paul@franserve.com

About Paul Zboichyk

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far Paul Zboichyk has created 1397 blog entries.
28 09, 2025

Celebree School Powers into Q4 with 13 Franchising Signings, 7 Openings, and New Growth Initiatives

2025-09-28T14:12:52-04:00September 28th, 2025|Tags: , , , , |

  • 13 New Franchise Agreements Representing 23 Schools YTD, with More in Pipeline
  • Launch of New Electronic Real Estate Management Platform to Streamline Site Development
  • Appointment of Casey Larkin as Director of Design & Construction Strengthens Leadership Team

BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, powers into Q4 with significant momentum: 13 new franchise agreements representing 23 schools, seven new school openings, the launch of a new real estate platform, and a key leadership hire to support its next phase of growth.

Franchise Expansion Picks Up Speed
Celebree’s growth is driven by a diverse group of passionate franchisees across the country. New agreements have been signed in North CarolinaNew JerseyColoradoTexasPennsylvaniaIllinoisGeorgiaWashington, D.C.Massachusetts, and Florida. In parallel, the company has opened seven new schools in 2025, expanding access to its trusted early education programs and bringing its mission, Grow People Big and Small™, to more families nationwide.

“This incredible momentum shows that our brand is not just expanding, it’s evolving into a movement grounded in purpose and impact,” said Richard Huffman, Founder & CEO of Celebree School. “Our success is driven by franchisees who are deeply committed to nurturing children and supporting families. Together, we’re building trust, strengthening communities, and creating lasting change that defines who we are and the future we’re shaping.”

New Real Estate Platform Streamlines Development
To keep pace with demand, Celebree School has recently launched an innovative Electronic Real Estate Management Platform designed to streamline the entire site acquisition process, from initial submission to signed lease or purchase agreement.

This cutting-edge system enables local real estate brokers and developers to submit new site opportunities electronically via a simple web form. Functioning as a dynamic, three-dimensional database, the platform attaches critical data points to each site and provides the Celebree team with real-time visibility into the status, location, and associated resources for every opportunity.

By creating a comprehensive sales funnel for real estate, this system not only increases the volume of high-quality site leads but also enhances site management efficiency, ultimately reducing development timelines and empowering the team to accelerate the brand’s expansion with greater precision and effectiveness.

Building Smarter Growth: Key Hire Drives Design & Construction Strategy
As part of its aggressive growth strategy, Celebree School has appointed Casey Larkin as Director of Design & Construction. Bringing over 20 years of experience managing high-profile real estate projects valued at more than $600 million—including Baltimore’s $660 million Peninsula redevelopment and the Sagamore Pendry Hotel—Larkin adds invaluable expertise to the expanding brand.

In this newly created role, he will oversee all design and construction efforts, helping ensure new schools are fully operating on time, within budget, and fully aligned with Celebree’s brand standards. His leadership is set to streamline and accelerate school openings, supporting the company’s ambitious expansion plans.

“Joining Celebree School during this exciting phase of growth is truly energizing,” said Larkin. “My mission is to transform our development process into a seamless experience that empowers franchisees and delivers exceptional learning environments for children nationwide.”

Shaping What’s Next
The rapidly growing brand’s outstanding performance in 2025 has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Mid-Atlantic and Baltimore Business Journal’s “Power 10 CEO,” both awarded to Richard Huffman, as well as the Franchise Innovation Award from Franchise Update Media.

Celebree School is continuing its national expansion efforts and is currently seeking qualified and engaged individuals for single and multi-unit opportunities to bring quality childhood education to their communities.  To learn more about Celebree School franchising opportunities, visit https://www.celebree.com/franchising.

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.

27 09, 2025

Grand Opening of Celebree School Brings Nurturing Early Education to Wayne

2025-09-27T20:39:13-04:00September 27th, 2025|Tags: , , , , |

Local Families Invited to Grand Opening on September 29 to Explore Curriculum-Based Programs for Children Six Weeks – Five Years Old

WAYNE, Pa. — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs, will open its newest school on September 29 in Wayne. Located at 983 Old Eagle School Rd, the new school will provide a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to Pennsylvania’s early education standards.

For event details and updates, visit Celebree School of Wayne at https://www.celebree.com/wayne-pa/ and follow the school on Facebook and Instagram.

Celebree School of Wayne is owned and operated by father-son duo Louis and Michael Sapperstein. Louis has more than 50 years of experience in accounting, while Michael, a former CPA of 12 years, transitioned into early childhood education to pursue his lifelong dream of working with children. Building on the success of their first location in Fishtown, the Wayne school is their second Celebree venture and represents the next step in their commitment to providing high-quality early education.

“As a father and an uncle, I’ve always loved being around kids and helping them learn and grow,” said Michael Sapperstein. “What began as a lifelong passion has now become a reality with the opening of our second Celebree School. We’re proud to bring this nurturing environment to families in Wayne and excited to be part of the community.”

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 five 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 celebrate Louis and Michael as they open their second Celebree School,” 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 Wayne families flourish with the support of our dedicated team and enriching programs.”

Celebree School – Wayne is open Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more information on Celebree School in Wayne, please visit https://www.celebree.com/wayne-pa/, or call (610) 920-0105.

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 FacebookInstagram, and LinkedIn.

26 09, 2025

Franchise Business Review names Five Star Bath Solutions among Most Profitable Franchises of 2025

2025-09-26T11:41:00-04:00September 26th, 2025|Tags: , , , , , |

The premier bathroom remodeling franchise has been honored for its high growth potential

SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Five Star Bath Solutions, a leading bathroom remodeling franchise known for transforming spaces with style, quality and efficiency, has been named one of the Most Profitable Franchises of 2025 by Franchise Business Review (FBR). The honor underscores the brand’s strong business model, owner satisfaction and consistent return on investment.

This recognition highlights Five Star Bath Solutions’ continued success in supporting franchise owners with proven systems, robust back-end support and training designed to maximize efficiency and profitability. With a focus on streamlined operations and customer experience, the brand has helped entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses while delivering affordable, high-quality bath remodeling solutions to homeowners nationwide.

“Our franchise model is designed to accelerate growth and maximize opportunity by combining low overhead, rapid scalability and a powerful turnkey marketing system that positions owners to see revenue faster than they would in independent alternatives,” said Dean HartleyBrand President of Five Star Bath Solutions. “We provide a proven roadmap to profitability, opening the door for entrepreneurs from all walks of life to thrive in the home services industry.”

FBR’s recognition comes on the heels of other notable distinctions for Five Star Bath Solutions, including being recognized by Entrepreneur as one of the Fasted-Growing Franchises in the U.S. and Canada and as one of the Top Franchise Brands for Multi-Unit Owners. The brand earned both distinctions in 2025.

Franchise Business Review is a market research firm that provides the only rankings of franchise opportunities based solely on owner satisfaction and performance. To identify the Most Profitable Franchises of 2025, FBR analyzed survey responses from more than 35,000 franchise owners representing 365 leading brands. Owners were asked about their overall satisfaction with their franchise and likelihood of recommending it to other entrepreneurs. The FBR rankings also took into account profitability indicators including average annual income and startup capital requirements.

“Profitability, franchisee satisfaction and long-term return on investment are the most critical factors to evaluate before investing in any franchise,” said Eric Stites, founder and CEO of Franchise Business Review. “Like any new business, most franchises take years of dedication before they truly take off. But if you put in the work to research your options, you dramatically increase your chances of building meaningful wealth over time. The brands featured on our Most Profitable Franchises list not only demonstrate stronger income potential, but also rank highest in satisfaction according to the franchise owners themselves.”

To learn more about Five Star Bath Solutions, visit fivestarbathsolutions.com.

To see the full list of this year’s Most Profitable Franchises, visit franchisebusinessreview.com.

About Five Star Bath Solutions

Five Star Bath Solutions is the premier bath transformation franchise in the home remodeling industry. The company, named to the highly competitive Entrepreneur Franchise 500 for seven consecutive years, designs and builds dream bathrooms through expertise and trust providing affordable transformations and beautiful solutions. Part of the Five Star Franchising portfolio of home service brands since 2014, Five Star Bath Solutions is one of the fastest-growing bath remodeling franchises in the world with more than 250 franchise locations. Five Star Bath Solutions has been recognized by Entrepreneur as one of the Fasted-Growing Franchises in the U.S. and Canada and as one of the Top Franchise Brands for Multi-Unit Owners, earning both distinctions in 2025. For more information, visit fivestarbathsolutions.com. To learn about franchising with Five Star Bath Solutions, visit bathsolutionsfranchising.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.

About Franchise Business Review

Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures the satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,300 leading franchise companies. FBR publishes free and unbiased franchisee satisfaction research reports throughout the year online at http://www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com. To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/digital-guides.

26 09, 2025

The New Job Hunt Reality: More Seekers, Longer Timelines, Greater Required Flexibility

2025-09-26T11:29:36-04:00September 26th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

Twenty-five percent expect a six-month search, and 83% are willing to take different roles to secure work.

OKLAHOMA CITY — The labor market is sending mixed signals, and America’s job seekers are taking notice. While employers may feel confident, workers are bracing for a tougher road ahead, and many are already making moves.

The latest Express Employment Professionals–Harris Poll survey paints a clear picture: nearly 8 in 10 job seekers (78%) believe employers have the upper hand in today’s market. That perception is fueling action. Forty-four percent of job seekers are actively looking for a new job, a steady climb from 41% in fall 2024 and just 35% in spring 2024.

But optimism is in short supply:

  • 59% believe it will be harder to find a job in the next six months, up significantly from 48% in fall 2024 who believed there were fewer job opportunities.
  • 48% now believe there are fewer job opportunities than a year ago, a sharp increase from 33% in fall 2024.
  • 25% expect it will take more than six months to find a job.
  • 48% still hope for a wage increase within the next year, though confidence is waning.

And for some, the timeline feels daunting: one in four job seekers (25%) expect it will take more than six months to find a job, signaling growing anxiety about the future.

Challenges Ahead
Finding the right fit remains the biggest hurdle. More than half (52%) say their top challenge is finding opportunities that match their qualifications, while 46% worry about landing a job quickly enough to cover basic expenses. Another 44% struggle to stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

Barriers compound these challenges:

  • 43% cite lack of relevant experience
  • 36% point to limited openings in their field
  • 30% say their skills don’t align with employer demands

Flexibility Becomes a Survival Strategy
Faced with uncertainty, job seekers are broadening their horizons. Eighty-three percent are willing to accept a different role than initially planned, and 75% would consider temporary or contract work. Some are even willing to make bigger sacrifices—24% would relocate, 23% would switch industries and 19% would take a pay cut.

Why They’re Leaving—and What They Fear
The motivations for change are clear—42% want better pay, 39% seek improved work-life balance and 31% are chasing career advancement.

At the same time, fears about current roles loom large:

  • 40% worry about layoffs
  • 31% fear reduced hours or pay
  • 31% see no path for advancement

“Today’s labor market is full of contradictions. Opportunities exist, but finding the right fit is harder than ever,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “Job seekers who understand these dynamics and seek expert guidance from staffing companies like Express are better equipped to navigate uncertainty, shorten their search and uncover roles they might otherwise miss.”

Survey Methodology
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., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia 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., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia and New Zealand, employing 427,000 people globally in 2024 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

26 09, 2025

LA MADELEINE FUSES FALL FLAVORS WITH FRENCH TRADITION FOR UNIQUE SEASONAL MENU

2025-09-26T11:09:53-04:00September 26th, 2025|Tags: , , |

New menu highlights viral decadent Parisien Hot Chocolate

DALLAS — French-inspired bakery and café la Madeleine is embracing the change in season with the introduction of new, limited-time menu offerings, including pumpkin breakfast and brunch entrées, a savory sandwich and a luxe hot chocolate experience.

The new menu celebrates the joie de vivre of the fall season with mouthwatering offerings that showcase the beloved flavors of autumn:

  • Pumpkin Praline French Toast — two slices of pumpkin brioche French toast topped with whipped cream, cinnamon and pumpkin spice pecans
  • Pumpkin Praline Crêpe — pumpkin cream filled, topped with powdered sugar, whipped cream and pumpkin spice pecans
  • Prime Rib & Provolone Sandwich — tender prime rib, sautéed onions and provolone cheese served on country bread with French aioli
  • Broccoli Cheddar Soupe — creamy soupe made with cheddar cheese, savory spices and tender broccoli

Also making its debut at la Madeleine is the Parisien Hot Chocolate, offering guests the opportunity to join a time-honored French tradition that celebrates the art of slowing down. The thick, decadent beverage, which became a social media sensation earlier this year, is made with Ghirardelli® chocolate and served with a side of Chantilly cream, a mini croissant and a strawberry. The Parisien Hot Chocolate allows guests to enjoy the drink their own way, dipping the croissant or mixing in a spoonful of cream, for a truly indulgent experience.

“Fall invites us to reconnect and recharge, and our new menu reflects that spirit,” said John Dillon, CEO and President of la Madeleine. “Whether through new flavors or beloved classics, it’s about gathering over a delicious meal with those who matter most. This menu is crafted to welcome guests into our cafés to slow down and savor an affordable, memorable experience with the people they cherish.”

Completing the fall lineup are the Cranberry Chai Refresher and a classic Apple Turnover. The full-time menu is also expanding with the addition of the French Toast Breakfast — featuring two slices of Classic Brioche French toast, two eggs and choice of breakfast protein — plus a new and improved French Onion Soupe recipe.

These fall flavors are available through January 2026, and guests can order in-café, online or through the Bonjour Rewards app. Bonjour Rewards members can also take advantage of exclusive deals including the new coffee and croissant bundle featuring a complimentary 12-ounce coffee with the purchase of any croissant. For more information or to order, go to lamadeleine.com/order.

About la Madeleine
Since 1983, la Madeleine has delivered an accessible, welcoming bakery and café experience made for comfort and connection. The café’s menu includes all-day breakfast, brunch, soupes, salades, sandwiches, pastas, coffees and entrées — plus a traditional French bakery display featuring fresh bread and pastries. La Madeleine operates nearly 100 corporate and franchise locations in multiple U.S. states and one international café. Learn more at lamadeleine.com.

About Groupe Le Duff
The world leader in bakery, pastry and catering, Groupe Le Duff is present in more than 100 countries and on five continents. Since its founding in 1976, Groupe Le Duff has achieved success through its restaurant chains (Brioche Dorée, Del ArteLe Fournil de Pierre, la Madeleine [United States], and Kamps [Germany]), as well as its brands Bridor and Cité Gourmande, which manufacture premium-quality products for more than 45,000 restaurants and hotels worldwide.

21 09, 2025

Two Maids Unveils Innovative Program to Help Franchisees’ Employees Thrive at Work and in Life

2025-09-21T13:59:06-04:00September 21st, 2025|Tags: , , , |

National Residential Cleaning Brand Launches YouShine Studio to Elevate its Team Development Commitment

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Two Maids, a leading residential cleaning franchise and part of Home Franchise Concepts, is investing in the growth and success of its franchisees’ Professional House Cleaners (PHCs) through the launch of an innovative new development program, YouShine Studio.

Available to every PHC across the Two Maids network, the program is designed to help team members thrive not only on the job, but also in life. Delivered through a digital platform and complemented by a private social community, YouShine Studio provides curated content, resources, and experiences centered on financial well-being, self-care, and personal goal setting.

“At Two Maids, we know our business is only as strong as the people behind it,” said Paul Ebert, president of Two Maids. “PHCs are the heart of this brand, and this initiative is about giving them the tools, confidence, and encouragement to unlock their full potential, whether they stay with Two Maids for six months or six years.”

The program was initially introduced in May 2024 and has continued to evolve based on input from franchise owners, managers and PHCs on the front lines. By offering experiences and a safe space for self-discovery, Two Maids is making a statement about the kind of company it strives to be: not just a franchisor, but a partner in its franchisees’ employees’ life development.

This philosophy is deeply embedded in the company’s culture. Two Maids fosters an uplifting, family-oriented environment where every idea is heard, every role matters, and every person feels supported. Beyond technical training, the YouShine Studio platform provides PHCs encouragement, career advice and financial literacy education to set them up for long-term success.

“It’s simple,” added Ebert. “We know that when franchisees take care of their PHCs by providing growth opportunities, healthy compensation and a culture rooted in compassion, they can take better care of their customers. If YouShine Studio helps even one PHC become all they can be, it’s worth it. We want PHCs to look back at their time with Two Maids and feel it prepared them for more, both professionally and personally.”

With a mission to create not only spotless homes but also brighter futures, Two Maids is positioning itself as a service brand that stands apart in how it invests in people. From cleaning homes to mentoring PHCs, everything the company does is designed to empower people, enrich lives, and serve communities.

To learn more about the Two Maids brand, visit TwoMaidsCleaning.com.

About Two Maids
Founded in 2003 in Pensacola, Florida, Two Maids® currently operates in more than 100 markets across the United States. Designed to provide greater flexibility for customers, the brand offers multiple cleaning packages ranging from one-time cleans to routine services and takes pride in providing safe and reliable professional-grade cleaning supplies and products. Two Maids™ has received numerous accolades including being ranked on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list, for the seventh consecutive year, and named 2020’s fastest-growing cleaning company in America by Inc. Magazine. For more information, visit TwoMaidsCleaning.com.

21 09, 2025

PayMore Opens 100th Store in Charlotte

2025-09-21T13:52:23-04:00September 21st, 2025|Tags: , , |

Leading retail brand reaches significant milestone, showcases consistent growth amid economic uncertainty and tangible benefits for customers

NEW YORK — PayMore, the nation’s largest electronics franchise, today announced the opening of its 100th store in Charlotte, North Carolina. This news comes on the heels of the company’s rapid and significant growth – PayMore opened nineteen new locations across the US, Canada, and Europe in Q2 2025 and is slated to open at least 150 total stores by year-end. The company’s expansion reinforces its position as one of the fastest-growing retail brands, achieving a remarkable 500% increase in store count over the past two years.

“Reaching 100 locations is a significant milestone, especially when most retail brands never grow beyond a handful of stores. In fact, we have over 500 stores in development which is less than 1% of global franchises,” said Stephen Preuss Sr., co-founder and CEO of PayMore. “We’re incredibly proud of our team, and so thankful for our loyal customers. This achievement reflects the strength of our business model and franchisees, and the value we bring to every neighborhood we enter. We’re just getting started and we’re excited to keep making tech-forward, customer focused moves around the world.”

PayMore’s continued growth reflects a broader shift in consumer expectations, where value, sustainability and safety are essential. According to research from Morgan Stanley, consumer spending is projected to fall to 3.7% in 2025 from 5.7% in 2024, with a greater cooldown among lower- and middle-income consumers feeling the effects of tariffs and economic uncertainty. PayMore is a trusted and convenient destination for those seeking financial flexibility and peace of mind. Whether selling unused devices for meaningful income or purchasing quality, certified pre-owned electronics at a fraction of retail cost, customers choose PayMore as a practical and responsible alternative to traditional retail. This is because the brand provides optionality and empowers customers.

Additionally, the company addresses two rising concerns for modern consumers: data security and environmental impact. Every device that enters a PayMore store is thoroughly wiped of personal data or responsibly destroyed, ensuring sellers’ information is protected. Meanwhile, the company’s e-waste recycling programs, which kept more than 1 million pounds of electronics out of landfills last year alone, provide an effective way for consumers to reduce their environmental footprint. Together, these services reflect PayMore’s commitment to building a circular economy rooted in trust, transparency, and long-term impact.

“Opening PayMore store number 100 today marks a significant milestone in our partnership with the company. We’ve grown together from PayMore’s early days with just a dozen locations, and we’ve opened two others here in Charlotte,” said Randy Griesbach, PayMore franchisee and Principal of Business Development at OP Holdings. “This new store puts us in the heart of a thriving shopping district in Charlotte. Our experienced team is excited to help this community save money on quality electronics – from retro gaming systems to like-new smartphones – while giving their unused devices a second life through our resale and recycling programs.”

PayMore’s newest Charlotte store will open on September 22nd, 2025 and is located at 3050 Derita Road, STE 30, Concord, NC 28027. For more information about PayMore or to find the nearest location, visit PayMore.com.

PayMore’s other Charlotte locations include:

About PayMore:
PayMore was founded in 2011 in Massapequa, New York to obtain and repurpose old electronics and recirculate them back into the marketplace instead of having them pile up in landfills. What started as a mission driven store on Long Island has quickly become the fastest growing electronics franchise in the country. By offering customers a boutique retail experience where they can safely sell unwanted electronics and buy new devices, PayMore Stores has created a new niche in the marketplace with 100 open stores and over 600 in development and counting. The brand began franchising in 2020, and with its low start-up costs, incredible unit economics, proprietary technology, fully-customized operating system, and easy operations quickly began attracting experienced multi-unit franchisees looking for a ‘lighter lift’ business model or to diversify their portfolios.

PayMore Stores is a new-age global franchise driving the modern evolution of elevated retail. Disrupting the second-hand industry with nimble brick and mortar locations propelled by technology, data and e-commerce.

21 09, 2025

Cruise Planners Named a Top 50 Most Innovative Franchise of 2025 by Franchise Business Review

2025-09-21T13:46:18-04:00September 21st, 2025|Tags: , , , |

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel advisor franchise network, was identified by Franchise Business Review (FBR) as one of just 50 franchise brands to be named an award-winning franchise in its 2025 report on the Most Innovative Franchises. This marks the fourth time since 2019 that Cruise Planners has been named to this prestigious list.

Franchise Business Review, a research firm that conducts independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only ratings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises semi-annually in its Guide to Today’s Top Franchises, as well as industry reports throughout the year that highlight research on the top franchises in specific sectors.

To identify the companies on the list of this year’s Most Innovative Franchises, Franchise Business Review analyzed 18 months’ worth of data from over 35,000 franchisees representing more than 365 brands. Franchise owners were asked about their brand’s innovation and creativity as well as their trust in the franchisor, overall satisfaction with the brand, and likelihood of recommending it to others.

“In today’s competitive market, franchise innovation isn’t optional—it’s what sets the smartest, most sustainable opportunities apart,” said Michelle Rowan, president & COO of Franchise Business Review. “We’re proud to celebrate the brands that consistently deliver new products, services, and systems that fuel franchisee growth and strengthen their long-term success.”

Cruise Planners franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including leadership, training & support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, and financial opportunity.

“We are honored to be recognized as a Top 50 Innovative Franchise by Franchise Business Review. At Cruise Planners, innovation is at the heart of everything we do; we’re constantly developing new tools, resources, and strategies that empower our travel advisors to grow their businesses and deliver extraordinary travel experiences to their clients,” said founder and CEO of Cruise Planners, Michelle Fee. “This recognition reinforces our commitment to staying ahead of the curve and leading the way in the travel franchise industry.”

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 2,500 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. The company continues to be an industry leader and was named 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.

Cruise Planners received a 99% franchise owner satisfaction report from Franchise Business Review for 2024. 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/.

21 09, 2025

STRETCH ZONE OPENS NEWEST LOCATION IN BEDMINSTER, NJ

2025-09-21T13:40:55-04:00September 21st, 2025|Tags: , , |

Helping Somerset County Residents Move Better, Feel Better, and Live Better

BEDMINSTER, N.J. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s leading practitioner-assisted stretching brand, is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest studio in Bedminster TownshipNew Jersey. This marks the first location for owner Ray Kalustyan, with a second studio planned for Chester, NJ, in 2026.

For Ray, this venture is about more than opening a business—it’s about helping people. “I have always been into health and wellness from my college soccer days through my 42+ corporate years. I am a weekend warrior—golf and exercise—and stretching is paramount for me. Once I experienced a demo stretch, I was sold on the concept,” he said.

Stretch Zone’s approach is designed to make members feel better from the very first visit. Certified practitioners use a patented strapping system and targeted protocols to gently guide members through customized stretches. The result is improved flexibility, increased range of motion, and reduced muscle tension—all without the member needing to lift a finger.

Ray’s passion for wellness comes from a lifetime of staying active. “Our members range from competitive athletes to grandparents who want to keep up with their grandkids,” Ray explained. “It’s a game changer for those looking to maintain mobility and age gracefully.”

To celebrate the opening, Stretch Zone Bedminster is inviting new members to enjoy a complimentary first stretch consultation and session—a chance to experience the difference for themselves.

Stretch Zone Bedminster is located at 438 Route 202-206, Bedminster NJ, 07921. For more information or to book your free introductory session, visit www.stretchzone.com.

About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone was created to help people move better, feel better, and live better. With over 400 locations across 41 states, the brand’s patented equipment, unique methodology, and certified practitioner training have made it the leader in assisted stretching. Stretch Zone has earned national recognition, appearing on the Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times Top 400 lists. To learn more, visit www.stretchzone.com.

20 09, 2025

American Family Care Expands Leadership Team to Fuel Growth Momentum

2025-09-20T06:09:48-04:00September 20th, 2025|Tags: , , |

Nation’s Only Urgent Care Franchise Names Kurt Koptish as President, Michael Casey as Chief Development Officer, Nicole Strothman as Chief Legal Officer, and Sean Mercado as Head of Managed Care

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s leading provider of urgent care with more than 400 walk-in clinics across the United States, is expanding its leadership team with the addition of four seasoned executives. Kurt Koptish has been named President, Michael Casey joins as Chief Development Officer, Nicole Strothman has been appointed Chief Legal Officer, and Sean Mercado takes on the role of Head of Managed Care.

Together, these leaders bring decades of experience across healthcare operations, development, compliance, and managed care – supporting AFC’s continued growth and commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare.

“With the addition of Kurt, Michael, Nicole, and Sean, we’re continuing to build one of the most experienced and capable leadership teams in the industry,” said Jeremy Morgan, CEO of American Family Care. “Each of them brings a unique perspective and deep expertise that will strengthen our operational foundation and help us deliver even greater support to our franchisees, patients, and partners nationwide as we continue to blaze a trail in the urgent care industry.”

Kurt Koptish – President

Kurt Koptish steps into the role of President after leading behavioral health and specialty care organizations through major periods of growth and transformation. Most recently, he served as CEO of MIND 24-7, a mental healthcare provider. His career also includes leadership at Eating Recovery Center Pathlight and nearly a decade at DaVita Inc., where he managed operations for more than 130 dialysis clinics and $320 million in revenue.

Koptish brings a unique perspective with medical operations experience in the U.S. Army and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. He’s recognized for driving large-scale expansion for multi-unit organizations.

“AFC has a powerful mission, and I couldn’t be more excited to join. We have an incredible opportunity for growth and innovation to support our franchise owners and deliver care that truly makes a difference in people’s lives,” said Koptish.

Michael Casey – Chief Development Officer

With more than 20 years of development and real estate experience, Michael Casey is known for accelerating growth for national brands. Casey comes to AFC from SPB Hospitality, leading expansion for their over 570-unit restaurant portfolio that included Krystal, Logan’s Roadhouse, and J. Alexander’s. He also spearheaded development at Ideal Image, Jackson Hewitt, and Chase Bank, where his strategies consistently delivered strong ROI, innovative design, and operational efficiency.

Casey, who holds an MBA from Columbia University, is known for building world-class teams and data-driven growth strategies.

“I’m thrilled for the chance to lead sustainable growth initiatives for AFC and make sure our clinics are well-positioned to serve patients nationwide for years to come,” said Casey.

Nicole Strothman – Chief Legal Officer

Nicole Strothman joins AFC with more than two decades of experience in legal and compliance leadership within the private equity and healthcare sectors. She has served as General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer for several high-growth health and wellness companies, guiding organizations through complex mergers, acquisitions, and regulatory environments. Strothman has overseen more than $2 billion in transactions and authored over 10 state laws governing medical spas. She holds both her JD and MBA.

“Healthcare is complex and heavily regulated. I look forward to collaborating with the executive team and helping AFC grow responsibly with integrity,’ said Strothman.

Sean Mercado – Head of Managed Care

In this pivotal role, Sean Mercado will lead AFC’s national payor relationships, advance value-based care agreements, and strengthen strategic partnerships that reinforce AFC’s position as the urgent care provider of choice.

Mercado brings exceptional institutional knowledge and a proven track record of orchestrating sophisticated managed care strategies. His expertise will be instrumental in bolstering AFC’s national network, aligning payor strategies with the company’s growth vision, and optimizing value-based care models that benefit patients, providers, and payor partners alike.

“AFC’s footprint and mission create a powerful platform to reshape how urgent care fits into the broader healthcare ecosystem,” said Mercado. “I’m excited to help deepen our relationships with national payors and advance value-based partnerships that put patients first.”

AFC operates more than 400 clinics across the United States, serving millions of patients each year. The clinics provide urgent care, primary care, express lab testing, X-ray diagnostics, and vaccinations.

To learn more about AFC, visit https://www.afcurgentcare.com/.

About American Family Care

Founded in 1982, American Family Care (AFC) pioneered the concept of convenient and effective urgent care services, delivered through a nationwide network of more than 400 walk-in clinics. Today, AFC is the nation’s largest provider of urgent care, generating more than $1 billion in system-wide sales annually, with 3,500 highly trained healthcare professionals treating over 4 million patients each year. AFC continues to be a leader in accessible healthcare, providing treatments for flu, allergies, and everyday injuries, along with a comprehensive range of lab tests, x-rays, and occupational medicine services. Ranked #47 on the Entrepreneur® Franchise 500, AFC is one of the most admired brands in urgent care and franchising. For more information, visit americanfamilycare.com.

Go to Top