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12 03, 2024

Express’ Standout Year Steals the Spotlight at Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado

2024-03-31T19:11:38-04:00March 12th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

OKLAHOMA CITY — Conquering the climb of 2023, Express Employment Professionals franchisees from across the world recently gathered in Denver, Colorado, to celebrate a year of top sales and achievements as part of the staffing giant’s annual International Leadership Conference (ILC).

The event featured Academy Award winning actress Goldie Hawn and Deion “Prime Time” Sanders, head football coach at the University of Colorado, as well as networking and trainings for roughly 1,500 attendees.

“With hundreds of locations internationally, ILC is such a special time of fellowship each year that feels like a family reunion,” said Bill Stoller, Express Employment International CEO. “It is an honor to be surrounded by the best and brightest in the business and leave energized, armed with new knowledge and resources for the months ahead.”

Emphasizing the humanization of the hiring and employment process in a time when AI is rampant, Express Employee of the Year Kyle West took the stage to accept the symbol of gratitude for his commitment to bettering both his personal and professional lives.

When West was 16, circumstances beyond his control left him homeless and living out of his car. Determined to overcome the situation, he developed a five-year plan, committed to doing the work and turned that vision into a reality.

West was initially sent on assignment as an operator at a client company, but his reliability and strong work ethic earned him a promotion to department lead, and later, supervisor. He remains with the company and is now in charge of contracting with Express for additional operators.

“I love my job here and have been promoted,” West said. “I like to meet with people and tell them a little bit about my story and encourage them along the way. We all have tough times. I’m here to show you that you can get out of those situations with hard work and dedication.”

Express franchise owners Ronnie and Susan Morris were also recognized from the stage as this year’s Franchisees of the Year for their perseverance and investment into other franchisees.

After joining Express in 2010 and opening their first location, Ronnie and Susan followed the system, stayed engaged and began their ascent — putting thousands of people to work and expanding their footprint to eight offices.

As the country experienced tighter labor markets, the duo advocated for giving job seekers another chance at finding work, despite their past mistakes, and even piloted a program based on second chances. And when COVID-19 struck, they kept associates employed and businesses open.

As they found success, they never lost their connection to the community — becoming deeply involved in multiple charities and organizations, including the American Cancer Society, JDRF and their local business chambers, among others.

“To say this husband-and-wife team has magnetic personalities would be an understatement,” Stoller said. “Their innate ability to immediately connect with others might be one of the reasons you frequently see them surrounded by fellow franchisees and team members. Their tremendous efforts and contributions have not been overlooked by their community or Express. We are honored to bestow the recognition of Franchisees of the Year on this most-deserving team.”

Express boasts more than 860 franchise locations in five countries across the globe, garnering $4.1 billion in sales and employing 492,000 associates in 2023.

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 Bill Stoller
William H. “Bill” Stoller is chairman and chief executive officer of Express Employment International. Founded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the international staffing franchisor supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and related brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in 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 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

12 03, 2024

Gotcha Covered opens new center in Palm Bay, Florida

2024-03-12T18:20:29-04:00March 12th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Local entrepreneurs Russell and Kathy Dull to lead location

PALM BAY, Fla. — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, has announced the opening of a new center in Florida. Gotcha Covered of Palm Bay is owned and operated by Russell and Kathy Dull.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, the new center provides the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in the Palm Bay area by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

“We have nearly 30 locations in Florida, and it’s because homeowners and business owners there are savvy and want innovative design solutions, which are a staple of the Gotcha Covered brand,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. “Russell and Kathy will continue the standard of excellence our brand offers, and I’m confident they’ll deliver amazing customer experiences at their Palm Bay location.”

With a background spanning manufacturing to software engineering, Russell Dull and his wife Kathy — who also shares a robust manufacturing career — believe they will bring a fresh perspective to the industry.

“Launching Gotcha Covered of Palm Bay is a dream realized, fueled by our ambition to set new benchmarks in service excellence and design innovation,” Russell Dull said.

The Dulls said their approach combines cutting-edge digital marketing strategies with personalized customer engagement events, aiming not only to grow their business but also to enhance the customer experience in every interaction.

“The joy of transforming a space and witnessing the immediate impact of our work is profoundly gratifying. It’s about creating moments of delight for our clients through meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail,” Kathy Dull said.

Adding 30 new franchise locations in 2023, Gotcha Covered currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Palm Bay, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/palm-bay/.

About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

12 03, 2024

Gotcha Covered welcomes Michigan ‘Food Wizard’ to franchise family

2024-03-12T18:18:39-04:00March 12th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Adam Shaffer to lead Farmington Hills and Northville location

DETROIT — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, has announced the opening of a new center in Michigan. Gotcha Covered of Farmington Hills and Northville is owned and operated by Adam Shaffer.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, the new center provides the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in the Farmington area by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

“Design know-how, creativity and problem-solving skills can be integral to a Gotcha Covered owner, and Adam has an abundance of all three,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. “He’s built a career helping people find food solutions to fit their needs. Now, he’ll be helping Michigan homeowners and business owners find solutions to make their design dreams become reality.”

Known as the “Food Wizard,” Shaffer spent more than 15 years serving as a food scientist for nationally known brands before deciding to utilize his critical thinking skills in a new way.

“I love brainstorming solutions and finding new ways to do something,” Shaffer said. “I’ve not met a problem yet that I couldn’t solve. Gotcha Covered has a multitude of options and resources, so I know I’m always going to be able to help a customer design the perfect setting for their home or business.”

Adding 30 new franchise locations in 2023, Gotcha Covered currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Farmington Hills and Northville, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/farmington-hills-northville/.

About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

11 03, 2024

Express Employment Professionals’ Third-Best Sales Year Signals Strong Market Presence

2024-03-31T19:14:48-04:00March 11th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Awarded 51 Franchise Agreements Internationally

2023 Highlights

  • Revenues of $4.1 billion in the U.S., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia and New Zealand
  • Office Count: 862
  • Employed 492,000 associates
  • Client Partners: 73,000

OKLAHOMA CITY — Notching the third-best year for sales in the staffing company’s more than 40-year history, Express Employment Professionals saw revenues of $4.1 billion in 2023, employing 492,000 associates at 862 franchise locations across the globe.

Franchise expansion consisted of awarding 51 franchise development agreements, including locations in OhioAlabamaTexasMaryland and South Africa.

“With the surge in demand for top talent over the past few years, Express franchise owners and their staff have risen to the occasion, propelling us to record-setting numbers once again,” Express Employment International CEO Bill Stoller said. “We are not only meeting but exceeding the needs of our clients, and I am humbled by the trust they have placed in us.”

Express earned several recognitions throughout 2023, including designations on the following lists:

  • Entrepreneur: Franchise 500 List and Best in Category for the 12th consecutive year, Franchise 500 Hall of Fame, Fastest Growing Franchises, Top Global Franchises, Top Franchises for less than $150,000, Best 150 Franchises for Multi-Unit Owners and Top Franchises for Veterans
  • Forbes: America’s Best Professional Recruiting Firms and America’s Best Temp Staffing Firms
  • Staffing Industry Analysts: Fifth-Largest U.S. Staffing Firm, Second-Largest U.S. Industrial Staffing Firm, Third-Largest U.S. Office/Clerical Staffing Firm, Largest U.S. Direct Hire Firms, Top 50 Providers of Direct Hire Services Globally and 13th-Largest Global Staffing Firm
  • Franchise Business Review: Top Franchise Culture, Top Recession-Proof Franchises, Most Innovative Franchises, Most Profitable Franchises, Top Franchises for Veterans and Top Franchises
  • ClearlyRated: Best of Staffing® Client Diamond Award
  • Franchise Direct: Top 100 Global Franchises
  • Franchise Times: Top 400 (#25)
  • Franchise Research Institute: World Class Franchise Since 2006

Kicking off 2024, Forbes has already recognized Express as one of America’s Best Large Employers, and Newsweek named the company one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women.

Express is also proud to announce the rebranding of its healthcare staffing entity, now known as Express Healthcare Staffing.

“As we navigate this year’s opportunistic market conditions, our commitment remains unwavering: to bridge the gap between exceptional companies and quality job seekers,” Stoller said. “Together, we continue to set new standards in the industry, and I am excited for the future as we build upon this foundation of success.”

If you would like to arrange for an interview with Bill Stoller to discuss this topic, please contact Sheena Hollander, Director of Corporate Communications and PR, at (405) 717-5966.

About Bill Stoller
William H. “Bill” Stoller is chairman and chief executive officer of Express Employment International. Founded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the international staffing franchisor supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and related brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in 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 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

11 03, 2024

Gotcha Covered welcomes Eric Gitonga to the franchise family

2024-03-11T17:01:19-04:00March 11th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

New franchise owner to lead Canton, Georgia location

CANTON, Ga. — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, has announced the opening of a new center in Canton. Gotcha Covered of Canton is owned and operated by Eric Gitonga.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, the new center provides the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in CartersvilleCantonHolly Springs and Woodstock by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

“The center in Canton is our sixth location in the state of Georgia,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. “We are excited to offer the Gotcha Covered experience to the homeowners and businesses in the community. We pride ourselves in providing first-class service, and we are confident Eric (Gitonga) will be an asset to our brand and the Canton community.”

A five-year U.S. Navy veteran, Gitonga brings an attitude of hard work to the Gotcha Covered brand. He also brings over six years of experience as an electrician, earning his electrical journeyman certification.

It was Gitonga’s desire to control his own destiny that inspired him to enter the franchising world.

“I wanted to own my own business so that I had the flexibility and freedom to determine how I wanted to run the company,” said Gitonga. “That’s why joining Gotcha Covered was a no-brainer. They give me the flexibility that allows me to control my own destiny.”

When asked what he enjoys the most about the window treatment business, Gitonga replied, “turning dreams into reality.”

“I use my problem-solving, communication and analytical skills to deliver high-quality, tailored services that meet the expectations of my customers. With the goal of providing an excellent customer experience, I aim to design and execute innovative projects that enhance the aesthetic and functionality of the spaces I work on. I want people to be in awe after I’m finished with a project.”

Adding 30 new franchise locations in 2023, Gotcha Covered currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Canton, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/canton/.

About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

11 03, 2024

Franchisees across five brands share insights and learning opportunities during electrifying BELFOR Franchise Group Convention

2024-03-11T17:11:25-04:00March 11th, 2024|Tags: , , , , , |

BELFOR Franchise Group brands 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, Blue Kangaroo Packoutz, Chem-Dry, DUCTZ and N-Hance met in Phoenix Feb. 26-28 for connection and inspiration to drive continuing success in 2024

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Franchisees from five BELFOR Franchise Group brands met to build connections and foster success during the 2024 BELFOR Franchise Group Convention in February.

The event, held Feb. 26-28 at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix, brought together over 800 attendees from 1-800 WATER DAMAGEBlue Kangaroo PackoutzChem-DryDUCTZ and N-Hance for three full days of immersive learning opportunities, including workshops, brand and breakout sessions, and a vendor expo.

“This event is a great way for franchisees to connect and share their knowledge and experience in our dynamic and rapidly evolving industry,” said Doug Smith, senior vice president of franchise development at BELFOR Franchise Group. “There’s a lot of positive energy that our franchisees take back home with them, along with valuable insights and information that will empower them to achieve a whole new level in the coming year.”

Highlights of the convention included an awards gala and inspiring keynote addresses by Scott Greenberg, author of “The Wealthy Franchisee,” and commercial sales skills guru Kirk Armstrong.

At the highly anticipated awards gala, franchise brands recognized the following top-performing franchisees from each brand in multiple awards categories:

  • 1-800 WATER DAMAGE Franchise of the Year: Gary and Michele HoggJordan and Anna Demmon (1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Central Georgia)
  • 1-800 WATER DAMAGE Coach’s Top Producer Award: Tod and Joanne Sandberg (1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Seattle)
  • Blue Kangaroo Packoutz Franchise of the Year: Jason and Rhonda Byrd (Blue Kangaroo Packoutz of Cincinnati and Dayton)
  • Blue Kangaroo Packoutz Rookie of the Year: Brandon Wiechmann (Blue Kangaroo Packoutz of North Dallas and Fort Worth)
  • Chem-Dry Franchise of the Year: John and Kristy Qualls (Qualls Chem-Dry)
  • Chem-Dry Small Business Franchise of the Year: James and Nora Beauchamp (Chem-Dry of Lake Tahoe and Chem-Dry of Reno)
  • DUCTZ Franchise of the Year: Carlton Mills (DUCTZ of Noblesville)
  • DUCTZ Tom Yacobellis Innovation Award: Tommy Hoopsick (DUCTZ of Delchester and DUCTZ of Richmond Southside)
  • N-Hance Franchise of the Year: Ron, Lisa and Michael Markese (N-Hance of Central Jersey)
  • N-Hance Brand Ambassador: Anthony and Cyndi Rizzo (N-Hance of Northern New Jersey)

BELFOR Franchise Group is a leading global residential and commercial services franchisor and the parent organization for 14 of the strongest service-based franchise opportunities for home and commercial cleaning and restoration.

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, BELFOR Franchise Group has empowered entrepreneurs by offering industry-leading training, support and equipment, turnkey business models, and ongoing coaching and business development. BELFOR Franchise Group is the parent organization for 14 of the strongest service-based franchise opportunities for home and commercial cleaning and restoration. The franchise brands include 1-800-BOARDUP1-800 WATER DAMAGEBlue Kangaroo PackoutzChem-Dry Carpet & Upholstery CleaningCOOL-BINZ, DUCTZHOODZ, JUNKCO+N-Hance Wood RefinishingThe Patch Boysredbox+ DumpstersSafer Home ServicesWINMAR, and Z PLUMBERZ. For more information, please visit belforfranchisegroup.com.

7 03, 2024

Entrepreneur Magazine Ranks Anago Cleaning Systems Among This Year’s Top Franchises Under $50K

2024-03-31T19:08:23-04:00March 7th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Commercial Cleaning Proves Profitable & Viable During Economic Volatility

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. — Anago Cleaning Systems announced it earned the #3 spot in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Top 50 Franchises Under $50K. This highly competitive list recognizes the top 50 franchise brands that continue evolving and maintaining relevance with the latest trends while reporting North America’s most significant franchise unit growth. In a follow-up rating, Entrepreneur listed Anago as a top franchise under $25K.

About Anago Cleaning Systems
Anago Cleaning Systems is an international commercial cleaning franchise brand. Utilizing the Master Franchise System, Anago supports over 45 Master Franchisees and over 1,800 Unit Franchisees.  Founded in 1989, Anago has set the worldwide standard in business support and structure for local and regional companies to provide unparalleled cleaning services to businesses of all types. For further information, visit AnagoMasters.com.

7 03, 2024

Mosquito Squad Introduces Four New Pest Control Packages Expertly Tailored to Region-Specific Pest Issues

2024-03-07T20:11:53-05:00March 7th, 2024|Tags: , , , , , |

MACON, Ga. — Mosquito Squad® announced today a line of four new Pest Packages that cater to the individual needs of homeowners plagued by pest infestations. To deliver effective pest control services within its local territories, Mosquito Squad has tailored each package to help protect against the pests prevalent in those specific markets.

Recognizing the diversity of pest challenges, Mosquito Squad acknowledges that a singular solution doesn’t suffice; therefore, Mosquito Squad’s highly trained technicians are able to develop the most appropriate package for region-specific pest issues.

Each package is designed to provide proactive protection and prescriptive treatments. The 4 new Mosquito Squad Pest Packages include:

  • Squad Home Shield – Designed to address a wide variety of common outdoor household pests throughout the seasons, including ants, spiders, and roaches. These pests can create several health and safety issues, including structural damage to the home caused by carpenter ants, or increased allergies and asthma symptoms caused by roaches.

  • Squad Fly Control – A specialized solution designed to help keep outdoor living spaces free from bothersome and disease-transmitting flies and gnats.

  • Squad Invader Guard – This treatment effectively manages invasive and home-invading pests like spotted lanternflies and stinkbugs, helping to safeguard the overall health of the home and outdoor living space, including beloved plants, from such pests.

  • Squad Yard Defender – Offering continuous protection against a range of common pests, including ticks, fleas, and mound-building ants, this comprehensive solution helps deliver peace of mind year-round and reduces the risk of bites and stings from these pests that can carry disease or cause painful bites.

Mosquito Squad continues to highlight the importance of pest management to help control diseases transmitted by pests. While pests such as spotted lanternflies and ants can be a nuisance as well, many homeowners aren’t aware that they can also pose health and safety risks to their property and themselves.

“The health and safety of homeowners is our top priority at Mosquito Squad, and we’re committed to educating them on the importance of proactive and prescriptive pest control,” said Dr. Kurt Vandock, PhD, Vice President of Strategic Growth for Mosquito Squad. “With nearly two decades of experience, we recognize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to pest control. Whether we’re treating an existing infestation or preventing problems ahead of the peak season, Mosquito Squad’s highly trained technicians will work with homeowners to select the ideal Pest Package, tailored to combat the specific public health risks in our serviced territories.”

In addition to Pest Packages, Mosquito Squad continues to offer homeowners year-round mosquito and tick protection through its Mosquito Control Barrier Protection System, helping keep these pests at bay for up to three weeks after application.

Mosquito Squad Pest Packages are rolling out to select franchise locations this spring. Available packages will vary by location.

For more information or to find a location near you, visit www.mosquitosquad.com.

About Mosquito Squad
Mosquito Squad’s mission is to be the premier outdoor pest control company in the industry by providing state-of-the-art products and services through its best-in-class technicians and sales teams while bringing awareness to the importance of pest management to help control diseases transmitted by pests. For more information, visit https://www.mosquitosquad.com/ and https://www.authoritybrands.com/.

About Authority Brands
Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Authority Brands’ companies include 16 leading home service franchise brands: America’s Swimming Pool Company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, The Cleaning Authority, Color World Painting, DoodyCalls, DRYmedic Restoration Services, Homewatch CareGivers, The Junkluggers, Lawn Squad, Mister Sparky, Monster Tree Service, Mosquito Squad, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Screenmobile, STOP Restoration, and Woofie’s. Together, these brands provide home services through more than 2,000 territories operated by more than 1,000 franchise owners. Authority Brands is dedicated to supporting individual franchise owner growth by providing strong marketing, technology, and operational support. See www.authoritybrands.com for more information.

7 03, 2024

Outdoor Pest Management Company Shares Pest Control Solutions for Outdoor Spaces

2024-03-07T19:53:27-05:00March 7th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — As spring begins, outdoor pests start to emerge. Mosquito Joe®, a Neighborly® company, reminds home and business owners to start preparing their homes, businesses, and outdoor spaces early to effectively control and combat perimeter pests, insects, and mosquitoes from nesting and infestation.

In early spring, exterior pests become more active outside the home as the weather warms up. Along with combating perimeter pests such as ants, spiders, and cockroaches from entering a home, homeowners should plan early for our signature mosquito and tick services for outside protection. Most people think of mosquitoes as summer pests, but mosquitoes generally become active in early March, and by early May, they are active in much of the U.S.

“As temperatures rise in early spring, outdoor pests and mosquitoes become increasingly active,” said David Price, Associate Certified Entomologist and Director of Technical Services for Mosquito Joe. “By preparing ahead and implementing preventative measures, homeowners can effectively manage pests before they become a nuisance, thereby ensuring a more enjoyable outdoor and indoor experience.”

Price highlighted the presence of over 3,500 mosquito species worldwide and emphasized the importance of identifying and addressing them properly. “For optimal outdoor protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and perimeter pests, consider whole yard protection—a simple and effective service that alleviates worries about itchy bug bites for your family and pets, said Price. “Homeowners can benefit from discounts offered through pre-pay programs, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the year.”

Price notes that simple preventive measures can go a long way in keeping outdoor spaces free from mosquitoes, wasps, rodents, and other perimeter pests. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or renter, it’s essential to:

  • Regularly empty birdbaths, fountains, and buckets to prevent standing water.
  • Keep gutters clean to prevent water accumulation, clogs, or damage.
  • Ensure swimming pools are clean and well-circulated.
  • Promptly repair any leaky outdoor faucets.
  • Maintain a weed-free yard, with short-cut grass and shrubs, to prevent overgrown vegetation.

Mosquito Joe offers outdoor mosquito, tick, flea, and perimeter pest services across various regions, addressing issues ranging from mosquitoes and scorpions in the Southwest to Spotted Lantern Flies in the Northeast.

As the largest and fastest-growing provider of outdoor pest and mosquito control services in the U.S., Mosquito Joe is a member of an elite partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Last year, the brand earned the Silver Tier from the EPA’s Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP) for its commitment to providing effective eco-friendly services and education of environmentally responsible methods to control outdoor pest.

For over 14 years, Mosquito Joe has delivered outdoor pest control services through over 416 territories in more than 38 states and the District of Columbia.

Additionally, Mosquito Joe conducts an annual philanthropic campaign where participating locally owned and operated franchise locations donate $10 for every new customer they service during the campaign period to support United to Beat Malaria. Since 2017, the brand has raised over $226,815 and protected more than 77,000 people across 46 countries.

For more information about Mosquito Joe and mosquito preventive measures, visit mosquitojoe.com/startofseason.

About Mosquito Joe®:
Dedicated to making outside fun again by eliminating mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas from customer’s yards, Mosquito Joe®, a Neighborly® company, is a leader in the outdoor pest control industry. The brand was founded in 2010 and has since expanded to more than 400 locations throughout the U.S. Acquired in 2018, Mosquito Joe® is part of Neighborly®, the world’s largest home services company with more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchises collectively serving 14 million+ customers in six countries, focused on repairing, maintaining, and enhancing homes and businesses. Through Neighborly.com and the Neighborly mobile app, Neighborly connects consumers to local service providers that meet rigorous franchisor standards across 19 service categories. For more information about Mosquito Joe®, visit www.MosquitoJoe.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

7 03, 2024

East Coast Wings + Grill Commits $100,000 to International Franchise Association’s Franchise Ascension Initiative

2024-03-07T19:41:51-05:00March 7th, 2024|Tags: , , |

Accelerator Program Aims to Narrow the Wealth Gap by Diversifying Franchise Ownership

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — In support of the International Franchise Association’s Franchise Ascension Initiative, East Coast Wings + Grill (ECW+G), a casual dining restaurant franchise, has announced its commitment of $100,000 to the program over the next five years. The Franchise Ascension Initiative (TAI) is a 6-month accelerator program aimed at preparing qualified individuals from underrepresented groups and economically disadvantaged communities with the education, mentorship, resources, and support to successfully launch a career in franchise ownership.

“It was important for me to be an inaugural donor to this program because I have been working on a strategy for developing a diversity program for ECW+G and this program basically launches ECW+G into such a desire,” said Sam Ballas, CEO & Founder of ECW+G.

The inception of this program, aimed at narrowing the wealth gap by catalyzing diversity in ownership in franchising, stemmed from the acknowledgment of the racial disparities in financial well-being. The International Franchise Association recognized franchising as a path toward a solution to the problem. Franchising has proven to be a successful wealth-generation strategy for historically disadvantaged communities, with, for instance, Black-owned franchise firms earning 2.2x as much in sales compared to Black-owned independent businesses, on average.

In addition to their donation to the program, ECW+G plans to engage in the mentorship aspect of the program to educate potential franchise owners on the importance of unit level economics within any franchise model. Additionally, ECW+G plans to develop a business model in an attempt to assist the program’s candidates in bringing ECW+G to their communities.

“Founders of companies have power to make a difference in their communities, and I am a stout believer that you must give back and not be a consistent ‘taker’ from them,” said Ballas. “The Franchise Accession Initiative offers East Coast Wings + Grill, and myself, an opportunity to embrace the underrepresented communities as a part of a total strategy. It simply compelled me to be part of making a difference.”

The six-month long program consists of structured online training, interactive and experiential learning, concluding in a pitch contest case study where participants will have the opportunity to prepare for a pitch contest on a specific franchise opportunity, which includes preparation of a business and financial model and a presentation in front of a selected group of franchisees, suppliers and/or franchisor executives. The program’s first group is set to begin in late 2024 or early 2025 and seeks franchise candidates from the five following categories:

  • College Degree Seeking Candidates – This audience pursues franchise ownership as an alternative career path. Ideally graduate school candidates, although undergraduate candidates in community colleges and vocational tracks are also good candidates.
  • Fractional or Outright Path to Ownership for Experienced Business Managers – Managers with 5+ years of successful management-level experience (in franchise, retail or other systems) who are interested in owning their own business either 100% outright or via a fractional path to ownership with store management.
  • Conversion Franchising – Existing business owners with a single unit or two that want to grow their business as part of a larger proven franchise system with support and resources and who may not be aware of franchising as a growth path for their business.
  • Corporate refugees – Individuals undergoing career changes who may not be aware of the opportunities in franchising.
  • High performing franchisees – These candidates will self-identify or be selected by franchisors with the potential for multi-unit ownership.

ABOUT EAST COAST WINGS + GRILL
East Coast Wings + Grill is a full-service, family-dining franchise that spotlights Buffalo wings. The thoughtfully-crafted menu also offers a variety of other options to satisfy every family member’s taste buds. With more than 50 nationwide locations, the franchise has secured a spot on the Entrepreneur and the Franchise Business Review Top Food Franchise lists. The concept has also been named to the Franchise Business Review Hall of Fame for the past decade due to outstanding franchisee support and overall franchisee satisfaction. East Coast Wings + Grill is a member of the IFA, with CEO and Founder, Sam Ballas, serving as the second vice chair of the association. For more information about East Coast Wings + Grill or its franchise opportunities, visit www.eastcoastwingsfranchise.com.