paul@franserve.com

About Paul Zboichyk

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far Paul Zboichyk has created 1430 blog entries.
14 10, 2025

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

2025-10-14T23:49:17-04:00October 14th, 2025|Tags: , , |

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

2025-10-11T19:11:06-04:00October 11th, 2025|Tags: , , |

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-DryHOODZ1-800 WATER DAMAGEN-HanceBlue 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-BOARDUP1-800 WATER DAMAGEBlue Kangaroo PackoutzChem-Dry Carpet & Upholstery CleaningClear Pest ProsCOOL-BINZ, DUCTZHelpful HeroesHOODZJUNKCO+N-Hance Wood RefinishingThe Patch Boysredbox+ 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

2025-10-11T19:00:49-04:00October 11th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

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

2025-10-11T18:52:17-04:00October 11th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

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

2025-10-10T00:26:36-04:00October 10th, 2025|Tags: , , , , |

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

2025-10-10T00:18:23-04:00October 10th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

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.

10 10, 2025

Cruise Planners Travel Franchise Launches Next-Generation Technology & AI Enhancements to Support Travel Advisors

2025-10-10T00:10:30-04:00October 10th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel advisor franchise network, introduced several new travel technology enhancements during its annual convention onboard the Wonder of the Seas. These free tools streamline workflows, boost efficiency, and provide smarter ways for advisors to serve clients, reinforcing Cruise Planners’ position as a leader in travel franchise technology and innovation.

Highlights include:

FUTURE AI PROJECTS: Cruise Planners previewed their roadmap for exciting AI-driven tools including:

  • Reservation Intelligence Engine: Personalized recommendations with AI-powered travel planning tools for trip components based on client booking patterns such as shore excursions recommendations, hotel recommendations, transportation and more.
  • AI Search Filters: Advanced filtering in CP Maxx, Cruise Planners advanced proprietary CRM system for travel advisors, to refine results with natural language queries. For example, an advisor searching for cruise results will speak their prompts instead of using filter forms.
  • AI Confirmation Import Tool: Using AI, advisors can now import confirmation emails directly into CP Maxx to automatically generate reservations and process pricing and commission data—reducing manual entry and improving efficiency.

TRIP SUMMARY 3.0: The Trip Summary proprietary tool has been completely rebuilt with a sleek, user-friendly interface. Key features include drag-and-drop functionality, an expanded range of travel component options such as cruisetours, flights, and rail, and the ability to bundle multiple itineraries into proposals for side-by-side comparison. The new consumer view allows clients to provide feedback, giving advisors actionable insights to tailor trips to each traveler’s preferences.

CLIENT ENHANCEMENTS: Advisors now have expanded client data visibility, powerful sorting and filtering, and new Favorites and Pinned client features to easily prioritize high-value relationships. Designed from advisor input, these upgrades provide smarter and faster ways to engage with clients in CP Maxx.

FIND A FLIGHT – GOOGLE FLIGHT PRICES: Cruise Planners works with several air partners. Advisors can now search flights directly in CP Maxx with Google Flights integration, comparing “Best Flights” and “Other Flights” instantly keeping all air booking tools in one platform.

MAXX MEDIA: A new centralized media management system for travel franchise advisors that allows advisors to upload, record, and manage all their images, videos, and documents in one location. Media can then be seamlessly integrated and added into documents, marketing assets and more across all CP Maxx tools, simplifying content creation and marketing initiatives.

MOVING CP MAXX INTO THE CLOUD: Cruise Planners has transitioned their CP Maxx infrastructure to a secure, cloud-based environment, improving speed, reliability, and scalability for the network.

“Technology is central to our advisors’ success, enabling them to work more efficiently while dedicating more time to serving clients and expanding their business,” said Michelle Fee, Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. “We remain committed to leading in travel technology, investing in tools that save time, enhance client interactions, and drive business growth. These innovations are just the start, and we’re thrilled about the future, including the rollout of even more AI-driven tools to help our advisors deliver exceptional travel experiences.”

Company Background: Cruise Planners was founded in 1994 and is the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network. As a leader in the travel franchise industry, Cruise Planners positions a nation-wide network of over 3,000 franchise owners for success by providing innovative marketing programs, proprietary and cutting-edge booking, and technology tools, as well as professional development and hands-on training with the industry’s top executives. Recognized as a low-cost franchise opportunity, Cruise Planners has been ranked the No. 1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 18 consecutive years. and awarded by Franchise Business Review as “Best-In-Category” for 2 years.

Franchise Business Review also ranked Cruise Planners #3 OVERALL on their list of Top 200 Franchises of 2022. Cruise Planners was recently featured in Entrepreneur as one of the top 30 franchise innovators in technology, has been consistently named as one of the Top Women-Owned Businesses by the South Florida Business Journal, is on the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America, and was recognized as one of the Top Workplaces by the Sun Sentinel.

Visit our website, www.cruiseplanners.com, for more information or to view the complete list of awards and honors. For those interested in becoming a franchise owner, please visit https://www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com/.

10 10, 2025

New CertaPro Painters® Survey Reveals How Homeowners Are Planning to Refresh Their Spaces

2025-10-10T00:03:58-04:00October 10th, 2025|Tags: , , |

87% of Consumers Say a Freshly Painted Interior Makes Them Feel Happy or More Refreshed

AUDUBON, Pa. — Between April and June, CertaPro Painters®, North America’s Most Referred Painting Company®, conducted a series of social media polls on Instagram and LinkedIn, revealing that the majority of consumers experience a meaningful emotional boost after painting the interior of their home.

“Painting isn’t just about color—it’s about perspective,” said Dawn Perry, Chief Brand Officer of CertaPro Painters. “A fresh coat of paint can bring the same joy you feel from life’s best moments into your home. It’s a simple, powerful way to see your space differently and surround yourself with happiness every day.”

Painted Spaces = Happy Places

When asked directly, 87% of participants said they love the look of a freshly painted room and that it makes them feel happy.

But homeowners aren’t just feeling inspired—they’re taking action.

  • Nearly 60% of respondents said they plan to paint a bedroom or living/family room.
  • On the exterior, 44% of homeowners plan to repaint their home’s siding.

High-Impact Projects Top the List

Today’s homeowners are looking for projects that make a statement, and the data reflects that:

  • 75% of respondents would use paint to transform a high-impact area of a home, such as accent walls, kitchen cabinets, or trim.
  • 42% specifically cited kitchen cabinets as their top choice for a refresh, making it the most popular way to upgrade their home with paint.

Whether painting a single room or transforming an entire home, consumers are choosing paint as a powerful way to breathe new life into their spaces.

Download the infographic on certapro.com.

About CertaPro Painters® 
CertaPro Painters® was founded in 1992 and specializes in providing commercial and residential services through 445 franchise territories. Its success is based on exceeding customer expectations by delivering certainty at every juncture of a painting job from start to finish. To join CertaPro Painters or learn more, visit https://certapro.com/.

6 10, 2025

STRETCH ZONE CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING IN ANAHEIM, CA

2025-10-06T00:23:12-04:00October 6th, 2025|Tags: , , |

Premier Assisted Stretching Franchise Welcomes Newest Location Under Local Leadership

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s premier assisted-stretching brand featuring a patented strapping system on proprietary tables, is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in Anaheim Hills, CA, further driving the brand’s growth in California. This studio is operated by Todd Hanson, a first-time franchise owner.

Prior to launching his Stretch Zone location, Todd spent his career leading nonprofit organizations. Now, he’s channeling that same commitment to helping others into a new chapter—one focused on empowering people through movement. “I’ve always been drawn to opportunities that improve people’s lives,” Todd shared. “Stretch Zone stood out to me because it delivers real wellness benefits, especially for older adults looking to maintain or regain their mobility.” While Todd’s first Stretch Zone studio will be opening in Anaheim, he plans to open multiple locations across Orange County, including Irvine, later this year.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Todd made the soccer team while studying abroad in England, remembering scoring a goal from midfield as one of the highlights of his sports career. What excites Todd most about this venture is the opportunity to create meaningful connections with members and build a space where feeling better becomes part of the routine. “I’m looking forward to getting to know the people we’ll serve and helping them move through life with more comfort and ease,” he said.

Todd will also serve as the General Manager of the Anaheim Hills location, offering a hands-on, personalized approach to studio leadership. He believes the Stretch Zone method—rooted in certified practitioner-assisted stretching—sets the brand apart in the wellness space. “It’s a highly personalized experience, and most people feel the difference after just one session,” he noted. “You’ll notice benefits in parts of your body you didn’t even realize were tight.”

Stretch Zone’s proprietary methodology and patented equipment allow practitioners to safely stretch muscles beyond what can be achieved alone, helping to enhance mobility, flexibility, and overall well-being. Each plan is customized to meet the specific goals of the member, making it a powerful addition to any health routine. The Anaheim Hills studio represents a new chapter for Todd and a new wellness destination for the community. Stretch Zone is proud to expand its footprint in Southern California and looks forward to helping more people feel their best, one stretch at a time.

Stretch Zone is the only nationally accredited stretch franchise, thanks to its patented equipment and proprietary training methodology. The brand uses a science-backed approach to stretching, helping your muscles relax and move more freely for better flexibility and mobility. With a welcoming environment and an open studio layout, Stretch Zone emphasizes a gradual, personalized approach that helps members safely increase their mobility and range of motion over time. With several membership options, there’s a plan that suits every lifestyle and price point.

Stretch Zone Anaheim Hills is located at 761 S. Weir Canyon Road, Suite 191, Anaheim CA, 92828. Operating hours are Sunday 10am-4pm, Monday Friday 8am-7pm, and Sunday 9am-5pm. The studio phone number is 714-975-9755. The first visit is free for any new Stretch Zone member. For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com.

About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone was created with a deep passion for improving lives. The brand has redefined how we approach stretching, with a mission to enhance the quality of life in communities nationwide. By utilizing our proprietary tables and patented strapping system, Stretch Zone helps individuals achieve long-term results in flexibility and mobility. With over 400 locations across 41 states, the brand has experienced remarkable growth and continues to gain national recognition, ranking on the 2024 Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times’ 2024 Top 400 List. Stretch Zone is seeking experienced franchisees who share a passion for health and wellness and are dedicated to making a lasting impact on their communities. To learn more, visit stretchzone.com.

6 10, 2025

Bringing Early Learning to Life: Celebree School Launches First Atlanta Locations in Smyrna and East Cobb

2025-10-06T00:19:20-04:00October 6th, 2025|Tags: , , , , |

The schools will provide curriculum-based programs for children six weeks to 12 years, combining nurturing care with academic readiness.

ATLANTA — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, expands into the Atlanta market with two new locations. The Smyrna school, located at 485 Concord Rd SE, officially opened on September 15. A second location in East Cobb at 1099 Johnson Ferry Road will open by November. Both schools will provide customized programs designed to support the physical, social, emotional, and academic growth of children, while meeting Atlanta’s early education standards.

The new Smyrna school is locally owned and operated by Alexander and Cathie Ernst, who bring a balance of corporate leadership and classroom expertise to their roles. Alexander spent 15 years at The Coca-Cola Company building skills in leadership and strategy, while Cathie has more than 20 years of experience teaching art, Spanish, and French to children. She also worked with underserved students, where she used art-based learning to encourage confidence and creativity, reflecting the couple’s shared belief in the power of education to transform lives. The Ernsts say opening Celebree School is the realization of a longtime goal to give local families a trusted place for their children to learn and grow.

“Opening the doors of our Smyrna school is the fulfillment of a dream we’ve shared for years,” said Alexander Ernst. “Celebree School has allowed us to take our professional strengths and channel them into something that puts children and families at the heart of everything we do.”

“Since Celebree School of Smyrna opened its doors, you can hear the children laughing in the building, while they are making new friends, exploring the classrooms, learning about each other, enjoying all of our toys, painting self-portraits, and playing soccer. Families have been enrolling their children every week. “We can’t wait to see your children,” say proudly Cathie and Alex.

In East Cobb, the new school is led by Farwa Khan and her husband, Aloke Devalia. As parents of three children and long-time East Cobb residents, they bring a strong commitment to their local community. Farwa, who previously ran an accredited preschool in Marietta and holds a master’s degree in public administration from Georgia State, is eager to return to early childhood education. Aloke, an MBA graduate from Georgia Tech, draws on two decades of leadership experience at companies including Delta Air Lines and Equifax to support the school’s operations and growth. Together, they are focused on making Celebree School a lasting resource for fellow East Cobb families.

“Education has always been central to my life’s work,” said Farwa Khan. “As we prepare to open our doors in November, it’s incredibly meaningful to provide East Cobb families with a place where children can grow with confidence and joy. This school will be both a resource for families and a reflection of the community we care so deeply about.”

Celebree School lives by its promise to Grow People Big and Small™, and was founded on the belief that success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and a connection that extends beyond the classroom to address the needs of the whole child and the whole family. Each Celebree School is a village made up of parents, children, and educators while providing curriculum-based care that prepares your child for kindergarten and beyond.

With a 30-plus-year history of providing superior early childhood education, Celebree School delivers a stable, secure learning environment that helps children develop a lifelong love of learning. Programs are available for children six weeks to 12 years old with unique curriculums designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about their world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities. Care is available part time or full time and parents are allowed to drop in and visit at any time.

“We’re proud to welcome Alexander, Cathie, Farwa, and Aloke into our Celebree School family,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “They bring a deep commitment to children, families, and the community that perfectly reflects our mission to Grow People Big and Small, and we look forward to seeing Smyrna and East Cobb families flourish with the support of our dedicated team and enriching programs.”

Celebree School – Smyrna is open Monday – Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information on Celebree School in Smyrna, please visit https://www.celebree.com/smyrna-ga/ or call (770) 626-0640.

Celebree School – East Cobb will be open Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more information on Celebree School in East Cobb, please visit https://www.celebree.com/east-cobb-ga/ or call (770) 874-0100.

About Celebree School
Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, 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 FacebookInstagram, and LinkedIn.

Go to Top