FEATURED FRANCHISE CONSULTANT: Jason Blough, FranServe, Inc.

Jason Blough was successfully managing a fitness franchise when he decided to venture into the world of franchise consultancy. By Jessica Petrucelli

Jason Blough was successfully managing a fitness franchise when he decided to venture into the world of franchise consultancy. By Jessica Petrucelli

After operating one of the fastest-growing locations in City Wide Facility Solutions’ history for the past three years, David Clinger recently teamed up with Ryan Tomkinson to expand the company’s reach in southeastern Michigan. By Jessica Petrucelli
The home care organization’s Caregiver of the Year, Andreanna Smith, recognized nationally for lifesaving actions and unwavering dedication to seniors
SAN ANTONIO — Caring Senior Service announced today that caregiver Andreanna Smith has been named to WTWH Healthcare’s Frontline Honors Class of 2025, one of the industry’s most respected distinctions for frontline workers across the care continuum.
Smith works for Caring Senior Service in Littleton, Colorado and was chosen for this honor based on a consistent record of extraordinary service, from everyday caregiving moments to decisive leadership during emergencies.
Frontline Honors are presented to workers in the behavioral health, home health, hospice, memory care and senior living industries whose character, performance and commitment to quality stand out in their roles.
In addition to this recognition, Smith was also selected as Caring Senior Service’s 2025 Caregiver of the Year for her outstanding impact on the clients she serves. This award is given to the caregiver who exemplifies the company’s mission of delivering exceptional and compassionate care.
Quick Thinking Saves Life
Smith’s honors also reflect her ability to act decisively when circumstances demand it. That commitment was demonstrated during a recent incident that underscored her dedication to client safety.
During an incident at a grocery store, a reckless driver sped toward one of Smith’s clients in a crosswalk, prompting Smith to instinctively step between the vehicle and her client. Although the client fell and sustained injuries, Smith immediately took control of the situation by contacting the office, calling police, gathering witness statements and ensuring thorough documentation. When family members were unavailable, she remained overnight so the client would not be alone.
Smith’s compassionate approach also results in long-term improvements in her clients’ health. When a client lost interest in eating, Smith responded with patience and creativity, preparing meals the client enjoyed and offering steady encouragement. Her care helped restore the client’s appetite and achieve significant, healthy weight gain.
These actions were cited as key factors in her selection for both honors.
A Caregiver Focused on Dependability
“Caregiving isn’t about being noticed; it’s about being dependable,” Smith said. “I focus on doing the right thing in the moment and making sure the person I’m caring for feels safe and supported.”
Smith regularly goes beyond scheduled care, maintaining a monthly commitment to a client who lives a considerable distance away to provide personal care, companionship and continuity when family support is limited.
“Andreanna sets the standard for what caregiving should look like,” said Lisa Coker, who co-owns Caring Senior Service in Littleton with her husband, Marc. “She takes responsibility without being asked, remains calm under pressure and treats every client with dignity and respect. Her impact is felt not only by the families she serves, but by our entire team.”
Families Appreciate Her Devotion
The families Smith supports credit her with making a meaningful difference in their lives.
“Without hesitation, Andreanna put herself between my mother and a moving vehicle,” said Ron Smith, the son of the client she protected at the grocery store. “That moment alone speaks volumes. But it is her consistency, from the meals to the check-ins to the patience she shows, that truly sets her apart.”
As the U.S. population continues to age, the role of home caregivers like Smith has never been more critical. According to a study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the number of family caregivers has increased about 32% in recent years, underscoring the growing demand for compassionate care provided in the home.
For more information about Caring Senior Service, visit caringseniorservice.com.

About Caring Senior Service
Caring Senior Service is a non-medical home care services company based in San Antonio, Texas. Founded by CEO Jeff Salter in 1991, the company provides assistance to seniors, people with disabilities, and any adult who may need help with the tasks of everyday living, such as bathing, personal care, running errands, and preparing food. After adding locations throughout Texas in the 1990s, the company extended its reach through franchising in 2002. It now boasts more than 50 locations throughout the United States.
Caring Senior Service has been named one of Franchise Business Review’s top franchises in 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, and is a leader in the use of technology and artificial intelligence in the senior care industry. At the heart of the organization is its GreatCare® method, a commitment to dependable service, quality care solutions and active involvement that ensures every client receives the highest standard of compassionate, personalized care.
For more information on Caring Senior Service, please visit caringseniorservice.com.
VISALIA, Calif. — PrideStaff, a nationally franchised staffing organization, is pleased to announce that its PrideStaff and PrideStaff Financial Visalia offices will transition to new ownership under Strategic-Partners Daren and Terri Kneeland, effective February 16, 2026. The office will continue delivering high-quality staffing and employment services to the Central Valley under the Kneelands’ leadership, reinforcing PrideStaff’s long-standing commitment to the Visalia market.
This ownership change reflects a natural next step in the office’s growth story, bringing in owners with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to service. The local team will remain in place, ensuring seamless continuity and trusted relationships with clients and associates.
“Born and raised in Visalia, we’re honored to take on the responsibility of leading an office with such deep community ties and a strong track record,” said Daren Kneeland, Co-Owner/Strategic-Partner. “Our goal is to build on that foundation—expanding opportunities for job seekers and helping employers in the region solve their workforce challenges with the highest level of service.”
“We’re passionate about people, and we’re excited to bring our energy and commitment to Visalia,” added Terri Kneeland, Co-Owner/Strategic-Partner. “We look forward to investing in the growth of this office and creating lasting impact through the relationships we build with local businesses and talent.”
“Daren and Terri bring enthusiasm, vision, and a people-first mindset to everything they do,” said Tammi Heaton, PrideStaff’s Co-CEO. “We’re thrilled to welcome them to the PrideStaff community and confident they will continue to drive great outcomes for clients and associates in Visalia.”
PrideStaff Visalia provides customized workforce solutions for employers across industries, including light industrial, administrative, and customer service. The team connects businesses with top talent for temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire roles, delivering results backed by PrideStaff’s proven processes and national support.

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.
MISSION VIEJO, Calif. — PrideStaff, a nationally franchised staffing agency, announced today a change in ownership for its South Orange County Mission Viejo office. Effective February 16, the office will be under the leadership of new Owner/Strategic-Partner Yvonne Haner, positioning the team to continue serving local employers and job seekers in the community.
Yvonne brings a client-focused leadership approach and a commitment to service excellence that aligns with PrideStaff’s Mission of “Consistently providing client experiences focused on what they value most.” Under her ownership, the award-winning Mission Viejo office will continue delivering temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire staffing solutions to businesses throughout South Orange County.
“I’m excited to lead the Mission Viejo office into its next chapter of growth,” said Haner. “I’m committed to building strong partnerships throughout South Orange County. My goal is to ensure every interaction reflects PrideStaff’s dedication to service, responsiveness, and results.”
“Yvonne brings strong leadership and a clear vision for delivering exceptional service in the South Orange County market,” said Tammi Heaton, Co-CEO of PrideStaff. “Her commitment to building meaningful client relationships and supporting job seekers aligns perfectly with our mission and exceeds the standards that define the PrideStaff brand.”

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 three years in a row, highlighting exceptional client and talent service quality.
For more information on our services, or for staffing franchise information, visit our website.
DENVER — PrideStaff, a nationally franchised staffing organization, is proud to announce that its Denver (Northwest) office has transitioned into a corporate-led location within the PrideStaff system. This move reflects PrideStaff’s continued investment in the Denver market and underscores the local team’s strength, performance, and leadership.
The Denver (Northwest) office will continue operating under the guidance of its experienced leadership team, ensuring continuity, consistency, and the high level of service clients and associates have come to expect. By strengthening its connection to PrideStaff’s national organization, the office gains access to expanded resources, infrastructure, and strategic support designed to accelerate growth and improve results.
This transition reinforces PrideStaff’s commitment to building on the office’s strong foundation, local relationships, and personalized service that have driven its success. The enhanced alignment allows the team to scale its impact across the region while staying true to the values that define the PrideStaff brand.
“Denver (Northwest) has demonstrated exceptional performance and leadership, and this transition reflects our confidence in both the market and the team,” said Tammi Heaton, PrideStaff’s Co-CEO. “They consistently deliver client experiences focused on what matters most, and we’re excited to further support their efforts as they continue to make a meaningful impact in the Denver community.”
PrideStaff Denver (Northwest) serves a wide range of industries, including distribution, manufacturing, call centers, and administrative services. The team specializes in temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire placements and is widely recognized for exceeding industry benchmarks.
Most recently, the office earned the 2024 Best of Mile High Award in the Staffing Agency category and maintains one of the region’s highest client satisfaction ratings based on ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® survey.

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 three years in a row, highlighting exceptional client and talent service quality.
For more information on our services, or staffing franchise information, visit our website.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — PrideStaff, a nationally franchised staffing organization, is pleased to announce that its Charlotte (North) office has been acquired by Owners/Strategic-Partners Chad and Allison Austin, effective February 9, 2026. The Austins currently own and operate the highly successful PrideStaff Asheville office and will now lead both locations as part of their expanding regional footprint.
This transition marks a strategic investment in the Charlotte market and reflects the Austins’ ongoing commitment to serving North Carolina employers and job seekers with excellence. The Charlotte (North) office will continue offering the full range of staffing and employment solutions clients and job seekers expect, with support from a leadership team deeply familiar with the local economy and workforce.
“Expanding into the Charlotte market is a natural next step for us,” said Chad Austin, Co-Owner/Strategic-Partner of PrideStaff Asheville, and now Charlotte (North). “We’re excited to build on the strong foundation already in place and bring the same values-driven, client-focused approach that’s guided our success in Asheville. Our goal is to help even more North Carolina businesses grow and thrive with the right talent.”
“Chad and I are passionate about creating opportunities—for our clients, for our associates, and for our internal teams,” added Allison Austin, Co-Owner/Strategic-Partner. “We’re excited to bring our energy and experience to Charlotte, and to make a lasting impact in this growing market through service, connection, and local commitment.”
“Chad and Allison exemplify what PrideStaff looks for in Strategic-Partners—entrepreneurial leaders who care deeply about their communities and fulfill Our Mission to ‘consistently provide client experiences focused on what they value most'”, said Tammi Heaton, PrideStaff’s Co-CEO. “Their expansion into Charlotte (North) not only strengthens our brand in the region, but ensures long-term continuity and local insight for clients and candidates alike.”
PrideStaff Charlotte (North) specializes in placing candidates in temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire roles across industries, including administrative, customer service, logistics, and light industrial. Backed by national resources and local expertise, the office remains committed to helping area businesses meet their workforce goals.

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 three years in a row, highlighting exceptional client and talent service quality.
For more information on our services, or staffing franchise information, visit our website.
Local entrepreneur Taylor Call brings high-energy, results-driven Pilates classes to Apple Street, offering early access, VIP events, and the exclusive WundaFormer experience.
BOISE, Idaho — Boise residents are about to experience a new kind of boutique fitness. Pilates Addiction, the nation’s fastest growing Pilates franchise known for transforming workouts with its signature WundaFormer, is set to open this spring at 2351 S Apple Street. Founding Members will enjoy VIP pre-opening events, giving them the opportunity to meet the Pilates Addiction team and Educators and be part of shaping Boise’s newest fitness community.
As part of the Pilates Addiction franchise network, the Boise studio offers high-performance, small-group classes in a beautifully designed studio, showcasing modern design, mood lighting, and gold machines. Each 50-minute session is led by certified Pilates Educators and blends classical Pilates principles with athletic intensity. Signature class formats – Core+, Max, and Mobility RX – are designed to strengthen, tone, and improve flexibility for all fitness levels.
“We’re excited to bring Boise a proven fitness concept that delivers real results and builds community,” said Taylor Call, franchise owner of Pilates Addiction Boise. “Founding Members will get first access to classes and special perks as we open our doors – it’s a chance to be part of something new and energetic in Boise.”
Founding Memberships are limited, and interested locals are encouraged to secure early access. To learn more or sign up, visit https://pilatesaddiction.com/founding/boise, follow @mypilatesaddiction on social media, or contact the studio at boise@pilatesaddiction.com | 208-906-1204.

ABOUT PILATES ADDICTION
Pilates Addiction, a Sequel Brands company, is a national boutique Pilates franchise delivering a high-performance, results-driven experience. Each studio features the brand’s patented WundaFormer, exclusive to Pilates Addiction, and is led by certified Educators who guide clients through anatomy-informed, full-body training designed to build strength, control, and mobility. The signature method fuses intensity with precision, creating sessions that challenge, transform, and energize. With sleek, modern studios and a focus on alignment, performance, and client experience, Pilates Addiction offers more than a class – it’s the healthiest obsession you’ll ever have. Backed by strong demand and rapid momentum, the brand is now expanding nationwide with 250+ territories awarded across the U.S., establishing Pilates Addiction as a new standard in results-driven Pilates.
New executive roles were unveiled at the franchise platform’s Home Services Summit 2026
SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Five Star Franchising, a growing platform of home service franchise brands, has announced an expansion of its leadership team, designed to accelerate growth and strengthen performance systemwide. New executive roles were unveiled during the Home Services Summit 2026, Five Star Franchising’s annual systemwide convention for franchise owners, corporate team members and partners, held in Las Vegas last month.
The new positions reflect a structural change within Five Star Franchising, intended to better support owners and drive growth. Expansions to the leadership team include Ben Fox as Chief Growth Officer, Andrew Mengason as Chief Revenue Officer and Colt Florence as Chief Development Officer.
Each executive has played a pivotal role in shaping Five Star Franchising’s trajectory and will now assume expanded responsibilities aligned with the company’s long-term vision. In his role as Chief Growth Officer, Fox will focus on enterprise-wide growth initiatives, facilitating strategic expansion and accelerated marketing across the platform. As Chief Revenue Officer, Mengason will focus on driving systemwide performance, including leading Five Star national accounts programs to expand referral and revenue opportunities for franchise owners. Florence, as Chief Development Officer, will lead franchise development across Five Star’s fast-growing portfolio.
“These changes to our executive team reflect the resilience we’ve demonstrated in recent years, but also the vision we have for the next chapter,” said Abbott. “We have the right team in place to chart exciting new opportunities for the Five Star system, ensuring growth for local owners while also building out our national accounts.”
These new leadership roles will fill out an already-robust executive team, which also includes Chief Operating Officer Chad Jones, Chief Financial Officer Steve White, Chief Technology Officer Shane MacKay and Chief Legal Officer Matt Morrison.
The announcements underscore Five Star Franchising’s continued distinction within the home service franchising industry. The company has appeared on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in America five times, most recently ranking No. 780 in 2025. Five Star Franchising has also earned recognition among the fastest-growing businesses in Utah, including honors from the MountainWest Capital Network Utah 100, the Utah Valley BusinessQ UV50 and the Utah Business Fast 50.
For more information about Five Star Franchising, visit fivestarfranchising.com.

About Five Star Franchising
Five Star Franchising is an innovative platform of home service brands with more than 1,600 total locations across 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, benefit from a robust support network and access to industry-leading tools such as ProNexis, a 24/7 sales support solution tailored for home service businesses, and Five Star Marketing Services, the company’s integrated marketing engine. Five Star Franchising’s commitment to its core values — Driven, Real, Innovative, Vital and Enthusiastic (DRIVE) — empowers franchise owners to maximize growth and long-term success. The company has appeared on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America five times, ranking No. 780 in 2025. Five Star Franchising also ranks among the fastest-growing businesses in Utah, earning recognition 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.
Proprietary Data Reveals Sustained Growth in Youth Athletic Training, High Parental Confidence, And Measurable Long-Term Development Outcomes.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As families continue to prioritize youth sports and long-term athletic development, new proprietary data from D1 Training, a leading fitness and enrichment concept that utilizes the five core tenets of athletic-based training to help people of all ages, from youth athletes to fitness-minded adults, shows that youth performance programming is fueling the next phase of growth in fitness franchising.
“Our mission has always been to develop the complete athlete,” said Will Bartholomew, Founder and CEO of D1 Training. “That means pushing the body with science-backed training, strengthening the mind with confidence and discipline, and shaping character through accountability and teamwork. This data provides clear evidence of the lasting impact of that holistic approach.”
The Rising Demand for Long-Term Athletic Programs
Proprietary D1 Training data shows that cumulative athlete visits have grown more than sevenfold since 2021, reaching 5 million in the past year, highlighting strong demand for structured, long-term athletic development.
D1 now serves over 100,000 scholastic athletes annually, reflecting a clear shift toward youth-focused strength and conditioning over short-term recreational fitness. With household spending on youth sports up 46% since 2019 and the youth training and conditioning market projected to reach $50.7 billion by 2035, this segment has emerged as one of the fastest growing within the broader fitness industry.
“I’m a huge believer in youth sports. As college athletics increasingly resemble professional sports, youth sports are starting to take on the role college once played,” On3 + Rivals CEO Shannon Terry said recently on The Turf: Powered By D1 podcast. “I’m betting heavily on the future of high school and youth athletics. If you asked me today, in a perfect world, where I’d invest the most time, energy, and resources, my answer would be simple: youth sports.”
That demand is being met through D1’s Scholastic Training programs, which are intentionally designed for athletes ages 7–18 and broken into three targeted training tracks, Rookie (ages 7–11), Developmental (ages 12–14), and Prep (ages 15–18), to align training intensity, movement patterns, and coaching style with each stage of physical and emotional development.
Tracking Progress and Performance
Consumer research of over 900 D1 members shows parents view youth performance training as a meaningful long-term investment beyond sports. While only a few athletes reach the professional level, parents report strong developmental outcomes: 96% note improved physical fitness, 90% cite enhanced athletic skills, and 85% see benefits in injury prevention. Significant personal growth is also reported, including confidence and motivation (92%), leadership and teamwork (90%), and discipline and responsibility (88%), highlighting the lasting impact of structured training environments.
The Scholastic Training Program
D1’s scholastic sessions follow a 54-minute, coach-led 5-Star Training progression that balances performance gains with safety and recovery. Workouts include dynamic warm-ups, speed and agility, strength, core and conditioning, and structured cool-downs, all in professional-grade facilities that reinforce proper technique and lifelong fitness habits. The program also emphasizes character and community through 12 core principles and team-based training, helping athletes improve both on and off the field.
D1 reports high satisfaction and retention, with a Net Promoter Score of 75.4. Parents cite coaching, results, and community as key reasons for continued participation. As youth performance training becomes central to fitness, D1’s model positions it as a foundational driver of franchise growth.
“D1 Training is about building communities and fostering growth at every level,” added Bartholomew. “Our franchisees receive comprehensive support, proven systems, and expert guidance, giving them the tools to operate a successful business while making a lasting impact on young athletes and their communities.”

About D1 Training
Founded in 2001 by former NFL player Will Bartholomew, and based in Nashville, D1 Training is positively impacting the lives of thousands of athletes of all ages. With 170+ locations nationwide, and 200+ more franchises in various stages of development, D1 is one of the fastest growing private companies in the nation. D1’s 5-Star Training System is trusted by top athletes because it trains the whole body: no fads, no shortcuts. For more information on D1 Training and franchise opportunities, please visit D1training.com and D1franchise.com.