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17 08, 2025

HOME HELPERS® HOME CARE AWARDS 19 FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS IN FIRST HALF OF 2025

2025-08-17T20:58:56-04:00August 17th, 2025|Tags: , , |

Leading in-home care provider continues rapid expansion, driving growth across key U.S. markets

CINCINNATI — Home Helpers® Home Care, a nationwide leader in non-medical, in-home companionship and personal care services, awarded 19 franchise development agreements throughout the first half of 2025, including two with existing franchisees who expanded their services in Napa, California and Indianapolis.

“Our momentum throughout 2025 has been truly compelling as we continue introducing our world-class services to communities throughout the country,” said Home Helpers® Home Care President and CEO Emma Dickison. “This growth, including two strategic expansions by our dedicated existing franchisees in Napa and Indianapolis, vividly illustrates the escalating demand for exceptional in-home care and the powerful opportunity our brand presents.”

The brand also opened 14 new Home Helpers® Home Care locations in the first half of the year. These new locations, listed below, are owned and operated by entrepreneurs set to grow their businesses.

“Each of these new offices, from California to Florida, represents an empowered entrepreneur ready to deliver world-class care, further strengthening our commitment to supporting individuals and families in their own homes nationwide,” Dickson said.

Home Helpers® Home Care seeks to continue expanding its footprint with franchise opportunities available in key markets including Charlotte, North CarolinaKansas City, MissouriOmaha, NebraskaSan DiegoLos Angeles and Orange County, CaliforniaPhoenixMinneapolis; and Las Vegas.

About Home Helpers® Home Care
Founded in 1997, Home Helpers® Home Care is a premier nationwide in-home care leader that provides care for seniors and others in over 1,500 communities across 40 states. The company offers a wide range of in-home care services, safety and monitoring technology, and meal and nutrition planning to help individuals remain independent wherever they call home. For more information on franchise opportunities, visit www.HomeHelpersFranchise.com.

16 08, 2025

CertaPro Painters® Welcomes Josh Painter as Chief Financial Officer

2025-08-16T13:39:20-04:00August 16th, 2025|Tags: , , |

AUDUBON, Pa. — CertaPro Painters®North America’s Most Referred Painting Company®, today announced the appointment of Josh Painter as Chief Financial Officer. Painter has strong leadership experience in corporate finance and accounting within the residential services franchising industry.

“We’re excited to welcome Josh to our leadership team,” said Mike Stone, president and CEO of CertaPro Painters. “His proven expertise in driving financial performance and operational efficiencies will be integral to our continued success.”

Painter has led finance teams and implemented scalable financial systems at organizations including FirstRidge Service Partners and Empower Brands. In his new role, he will guide CertaPro Painters’ financial strategy and support the brand’s long-term growth.

“I am honored to join the CertaPro Painters team,” said Painter. “I look forward to building on the strong financial foundation in place to drive growth and deliver value to franchisees and customers.”

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/.

16 08, 2025

Empower Brands Strengthens Growth Engine with Two Strategic Franchise Development Leaders

2025-08-16T13:34:35-04:00August 16th, 2025|Tags: , , |

RICHMOND, Va. — Empower Brands, a franchisor of award-winning brands in the home and business services categories, announced today the expansion of its Franchise Development Center of Excellence leadership team. R. Scott Sutton, Empower’s chief development officer, made the announcement in connection with its Empower Day event, where prospective new owners meet the Empower Brands team to learn about the company’s culture, support and strategy.

Stephen Schiller has joined Empower Brands as the company’s Vice President of Franchise Development and will work closely with Sutton on franchise development leadership and strategic initiatives while also driving franchise owner growth within the Outdoor Lighting Perspectives brand. Stephen is a franchise industry veteran who formerly served as an award-winning brand developer, Vice President, portfolio Chief Growth Officer and a Sales Excellence consultant for leading portfolio companies such as Neighborly, EverSmith Brands, & Home Franchise Concepts.

“We’re incredibly excited to have Stephen join our dynamic team,” said Sutton. “Stephen is a gifted leader with significant growth experience. He aligns perfectly with our culture to be franchisee-first and will be an integral part of our growth as we expand the reach of our world-class franchise brands.”

“I have tremendous respect for Scott Sutton’s leadership and have long admired the unwavering ‘Franchisee First’ commitment that defines Empower Brands under the guidance of Scott Zide, CEO,” Schiller said.  “When the opportunity arose a few months ago to join this incredible organization and contribute to its next phase of growth, it was simply one I couldn’t pass up. I’m thrilled to be part of what’s ahead.”

Jane Campbell will now serve Empower as its Vice President of Franchise Development Marketing, a new role that will be critical to the company’s aggressive growth expectations. Previously, Jane served as Empower’s Vice President of Marketing, driving consumer marketing efforts for the brands nationally and locally.

“Franchise development is one of the key growth levers a franchise has in its arsenal,” says Campbell. “From a marketing perspective, it requires strategy, messaging, and care. I’m thrilled to take this new role, telling the stories of our wonderful franchise owners and introducing new candidates to our portfolio of brands.”

Both Stephen and Jane join a seasoned franchise development leadership team that includes Sutton and Senior Vice President Erin Zide and Senior Director of Revenue Operations Cristin Smith.

“We’ve built a powerhouse team of leaders that’s firmly focused on growing our brands the right way, with the right new owners, in the right markets. The future is bright at Empower,” says Sutton.

Empower’s commitment to culture, brand excellence, and franchisee success continues to drive its reputation as a trusted platform for home service entrepreneurs and a magnet for high-caliber talent across the industry.

To learn more about Empower Brands, visit EmpowerFranchising.com.

About Empower Brands
Empower Brands is a commercial and home services platform company encompassing ten industry-leading brands: JAN-PRO, FRSTeam, Archadeck Outdoor Living, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives (OLP), Conserva Irrigation, Superior Fence & Rail, Wallaby Windows, Koala Insulation, Bumble Roofing and Canopy Lawn Care. Empower Brands is dedicated to providing its customers with the highest quality products and services in the commercial and home services industries while simultaneously delivering its franchise owners committed personal support, tools, and empowerment to pursue their own success. Empower Brands is a portfolio company of MidOcean Partners, a leading private equity firm with an excellent track record investing in successful, growth-focused franchise businesses. For more about Empower Brands, visit the company’s website at EmpowerFranchising.com.

16 08, 2025

Cruise Planners Hosts 2025 Luxury Forum at Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Empowering Advisors in High-End Travel Sales

2025-08-16T13:30:40-04:00August 16th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — Cruise Planners, the nation’s leading home-based travel advisor franchise network, recently wrapped its annual Luxury Forum at the stunning Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa in the Dominican Republic. Held August 4–8, 2025, this immersive, invitation-only event brought together over 120 Cruise Planners travel advisors and 70+ luxury travel partners for a week of elevated networking, hands-on training and inspiration tailored exclusively to the luxury market.

As more travelers seek out tailored, high-end experiences, Cruise Planners continues to strengthen its role in the luxury travel space. The Luxury Forum focused on giving advisors the tools, insights and supplier connections they need to serve the discerning luxury client with confidence and creativity.

“Luxury travel continues to evolve, and our advisors are right at the forefront,” said Michelle Fee, CEO and Founder of Cruise Planners. “This event gives them the tools, knowledge, and industry connections they need to stay ahead of the curve and deliver truly exceptional experiences for their clients.”

The event kicked off with opening remarks from Michelle Fee and Chief Strategy Officer Scott Koepf, who emphasized the sector’s explosive growth. With 28 million luxury travelers worldwide and the market valued at $230 billion, the potential for travel advisors is immense, especially as today’s travelers increasingly seek out meaningful and experience-rich journeys.

The program featured dynamic training sessions, supplier panels, and expert insights into consumer behavior in the luxury and expedition segments. A standout moment was the keynote by Karl Kannstadter, VP of Content Strategy at Exploration at Signature Travel Network, who delivered a deep dive into “What Story Does Your Client Want to Tell?” On delivering clients memorable moments and a story worth telling when they return from their trip.

A highlight of the week was the Luxury Agent Panel, moderated by Fee and featuring powerhouse producers Debra ThuneCarol RiceMaria Tilton and Sue Palenik. Their candid discussions and field-tested advice offered fellow advisors valuable strategies on attracting affluent clients, delivering elite service and closing high-end sales.

Throughout the week, advisors connected directly with leading luxury brands through curated networking events providing them with expert insight on the innerworkings of the travel space.

“This event goes beyond just training,” said Scott Koepf, Chief Strategy Officer at Cruise Planners. “It’s about giving our advisors a fresh perspective, stronger industry relationships, and the confidence to elevate the way they serve high-end clients.”

The Luxury Forum is part of a broader lineup of in-person training events hosted by Cruise Planners throughout the year, including the Land Symposium, Bootcamps, and the company’s Annual Convention, all designed to foster ongoing education and advisor success.

There’s never been a better time to get into the travel industry—and for a limited time, you can save $2,000 and own a Cruise Planners franchise! With demand for travel soaring, travelers are turning to trusted advisors more than ever. As a Cruise Planners franchise owner, you’ll be perfectly positioned to ride this wave and build a rewarding business from anywhere.

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.

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/.

16 08, 2025

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. Presents Record Number of Awards at 15th Annual Outside Sales Summit

2025-08-16T13:25:26-04:00August 16th, 2025|Tags: , , , , |

Franchisor Celebrates Landmark Year, Recognizing Over 400 Sales Professionals

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the world’s leading custom sign and visual solutions franchisor with more than 780 FASTSIGNS® centers worldwide, hosted its 15th annual Outside Sales Summit August 7-9 in St. Louis, Missouri. The event hosted over 640 participants, including franchisees, sales professionals, corporate staff and exhibitors.

“Our 15th Outside Sales Summit in St. Louis was a landmark event, where we had the honor of recognizing a record number of sales professionals for their outstanding achievements,” said Jim Howe, president of FASTSIGNS. “The energy was further amplified by our interactive Vendor Show and a highly successful inaugural Vendor Showcase from the mainstage, setting a new benchmark for success and propelling us into a period of exciting growth.”

With the theme “Ticket to Success”, the FASTSIGNS 2025 Outside Sales Summit celebrated the network’s sales achievements between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, and added three new awards: The Double Platinum Award, The Triple Platinum Award and The Titanium Award. At the awards event, 400 Outside Sales Professionals were recognized, including:

  • 2 Titanium Sales Award winners for sales exceeding $4 million
  • 1 Triple Platinum Sales Award winner for sales between $3 to $4 million
  • 9 Double Platinum Sales Award winners for sales between $2 to $3 million
  • 47 Platinum Sales Award winners for sales between $1 million to $2 million
  • 70 Gold Sales Award winners for sales between $700,000 to $999,999
  • 78 Silver Sales Award winners for sales between $500,000 to $699,999
  • 137 Bronze Sales Award winners for sales between $300,000 to $499,999

Krista Wilson from FASTSIGNS® of Baltimore, Maryland, and FASTSIGNS of Columbia, Maryland, was recognized as this year’s recipient of the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award, marking the seventh year for this honor. With this award, FASTSIGNS recognizes one Outside Sales Professional who best represents the concept and the spirit of the brand, both in the business community and within the FASTSIGNS network.

Additional awards included The National Sales Achievement Award for the highest total sales, and 12 center employees received the Circle of Excellence Award, recognizing their daily commitment to the success and growth of their FASTSIGNS center. The Rookie of the Year Award was given to an individual with the highest total sales in their first full 12 months of employment, and The Rising Star Award honored an Outside Sales Professional promoted from within the center in 2023 or 2024 with the highest total sales in their first full 12 months in the role. An additional 43 individuals became Certified FASTSIGNS Sales Executives after completing an extensive Outside Sales Certification Program.

Featured speakers included newly appointed FASTSIGNS President Jim Howe; Vice President of Technology and Supply Chain for FASTSIGNS, Brian Boehm; CEO and Founder of Subtle Skills, Brian Galke; and American Ninja Warrior Competitor and an Award-Winning Entertainer for NBC, Alex Weber. Speakers also covered a variety of topics, including supercharging sales, efficient project management, unlocking revenue and more.

FASTSIGNS franchisees and their employees, vendors and FASTSIGNS International, Inc. corporate staff participated in the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback “Breakfast with a Purpose.” The team donated time and created hygiene kits for high school students in the area. This giveback event was also made possible by the generous support of the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback sponsors, including Contact USA, Epson, Grimco, Impact LED Signs, FASTSIGNS National Accounts, Retreva, SA-SO, and Vision Engraving.

88 vendors participated in this year’s Outside Sales Summit. Diamond sponsors included Epson, Fellers, Grimco and Signs365; Gold sponsors included 3M and Mimaki; and Avery Dennison was a Silver sponsor. The Opening Night Networking Party was sponsored by Drake Industries.

About FASTSIGNS®:

FASTSIGNS® is the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry. With 40 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps customers bring their vision to life and achieve more than they ever thought possible. As the largest service-oriented business within the Propelled Brands® family, FASTSIGNS spans 780 independently owned and operated centers across the United StatesPuerto Rico, the United KingdomCanadaChileGrand CaymanMalta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®).

FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and with awards that include being ranked #1 in its category on ENTREPRENEUR’s highly competitive Franchise 500® List in 2025 for the ninth consecutive year, and being named a 2024 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review for the sixth consecutive year. For more information or to learn about opportunities, visit fastsigns.com or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).

14 08, 2025

Executive Home Care Franchisees Lead the Way in Proactive Aging Support

2025-08-14T02:32:46-04:00August 14th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Preventive care plays a crucial role in helping older adults stay healthy, independent, and safe at home. Executive Home Care, a premier provider of in-home care services with 82 locations in 17 states, is proud to highlight how its franchisees are driving wellness and improving lives through proactive support. With a mission rooted in compassion and care continuity, the brand is calling on purpose-driven entrepreneurs to join its growing network.

“Preventive care is the future of aging in place,” said Jeanette WeinzBrand President of Executive Home Care. “Our franchisees are at the forefront of this shift—helping seniors manage chronic conditions, reduce hospitalizations, and preserve their quality of life through consistent, compassionate in-home services.”

Executive Home Care franchisees deliver more than just assistance with daily tasks—they provide early intervention, wellness checks, and consistent communication with families and healthcare providers. By catching potential issues early and supporting healthy routines, franchisees are making a measurable difference in their communities.

For franchisee Tim Hayes, who serves Richmond, VA, this commitment to wellness is deeply personal. “Preventive care allows us to build trust with clients and serve as a bridge between their medical needs and everyday lives,” Hayes said. “We’re not just caregivers—we’re care partners.”

Franchisee Jason Mirabella, of Southeast Tampa, agrees. “What drew me to Executive Home Care was the opportunity to empower seniors before a crisis hits,” he said. “The support from the franchise system enables me to focus on client outcomes, while running a values-driven business.”

As the aging population grows and demand for home care continues to rise, Executive Home Care offers a compelling opportunity for franchisees seeking meaningful work and long-term growth. Backed by the Evive Brands network, franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, national marketing, and operational support that equips them to scale a trusted, essential service.

Prospective franchise owners who are passionate about helping others and want to make a difference in the lives of seniors are encouraged to explore the Executive Home Care franchise opportunity.

For more information, visit www.executivehomecare.com.

About Executive Home Care

Executive Home Care is a leading in-home care franchise dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality services that empower seniors to live independently. The company is committed to excellence in client care and franchisee support, ensuring both business owners and their communities benefit from trusted, professional home care solutions.

14 08, 2025

Stretch Zone Ranks on the 2025 Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies

2025-08-14T02:25:51-04:00August 14th, 2025|Tags: , , |

With Three-Year Revenue Growth of 74 Percent, This Marks Stretch Zone’s Fifth Time on the List

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla — Inc., the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future, today announced that Stretch Zone has ranked on the annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list provides a data-driven snapshot of the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses.

“Being ranked in the Inc. 5000 list is a reflection of the hard work our team and franchisees put in every day to bring the benefits of practitioner-assisted stretching to communities across the country,” said Tony Zaccario, CEO of Stretch Zone. “As demand for wellness services continues to grow, this recognition reinforces that our unique approach is resonating and making a meaningful impact in people’s lives.”

Stretch Zone has quickly become a standout brand in the wellness franchise space, pioneering the practice of practitioner-assisted stretching with a science-backed methodology that’s helping people move and feel better. With more than 400 locations opened and zero studio failures to date, the brand’s rapid growth is a testament to its proven business model, strong franchisee support, and increasing demand for recovery-focused wellness services. In 2025, Stretch Zone introduced Systemwide Access—a first-of-its-kind member benefit allowing members to stretch at any location nationwide—further reinforcing its commitment to convenience, consistency, and community as it continues to scale across the U.S.

This year’s Inc. 5000 honorees have demonstrated exceptional growth while navigating economic uncertainty, inflationary pressure, and a fluctuating labor market. Among the top 500 companies on the list, the median three-year revenue growth rate reached 1,552 percent, and those companies have collectively added more than 48,678 jobs to the U.S. economy over the past three years.

For the full list, company profiles, and a searchable database by industry and location, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000.

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” says Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn’t just weather the storm—they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy.”

Inc. will celebrate the honorees at the 2025 Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala, taking place October 22–24 in Phoenix, and the top 500 will be listed in the Fall issue of Inc. magazine.

Methodology
Companies on the 2025 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2021. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2024. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2021 is $100,000; the minimum for 2024 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons.

About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone is a brand that was built with heart. Revolutionizing how we all approach stretching, the brand is on a mission to improve the quality of life for communities by utilizing their proprietary tables and patented strapping system to assist in achieving long term results. With more than 400 locations open throughout 41 states, this brand has seen incredible growth since its start and has no plans on slowing their momentum, receiving national recognition for their growth in the 2025 Inc. 5000 and Entrepreneur’s 2025 Fastest Growing Franchises. Stretch Zone is looking for experienced franchisees that are passionate about the health and wellness industry and are committed to making a positive impact in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit www.stretchzone.com.

About Inc.
Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

14 08, 2025

Recession Fears Drive 83% of Employers to Streamline, Cross-Train and Cut Costs

2025-08-14T02:18:55-04:00August 14th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

61% Say Recession Prep Is Pulling Focus from Company’s Long-Term Future

OKLAHOMA CITY — With 80% of U.S. hiring managers bracing for a recession, nearly half expecting it within the next year, businesses aren’t waiting to feel the impact. They’re already shifting gears, scaling back hiring, rewriting long-term plans and making tough choices between protecting today and investing in tomorrow.

This is according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.

The data paints a picture of cautious optimism clouded by economic anxiety:

  • 94% say a recession would impact their organization, and 60% anticipate a major or moderate effect.
  • 36% admit their company may not survive a recession this year, rising to 57% among blue-collar employers.

Despite these concerns, many employers still see opportunities:

  • 78% believe their company will be in a better economic position by year’s end.
  • 58% view a potential recession as more of a growth opportunity than a threat.

Still, the looming threat is already influencing hiring decisions. More than a third of companies (35%) say they would reduce hiring if a recession occurs, up from 30% in the spring of 2022, and 17% would freeze hiring altogether. In anticipation, 83% of employers have taken proactive steps to prepare, including:

  • Cutting unnecessary expenses (45%)
  • Streamlining processes (29%)
  • Cross-training employees (26%)
  • Not filling vacated roles (23%)
  • Conducting layoffs (19%)

These actions align with projections from the Congressional Budget Office, which estimates that a moderate recession could raise unemployment from 4.2% to as high as 7.5%, potentially resulting in up to 5 million job losses.

However, the cost of preparation is not just financial; it’s strategic. Many companies are already feeling the strain:

  • 61% say recession planning has taken time away from efforts to improve their organization’s long-term future.
  • 57% report having to overhaul strategic plans since the beginning of the year. This includes 65% of blue-collar and 54% of white-collar employers.

When asked what would help them navigate a downturn, hiring managers pointed to:

  • Training and upskilling programs (60%)
  • Flexible staffing solutions (39%)
  • Clearer communication from leadership (33%)

The most resilient companies don’t just react to economic shifts; they use them as catalysts to become more efficient,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “By streamlining operations and investing in versatile talent, businesses can position themselves for long-term success in any environment.”

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.

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.

9 08, 2025

Premium Service Brands Brightens Homes with Addition of Infinity Holiday Lights Services

2025-08-09T20:21:19-04:00August 9th, 2025|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

  • Home services leader brings the holiday spirit with new service offering professional installation of holiday lights
  • Lighting service helps homeowners avoid seasonal safety risks, enhance home security
  • High-quality, custom-cut LED lights reflect growing demand in the fast-emerging home services category

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Premium Service Brands (PSB), the leader in home services franchising, is excited to announce participating locations are now offering professional holiday light installations as a part of their packaged services. This new service is in partnership with Infinity Holiday Lights – a custom holiday light installation company based out of Charlotte, NC.

Beyond Spreading Holiday Cheer
These professionally-installed lights are more than about simple decorations for the season. Putting up holiday lights is often thought of as one of the most dangerous seasonal tasks for homeowners. In fact, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports an average of 160 decorating-related injuries every day during the holiday season – with almost half of those involving falls caused by risks like icy surfaces, unstable ladders, or extension cord tripping hazards. Infinity Holiday Lights hopes to change that narrative by providing a solution that not only protects the homeowner from the dangers of the holiday season, but helps them light up their homes all year round.

Beyond safety, Infinity Holiday Lights also provides homeowners with a sense of security. Exterior lighting – especially in the darker, winter months around the holidays – can help deter break-ins and criminal activity. A well-lit home tends to signal the place is occupied and cared for, while simultaneously improving visibility around doors, windows, and walkways.

Responding to Rising Demand
Whether it’s to save time, avoid injury, or enhance curb appeal, consumer demand for professional lighting is growing as homeowners increasingly turn to experts for help. Industry insights estimate the U.S. holiday lighting market to be worth more than $9 billion and growing fast. With services fueled by over 90% repeat revenue, professional lighting services are experiencing 50-70% year-over-year growth.

“Consumer expectations are evolving as homeowners prioritize convenience, customization, and expertise, and our franchisees are adapting to match every one of those needs,” said Paul Flick, Founder and CEO of Premium Service Brands. “This isn’t just a seasonal add-on, it’s a strategic expansion into a category with significant growth potential, strong margins, and high customer satisfaction potential. It reflects PSB’s continued commitment to helping our franchisees grow smarter and serve their communities in meaningful ways.”

The addition of Infinity Holiday Lights service offers PSB franchise owners a scalable way to expand their business by tapping into their existing customer base while entering a fast-growing segment. This underscores the brand’s mission to equip franchise owners with high-impact services that meet the ever-changing needs of today’s homeowners.

Personalized Lighting Solutions
Infinity Holiday Lights is a full-service offering that includes professional installation, seasonal takedown, and optional reinstallation year after year. The service uses energy-efficient LED lights designed to last 8+ years, with professional-grade durability and fully customizable options – from color combinations to precision cuts tailored to each home, building, and landscape. Installed by trained technicians, lights can be mounted on gutters, rooflines, fascia, trim, railings, and posts as well as landscaping elements like trees, bushes, hedges, and walkways.

Infinity Holiday Lights services is available through select brands under the Premium Service Brands platform, including:

Homeowners interested in adding professional lighting to their property can reach out to their local brand to explore options and request a quote. For more information about Premium Service Brands and its franchise opportunities, please visit www.premiumservicebrands.com.

About Premium Service Brands:
Premium Service Brands (PSB) is a leading franchisor of home services brands, including 360° Painting, ProLift Garage Doors, Maid Right, Kitchen Wise | Closet Wise, Window Gang, Rubbish Works, The Grout Medic, House Doctors, and RooterMan. Founded on the principles of exceptional support and training for franchise owners, PSB is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs achieve their dreams and build successful businesses. For more information, visit www.premiumservicebrands.com.

7 08, 2025

87% of Millennial Homeowners Have Unfinished Repair Projects, 84% are Putting Them Off, Ace Hardware Home Services Reveals

2025-08-07T19:20:41-04:00August 7th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

In conjunction with National Simplify Your Life Week (Aug. 4–10), new data spotlights top maintenance pain points—and how Ace’s one-stop Home Services network can help

OAK BROOK, Ill. —  In recognition of National Simplify Your Life Week (Aug. 4–10), Ace Hardware Home Services has released new national survey results spotlighting how U.S. millennial homeowners approach the challenges of home repairs, as well as what’s holding them back. According to the exclusive survey of 1,000 participants, 87% of U.S. millennial homeowners currently have at least one repair project pending—yet 84% admit they’ve delayed fixes, underscoring a clear need for convenient, trustworthy home‑repair solutions.

Observed every August, Simplify Your Life Week encourages people to cut through the clutter—mentally, physically and around the home, by finally tackling those long-postponed to‑dos, starting with the small home fixes that often get ignored.

“There’s a real sense of frustration that comes from walking past the same unfinished projects every day,” said Jason Hipskind, President, PHCE (Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical) for Ace Hardware Home Services. “Ace Hardware Home Services and Ace Handyman Services are here to take that weight off your shoulders, with trusted, local professionals who show up on time, offer transparent pricing and deliver guaranteed workmanship. Homeowners can book an expert in just a few clicks, finally cross those home projects off their list, and get back to enjoying life.”

Top Findings from U.S. Millennial Homeowners:

  • Deferral Dilemma: With 87% of homeowners delaying repairs, routine maintenance issues can quickly escalate into costly emergencies, potentially impacting a home’s resale value
  • Top Concerns: Electrical issues plague 66% of households, ranking as America’s top maintenance concern, alongside heating & cooling (62%) and plumbing (60%)
  • Pros > DIY: When faced with urgent repairs, 63% of homeowners rely on professional services, reinforcing trust in technicians for critical home needs, and over half (53%) of Millennial homeowners prioritize peace of mind with professional repairs over the satisfaction of DIY successes
  • From Bored to Bragging: 46% are proud to share their successful DIY home repairs and organization wins online
  • Home Impact: 57% of homeowners avoid using parts of their home for extended periods due to unresolved maintenance issues, reflecting the impact of deferred care on daily life
  • Confidence Gap: Just 36% of Millennial Homeowners are comfortable with putting up drywall, compared to 75% who would paint
  • DIY Abandonment: Nearly 30% of homeowners have abandoned home improvement projects, with ongoing stress and incomplete work affecting daily life for 51% of Millennial homeowners

How Ace Hardware Home Services Helps Simplify Your Life:
Ace Hardware Home Services makes outsourcing easy by connecting consumers with its network of local professionals. With one‑stop online booking, transparent upfront pricing and guaranteed workmanship, homeowners can finally check off outstanding projects with ease. Homeowners can expect:

  • Comprehensive residential solutions. A wide range of home maintenance and repair services—including plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, handyman, and painting—means you have one trusted partner for all your home-care needs.
  • Trusted experts with community roots. Local technicians deliver personalized service backed by Ace Hardware’s century-long reputation for helping neighbors.
  • Transparent, upfront pricing. Clear, detailed estimates with no hidden fees and a workmanship guarantee ensure there are no surprises at checkout.
  • Warranty-backed workmanship. All installations and repairs come with a satisfaction guarantee and warranty on parts and labor.

From plumbing and electrical to painting, HVAC and handyman work, Ace Hardware Home Services covers 48 states and more than 5,000 ZIP codes. Ace Hardware Home Services employs plumbers, electricians and HVAC techs; Ace Handyman and painting services are delivered by trusted franchise partners whose background-checked employee craftsmen are trained to Ace’s top-quality standards and typically available within a week. Below is a list of services available through Ace Hardware Home Services and Ace Handyman Services:

  • Plumbing: Bathroom fixtures; toilet installation and repair; kitchen plumbing; garbage disposal service; sewer and drain cleaning; water treatment; water heater installation and replacement
  • Heating & Cooling (HVAC): Furnace and air‑conditioning installation, maintenance and repair; heat‑pump service; system tune‑ups; ductless and high velocity systems
  • Electrical: New wiring and repairs for outlets, switches, dimmers, ceiling fans and smoke detectors; electrical‑panel installation and upgrades; generator installation and maintenance; whole‑home electrical remodels, including EV car charger installations
  • Handyman: Drywall and carpentry repairs; door and window fixes; furniture assembly; TV mounting; deck and fence maintenance; gutter cleaning; small‑scale remodeling
  • Painting: Interior and exterior painting; deck and fence staining; wallpaper removal and surface preparation

To book home services, please visit www.acehardwarehomeservices.com; to book handyman services, please visit www.acehandymanservices.com.

Data & Methodology
This custom online survey was conducted among 1,000 nationally representative U.S. Millennial homeowners, defined as individuals aged 29 to 44. The survey took place in July 2025. All data presented in this study are sourced from the survey unless otherwise specified. The research and analysis were conducted by Wakefield Research.

About Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is the largest hardware cooperative in the world, serving more than 8,700 locally owned and operated stores around the globe, while providing the best products, services, and operating methods to almost 5,200 Ace retail stores in the United States. Ace Hardware’s family of brands includes Ace Hardware, Emery Jensen Distribution, and independent retailers worldwide. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., Ace operates an expansive network of U.S. distribution centers, along with international capabilities in Ningbo, China, and Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico. Ace also owns Ace Hardware Home Services, a collection of local service companies with experienced professionals dedicated to helping homeowners complete home maintenance tasks. Since 1924, Ace has been a part of local communities, known as the place with the helpful hardware folks. For more information, visit acehardware.com or newsroom.acehardware.com.

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