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17 01, 2026

Sport Clips Haircuts Celebrates $1.22M Raised for Veterans’ Scholarships & Thousands of Free Haircuts Given During its 2025 Help A Hero Campaign

2026-01-17T03:19:29-05:00January 17th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

Donations to the VFW Foundation Now Exceed $16M Supporting Veterans’ Education Toward Civilian Careers

SAN DIEGO — Sport Clips Haircuts today announced its 2025 Help A Hero Scholarship Campaign raised $1.22 million in support of military service members and veterans pursuing higher education. In addition, Sport Clips locations across the U.S. provided thousands of free haircuts to active-duty service members and veterans on Veterans Day, a gesture of gratitude for those who serve.

To mark the announcement, a check presentation was held today at VFW Post 1774 in La Mesa, where members of the local Sport Clips team provided haircuts for current military members and veterans in the greater-San Diego area. At the event, it was announced that since the scholarship program’s founding in 2013, Sport Clips, along with its clients, team members and product partners, has contributed more than $16 million to the program administered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), making it the nation’s largest scholarship effort of its kind. The funds provide vital education and career training opportunities for service members transitioning from military to civilian life.

“We are incredibly grateful to our clients, product partners, franchisees, and dedicated stylists whose generosity and commitment made this year’s campaign another success,” said Gordon Logan, founder and chairman of Sport Clips and a U.S. Air Force veteran. “Their support is making a real impact through funds raised for scholarships and thousands of free haircuts that help honor the men and women who serve our country.”

“This incredible donation raised by Sport Clips is a life-changing investment in the future of our transitioning service members,” said Carol Whitmore, VFW national commander. “For many veterans, the path to a successful civilian career is blocked by education benefits that run dry before the finish line. This program ensures that the financial hurdle of a degree doesn’t stand in the way of their dreams. Together, we are doing more than just paying for classes; we are honoring the service of these men and women by empowering them to lead in the workforce. On behalf of the VFW, I want to thank Sport Clips’ team, partners and their dedicated clients for their unwavering support and for proving, once again, that they truly understand what it means to support those who serve.”

Transitioning from military service into civilian employment can be challenging. Every year approximately 200,000 service members make this transition and often seek additional education or training to secure meaningful post-military careers. Yet many find that existing benefits, such as the GI Bill, don’t fully cover the financial needs associated with higher education or career training, driving the demand for supplemental scholarship support like that provided by Sport Clips’ Help A Hero campaign.

To date, Help A Hero has provided 3,546 total scholarships. The total includes 163 recipients for the upcoming spring 2026 semester. See the full list of spring 2026 recipients here. To apply for a fall 2026 scholarship before the April 30 deadline or to find out more, visit SportClips.com/HERO.

About Sport Clips Haircuts
Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. It was established in 1993 and began franchising in 1995. The sports-themed haircutting franchise, which specializes in haircuts for men and boys, offers online check in for clients, and ranks #52 in the Entrepreneur “Franchise 500” for 2025 and was named a 2025 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review. There are nearly 1,800 Sport Clips stores open in the U.S. and Canada. Sport Clips is the “Official Haircutter” of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises, and ranks #13 in the 2025 Top Franchise for Veterans list by Entrepreneur. Sport Clips provides “Haircuts with Heart” through its annual Help A Hero fundraiser that has contributed more than $16 million to the VFW; national partnership with St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants; and other national and local philanthropic outreach. Sport Clips is a proud sponsor of NASCAR’s Joe Gibbs Racing team, Minor League Baseball (MiLB), and partners with select NCAA teams. To learn more about Sport Clips, visit sportclips.com.

About the VFW
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation’s largest and most established major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.3 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans’ service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit our website at vfw.org.

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17 01, 2026

Pillar To Post Home Inspectors Recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2026 Franchise 500® Ranking

2026-01-17T03:13:30-05:00January 17th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Industry-Leading Home Inspection Franchise Earns Continued Validation for System Strength, Longevity, and Franchise Support

TAMPA, Fla. — Pillar To Post Home Inspectors (Pillar To Post), North America’s largest home inspection company, has been recognized on the 47th annual Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500® list, marking the brand’s 29th consecutive year upon the prestigious franchise ranking. The recognition marks another year of validation for the brand, which was inducted into the Franchise 500® Hall of Fame in 2024.

For nearly 30 years, Pillar To Post has remained a leader in home inspection franchising by prioritizing system durability, franchise owner support, and long-term scalability. The brand’s continued placement on the Franchise 500® reflects its ability to adapt to evolving market conditions while maintaining consistent performance.

“At a time when the franchise landscape continues to evolve, consistent recognition like this speaks to the strength of our model and the people behind it,” said Charles Furlough, CEO of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors. “Our focus has never been about chasing rankings. It’s about building systems that support strong operators, sustainable growth, and long-term success, and that discipline continues to serve our franchise owners well.”

A key differentiator behind Pillar To Post’s sustained performance is its Executive Model, which enables franchise business owners to build scalable inspection businesses without performing inspections themselves. By emphasizing leadership, team development, and operational leverage, the model continues to attract professionals from corporate leadership, military service, real estate, construction, and other industries seeking ownership.

In addition to its Franchise 500® recognition, Pillar To Post was also named to Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2025 Top Franchises for Veterans list, underscoring the brand’s longstanding commitment to supporting military entrepreneurs. Veterans make up a meaningful portion of the Pillar To Post system, drawn to the brand’s structured support, leadership-oriented model, and proven pathway to ownership.

Each year, Entrepreneur evaluates franchises using an extensive methodology that analyzes more than 150 data points across areas such as costs and fees, size and growth, franchise support, brand strength, and financial stability. The Franchise 500® has become one of the most comprehensive and competitive benchmarks in franchising, serving as a key research tool for prospective franchise owners.

“Our continued inclusion on the Franchise 500 reflects the depth of our support infrastructure and the consistency of our franchise network,” added Furlough. “As we look ahead, we remain focused on attracting the right owners, strengthening our systems, and helping franchise business owners build durable businesses in their local markets.”

To view Pillar To Post in the full Franchise 500® ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500 or see the January/February 2026 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands now.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Pillar To Post Home Inspectors, visit www.franchise.pillartopost.com.

About Pillar To Post Home Inspectors® 
Founded in 1994, Pillar To Post Home Inspectors is the largest home inspection company in North America with home offices in Toronto and Tampa. There are 400+ franchises located across the United States and Canada. The company has been named as Best in Category in Entrepreneur Magazine‘s Franchise500® ranking for 20 years in a row. For further information, please visit www.pillartopost.com.

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15 01, 2026

ALL 19 NEIGHBORLY® BRANDS EARN SPOTS ON ENTREPRENEUR’S 2026 FRANCHISE 500® FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

2026-01-15T15:12:47-05:00January 15th, 2026|Tags: , , , , , |

Seven Neighborly brands rank No. 1 in their respective categories

WACO, Texas — Neighborly®, a family of global brands dedicated to delivering remarkable experiences for both consumers and franchise owners, today announced that all 19 of its North American franchise brands have once again been recognized on Entrepreneur‘s 2026 Franchise 500® ranking. This marks the second consecutive year every eligible Neighborly franchise brand has been recognized on the industry’s most comprehensive and competitive franchise list.

The achievement reflects Neighborly’s continued momentum and the strength of its diversified portfolio, spanning repair, maintenance, restoration and home improvement services. Notably, seven Neighborly brands – Aire Serv®, Dryer Vent Wizard®, Glass Doctor®, Mr. Electric®, Mr. Rooter® Plumbing, Precision Garage Door Service® and Real Property Management – earned the No. 1 ranking in their respective franchise categories.

“This recognition highlights the incredible dedication of our franchise owners and the remarkable experiences they create for their customers every day,” said Mike Davis, chief executive officer of Neighborly. “With all 19 of our brands performing strongly in the home services market, we’re more confident than ever in the power of our platform, from the systems we’ve built to the way we support owners in growing trusted, local businesses. The future is bright, and we’re excited to continue connecting customers with the right services at the right time, driving innovation and growth across the industry.”

Widely regarded as the gold standard in franchise rankings, Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list evaluates franchise brands across more than 150 data points, including unit growth, financial strength and stability, brand power, costs and fees, and ongoing support. Only the top 500 franchises earn placement each year.

The following 19 Neighborly brands earned spots on the 2026 Franchise 500®:

Neighborly’s continued presence across the rankings highlights the company’s long-term strategy of building category-leading brands while empowering franchise owners to deliver reliable, high-quality service to homeowners across North America.

“Today’s franchise owners are looking for brands that can perform across economic cycles and grow with them over time,” said Brad Stevenson, chief development officer of Neighborly. “This recognition reinforces the advantage of Neighborly’s diversified home services portfolio and our ability to support franchise owners at every stage, from onboarding and launch to scaling through technology, marketing and operational excellence.”

To view all 19 Neighborly brands in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500.

To learn more about Neighborly, visit www.neighborlybrands.com/.

About Neighborly®
Neighborly® is a family of global brands focused on being remarkable with consumers and franchise owners. What began as one brand in Waco, Texas, in 1981 has grown to more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchise locations across North America and Europe serving millions of customers. Neighborly offers a proven path to business ownership accompanied by established systems, award-winning brands, training, and continued support throughout the franchising journey.

Correction: The ranking of Dryer Vent Wizard® has been updated.

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15 01, 2026

Two Five Star Franchising brands honored on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list

2026-01-15T15:03:33-05:00January 15th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

Five Star Bath Solutions (No. 123) and Mosquito Shield (No. 269) both recognized among top franchises in the country

SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Two brands from the innovative and rapidly-growing Five Star Franchising platform have been recognized on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list, denoting them as two of the top franchise opportunities in the country. Five Star Bath Solutions made the list at No. 123 while achieving the No. 1 position within the Kitchen and Bath Remodeling category. Mosquito Shield came in at No. 269.

The prestigious annual list represents a gold standard within the franchising industry, highlighting the brands that offer the best overall owner performance. Rankings are determined based on unit growth, financial stability and overall brand recognition.

This year’s rankings boast a number of notable milestones for the Five Star Franchising platform, including:

  • Five Star Bath Solutions’ eighth consecutive appearance on the list.
  • The first time Five Star Bath Solutions has topped its category.
  • Mosquito Shield’s fifth consecutive appearance on the list.

“When aspiring owners start vetting potential franchise opportunities, one of the main things they’re looking for is consistency,” said Scott Abbott, Co-founder and CEO of Five Star Franchising. “Having our brands make so many repeat appearances on this list confirms that they are reliable revenue-drivers and growth engines, year after year.”

The Franchise 500® list has been sought-after within the franchise space for 47 years now, with an ever-evolving rankings formula that accounts for more than 150 data points. In assigning rankings, Entrepreneur’s editorial team considers everything from growth trajectories to initial costs and fees.

“We have brands ranking across multiple categories, which attests to Five Star’s breadth of opportunity within the residential service space,” said Colt Florence, senior vice president of franchise development for Five Star Franchising. “For those looking to build their own business within the proven structures of a franchise system, our platform offers numerous points of entry.”

For more information about Five Star Franchising, visit fivestarfranchising.com.

To view the full ranking, visit http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500.

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, ranking #780 in 2025. Five Star Franchising also ranks among the fastest-growing businesses in its home state, with positions on the MountainWest Capital Network Utah 100, the Utah Valley BusinessQ UV50 and the Utah Business Fast 50 lists. For more information, visit fivestarfranchising.com.

About 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 was also recognized as one of the fastest-growing franchises in the U.S. and Canada by Entrepreneur in 2024 and named a Top Low-Cost Franchise for 2023 by Franchise Business Review. For more information, visit fivestarbathsolutions.com. To learn about franchising with Five Star Bath Solutions, click here.

About Mosquito Shield

Mosquito Shield is America’s trusted provider of effective residential mosquito, tick and perimeter pest control service. Combining an innovative proprietary blend of natural oils and select control products with a responsive spraying schedule designed around real-time pest population analysis and weather conditions, Mosquito Shield delivers the best results in the industry to help customers in over 400 territories enjoy their outdoor spaces. Mosquito Shield, part of the Five Star Franchising platform of home service brands, was ranked the top pest control franchise in the U.S. by Entrepreneur in 2023, 2024 and 2025. For more information about Mosquito Shield, visit moshield.com. To learn about franchising opportunities, click here.

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15 01, 2026

58% of US Job Seekers Say Finding Work Will Be Harder in 2026 — Yet 42% Are Already on the Hunt

2026-01-15T14:56:31-05:00January 15th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

New survey reveals rising workloads, shrinking opportunities and growing pressure for better pay and balance as the new year begins.

OKLAHOMA CITY — With 2026 in full swing, U.S. job seekers are entering the new year with mixed emotions and mounting challenges. While optimism about higher wages persists, the majority believe the road to landing a job will be harder than ever.

According to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey, 58% of job seekers expect it will be more difficult to find a job in the next six months, and 37% believe there are fewer opportunities compared to a year ago, a sharp decline from 48% in 2025.

At the same time, 46% anticipate overall wages will increase in 2026 compared to 2025, fueling hope amid uncertainty.

Interest in full-time work remains strong, with 82% of job seekers focused on securing full-time positions, compared to just 35% considering part-time roles.

Contract and freelance work appeals to 24%, while temporary or seasonal positions hold steady at 23%. Entry-level roles are attracting 22%, and only 11% are willing to accept positions below their most recent pay level, signaling a continued emphasis on stability and growth.

The intensity of job searches is also shifting. Currently, 42% of job seekers report actively looking for a new job, up from 35% in the spring of 2024 but slightly down from 44% in the spring of 2025. This trend suggests a market where urgency is rising but caution remains.

For those already employed, the grind is real: 47% report working longer hours or more shifts than usual in the past year, and 37% have logged more overtime.

Those with household incomes above $50,000 are feeling the strain most, with 49% working longer hours and 39% taking on more overtime, compared to 36% and 28% among lower-income workers.

Why are employed job seekers looking to make a move?

  • 42% want better growth opportunities within their current industry.
  • 41% are seeking the work-life balance they’ve been missing.
  • 36% cite the need to negotiate better compensation.

Top concerns about staying put:

  • 34% worry about not getting the salary increase they deserve.
  • 32% fear a slowdown in work opportunities.
  • 28% are concerned about losing their job if the economy declines.

Despite these pressures, satisfaction gaps remain a driving force behind career decisions.

Salary continues to lead with a 20-point gap between importance and satisfaction, followed by work-life balance at seven points and advancement opportunities at five points. While these gaps have narrowed slightly since the spring of 2025, they underscore persistent frustrations that could shape the job market in the months ahead.

“As the job market continues to evolve, success will come to those who stay focused, flexible and proactive,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “Job seekers who invest in their skills, remain open to new opportunities and clearly communicate their value will be best positioned to thrive and find the right fit in 2026.”

Survey Methodology
The Job Seeker Report was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from Nov. 7 to 20, 2025, among 1,003 adults ages 18 and older.

For full survey methodologies, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

If you would like to arrange for an interview to discuss this topic, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

About Robert (Bob) Funk Jr.
Robert (Bob) Funk Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer, President and Chairman of Express Employment International, a global staffing franchisor founded and headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He leads a portfolio of workforce solution brands, including the flagship Express Employment Professionals franchise, along with several affiliated brands serving specialized markets. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, employing more than 11 million people globally since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

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15 01, 2026

BrightStar Care Ranks Among Top 500 Franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for 2026

2026-01-15T14:51:35-05:00January 15th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

The Brand Earns #159 Ranking After Year of Accelerated Expansion and Strong Franchisee Performance

BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — BrightStar Care, a leading provider of in-home care and medical staffing, has been recognized, for the 16th year in a row, as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, BrightStar Care jumped nearly 30 positions from the previous year, now ranking as #159 for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“As demand for home-based care continues to rise, BrightStar Care’s continued momentum in the Franchise 500® reflects the strength of our franchise model,” said Pete First, Chief Development Officer at BrightStar Care. “We’re proud to offer franchise owners a model that delivers strong financial results while making a meaningful impact for families, caregivers, and healthcare partners nationwide.”

In 2025, BrightStar Care opened more than 30 new locations, welcomed 20 new franchise owners, and saw existing owners expand into 21 additional markets. BrightStar Care’s multiple revenue streams provide franchisees the opportunity to grow their business beyond traditional companion and personal care, which drives greater market penetration and strong financial performance.

“For 47 years, the Franchise 500 has been the gold standard for identifying franchise excellence. This year’s ranking proves that the best brands don’t just survive changing markets; they thrive in them,” says Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur magazine’s editor in chief.

As part of Entrepreneur’s ongoing commitment to evaluating the constantly evolving franchise landscape, the editorial team conducts in-depth research across a wide range of criteria, including costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and overall financial stability.

About BrightStar Care
Founded in 2002, BrightStar Care is a leading franchisor of home care services with more than 420 franchised locations nationwide that provide skilled and unskilled home care to clients and custom medical staffing solutions to corporate entities. BrightStar Care franchise agencies employ more than 15,000 caregivers and 5,700 registered nurses who oversee the care and safety of each client. All BrightStar Care agencies are accredited by The Joint Commission, and the brand has been recognized as an Enterprise Champion for Quality for over a decade. In addition to supporting families at home, BrightStar Care partners with healthcare organizations to meet staffing needs with experienced, credentialed professionals. Learn more at www.brightstarfranchising.com.

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12 01, 2026

AtWork Opens the Door to a New Era of Franchise Ownership with “AtWork Professional”

2026-01-12T08:19:09-05:00January 12th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

New fully remote, low-cost franchise model expands franchise ownership opportunities and meets the evolving needs of today’s workforce

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — AtWork®, an award-winning staffing agency franchise, is proud to announce the launch of AtWork Professional, a first of its kind franchise category debuting this year that reflects the changing dynamics of the modern workforce and the growing demand for specialized talent. Designed as a low-cost franchise opportunity, AtWork Professional eliminates the need for a brick-and-mortar location and can be operated independently without the need for additional staff, making it an accessible and flexible franchise model.

This innovative concept has been years in the making, as AtWork carefully evaluated workforce trends, franchisee needs, and the increasing demand for professional-level staffing solutions. By removing traditional geographic constraints, AtWork Professional opens the door for seasoned professionals to become franchise owners with a top-rated franchise while utilizing their existing personal networks to recruit and place professional level talent into meaningful, career-driven opportunities.

“AtWork has always been a staffing franchise about people, relationships, and understanding where the job market is headed,” said Jason Leverant, President and COO of AtWork. “AtWork Professional is an exciting and necessary next step for our brand. It allows us to stay innovative, meet the evolving expectations of today’s workforce, and attract a new generation of franchise owners who bring deep professional expertise to the table. We see the trends, and we’re proud to be delivering a solution that benefits franchisees, employers, and job seekers alike.”

AtWork Professional is designed to appeal to entrepreneurs with backgrounds in professional fields who are seeking flexible business ownership with a low-cost franchise, without the overhead of a physical office. Franchise owners will focus on placing professional-level talent into career opportunities, offering a more specialized staffing solution while maintaining AtWork’s people-first approach.

“AtWork Professional represents thoughtful growth,” Leverant added. “Our team of employment professionals, took the time to do this right, ensuring the model aligns with our values and delivers long-term opportunity for franchise owners and the communities they serve.”

AtWork Professional will launch with a focused set of specialized staffing categories designed to meet growing demand across professional and skilled sectors. These categories will include areas such as information technology, engineering, accounting and finance, marketing and creative, human resources, healthcare administration, and other professional services where industry knowledge and trusted relationships are essential.

For more information about AtWork Professional and franchise opportunities, visit https://www.atwork.com/franchise/.

About AtWork

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, AtWork is an award-winning staffing franchise. For more than 30 years, leading companies from across the nation have trusted AtWork to recruit the best talent. Recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Largest and Best Staffing Firms to work for in the U.S. and as an Entrepreneur Verified Franchise, AtWork can staff an entire production facility or provide temporary support that keeps businesses thriving. AtWork’s dedication and unparalleled service earned them Clearly Rated’s Best of Staffing® award for client and talent satisfaction. Additionally, the franchise’s growth and support for its franchisees have secured them a place on Franchise Business Review’s (FBR) Top 200 Franchise ranking for seven years in a row and is in the FBR Hall of Fame for 10+ years of stellar performance. AtWork is also ranked in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, Franchise Times Top 400, and Entrepreneur’s Top Franchises for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. To learn more about AtWork’s services, visit https://www.atwork.com/.

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12 01, 2026

The Designery expands its North Carolina presence with new North Charlotte showroom

2026-01-12T08:07:55-05:00January 12th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

Owners Carolina Preciado and Michael Simcox will host a grand opening event on Jan. 7 to introduce the location to area residents

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Designery, an immersive, full-service kitchen, bath and closet design center featuring high-quality cabinets, countertops and flooring, will celebrate the grand opening of its new North Charlotte location on Wednesday, Jan. 7 from noon to 2 p.m. at the showroom located at 19930 W. Catawba Avenue in Cornelius.

The Designery North Charlotte is locally owned and operated by business partners Carolina Preciado and Michael Simcox, who bring complementary backgrounds in leadership, operations, real estate and customer-focused service to their new venture.

The grand opening celebration will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce. Guests will enjoy lunch from local restaurants while touring the new showroom. The event will conclude with raffle giveaways, including gift baskets from vendor partners and a $1,000 grand prize gift card to be applied toward a project with The Designery North Charlotte.

“Our goal is to build a design center that clients trust as a long-term partner for their homes and projects,” Preciado said. “We want to create a process that is clear, collaborative and efficient while delivering design solutions that improve how people live in their spaces. By working closely with homeowners, builders and designers, our goal is to raise the standard for what a local design showroom can provide in both service and results.”

Simcox said that Charlotte’s continued growth makes it an ideal market for kitchen and bath remodeling, with many homes reaching an age where renovations and updates are increasingly in demand.

“North Charlotte offers a unique mix of growth, established neighborhoods and ongoing development,” Simcox said. “There is strong demand for thoughtful renovation and design solutions, and this market allows us to work with homeowners and partners who are invested in making discerning, lasting investments in their homes. We see a real opportunity to support the area’s continued evolution while delivering a seamless, end-to-end design experience.”

Casey Ridley, The Designery’s founder and president, said the North Charlotte owners exemplify the brand’s commitment to quality, collaboration and community engagement.

“Carolina and Michael bring strong leadership experience and a shared vision for serving their community,” Ridley said. “Their partnership exemplifies The Designery’s commitment to expertise, creativity and customer-centric solutions.”

The Designery North Charlotte will serve homeowners, builders, developers and interior designers throughout Caldwell, Concord, Cool Springs, Cornelius, Davidson, Highland Creek, Huntersville, Lake Norman of Catawba, Lowesville, Mallard Creek, Mooresville, Mt. Ulla, NoDa, Plaza Midwood, Statesville, Troutman, University City and Westport.

For more information about The Designery North Charlotte, visit https://thedesignery.com/locations/north-charlotte/ or call them at (704) 310-5639.

About The Designery

The Designery was founded in 2007 as A1 Kitchen and Bath, a product wholesale outlet serving the Chattanooga, Tennessee market. In 2019, it rebranded as The Designery and established a franchise model to expand its unique concept: to simplify the kitchen, bath and closet design process by offering premium products, design expertise, project management and trusted professional installation. Its selection of high-quality cabinets, flooring, countertops and accessories makes it a destination for any remodeling, renovation or new construction project. It is a one-stop shop for homeowners and a trusted partner for contractors, with knowledgeable staff to walk clients through every step, from design to project management and installation. The Designery’s immersive showroom and personalized guidance bring luxurious designs to life without the luxury price tag. To learn more about The Designery, please visit https://thedesignery.com/.

About HomeFront Brands:

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands — Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, Top Rail Fence, and Roof Scientist – to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands’ current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit https://homefrontbrands.com/.

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12 01, 2026

Cruise Planners Launches Industry-First “Free Trip” Franchise Promotion to Attract the Next Generation of Travel Entrepreneurs

2026-01-12T08:01:42-05:00January 12th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — As professionals across generations rethink traditional career paths, Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel franchise, is launching a bold new franchise recruitment promotion designed to introduce travel entrepreneurship for everyday people looking for a change. Beginning January 1, 2026, Cruise Planners will offer a FREE trip with the purchase of a franchise, inspiring qualified prospects to take the leap into entrepreneurship, and immediately equip new franchise owners with real-world experience.

“This promotion reflects what Cruise Planners stands for,” said Michelle Fee, Founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. “We invest heavily into our franchise owners from day one and taking that first trip as a franchise owner ignites a sense of wanderlust and also serves as a real-time training experience while earning commission immediately.”

A Franchise Model Built for Today’s Workforce

Cruise Planners’ franchise model is a good fit for many:

  • Women often are juggling busy lives. A travel franchise offers flexibility to work at one’s pace, early mornings, evenings or whenever time allows. It is an opportunity to turn passion for travel into income, all while balancing family and life demands.

  • Military Veterans’ leadership, discipline, and adaptability pairs nicely with Cruise Planners’ structured training and coaching model and provides a proven path to business ownership.

  • Gen Z and Millennials are prioritizing work-life balance and fulfillment over traditional career ladders. Franchise ownership offers work from home or on the go flexibility and scalability.

  • Gen X professionals are increasingly turning to entrepreneurship to leverage experience while building long-term financial security.

  • Baby Boomers and Retirees are looking for a fulfilling new career or part-time opportunity that offers exciting experiences and new sources of income all while staying active and exploring the world.

“No prior travel experience is necessary,” added Fee. “All that is required is a passion for travel. Our proven system of success provides the rest.”

Training, Support, and a Culture of Success

Cruise Planners’ long-standing reputation and deep industry partnerships make it a top choice for aspiring travel entrepreneurs looking to start a part-time or full-time business. New franchise owners benefit from the company’s training, support, technology, marketing, and collaborative culture, known internally as Cruisitude. As franchise owners build their business, they enjoy opportunities for ongoing training, strategic development, free marketing, travel industry networking, and travel benefits.

The free-trip franchise promotion launches January 1, 2026, and will be available for a limited time.

For more information about franchise opportunities with Cruise Planners, click here.

About Cruise Planners

Founded in 1994, Cruise Planners is the nation’s largest home-based travel franchise network with more than 3,000 franchise owners across the U.S. As an award-winning leader in the travel industry, Cruise Planners provides franchisees with innovative marketing programs, advanced booking technology, business intelligence tools, and comprehensive training. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as the #1 Travel Franchise for 18 consecutive years and a Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review. Cruise Planners has also been celebrated as one of the Top Women-Owned Businesses by the South Florida Business Journal, one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing private companies, and a Sun Sentinel Top Workplace.

For more information about Cruise Planners, visit www.cruiseplanners.com.
To learn more about franchise ownership opportunities, visit www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com.

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12 01, 2026

Pillar To Post Home Inspectors Expands Support Infrastructure with Strategic Appointments

2026-01-12T07:56:04-05:00January 12th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Melanie Amore and Todd Cornic Join Pillar To Post to Enhance Coaching, Sales Systems, and Startup Success

TAMPA, Fla. — Pillar To Post Home Inspectors (Pillar To Post), North America’s largest home inspection company, today announced the appointment of two seasoned franchising leaders to its corporate support team: Melanie Amore as Director of Consultant Success and Todd Cornic as Startup Director – Sales Support. Together, the additions underscore Pillar To Post’s continued investment in systems, coaching, and infrastructure designed to help franchise business owners launch strong and scale sustainably.

These appointments come as Pillar To Post expands across North America, attracting entrepreneurs from corporate leadership, military service, real estate, construction, and other industries seeking a proven, executive-led business model.

Strengthening Franchise Development & Consultant Support

In her role as Director of Consultant Success, Amore will focus on elevating the experience for prospective franchise business owners by supporting the consultants and brokers who guide candidates through the discovery and onboarding process. With experience across multiple mature franchise systems, Amore brings a relationship-driven approach centered on follow-through, alignment, and long-term success.

“What excites me most about Pillar To Post is the opportunity to support people at the very beginning of their entrepreneurial journey,” said Amore. “Franchising provides a powerful framework, but success ultimately comes down to people. My focus is ensuring that every candidate receives the guidance, clarity, and support they need to make the right decision and build a business they’re proud of.”

Amore will work closely with Pillar To Post’s development team to strengthen communication, improve engagement throughout the franchise awarding process, and ensure new owners enter the system positioned for long-term growth.

Building Stronger Sales Foundations

Joining alongside Amore, Cornic brings more than three decades of sales leadership, coaching, and franchising experience to his role as Startup Director – Sales Support. Cornic has helped scale multiple franchise brands from early-stage growth to hundreds of locations by refining sales processes, developing repeatable training systems, and coaching owners through hands-on launches.

In his new role, Cornic is responsible for supporting new and existing franchise business owners as they build strong sales and marketing foundations. His work includes immersive training programs, in-market coaching, and systemizing daily sales habits that drive consistency and accountability.

“Sales success isn’t about pressure or persuasion. It’s about relationships, follow-up, and showing up every day with the right mindset,” said Cornic. “Pillar To Post already has strong systems in place. My role is to help franchise owners turn those systems into habits that support growth, trust, and long-term success in their markets.”

Cornic will collaborate closely with Pillar To Post’s coaching team to align sales training, field support, and ongoing performance coaching across the system.

Investing in Scalable Support Systems

“Melanie and Todd each bring deep experience in franchising, but more importantly, they bring a shared commitment to supporting people,” said Eric Steward, Senior Director of Franchise Recruiting at Pillar To Post Home Inspectors. “As our system continues to grow, having leaders focused on coaching, sales execution, and long-term success is critical. These roles strengthen the foundation we provide to franchise business owners at every stage of their journey.”

With a scalable Executive Model, technology-driven systems, and continued market share growth, Pillar To Post remains focused on equipping franchise business owners with the tools, training, and support needed to thrive in today’s evolving home services landscape.

For more information on franchise opportunities with Pillar To Post, please visit https://franchise.pillartopost.com.

About Pillar To Post Home Inspectors® 
Founded in 1994, Pillar To Post Home Inspectors is the largest home inspection company in North America with home offices in Toronto and Tampa. There are 400+ franchises located across the United States and Canada. The company has been named as Best in Category in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise500® ranking for 19 years in a row. For further information, please visit www.pillartopost.com.

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