tinting franchise, announced a strategic investment from Susquehanna Growth Equity (“SGE”), an entrepreneur-centric growth equity firm. This investment marks Tint World’s first institutional capital, which will be used to enhance operational support, accelerate franchise development, and further solidify the brand’s leading position in the automotive aftermarket industry.

“SGE’s deep operational expertise in both the automotive and franchise services industries combined with their long-term mindset makes them the ideal partner to help Tint World accelerate and scale franchise expansion globally, while continuing to deliver exceptional value to our franchisees and customers,” said Charles Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World. “For over 4 decades, we have evolved into the premier automotive styling brand of choice for consumers, and SGE’s investment is a powerful endorsement of our franchisee-first approach.”

Tint World® is consistently recognized among the top automotive styling franchise brands, with a reputation for high-quality service, multiple revenue streams, and a systems-driven business model that supports long-term franchisee success. This collaboration highlights Tint World’s commitment to growing its franchise network while maintaining consistency across the system.

“Working with SGE represents our dedication to building strategic partnerships that help our franchise system grow and thrive,” said Jonathan Norman, President and Chief Investment Officer of Tint World. “Much like Tint World, SGE’s long-term mindset for steady, streamlined growth makes them the ideal partner to assist us in growing our system while staying true to what makes Tint World so special.”

For more information on Tint World® and available franchise opportunities, please visit www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities.

About Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™

Founded in 1982, Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ is America’s largest and fastest-growing automotive accessories and window tinting international franchise, specializing in window tinting, protective films, vehicle wraps, ceramic coatings, automotive electronics, and vehicle accessories. Tint World® Mobile Services™ includes Residential, Commercial, and Marine window tinting films, solar films, decorative films, safety and security films, and protective ceramic coatings. Tint World® has locations across the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with master franchise opportunities available worldwide. To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com or https://www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities.

About Susquehanna Growth Equity

Susquehanna Growth Equity (“SGE”) is an entrepreneur-centric growth equity fund with flexible capital and time horizons. SGE is exclusively focused on growth-stage software, services, internet and information services companies. The firm has invested over $4.5 billion in 100+ market-leading technology and services companies over the last 18 years and has portfolio companies across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Israel. SGE is backed by a unique and patient source of capital, enabling the firm to give entrepreneurs and management teams freedom and flexibility to maximize growth. To learn more, please visit www.sgep.com.

14 10, 2025

Five Star Painting Highlights Top Exterior Projects to Elevate Homes and Businesses

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-14T23:49:17-04:00October 14th, 2025|Tags: Five Star Painting, interior and exterior painting, residential and commercial painting|

Leading Painting Company Shares High-Impact Enhancements to Boost Curb Appeal, Safety and Durability

WACO, Texas — Five Star Painting®, a Neighborly® company and North America’s leading residential and commercial painting franchise, is encouraging home and business owners to make the most of the remaining warm weather days and invest in exterior paint projects. Beyond refreshing a property’s appearance, these projects also add critical protection against winter weather, helping avoid costly repairs later.

“When people think of curb appeal, their first thoughts often turn to landscaping or décor,” said David Sutter, President of Five Star Painting, a Neighborly company. “Exterior paint projects – whether large or small – can deliver a dramatic transformation to a property while extending the life of a property. Something as simple as a fresh coat of paint on siding, trim, or a deck doesn’t just look good, it helps your property stand up to rain, snow and general wear for years to come.”

Five Star Painting experts emphasize that bigger projects can have major significant impact. These types of upgrades provide powerful curb appeal boosts while also extending the life of exterior surfaces, preventing costly repairs down the road.

Top Five Exterior Enhancements That Deliver High Impact:

Brick & Siding Transformations: A fresh coat of paint modernizes a property’s exterior appearance while shielding the surface from future weather elements. Five Star Painting’s color consultants can guide owners in selecting color palettes that fit a homeowner’s style or reinforce a business’s brand.
Fence & Deck Painting: Re-staining or painting a fence or deck will instantly enhance the look and feel of an outdoor space. The fresh coat will also help defend the surface against moisture, rot and UV rays, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Garage Floor Coatings: Often an overlooked space, garage floor coatings add a sleek finish and prevent future stains and cracks in the concrete. Check with your local Five Star Painting® location to see if this service is available in your area.
Trim & Window Painting: Rather than tackling a larger project like brick or siding painting, focusing on revamping trim lines and window frames can make powerful changes. These areas frame architectural features of a property and can add cohesion to the overall exterior.
Pool Deck Sealing: For homeowners, painting or sealing pool decks not only adds to the overall look of the space but also improves safety with slip-resistant finishes. Commercial properties like hotels need a well-kept pool deck to maintain guest satisfaction and compliance.

Five Star Painting’s exterior services are designed to not only improve aesthetics but also provide durable, long-lasting results. By addressing key exterior elements before the colder months arrive, property owners can enjoy peace of mind knowing their investment is both beautiful and protected.

To learn more about Five Star Painting’s exterior painting services, visit: https://fivestarpainting.com/exterior-enhancements

About Five Star Painting®:
Five Star Painting® is North America’s premier professional residential and commercial interior and exterior painting franchise. Founded in 2004, Five Star Painting® operates from more than 250 locations worldwide. Acquired in 2015, Five Star Painting is part of Neighborly®, a family of global brands focused on being remarkable with consumers and franchise owners with more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchise locations across North America and Europe serving millions of customers. For more information about Five Star Painting®, visit FiveStarPainting.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

11 10, 2025

Six BELFOR Franchise Group brands earn spots on 2025 Franchise Times Top 400® List

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-11T19:11:06-04:00October 11th, 2025|Tags: BELFOR Franchise Group, franchise development, residential and commercial services|

Chem-Dry, HOODZ, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, N-Hance, Blue Kangaroo Packoutz and DUCTZ honored for
national, systemwide sales

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — BELFOR Franchise Group, a leading global residential and commercial services franchisor, announces that six of its brands have been recognized on the Franchise Times Top 400^® list for 2025. The honored brands include Chem-Dry, HOODZ, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, N-Hance, Blue Kangaroo Packoutz and DUCTZ.

The Franchise Times Top 400^® is an exclusive annual ranking of the largest U.S.-based franchise systems, determined by global systemwide sales and compiled through an extensive research and reporting process.

This year’s recognition marks the second consecutive year that six BELFOR Franchise Group brands have earned a place among the nation’s top-performing franchise systems, highlighting the group’s consistent growth and leadership in the home service industry.

“Our brands continue to set the standard in their respective industries by delivering service excellence, professionalism and reliability,” said D’Wayne Tanner and Beth Toenies, Vice Presidents of Franchise Development. “Repeat recognition on this list affirms that our franchise family is meeting real needs, not only for consumers but for entrepreneurs seeking a supportive franchise environment.”

The community of franchises at BELFOR Franchise Group brings together a portfolio of established and growing brands that serve both residential and commercial markets with essential services. Its franchise platform equips aspiring business owners with the tools to get started confidently — offering comprehensive training, ongoing operational guidance and a suite of marketing resources designed to enable long-term success.

“From our hands-on training facilities to our internal marketing solutions, we aim to empower our franchisees with the guidance needed to grow at their own pace,” Tanner and Toenies explained. “Our ongoing, dedicated support provides the foundation for the strong performance seen across our franchise network year-after-year.”

For the complete Franchise Times Top 400 list, visit https://www.franchisetimes.com/top-400-2025.

For more information about BELFOR Franchise Group, visit belforfranchisegroup.com.

About BELFOR Franchise Group

BELFOR Franchise Group is a leading global residential and commercial services franchisor. For decades, their franchise brands have empowered entrepreneurs by offering strong business models, industry-leading training, and ongoing business coaching to help local owners succeed. As the parent organization to a diverse portfolio of service-based franchises, BELFOR Franchise Group provides opportunities across home services, commercial cleaning, and restoration industries. The franchise brands include 1-800-BOARDUP, 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, Blue Kangaroo Packoutz, Chem-Dry Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Clear Pest Pros, COOL-BINZ, DUCTZ, Helpful Heroes, HOODZ, JUNKCO+, N-Hance Wood Refinishing, The Patch Boys, redbox+ Dumpsters, WINMAR, and Z PLUMBERZ. For more information, visit belforfranchisegroup.com.

11 10, 2025

Always Best Care Senior Services Launches Studio City Location with Local Social Worker at the Helm

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-11T19:00:49-04:00October 11th, 2025|Tags: Always Best Care, Exclusive Programs, Senior Assistance, senior care|

Amy Balian brings experience and heartfelt mission to seniors in the greater Los Angeles community

STUDIO CITY, Calif. — Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, is pleased to announce the opening of a new location in Studio City, California. Owned and operated by franchisee Amy Balian, this new office, located at 4400 Coldwater Canyon Ave., Suite 125, provides quality in-home care and senior living referral services to the aging population in the greater Los Angeles area.

“I am thrilled to bring Always Best Care to the Studio City and North Hollywood area,” said Balian. “This is a community I know well, and I recognized a real need for quality senior care here. With so many medical clinics, nursing facilities, and referral sources in the area, I believe we can make a meaningful impact by supporting seniors and their families with compassion and professionalism. My goal is to provide exceptional care while positively impacting my community.”

Balian brings a strong background in social work and community care to her new role with Always Best Care. She earned her BA in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work (MSW), later working as a medical social worker contracting with home health, hospice, and nursing facilities. For the past eight years, she has successfully run her own agency, conducting assessments and follow-up visits for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

Balian’s sister will also play a key role in the agency’s operations as the office operations manager, ensuring the business runs smoothly and that clients and families receive the highest level of support.

“We are excited to have Amy join the Always Best Care family,” said Jake Brown, President and CEO of Always Best Care. “Her deep experience as a social worker, coupled with her success as a small business owner, makes her an excellent fit to serve the seniors and families of Studio City and North Hollywood. We look forward to seeing the positive difference she and her team will make in their community.”

By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors, and families, Always Best Care franchise owners provide affordable, comprehensive solutions that can be specifically matched to meet a client’s particular physical or social needs. The hallmark services of Always Best Care include non-medical in-home care and senior living referral services, with skilled home health care in some limited markets.

For more information about Always Best Care of Studio City, or to schedule a care consultation, please call 818-572-2799 or visit www.alwaysbestcareStudioCity.com.

About Always Best Care

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 29 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company’s clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers exclusive programs such as Complimentary Always in Touch, Balance Tracking System, remote patient monitoring and a 24/7 Virtual Care. For more information regarding Always Best Care’s solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com

11 10, 2025

Five Star Franchising ranked No. 18 on Utah Valley BusinessQ UV50 list of Fastest-Growing Companies for 2025

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-11T18:52:17-04:00October 11th, 2025|Tags: Bio-One, crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, decontamination and biohazard cleanup services, Five Star Franchising|

For the eighth time, the innovative home service franchise platform has made the prestigious list of Utah-based businesses

SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Five Star Franchising, a growing platform of home service franchise brands, has once again been recognized on the Utah Valley BusinessQ UV50 List of Fastest-Growing Companies for 2025, ranking at No. 18. This marks the eighth time the company has earned a spot on the respected list, underscoring its importance in driving Utah’s economy forward.

The UV50 recognizes the top 50 businesses in Utah Valley that demonstrate exceptional revenue growth, innovation and long-term impact on the regional economy. The annual rankings denote the area’s 30 fastest-growing companies as well as the 10 leading large businesses and 10 startups to watch. Since its inception in 2008, the UV50 has been an important bellwether for the Utah business community.

“Empowering our franchise partners to succeed is at the heart of everything we do, and earning a spot on the UV50 list for the eighth time is proof of that commitment in action,” said Scott Abbott, CEO of Five Star Franchising. “This recognition reflects the grit of our support teams and the passion of our owners who deliver trusted service in their communities every day.”

The recognition comes as Five Star Franchising continues to grow its portfolio of respected home service brands including Five Star Bath Solutions, Gotcha Covered, Bio-One, 1-800-Packouts, Card My Yard and Mosquito Shield. With more than 1,600 locations across North America, each brand benefits from dedicated leaders and teams who provide robust resources designed to help franchise partners thrive. That foundation not only strengthens the performance of existing owners but also attracts new franchise owners, fueling expansion and extending the impact of Five Star’s brands in communities nationwide.

“Our growth is proof that when franchise partners are backed by a committed, driven team, they can achieve extraordinary results,” said Abbott. “This recognition isn’t just about Five Star — it’s about the collective effort of our brands, our owners and the people who support them.”

For more information about the UV50, visit https://theuv50.com.

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

About Five Star Franchising

Five Star Franchising is an innovative, growing platform of home service brands with more than 1,600 total locations throughout North America. Franchise owners across Five Star’s brands, including Five Star Bath Solutions, Gotcha Covered, Bio-One, Mosquito Shield, 1-800-Packouts and Card My Yard enjoy a robust support network and access to industry-leading tools such as ProNexis, the 24/7 sales support solution tailored for home service businesses, and Five Star Marketing Services, Five Star Franchising’s elite marketing engine. Five Star Franchising’s commitment to core values — Driven, Real, Innovative, Vital and Enthusiastic (DRIVE) — ensures its brands are category leaders and empowers franchise owners to maximize profitable growth and secure their financial destiny. Five Star Franchising is consistently recognized as one of the most successful companies in the industry. The company has appeared on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America five times total, most recently in 2025. Five Star Franchising also ranks among the fastest-growing businesses in its home state, with positions on the MountainWest Capital Network Utah 100, the Utah Valley BusinessQ UV50 and the Utah Business Fast 50 lists. For more information, visit fivestarfranchising.com.

10 10, 2025

AlphaGraphics names Brandon Bagley as its 41st Franny Award winner

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-10T00:26:36-04:00October 10th, 2025|Tags: AlphaGraphics, marketing products and solutions, print and marketing franchise, printing services franchise, visual communications|

With thriving centers in Chandler, Gilbert and Scottsdale, Bagley exemplifies excellence in service, growth and community leadership.

DENVER — AlphaGraphics, a leading franchisor of printing and marketing solutions, recently announced that multi-unit franchise owner, Brandon Bagley, has been honored with the company’s prestigious 2025 Franny Award.

“Brandon exemplifies what it means to be a leader in our network,” said AlphaGraphics Regional Vice President of Retail Network Development Bill McPherson. “His dedication to his clients, his community and his employees has made his AlphaGraphics locations models for success. Brandon’s hard work and commitment to excellence are the reasons he was chosen as this year’s Franny Award recipient.”

The Franny Award is AlphaGraphics’ highest recognition, presented annually to a franchise owner who demonstrates outstanding leadership, business growth, community involvement and commitment to the brand’s values of innovation and excellence.

Bagley has AlphaGraphics locations in Chandler, Gilbert and Scottsdale, Arizona. Under his leadership, his locations continue to see tremendous growth, with the Chandler location becoming one of the top-performing centers in the country.

“This award is a reflection of the incredible teams we have at each of our locations,” Bagley said. “Our mission has always been to help local businesses succeed with creative solutions and exceptional service, and this recognition reinforces that commitment. But winning the Franny is not only a celebration of what we’ve achieved, it’s also momentum for what comes next.”

In addition to his stores, Bagley also serves as the vice chair for the AlphaGraphics National Leadership Council and is a member of the Chandler and Gilbert chambers of commerce.

AlphaGraphics was founded in 1970, and the company began offering franchise opportunities in 1979. For more information, visit http://www/alphagraphics.com.

About AlphaGraphics
AlphaGraphics, Inc., with more than 285 locations in six 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 https://www.alphagraphicsfranchise.com.

About Fortidia
Fortidia is the brand identity of MBE Worldwide S.p.A. – a privately-owned company headquartered in Italy – and its affiliates. Fortidia is a global commerce enabler for SMBs and consumers thanks to its platform including brands providing e-commerce, fulfillment, shipping, marketing and print solutions: PrestaShop, Mail Boxes Etc. (outside the U.S. and Canada.), PostNet, PACK & SEND, World Options, AlphaGraphics, Multicopy, Print Speak, GEL Proximity, and Spedingo. In 2023, the combination of its physical platform – including 3,200 Business Solutions Centers in 60 countries with 14,000 associates – with its PrestaShop e-commerce platform served 1.1 mln business customers worldwide generating €1.4 bln (US$1.5 bln) of System-wide Gross Revenue and €22 bln (US$23.8 bln) of Gross Merchandise Value.

For more information, visit the Fortidia Group websites:

www.fortidia.com – www.prestashop.com/en – www.mbeglobal.com – www.mbe.it – www.mbe.es – www.mbe.de – www.mbefrance.fr – www.mbe.pl – www.mbe.pt – www.mbe.co.uk – www.postnet.com – www.packsend.com.au – www.packsend.co.uk – www.worldoptions.com – www.alphagraphics.com – www.multicopy.nl – www.printspeak.com – www.gelproximity.com/en – www.spedingo.com/en

10 10, 2025

70% of Employers Say They’ll Hire Overqualified Candidates — But There’s a Catch

Paul Zboichyk2025-10-10T00:18:23-04:00October 10th, 2025|Tags: business services, Express Employment Professionals, professional education, staffing solutions|

New survey reveals why fears of quick exits and low engagement keep companies from fully embracing top talent.

OKLAHOMA CITY — A new survey from Express Employment Professionals and The Harris Poll reveals a growing tension in the hiring process: while most employers welcome overqualified candidates, concerns about retention and motivation often outweigh the benefits, leaving job seekers frustrated and anxious.

Employers See Value — But Worry About Retention
Seven in 10 U.S. hiring managers (70%) say their company typically considers overqualified candidates. The reasons are clear:

50% believe they have more confidence on the job
48% say they’re more productive
47% cite better decision-making skills
46% value their ability to mentor junior employees
45% appreciate that they require little to no training

But hesitation runs deep. Three-quarters of employers believe overqualified hires struggle to stay motivated in lower-level roles (75%), and nearly as many fear they’ll leave as soon as a better opportunity comes along (74%). More than a quarter strongly agree with these concerns (26% and 28%, respectively). In fact, nearly 3 in 5 (58%) would rather train someone new than risk disengagement from an overqualified employee.

Job Seekers Feel the Pressure
For job seekers, the presence of overqualified candidates feels like an uneven playing field.

55% say it’s impossible to compete against them.
74% believe companies are more likely to hire an overqualified applicant than someone with only entry-level experience.
67% worry employers prefer these candidates because they “bring more to the table,” even if the role doesn’t match their level.

Despite these concerns, most job seekers aren’t backing down. Eighty-seven percent believe it’s appropriate to apply for jobs they’re overqualified for, and nearly two-thirds (65%) have done so, often for reasons beyond pay, such as better work-life balance (56%) or passion for the industry (41%). The need for income remains the top motivator (59%).

Generational Differences Add Complexity
Younger job seekers feel the pressure most. Gen Z and millennials are significantly more likely than Gen X to believe it’s impossible to compete against overqualified candidates (67% and 60% vs. 44%) and to think companies favor them (84% and 77% vs. 66%). They’re also more likely to worry that employers prefer overqualified candidates because they bring more to the table (73% and 72% vs. 57%).

“Overqualified candidates represent a chance to secure top talent in today’s market,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “The key is to focus on skills-based hiring, which widens the talent pool by looking beyond résumés and degrees and makes the best use of a candidate’s abilities and ambition. Without that alignment, the risk of a quick exit is real.”

Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from June 2 to 28, 2025, among 1,000 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 June 12 to 27, 2025, among 1,000 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, President 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.

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