Paul Zboichyk, Author at Franchise Dictionary Magazine

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27 07, 2026

54% of Job Seekers Expect a Difficult Search Amid Pay, Competition and Job Worries

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T23:20:47-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: business services, Express Employment Professionals, professional education, staffing solutions|

Rising costs are influencing 89% of job seekers’ decisions to pursue new work.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Finding a job feels difficult for many Americans actively looking for work, according to a new Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey, especially when the right role must match their qualifications, pay needs and long-term goals.

Forty-one percent of U.S. job seekers say they are actively looking for a new job, with 82% focused on full-time positions. Both figures are unchanged from the fall of 2025.

Still, more than half of job seekers (54%) say it will be difficult to find a job in the next six months.

Pay, Fit and Competition Top the List

The survey breaks down where job seekers are feeling the most pressure:

Finding opportunities that match their qualifications: 46%
Finding a job with enough pay to cover basic expenses: 44%
Standing out in a competitive job market: 41%
Navigating automated hiring processes instead of feeling heard by people: 31%

The experience can also feel uncertain. Nearly a third of job seekers (31%) say companies that claim to be hiring but only collect resumes make it harder to find their next opportunity. Others say their experience does not align cleanly with available roles, with 28% citing overqualification as a barrier and 22% citing underqualification.

Current Job Worries Are Also Driving the Search

Among employed job seekers, concerns about pay, job security and the economy remain top of mind.

Their biggest fears about their current job include:

Not getting the salary increase or raise they deserve: 37%
A slowdown in work opportunities because of the economy: 31%
Their company reducing the workforce due to the economic climate: 30%
Technology or AI negatively impacting their role: 25%

However, uncertainty isn’t the only reason employed job seekers are exploring other options. Many are motivated by quality-of-work factors, with 41% seeking better work-life balance, 40% looking for stronger growth opportunities in their current industry and 37% hoping to find or negotiate better compensation.

Rising costs are also part of the equation, with nearly 9 in 10 job seekers saying increasing prices have had at least some impact on their decision to pursue new employment. For 63%, that impact is moderate or substantial.

“The job search may feel difficult, but that does not mean the market is standing still,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, president and chairman of Express Employment International. “Job seekers are being more intentional about what they want, and employers should be just as intentional about what they offer. Clear expectations, realistic qualifications and strong communication can help turn a challenging search into the right match.”

Discover more research and real-world workforce trends from the America Employed series at ExpressPros.com/Newsroom.

Survey Methodology

The Job Seeker Report was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from May 19 to June 8, 2026, among 1,000 adults ages 18 and older who are employed but looking for a new job or not employed and looking for work.

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 more than 11 million people globally since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

27 07, 2026

Stretch Zone Announces Grand Opening in Mount Prospect, IL

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T23:15:09-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: Assisted Stretching, Mobility Services, Stretch Zone|

MOUNT PROSPECT, Ill. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s premier practitioner-assisted stretching brand, is excited to announce the opening of its newest location in Mount Prospect, Illinois. The studio is owned and operated by local residents Richie Li and his wife, Chi Gao, who are bringing a deeply personal passion for health, wellness, and mobility to the community.

The new studio is now open offering Mount Prospect residents access to Stretch Zone’s proprietary practitioner-assisted stretching method designed to improve mobility, increase range of motion, and help people move through life with greater ease.

For Li, opening a Stretch Zone is the realization of a long-held dream. Originally immigrating to the United States in 2011 to pursue higher education, he and his wife built successful corporate careers before deciding to pursue business ownership.

“My wife and I have always dreamed of owning a business that would make a meaningful impact,” said Li. “We both spend long hours working at computers and have personally experienced chronic neck, shoulder, and lower back discomfort. After trying Stretch Zone ourselves, we felt an immediate difference. We knew this was a service we believed in and something our community could truly benefit from.”

Li currently serves as a Senior R&D Manager at Kraft Heinz and holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Human Nutrition. His wife works as a data scientist. Together, they have previously invested in short-term and long-term rental properties, but Stretch Zone marks their first brick-and-mortar business venture.

Located in the heart of Mount Prospect, the studio aims to serve a diverse population of active adults, working professionals, athletes, and seniors seeking a practical solution for maintaining mobility and reducing everyday physical stress.

“We’re excited to introduce practitioner-assisted stretching to Mount Prospect,” Li said. “This community is full of people who want to stay active, whether they’re commuting to work, competing in sports, keeping up with their children, or enjoying retirement. Our goal is to help people feel better, move better, and enjoy life with fewer physical limitations.”

Stretch Zone differentiates itself through its proprietary Stretch Zone Method, which focuses on neuromuscular stretching techniques designed to improve active range of motion. Sessions are completely relaxing, allowing clients to relax comfortably on specialized tables while certified practitioners perform customized stretches tailored to each individual’s needs.

Unlike traditional stretching routines that require clients to do the work themselves, Stretch Zone’s patented strapping system stabilizes the body and helps muscles remain relaxed throughout the session. The result is a comfortable, effective experience that many clients describe as leaving them feeling lighter, more mobile, and refreshed.

“One of the things we love most about Stretch Zone is that it’s meaningful,” said Li. “Helping people feel better while building a business that serves the community is incredibly rewarding. It’s a rare opportunity to create something that improves people’s lives while also creating a sustainable business.”

“We joke that one of our goals is to stay flexible enough to keep building Legos for years to come,” Li said. “But in all seriousness, we want to help our neighbors enjoy the activities they love without discomfort holding them back.”

The Mount Prospect studio joins Stretch Zone’s growing network of locations dedicated to helping people achieve greater mobility, improved movement, and enhanced quality of life through practitioner-assisted stretching.

For more information about Stretch Zone Mount Prospect or to schedule a complimentary first stretch, visit the studio or contact the location directly.

About Stretch Zone

Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone revolutionized the way we approach stretching. With a focus on quality of life and long-term wellness results, the brand uses patented equipment and a scientific approach to deliver practitioner-assisted stretching that works. With more than 425 locations across 41 states, Stretch Zone continues its nationwide growth while staying true to its mission: helping people move better and live better. Stretch Zone has been recognized on the 2023 Inc. 5000 and Entrepreneur’s 2023 Fastest Growing Franchises. For franchise opportunities or more information, visit https://www.stretchzone.com.

27 07, 2026

VIO Med Spa Unveils Next-Generation Store Design as New National Brand Standard

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T23:07:30-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: Aesthetic and Wellness Treatment, Medical Spa, VIO Med Spa|

Hospitality-inspired redesign reflects the evolution of the VIO brand
Enhanced layout and premium finishes elevate the guest experience
Smaller footprint and streamlined investment model lower development costs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — VIO Med Spa, a nationally recognized, physician-guided medical spa franchise specializing in advanced, non-invasive aesthetic and wellness treatments, today unveiled its next-generation store concept, marking the most significant evolution of the interior brand experience since its founding. The hospitality-inspired design enhances the guest experience while introducing a more cost-efficient development model that will become the new standard for future VIO Med Spa locations nationwide. The first location debuted in Zionsville, Indiana.

“As the VIO brand continues to evolve, our physical spaces should evolve with it,” said Ryan Rose, Chief Executive Officer of VIO Med Spa. “This new concept reflects the quality of care, clinical expertise, and personalized experience that define our brand, creating a more elevated environment that welcomes guests from the moment they arrive.”

Designed to Transform the Guest Experience

Developed through a collaboration between VIO Med Spa’s team, Zionsville franchise owner and interior designer Rachel Hasan, the new concept combines luxury hospitality design with the functional needs of a physician-guided medical spa, creating a more elevated experience for both guests and franchise owners.

“Our goal was to create a space where design and care work together,” said Hasan. “By combining natural materials, thoughtful lighting, and hospitality-inspired details, we created an environment that feels modern, calming, and approachable while reinforcing the personalized experience that defines the VIO brand.”

“The strongest franchise concepts create consistency without sacrificing flexibility,” said Kimberly Maze, Director of New Store Development at VIO Med Spa. “This new prototype establishes a clear design standard while giving owners the ability to execute it successfully across a variety of footprints and markets.” The result is a design that moves away from the darker, more clinical aesthetic traditionally associated with medical spas in favor of an environment inspired by boutique hotels and luxury wellness destinations. Warm neutral tones, natural wood finishes, layered lighting, textured materials, and thoughtfully curated décor create a calming atmosphere that feels elevated without sacrificing the functionality required in a physician-guided clinical setting.

Key features of the new VIO Med Spa design include:

A brighter, hospitality-inspired reception area featuring warm neutral tones, natural materials and layered textures
A custom architectural feature wall highlighting the VIO brand and creating a memorable first impression
Soft ambient lighting throughout the spa designed to create a calming, relaxing atmosphere
Modern furnishings, curated artwork, and elevated finishes that replace the traditional clinical feel with a more residential, boutique aesthetic
Boutique hotel-inspired guest amenities that enhance comfort before and after treatments
Premium, durable materials selected to balance luxury design with operational efficiency and long-term scalability

An Enhanced Prototype for Future Growth

The Zionsville location is the first to showcase VIO Med Spa’s next-generation store concept, establishing the new design standard for upcoming development across the nation. While the hospitality-inspired redesign enhances the guest experience, it was developed in close collaboration with the brand’s Franchise Advisory Council to create a more efficient, cost-effective and scalable model for franchise owners.

The updated prototype features a footprint approximately 500 to 1,000 square feet smaller than previous locations, providing greater flexibility during site selection while reducing occupancy costs. VIO also introduced a phased capital investment strategy for devices, negotiated new vendor agreements to improve purchasing efficiencies and reduced initial inventory requirements by approximately one-third based on new store opening data.

“This new concept reflects our commitment to investing in both our guests and our franchisees,” added Rose. “From reducing upfront costs to delivering a more elevated in-spa experience, every aspect of this redesign was approached with long-term growth in mind. We set out to create a smarter, more efficient prototype without compromising the quality or consistency of the VIO brand. It’s a win for our owners, our guests, and the future growth of our system.”

All future VIO Med Spa locations will be built using the new prototype, while existing franchise owners will have the opportunity to incorporate elements of the redesign through optional retrofit packages ranging from cosmetic enhancements to more comprehensive renovations.

To learn more about VIO Med Spa’s new store concept and franchise opportunities, visit: https://viomedspafranchise.com/.

About VIO Med Spa^®
Founded in 2017, VIO Med Spa is a category-leading medical spa franchise redefining results-driven aesthetics and wellness with an uncompromising commitment to safety. Headquartered in Nashville, TN, VIO is built on the philosophy that every guest deserves transparent, expert-led, and personalized care. Entering 2026, the nationally recognized brand operates 65 locations across 20 states, with more than 175 territories open, sold, or actively in development. Backed by Freeman Spogli, a strategic growth partner with deep experience scaling consumer and franchise brands, VIO is supported by robust operational infrastructure, expanded senior leadership and field operations, data-driven insights, and long-term capital to fuel continued expansion. VIO offers a full range of treatments, including injectables, skin rejuvenation, advanced facials, wellness services, and medical-grade skincare, all designed to help guests look great and feel amazing^®.

27 07, 2026

VIO Med Spa Expands Atlanta Footprint with New Franchise Agreement

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T22:57:07-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: Aesthetic and Wellness Treatment, Medical Spa, VIO Med Spa|

Veteran Franchise Professional and Real Estate Professional Signs Agreement to Expand VIO Med Spa’s Presence Across Metro Atlanta
First Location Expected to Open in 2027
Expansion Reflects Continued Demand for Physician-Guided Aesthetics, Wellness and Longevity Services

ATLANTA — VIO Med Spa, a nationally recognized, physician-guided medical spa franchise specializing in advanced, non-invasive aesthetic and wellness treatments, is continuing its expansion across Georgia with a new franchise agreement in the Atlanta market. The agreement will further expand VIO Med Spa’s presence throughout Metro Atlanta, with the first location expected to open in 2027.

Metro Atlanta remains one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas and continues to attract investment across the wellness, healthcare, and service sectors.

“This agreement reflects a trend we’re seeing across the system as more experienced business owners look to diversify into wellness-focused concepts,” said Ryan Rao, Chief Development Officer at VIO Med Spa. “Entrepreneurs are increasingly drawn to categories with strong consumer demand, recurring engagement, and long-term growth potential, and VIO is well-positioned at the intersection of aesthetics, wellness, and longevity.”

Experienced Entrepreneur Expands VIO Med Spa’s Atlanta Footprint
The expansion is led by Aine Burns, an experienced entrepreneur whose career spans weight loss, fitness, training and real estate. A seasoned business owner and leader, Burns brings a proven track record of building high-performing teams and delivering exceptional client experiences. She was drawn to VIO Med Spa’s physician-guided approach and believes the brand is well positioned to meet the growing demand for proactive wellness and aesthetic services.

“We’re living through an aging renaissance, and I became fascinated by the ways wellness, preventative health, and longevity-focused services are helping people take a more proactive approach to how they age and feel,” said Burns. “As I evaluated different brands, VIO consistently stood out because of its physician-guided model, commitment to innovation, and investment in franchisee success. The training, support, and focus on education made it clear this was a brand built for long-term growth.”

While Burns is focused on opening her first location, she sees Atlanta as a market with significant long-term potential and plans to grow alongside the brand through additional locations in the years ahead.

A Physician-Guided Model Built for Scalable Growth
Built on established clinical protocols and medical oversight, VIO Med Spa delivers a range of medical-grade aesthetic and wellness services including injectables, skin rejuvenation, laser treatments, and facials which are designed to prioritize safety, consistency, and results.

Named the #1 Med Spa Franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500^® for a third straight year in 2026, VIO Med Spa is attracting experienced operators drawn to its scalable, physician-guided model and strong unit-level performance. The brand is actively seeking franchise partners and multi-unit operators with backgrounds in hospitality, fitness, healthcare-adjacent, QSR, and other service-driven industries.

To learn more about VIO Med Spa’s franchising opportunity, please visit: https://viomedspafranchise.com/.

27 07, 2026

Celebree School Awards New Franchise Agreement in Phoenix, Marking First Arizona Location

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T22:51:17-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: Celebree School, early-childhood education, preschool, summer camp programs, toddler care|

With a Commitment to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School Expands Access to High-Quality Education

PHOENIX — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, is entering Arizona with a new franchise agreement in Phoenix. The new school will offer a nurturing, curriculum-based environment that supports the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to Arizona’s early education standards.

Arizona’s Demand for Early Childhood Education
Arizona’s growing communities and evolving business landscape present a strong opportunity for Celebree School to continue to expand its footprint and serve more families seeking quality early childhood education options.

The monumental Phoenix agreement follows Celebree School’s recent signings in Grand Rapids, MI, and Philadelphia, PA, further reflecting the brand’s commitment to nationwide development in key growth markets.

“Arizona is exactly the kind of market where Celebree School is looking to grow,” said Mark Lubin, Chief Development Officer of Celebree School. “With more families moving into the state, we see great opportunity to continue our expansion with more locations across Arizona and bring our proven model to franchisees looking to make a difference in their community.”

The Celebree School Approach to Education
Celebree School was founded on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, believing that success in early childhood development stems from both a strong, research-based curriculum and meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom. Each school provides an engaging environment where children are encouraged to explore, socialize, and build independence, while bringing together a village of parents, children, and educators dedicated to supporting the whole child and the whole family.

At the core of Celebree School’s approach is The Creative Curriculum® by Teaching Strategies, a nationally recognized, research-based program built to encourage exploration, creativity, and critical thinking through hands-on learning experiences. The curriculum has been trusted by early childhood educators for decades.

Scalable Franchise Opportunity Built for Long-Term Growth
Celebree School continues to experience strong multi-unit growth across the country, with franchisees drawn to the brand’s 30-plus-year history, proven systems, comprehensive training, and mission-driven approach to early childhood education.

Recently, Celebree introduced a 0% royalty incentive for new franchise owners* and veteran incentive, further enhancing the brand’s value proposition for prospective owners seeking both impact and long-term business opportunities in a resilient education sector.

Prospects are taking note of the business opportunity, as Celebree School’s Franchise Disclosure Document reports $2.26M AUV for company-operated schools open and operating throughout 2025.**

For more information about Celebree School franchise opportunities, please visit https://franchise.celebree.com/.

About Celebree School

Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs. With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines. In 2019, Celebree School launched its franchise offering. In 2024, Celebree School’s founder, Richard Huffman, launched a new parent company called Huffman Family Brands, merging Celebree affiliated concepts under one multi-brand company structure. Learn more about how we grow confident children who are prepared for school and life at Celebree.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

*This is not an offer to sell a franchise. An offer can be made only by means of a Franchise Disclosure Document that has been registered and approved by the appropriate agency in your state, if your state requires such registration.

**Based on annual financial performance results for the 26 Company-Operated Schools across Maryland and Delaware that were considered “mature” and that were operated by our affiliates that were open and operating throughout 2025. A mature school is defined as a School that has been open for at least 24 months. This information is presented in Item 19 of our April 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document along with additional financial performance data related to the performance of our outlets. If you purchase a franchise, your results may differ from the represented performance. We can’t guarantee the success of any franchise and you must accept the risk of not doing as well.

27 07, 2026

Five Star Franchising adds Decorate With Lights as eighth franchise brand

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T22:43:24-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: Bio-One, crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, decontamination and biohazard cleanup services, Five Star Franchising|

Established specialty lighting company expands nationwide through Five Star Franchising as homeowner demand for permanent, landscape and holiday lighting continues to grow.

SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Five Star Franchising, a growing platform of home service franchise brands, today announced the nationwide franchise expansion of Decorate With Lights, the eighth brand in its portfolio. Founded in 2016, Decorate With Lights is an established specialty lighting company providing holiday, permanent roofline, landscape and event lighting solutions for residential, commercial, and municipal customers.

The addition expands Five Star Franchising’s presence in one of the fastest-growing categories within home services. According to Grand View Research, the global outdoor lighting market is projected to grow from roughly $17 billion in 2024 to more than $28 billion by 2030, with residential demand leading the way. At the same time, professional holiday lighting has experienced double-digit annual growth as more homeowners shift from do-it-yourself decorating to professionally designed and installed lighting solutions.

Despite the momentum, the category remains highly fragmented, with more than 17,000 independent operators and no dominant national brand. Increasingly, homeowners are investing not only in seasonal displays, but also in permanent architectural lighting, landscape lighting, and custom event installations that enhance properties year-round – creating a significant opportunity for professionally managed specialty lighting businesses.

“After a decade of refining the model, now is the right time to open this opportunity to franchise owners and meet growing demand in more communities across the country,” said Michael Moorhouse, President of Decorate With Lights. “More than ever, homeowners want professional, done-for-you lighting they can trust year-round, and we’ve built Decorate With Lights to deliver exactly that.”

Decorate With Lights marks Five Star Franchising’s eighth franchise brand and continues the company’s aggressive platform expansion. Earlier this year, Five Star acquired and launched Five Star Flooring, adding another scalable home service category to a portfolio that now includes more than 1,700 locations and more than 1,000 franchise owners across North America.

Built for Sustainable Growth

Decorate With Lights offers four distinct services (holiday lighting, permanent roofline lighting, landscape lighting, and event lighting), creating multiple revenue streams from a single protected territory and allowing owners to generate business throughout the year.

Minimal Investment: With an initial franchise fee of $10,000 and estimated initial investment range starting at $36,200, Decorate With Lights offers one of the lowest-capital entry points into a franchised premium lighting business. The home-based, asset-light model requires no storefront, showroom or fleet, allowing owners to focus on sales, operations and customer relationships.
Pre-Qualified Premium Territory: Every Decorate With Lights territory is built around approximately 50,000 single-family homes with household incomes above $100,000 — a pre-qualified premium footprint that none of its franchised lighting competitors replicate at this capital tier.
Born Inside a Category Leader: Decorate With Lights was born inside the Mosquito Shield ecosystem and built by the operators who scaled that brand to 400+ territories and three consecutive years as Entrepreneur’s No.1 pest control franchise. Moorhouse leads both brands and brought the same operating discipline to Decorate With Lights: perfect the service, prove the model, then franchise it, evolving a compressed holiday season into a year-round premium lighting business.
Led by Category Operators, Backed by the Five Star Platform: The Decorate With Lights brand team supports owners directly, leveraging the full Five Star Franchising resource stack: full-funnel digital marketing through Five Star Marketing, inbound lead intake and quoting through ProNexis, and exclusive vendor pricing through the Five Star Buying Group.

“Professional lighting is one of the fastest-growing categories in home services, and Decorate With Lights has spent a decade proving the model,” said Scott Abbott, CEO and Co-founder of Five Star Franchising. “Adding the brand to our platform allows us to expand franchise opportunities at exactly the moment homeowner demand is accelerating, while providing franchise owners the technology, marketing and operational support they need to grow with the category.”

For more information about Decorate With Lights franchise opportunities, visit fivestarfranchising.com/decorate-with-lights. For consumer services, visit decoratewithlights.com.

About Five Star Franchising
Five Star Franchising is an innovative, growing platform of home service brands with more than 1,700 total locations throughout North America. Franchise owners across its brands, including Bio-One, Card My Yard, Decorate With Lights, Five Star Bath Solutions, Five Star Flooring, Gotcha Covered, Mosquito Shield, and 1-800-Packouts leverage a robust support team and industry-leading tools to help their local businesses thrive. This includes ProNexis, the complete lead management support solution for home service brands, alongside exclusive access to Five Star’s vendor network and in-house marketing services. Five Star Franchising’s commitment to purpose and core values — Driven, Real, Innovative, Vital, and Enthusiastic (DRIVE) — empowers franchise owners to maximize profitable growth and achieve success while growing its brands into category leaders. The platform has appeared on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America five times total, ranking #780 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.

About Decorate With Lights
Decorate With Lights is a premium specialty lighting franchise delivering custom holiday, permanent, landscape, and event lighting solutions for residential, commercial, and municipal customers. Founded in 2016 and part of the Five Star Franchising portfolio, the brand pairs a decade of category operating history with the platform infrastructure to help franchise owners build scalable, community-rooted businesses in a growing home service category. To learn more, visit decoratewithlights.com. To explore franchise opportunities, visit fivestarfranchising.com/decorate-with-lights.

www.bloomerangpr.com

27 07, 2026

BrightStar Care Names Franchise Industry Veteran Josh Wall as CEO to Shape Company’s Next Phase of Growth and Innovation

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T22:39:04-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: BrightStar Care, home care and medical staffing franchise, home health care, medical and non-medical services, Moving Health Home|

Seasoned Franchise Executive to Build on Brand’s Commitment to Clinical Excellence, Franchisee Support and Exceptional Client Experience

CHICAGO — BrightStar Care, a leading provider of nurse-led home care, skilled care and medical staffing services, today announced the appointment of Josh Wall as Chief Executive Officer. Wall succeeds Andy Ray and will lead the company’s next phase of growth by strengthening franchisee success, expanding strategic healthcare partnerships, investing in innovation and technology, and building on BrightStar Care’s long-standing reputation for clinical excellence and exceptional client experience.

Wall joins BrightStar Care with more than two decades of experience helping franchise owners build stronger, more profitable businesses, developing high-performing teams and leading franchise organizations through periods of rapid expansion. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for strengthening franchise systems, empowering franchisees and creating meaningful impact in the communities they serve.

“I’m honored to join BrightStar Care at such an exciting time for both the company and the home care industry,” said Wall. “BrightStar Care brings together two things I’m deeply passionate about: helping franchise owners build successful businesses and delivering exceptional care to families. I look forward to partnering with our franchisees, caregivers, nurses and team members to build on the strong foundation that’s already in place while continuing to innovate, grow and create even greater value across the network.”

“I also want to thank Andy Ray for his leadership and the organization he helped build. His contributions have positioned BrightStar Care for continued success, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help lead the company’s next chapter,” added Wall.

Josh Wall: A Proven Franchise Leader

Wall most recently served as Chief Operating Officer of Unleashed Brands, the world’s largest youth enrichment franchise platform. In that role, he oversaw franchise operations, franchise development, franchisee support and mergers and acquisitions across a portfolio of industry-leading brands, including Urban Air Adventure Park, Sylvan Learning, The Little Gym, Water Wings Swim School, Snapology, Premier Martial Arts and Class 101.

As a member of the executive leadership team, Wall played a key role in driving enterprise growth, integrating acquisitions and strengthening franchisee performance across more than 1,500 locations nationwide, serving over 20 million children annually.

Previously, Wall served as Chief Growth Officer for Unleashed Brands and Chief Franchise Officer for Urban Air Adventure Park. Earlier in his career, he spent 16 years with Christian Brothers Automotive, ultimately serving as Partner and Chief Development Officer, where he helped grow the brand from 21 locations to more than 350 locations while building one of the franchise industry’s strongest records for Average Unit Volume (AUV) and Total Owner Benefit (TOB).

Wall’s experience scaling franchise brands, partnering closely with franchise owners and leading organizations through transformational growth makes him uniquely positioned to lead BrightStar Care into its next chapter.

How BrightStar Care is Positioned for the Future

Wall joins BrightStar Care at a pivotal time for both the company and the home healthcare industry. Demand for high-quality, home-based care continues to accelerate as the nation’s aging population grows, healthcare increasingly shifts into the home and families seek trusted care partners. According to Fortune Business Insights, the U.S. home healthcare services market was valued at $100.95 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $176.30 billion by 2032.

BrightStar Care is well positioned to capitalize on that demand. Over the past 18 months, the company has signed more than 60 franchise agreements for new territories, including 20 in 2026 alone, while continuing to build a strong pipeline of both prospective franchise owners and existing owners looking to expand.

As CEO, Wall will focus on helping franchise owners grow successful businesses, expand BrightStar Care’s national footprint, strengthen strategic healthcare partnerships and invest in innovative technologies that enhance the experience for franchise owners, caregivers and clients alike. He will also build on the company’s leadership in nurse-led home care and its commitment to clinical excellence.

“Josh brings a unique combination of franchise expertise, operational excellence, strategic vision and servant leadership,” said Spencer Moore, BrightStar Care Board Member. “His passion for supporting franchisees, developing people and building scalable organizations aligns perfectly with BrightStar Care’s mission and long-term growth strategy. We are excited to welcome Josh and look forward to the future under his leadership.”

With more than 420 franchised locations nationwide, BrightStar Care serves clients of all ages, from infants to seniors, offering the full continuum of care, including companion care, personal care, skilled care, healthcare staffing services and support for more than 180 national accounts. The brand continues to differentiate itself through its nurse-led care model, Joint Commission accreditation and unwavering commitment to delivering A Higher Standard® of care.

About BrightStar Care

Founded in 2002, BrightStar Care is a leading franchisor of home care services with more than 420 franchised locations nationwide providing skilled and non-skilled home care, healthcare staffing and partnership solutions to businesses and health systems. BrightStar Care franchise agencies employ more than 15,000 caregivers and 5,700 registered nurses who oversee the care and safety of every client. BrightStar Care agencies are accredited by The Joint Commission, and the brand has been recognized as an Enterprise Champion for Quality for 14 consecutive years. BrightStar Care is owned by Peak Rock Capital, a leading middle-market private investment firm. Learn more at www.brightstarcare.com.

27 07, 2026

Local Husband-Wife Duo to Open New Pet Supplies Plus Location in North Durham on July 14

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-27T22:35:46-04:00July 27th, 2026|Tags: Pet Retail, Pet Supplies Plus, Wag N’ Wash|

Neighborhood Pet Retailer Brings Best-Price Guaranteed Products, Grooming, Self-Wash Stations and Friendly Service to Local Pet Parents

DURHAM, NC. — Pet Supplies Plus, the largest and most trusted pet retail franchise, will open in Durham on July 14. Located at 5108 North Roxboro Street, the store will offer a wide selection of pet essentials for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, fish, and small animals, along with services including grooming, self-pet wash stations, and carry-out assistance.

Meet the Local Franchise Owners:

The new store is owned by Isaac and Karri Corpe, a husband-and-wife duo and local entrepreneurs. With a background in supply chain management, Isaac always aspired to become a franchise owner early in his career. As pet owners and advocates, Isaac and Karri found a perfect match with Pet Supplies Plus. Recognizing Durham as an underserved market with not many pet-focused retail options, the Corpe’s are committed to bringing a neighborhood-centric solution to the community while serving as a one-stop destination for pet families. Karri, who previously worked as an engineer, will serve as general manager where she will oversee the store’s day-to-day operations and help create a welcoming experience for every customer.

“Karri and I are excited to bring Pet Supplies Plus to Durham where every customer and pet is treated like family,” said Isaac Corpe. “As pet owners ourselves, we understand how important it is to have a trusted place to find quality products, expert guidance, and impeccable service. We look forward to having our new business become part of the community and helping local families give their pets the best possible care.”

Pet Supplies Plus focuses on providing a unique in-store experience for all of its new “neighbors” (the term Pet Supplies Plus uses for customer). As a community partner, the Corpes will work alongside local animal shelters, rescue organizations and non-profits to host year-round adoption events, fundraisers, pet food and product drives.

Grand Opening Celebration:

To welcome the community to the new Pet Supplies Plus location, Isaac and Karri Corpe will host a weekend-long grand opening event featuring a $10 reward for any $30 purchase, special prize giveaways, discounts, and more.

Beginning on Saturday, August 15 and continuing through Sunday, August 16, grand opening festivities at the new Pet Supplies Plus will include:

Saturday, August 15 – Sunday, August 16:

Pet Supplies Plus will provide $5 nail trims for dogs with proof of rabies vaccination (printed or digital copy) and free self- serve pet washes.
Rewards members can earn a $10 reward with any purchase of $30 or more.
Tropical fish and aquatic plants will be 40% off.
Local dessert and coffee truck vendors, raffles including a dog-themed Lego set, and a prize wheel will be available.

Saturday, August 15:

Mystery scratch cards up to $50 value will be given to neighbors throughout the day.
Adoptable dogs from Charleys K9 Rescue will be onsite from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Free pup cups will be available onsite.

Sunday, August 16:

First 100 people will receive one free small bag of dog or cat food.
A photo station will be available with a chance to win a $50 gift card.
Adoptable dogs from Pawfect Match Rescue will be onsite from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Adoptable dogs from Blazin’ Trails Bottle Babies will be onsite from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

In addition, neighbors will have an opportunity to win either a $250 gift card and receive a coupon. For more information and to enter, text “northdurham” to 34653.

At Pet Supplies Plus, neighbors are encouraged to bring their leashed pets in-store, where knowledgeable and caring team members are on-site to answer any questions, or offer tips. The experienced in-store team is extensively trained in the areas of natural and holistic foods and can answer a broad range of questions about dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and fish.

Pet Supplies Plus Durham offers one-hour curbside pickup and free same day delivery on all online orders. The store will be open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Neighbors can connect with the new store on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on events and promotions, and download the Pet Supplies Plus app via the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. To contact Pet Supplies Plus of North Durham, call 984-375-2773.

By signing up via text, you agree to receive recurring automated promotional and personalized marketing text messages (e.g. cart reminders) from Pet Supplies Plus at the cell number used when signing up. Consent is not a condition of any purchase. Reply HELP for help and STOP to cancel. Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. View Terms & Privacy: https://www.petsuppliesplus.com/sms-terms-and-conditions.

The Pet Supplies Plus Rewards program allows members to receive regular coupons on products they frequently purchase, monthly specials, members only sales, and other personalized offers. Neighbors can text “GRAND” to 72629 to receive 10% off their first purchase.

About Pet Supplies Plus
Your neighborhood Pet Supplies Plus has everything you need for your furry, scaly and feathery friends. Its shelves are stocked with pet essentials, including a wide selection of over 11,000 products from 400 brands. Easily find all their favorites at prices you love, whether you shop in store or online using free curbside pickup, same-day delivery or Autoship. To help keep your pets happy and healthy, pet prescriptions can be filled online and delivered directly to your door. As the nation’s largest pet retail franchise with over 725 locations and counting, Pet Supplies Plus makes shopping local simple. For more information visit www.petsuppliesplus.com.

5 07, 2026

Comfort Keepers® Franchise Growth Accelerates in 2026 With 14 New Territories as In-Home Senior Care Demand Rises

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-05T15:11:14-04:00July 5th, 2026|Tags: Alzheimer's, Comfort Keepers, health care, in-home care network for seniors, senior services|

As more families seek support for aging loved ones at home, Comfort Keepers continues to expand with 14 new territories signed through midyear.

IRVINE, Calif. — As demand for in-home senior care continues to grow across North America, Comfort Keepers ^® is carrying strong momentum into the second half of 2026. The brand signed 14 new franchise territories and opened four locations during the first six months of the year, expanding its footprint across Texas, Florida, Maryland, Delaware, Massachusetts, California, Canada, Nebraska, Mississippi, North Carolina and Indiana.

The growth comes as more families look for ways to help aging loved ones stay safely at home, increasing the need for home care providers that can offer dependable service and consistent support. For Comfort Keepers, that need has also brought more interest from entrepreneurs who see senior care as a business with both purpose and room to grow.

“We’re seeing interest from people who recognize that senior care isn’t just a growing category – it’s a category that’s becoming more essential every year,” said Scott Oaks, vice president of franchise development for Comfort Keepers. “Most of the candidates we’re talking with are second-career professionals who have significant business experience and are looking for something with purpose as well as growth potential. They want to build a business that can make a difference in their community, but they also approach it with an enterprise mindset. That’s why we try to be thoughtful about growth from the beginning. We’ll typically start new franchisees with no more than two neighboring territories, so they have time to learn the business, build the right team and get their operations in place before they look at what comes next.”

Several of the brand’s fastest-growing markets mirror broader population shifts occurring across the country. Oaks said states such as Texas and Florida continue to generate strong demand due to sustained population growth and an influx of new residents. At the same time, those migration patterns often create care needs in entirely different markets.

“When families relocate, it frequently creates a situation where aging parents remain in another city or state and need additional support,” Oaks said. “Someone may move to Texas for work while their parents continue living in Nebraska or another market where they’ve spent decades building their lives. That creates a need for trusted in-home care providers who can help families stay connected and ensure that loved ones receive quality care. Those demographic trends are creating opportunities across a wide range of markets, not just the states experiencing the largest population growth.”

Like many brands in the home care sector, Comfort Keepers continues to navigate an increasingly competitive labor market. Oaks said caregiver recruitment and retention remain among the top concerns prospective franchisees raise during the discovery process, making franchise support in those areas especially important.

“Candidates want to know how they’re going to find and keep great caregivers because they understand that’s the foundation of the business,” Oaks said. “We spend a lot of time helping franchisees develop effective recruiting processes, compensation strategies and referral programs. Just as important, we focus on matching caregivers with the right clients. When caregivers feel supported and clients receive the level of care they expect, satisfaction improves on both sides. That creates stronger retention and a healthier business overall.”

Looking ahead, Comfort Keepers expects to sign an additional 20 territories before the end of the year. Development efforts will remain focused on Texas, Massachusetts, Indiana and California, while the brand also works to generate additional activity in markets such as Utah, Salt Lake City and St. Louis.

“The opportunity in front of us is significant,” Oaks said. “The aging population continues to grow, more families are choosing aging in place and we’re seeing strong interest from entrepreneurs who want to be part of that solution. Our focus for the rest of the year is continuing to add the right franchisees in the right markets while giving them the support they need to build successful businesses that can serve their communities for years to come.”

About Comfort Keepers®

For over 25 years, Comfort Keepers has been Elevating the Human Spirit℠ through its in-home care network for seniors and other adults by empowering them to maintain their independence and realize joy in the everyday moments. Comfort Keepers operates a franchise network that has grown to more than 600 locations in the U.S. and Canada, serving hundreds of thousands of clients since 1998. The company’s nationwide network employs thousands of caregivers, also known as Comfort Keepers®, who deliver joy through interactive caregiving by continually communicating with, involving, and engaging with seniors in everyday tasks and activities. For more information, visit comfortkeepersfranchise.com.

5 07, 2026

CarePatrol Partners with LTCareNav to Simplify Long-Term Care Planning for Families

Paul Zboichyk2026-07-05T15:02:27-04:00July 5th, 2026|Tags: CarePatrol|

Leading senior care advisory organization expands support through exclusive partnership

TROY, Mich. — CarePatrol, a leading senior care solutions franchise with more than 215 locations open across 42 states and Canada, announced today the brand has signed an exclusive US partnership with LTCareNav, a digital long-term care planning platform designed to help individuals and families prepare for future care needs with greater confidence.

The partnership marks a strategic step forward in CarePatrol’s mission to provide safer senior care solutions by combining trusted local guidance with innovative digital planning tools. Through the collaboration, CarePatrol advisors will extend their expertise to LTCareNav families, providing personalized guidance on long-term care planning, financial preparedness and informed decision-making.

“This partnership aligns with our mission of providing safer senior care planning solutions,” said Keith Kuhn, Brand President of CarePatrol. “It allows our CarePatrol advisors to serve as trusted advocates on the ground, seamlessly connecting advanced digital planning with local expertise to help families navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions. Together, we are empowering families to make informed decisions before a crisis occurs.”

The partnership comes at a critical time as America’s aging population continues to grow and demand for long-term care services increases. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 70% of adults age 65 and older will require some form of long-term care during their lifetime. Yet many families remain unprepared for the financial, emotional and logistical complexities associated with aging and care planning.

By integrating LTCareNav’s technology with CarePatrol’s nationwide network of local senior care planning advisors, families can access both digital planning support and personalized guidance throughout their care journey. The partnership aims to help families take a more proactive approach to preparing for future care needs while reducing uncertainty and stress.

“CarePatrol has built a reputation in this industry for a reason,” said Lindsay Friedman, Founder of LTCareNav. “Their advisors are exactly who we want standing beside our families – knowledgeable, compassionate, and committed to helping people make confident decisions. We’re proud to bring that kind of support to the families who rely on LTCareNav.”

The partnership underscores CarePatrol’s continued commitment to innovation and advocacy, equipping families with the resources, education and support needed to make confident senior care decisions and achieve better long-term outcomes.

To learn more about CarePatrol, visit https://carepatrol.com/.

About CarePatrol
CarePatrol is the nation’s largest senior care solutions franchise in the United States. With more than 220 territories sold across 42 states and Canada, local senior advisors provide a no-cost service in helping families find quality, top-rated assisted living, independent living, memory care, nursing homes and in-home care. Founded in 1993, CarePatrol began franchising in 2009 and is now part of the Best Life Brands family, with private equity backing by The Riverside Company. CarePatrol is proud to have earned the Franchisee Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review for 14 years in a row, including its induction into the Hall of Fame in 2024, and has earned placement on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list. For more information, visit www.CarePatrol.com/franchising.

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paul@franserve.com

About Paul Zboichyk