Tatyana Stemkovski, Author at Franchise Dictionary Magazine

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9 01, 2020

Columbus, MS ComForCare Franchise Owners Receive 2019 Franchise of the Year Award

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-01-09T10:06:15-05:00January 9th, 2020|Tags: Alzheimer's disease, Best Life Brands, ComForCare, dementia, in-home caregiving services, senior services franchise|

Columbus and Clotye Jones honored with prestigious award at ComForCare’s annual franchise conference

DETROIT — Columbus, MS ComForCare franchise owners, Columbus and Clotye Jones were awarded the 2019 Franchise of the Year award at ComForCare’s annual franchise conference in Houston, Texas, on November 16, 2019. Franchise of the Year is the most prestigious award following Caregiver of the Year.

The Joneses were recognized out of almost 200 locations for being high-level producers in the franchise system, creating and nurturing a strong local team, and being selfless givers.

“Columbus and Clotye embody the ComForCare values within their office and for the population they serve,” said Mark Armstrong, founder and president of ComForCare Franchise Systems. “They care for their clients as family, serve the community passionately, and shine with how they support their caregivers both at work and at home.”

Columbus and Clotye started working with older adults before they opened their ComForCare location. Cloyte volunteered with an organization that provided companionship and emotional support for seniors remaining at home. When Columbus became a deacon for their church, together they regularly visited those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, as well as aging adults in the community. The satisfaction from these visits led to their decision to open a home care agency.

“We are passionate about the level of commitment and reliability we provide our clients. I am committed to getting to know every one of our clients and their families personally,” said Columbus Jones. “That same level of commitment runs through our team. When we say we will be there, we’re there. When we say we will do something, we do it.”

The Joneses opened their franchise in 2010 and are part of one of the fastest-growing franchise business sectors in the country. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of people 65 and older is expected to increase to 55 million in 2020, and demand for businesses like the ComForCare franchise that the Joneses operate will continue to increase as people strive to age in place.

About ComForCare:

ComForCare is a franchised provider of in-home caregiving services with nearly 200 independently-owned and operated locations in the U.S. and Canada helping older adults live independently in their own homes. ComForCare is committed to helping people live their best life possible and offers special programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Founded in 1996, ComForCare was acquired by private equity firm The Riverside Company in 2017 and now is part of Best Life Brands, which has plans for continued expansion of service brands across the continuum of care for aging adults. ComForCare operates as At Your Side Home Care in Houston. For more information, visit www.comforcare.com.

7 01, 2020

Leading Boutique Stretching Franchise Launches Revolutionary TRX MAPS Technology in Studios Nationwide

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-01-07T16:45:19-05:00January 7th, 2020|Tags: boutique health and wellness franchise, decrease muscle aches, improve posture, one-on-one assisted stretching services, reduce pain, reduce recovery time, StretchLab|

StretchLab Stays a Cut Above with Machine that Measures and Analyzes Movement Inefficiencies

IRVINE, Calif. — StretchLab, the national assisted stretching franchise, is reaching for new heights with the integration of TRX MAPS Technology into its programming. The company announced today that the revolutionary machine which identifies movement inefficiencies across four critical categories – mobility, activation, posture and symmetry (MAPS) – will be rolling out in its 50-plus studios nationwide over the next few months, as well as all locations in development. StretchLab is the first assisted stretching brand to utilize this technology and has partnered with TRX to be the only assisted stretching brand that will use MAPS.

At StretchLab, clients work one-on-one with highly trained Flexologists™ in an open, modern and friendly environment to increase mobility and flexibility and achieve a deeper, more advanced stretch than one can get on their own. Once an oft-neglected and overlooked area of fitness, deep stretching is scientifically proven to be one of the most effective ways to decrease pain, lower risk of injury and provide people the ability to perform better at work, in the gym and in everyday life.

The TRX MAPS machine will be a huge asset to StretchLab’s offerings as technology continues to permeate the boutique fitness and wellness industry. MAPS uses 3-D technology to perform a total body movement assessment scan in under 30 seconds, as users perform 3 body-weight squats. Results are delivered on-screen and via email, which will allow StretchLab’s Flexologists to better serve the needs of its diverse members by fostering a customized movement plan and offering a measurable way to see progress in flexibility.

“With technology-driven and trackable workouts continually on the rise in the fitness industry, StretchLab is excited to bring this trend to the recovery space with the TRX MAPS machine,” said Lou DeFrancisco, President of StretchLab. “While the benefits of stretching and recovery are undeniable, we believe the integration of technology in this vertical will prove just how advanced and effective StretchLab’s programming and Flexologists are.”

Founded in 2015, StretchLab offers a variety of one-on-one personalized stretching services including a 25-minute stretch that concentrates on areas to focus on the client’s current stretching needs, as well as a 50-minute head-to-toe deep stretch that addresses all major muscle groups. In addition to one-on-one stretching services, two small format group stretching classes are also available, in which a Flexologist leads clients through a warm up and sequence of stretches to address major muscle groups.

To learn more about StretchLab and TRX MAPS technology, visit www.stretchlab.com. If you are interested in opening a StretchLab franchise, visit www.stretchlab.com/franchise.

ABOUT STRETCHLAB:

Founded in 2015 in Venice, California, StretchLab is a boutique health and wellness franchise that offers one-on-one assisted stretching services in a fun, energetic and communal environment. The sessions are designed to increase mobility and flexibility, helping to reduce pain, decrease muscle aches, improve posture, reduce recovery time and enhance quality of life. Guided by highly-trained Flexologists™ in a one-on-one or group atmosphere, StretchLab is the leader in the stretching industry through its approach to help clients of all ages, fitness levels, genders and sizes achieve deeper stretches that allow them to reach individual wellness goals. Headquartered in Irvine, CA, StretchLab is backed by Xponential Fitness, a team with decades of experience in fitness franchising. To learn more about StretchLab, visit www.stretchlab.com.

7 01, 2020

Senior Helpers® Furthers Commitment to Personalized and Compassionate Senior Care Though Partnership with Aging Life Care Association

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-01-07T16:38:27-05:00January 7th, 2020|Tags: Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, dementia, family caregivers, in-home senior care, pairing clients with compatible caregivers, personal and companion care, senior care, trained and certified caregivers|

Leading In-Home Senior Care Company Sponsors Annual ALCA Conference in Sarasota, Florida Jan.9-11 Offering Aging Life Care Professionals Access to LIFE Profile

BALTIMORE — Senior Helpers^®, the nation’s premier provider of in-home senior care services, today announced its corporate partnership with the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA), a leading nonprofit organization representing 2,000 professionals in geriatric care management who offer guidance and ongoing support for families and seniors in areas such as healthcare, housing and legal assistance. Senior Helpers is ALCA’s only national in-home care partner. The two companies will continue to strive toward a shared mission to ensure all seniors receive personalized and compassionate care.

This includes exploration of care delivery informed by Senior Helpers LIFE Profile, a revolutionary data-driven process for evaluating ongoing care requirements and risks associated with social determinants of health that can lead to hospitalization and lower quality of life. Used in combination with Senior Helpers’ best in class caregivers, LIFE Profile has demonstrated that care plans that are personalized and prioritized towards risk reduction can significantly improve client care and reduce overall system costs. According to the 2018 Profile of Older Americans, the 85 and over population is projected to more than double from 6.5 million in 2017 to 14.4 million in 2040, a 123 percent increase. Additionally, more than one in every seven, or nearly 16 percent of the U.S. population is an older American—someone aged 65 and up. As the population grows older, the need for aging life care managers grows. Moreover, today, approximately 21 percent of seniors who are released from a skilled nursing facility are admitted to a hospital emergency room within 30 days.

“We are honored to partner with ALCA, the nation’s premier organization for aging science and life care management,” said Mike Hughes, Vice President of Strategic Development, Senior Helpers. “We look forward to working with the ALCA and its highly respected membership to elevate the quality of senior care nationwide. Together we are taking important steps forward in improving quality of life for the nation’s seniors despite age-related illnesses and mobility challenges.”

Senior Helpers, along with its owners across Florida, will sponsor the ALCA Florida Chapter 2020 Annual Conference taking place at the Hyatt Regency in Sarasota from Jan. 9-11. The ALCA Florida Chapter is dedicated to promoting the professional field of care management by training, assisting, regulating, educating, and supporting qualified senior care managers who provide a full range of services to aging individuals, their families, and caregivers. For more information on the ALCA Florida Chapter Annual Conference, please visit here.

Senior Helpers operates with a vision to be the leading home care company in each community it serves throughout the nation. Its caregivers are fully trained and certified to offer the highest level of care possible based on the company’s Senior Gems® Alzheimer’s and dementia care program. As the gold standard for excellence in personalized in-home senior care, the program was developed in conjunction with nationally recognized dementia care expert Teepa Snow, Positive Approach, LLC. The company also offers a Parkinson’s Care Program, a specialized training program for their caregivers created in conjunction with leading experts from the Parkinson’s Foundation’s Centers of Excellence network.

For more information about how Senior Helpers is working to personalize senior in-home care, visit seniorhelpers.com. Learn more about Senior Helpers LIFE Profile assessment on the Senior Helpers website here. For more information on ALCA, visit aginglifecare.org.

About Senior Helpers^®

Senior Helpers^® is the nation’s premier provider of in-home senior services ranging from specialized care for those with diseases, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, to personal and companion care to help individuals looking for a little assistance with daily activities. Founded in 2002 with a vision to help seniors age with dignity despite age-related illnesses and mobility challenges, Senior Helpers^® has hundreds of franchised and owned businesses that have cared for tens of thousands of seniors.

Senior Helpers^® has been named by Fortune Magazine as one of the best places to work in the country in the aging services category, is included in Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise Ranking, is an approved partner in the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, and active in the Healthcare Leadership Council—an exclusive alliance of leading healthcare companies from all health sectors committed to advancing the American healthcare system. Learn more by visiting http://www.seniorhelpers.com.

6 01, 2020

Blink Fitness Expands And Brings Happiness To Dallas – Fort Worth

Tatyana Stemkovski2020-01-06T17:56:06-05:00January 6th, 2020|Tags: Blink fintess, fitness franchise|

Body-Positive Gym Rings in the New Year with Acquisition of Four Former Fitness 2000 Gyms; Unveils Complete Renovation

DALLAS — Blink Fitness (Blink), an inclusive, affordable gym that values Mood Above Muscle^®, is expanding in Texas with four new spacious, state-of-the-art gyms offering monthly memberships starting at $10. Opening in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area for the first time, residents looking to forge forward with their new year fitness resolutions will be able to start building the positive vibes that are associated with exercise in four local neighborhoods beginning this month.

Blink Fitness has 100 locations nationwide and is rapidly growing. The secret to Blink’s growth is its approach to fitness for every body. Blink is a firm believer that exercise isn’t just about looking good; it’s also about how it makes you feel. In its commitment to putting Mood Above Muscle^®, Blink Fitness gyms are brightly lit and feature colors that are scientifically proven to lift moods. Blink takes pride in its commitment to celebrating every unique body and its EveryBody Happy philosophy. Gym-goers are greeted and encouraged by specially trained employees called Mood Lifters^®.

“Opening our first four gyms in DFW is just the beginning of our presence here in the market as well as our continued growth nationally,” said Todd Magazine, CEO of Blink Fitness. “A growing and diverse population brought us to DFW, where we will employ more than 100 people from the community. We are thrilled to be bringing our affordable, inclusive approach to health & wellness to communities throughout DFW.”

Blink’s gyms in DFW feature state-of-the-art equipment for every fitness level, including cardio machines, strength equipment, dumbbells and designated areas for stretching, HIIT, bodyweight training and more. Certified personal trainers are available for members looking for one-on-one fitness coaching, and every membership comes with a free personal training start-up session. Personal training sessions start as low as $30. And, a first for Blink, the DFW gyms will offer two new features, a kid’s club and group fitness. The kid’s club provides play-based learning activities for children ages 6 months to 12 years while gym-goers exercise. Group fitness will provide 22 instructor-led classes with variations of yoga, dance, interval training and cardio.

The gym recently launched its Blink Fitness mobile app that empowers members to workout anytime, anywhere by providing hundreds of on-demand workout videos, including HIIT, strength, yoga, stretching, Pilates, spinning and treadmill classes, as well as guided meditations. Plus, the app offers nutrition advice and recipes.

Stop by to tour the beautiful new Blink Fitness DFW locations:

North Richland Hills – 7901 Mid Cities Blvd, North Richland Hills
Keller – 3529 Heritage Trace Pkwy
Bedford – 615 Harwood Road, Bedford
Beach Street – 7410 N Beach St., Fort Worth

For more information, visit www.blinkfitness.com. Connect with Blink Fitness on all social platforms at @BlinkFitness: Instagram / Facebook / Twitter. Memberships may also be purchased in gym, online or via the mobile app, available on Google Play and Apple App stores.

About Blink Fitness

Blink is challenging conventional fitness stereotypes through its revolutionary philosophy of Mood Above Muscle^® by celebrating how exercise makes you feel versus how it makes you look. Blink is the first gym to showcase body diversity and engage people who have been disenfranchised by the clichéd advertising images that feature unrealistic and unattainable bodies. Blink Fitness—a premium and affordable fitness brand—celebrates the positive feelings exercise elicits, along with the physical benefits. Blink has 140 locations open or in development throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, California, Illinois, Florida, Virginia, Massachusetts and Texas. Blink has been ranked on the Inc. 5000 list three times, was recognized as one of the top health clubs by Club Industry and selected as the best budget chain by Men’s Health.

Blink Fitness has franchise opportunities available nationwide with a focus on the following markets: Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, Phoenix, Raleigh, Las Vegas and Kansas City. For more information about Blink, visit blinkfitness.com. Franchising details are available on blinkfranchising.com.

31 12, 2019

Dennis Campbell Joins Big Blue Swim School as Vice President of Franchise Development

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-12-31T12:14:48-05:00December 31st, 2019|Tags: Big Blue Swim School, child care franchise, child education franchise, child engagement specialists, swim school franchise|

Industry veteran helps execute growth plan to position the franchise as a national leader

CHICAGO — Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest growing swim school franchises, has announced the appointment of franchise veteran Dennis Campbell as Vice President of Franchise Development.

“I am excited to join the team as Big Blue Swim School’s Vice President of Franchise Development,” said Campbell. “Their best-in-class offerings, data-driven approach, and proprietary technology position them well for longevity and success in the swim instruction industry and I look forward to bringing Big Blue’s high-performing investment opportunity to franchise partners around the country.”

Founded by U.S. National Champion swimmer Chris DeJong, Big Blue Swim School takes a holistic approach to swim instruction, developing critical life skills like confidence and self-esteem consistent with children’s developmental levels. The brand has the depth of leadership and strong investment model to emerge as a leader in the swim school industry.

Campbell has more than 12 years of experience in franchise development and has a strong track record of helping brands expand through franchising. He most recently served as Vice President of Fuzz Wax Bar, Canada’s leading wax bar franchise, helping educate and guide potential franchise partners through the investment opportunity. Prior to that, he worked as the Vice President of Franchise Development at the premier in-home tutoring service franchise, Tutor Doctor.

“Since launching its franchise program, Big Blue Swim School has signed 58 franchise locations,” said Scott Thompson, Chief Development Officer at Big Blue Swim School. “Dennis’ knowledge and expertise in franchising will allow him to leverage Big Blue’s strong unit model to accelerate our growth in key markets around the country.”

With key differentiators such as LessonBuddy™, a proprietary and easy-to-use lesson management platform, a proven curriculum, and optimized operational model involving data-driven capacity planning, Big Blue is positioned to become a dominant player in the $3 billion swim school industry.

“In addition to the consumer proposition, strong support for both incoming and established franchise partners makes Big Blue a franchising opportunity not to be missed,” said Thompson. “Everyone on the development team is excited about the skill set and expertise Dennis is bringing to Big Blue Swim School.”

Big Blue Swim School is a mission-driven business focused on creating big, life-changing moments for kids and families. The semi-absentee business model supports franchise partners with proprietary technology, top-tier franchisor support, and strong unit economics. The company is currently rolling out an aggressive strategy to grow through franchising to 150 pools in 2021.

ABOUT BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL

Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong. The first location opened in Wilmette, Illinois, followed by four additional Chicagoland schools. In 2017, Level 5 Capital Partners acquired a stake in the brand. Through that investment, Big Blue plans to grow through franchising to 150 pools by 2021. Big Blue Swim School’s real estate expertise, strong brand, proprietary technology, and leadership support, coupled with its best-in-class consumer offerings, position its franchise partners for long-term success. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Big Blue Swim School, visit http://YourBigMomentStartsHere.com.

31 12, 2019

Right at Home to Move Headquarters to New Building in Omaha’s Aksarben Village

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-12-31T12:08:52-05:00December 31st, 2019|Tags: adults with a disability, in-home companionship, personal care, quality of life for seniors, Right at Home|

The in-home healthcare brand’s corporate team will enter the new office in mid-January, beginning a new era of growth for the company.

OMAHA, Neb. — Right at Home is about to get a new home. The premier in-home care brand, which provides services from more than 500 franchised and corporate-owned locations across the United States and in seven other countries, is moving its headquarters to a new building in Omaha’s Aksarben Village. The company will occupy the fourth and fifth floors at 6700 Mercy Road starting in mid-January.

The move marks a notable change for Right at Home, which outgrew its existing space a few years ago and has relied on an annexed location to accommodate its growing team. The new office will bring the entire corporate team back together under one roof just in time to celebrate the company’s 25^th Anniversary year.

“It’s an exciting time for Right at Home,” said Brian Petranick, Right at Home President and CEO. “We continue to expand our foothold in the home care industry, allowing us to provide care to more seniors and adults with disabilities, which is sorely needed due to the waves of baby boomers turning age 65 every day. The new headquarters will allow us to enhance the support provided to all of our offices, utilizing the best of current technology. It will also provide a great environment for our current and future employees. We are truly thrilled with the new building and look forward to continuing on as a resident of Aksarben Village in Omaha for years to come.”

The new headquarters will feature innovative designs that enhance collaboration, promote employee health, and offer flexibility, making it appealing to the workers of today. There are a number of traditional meeting rooms, as well as open areas for collaboration. Right at Home employees will also enjoy “touchdown stations” that will allow them to work from virtually any point in the office, as well as ample “phone booths” for private calls. The focal point of the office is the two-story entry that captures the history, culture and spirit of Right at Home. The environment outside of the office also supports Right at Home’s commitment to its employees. Aksarben Village is one of the most vibrant and active areas of Omaha. Walking trails, a health club, multiple restaurants, outside seating, and Stinson Park are just some of the features of the area.

The space was designed to accommodate Right at Home’s expansion over the next 10 years and beyond as the company continues to fulfill its mission of improving the quality of life for those they serve.

ABOUT RIGHT AT HOME:

Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship, personal care and assistance to seniors and adults with a disability who want to continue to live independently. Local Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff, each of whom is thoroughly screened, trained, and bonded/insured prior to entering a client’s home. Right at Home’s global headquarters is based in Omaha, Nebraska, with more than 500 franchise locations in the U.S. and seven other countries. Right at Home was the highest-ranked senior care franchise opportunity on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list in 2018. In 2018 and 2019, Forbes magazine ranked Right at Home as one of the best franchises to own under $150,000. For more information on Right at Home, visit About Right at Home at http://www.rightathome.net/about-us or read the Right at Home franchising blog at http://www.rightathomefranchise.com/blog/. Right at Home’s services include physical assistance, hygiene, transportation, Alzheimer’s care, cancer recovery and more. Right at Home regularly celebrates its industry-leading caregivers and utilizes its proprietary CERT program (Caregiver Education Retention and Training) to make sure its employees are the best in the industry. To learn more about franchising opportunities, please visit http://www.rightathomefranchise.com/.

30 12, 2019

FASTSIGNS® Continues Worldwide Growth with Signing of Master Franchise Agreement to Open Centers throughout France and Monaco

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-12-30T09:09:08-05:00December 30th, 2019|Tags: FASTSIGNS International Inc., FASTSIGNS® sign and graphic centers, sign and graphic solutions, sign and visual communication franchise|

Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchisor Will Open Its First Location in Paris in March 2020

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS^®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, announced today it has signed a master franchise agreement to open 12 centers throughout France and Monaco over the next three years. FASTSIGNS’ first location in France recently opened in Paris.

“We are thrilled to add France and Monaco to FASTSIGNS’ global footprint as we continue to target growth throughout Western Europe,” said Mark Jameson, Executive Vice President of Franchise Support and Development. “Our success in France will play an important role in further proving the strength of the FASTSIGNS business model internationally, particularly in major cities throughout Europe and around the world.”

Parisian entrepreneur Jean-Marc Tabel will lead FASTSIGNS’ development in France, beginning with the first center that opened at 227 Boulevard Raspail in the 14^th arrondissement of Paris. Tabel has over 40 years of experience developing awnings, store décor, and printed materials.

“Throughout France, there are numerous privately-owned businesses that need marketing and branding services, and FASTSIGNS is surely the most advanced franchise opportunity in its industry. We are glad to be pioneers for the brand in our country,” said Tabel. “Joining FASTSIGNS met every criteria we were searching for in a business opportunity. With the amount of ongoing support and training that FASTSIGNS provides its franchisees, we are confident we will be successful.”

FASTSIGNS has reported exceptional results this year. The brand signed 40 franchise agreements to develop new, co-branded, and conversion centers worldwide and is projected to open over 30 locations this year. Internationally, FASTSIGNS opened its first locations in Chile and Malta and signed an additional master franchise agreement to develop centers in the Dominican Republic. FASTSIGNS is continuing to seek qualified candidates to grow its international footprint in target markets throughout the world, including Québec, New Zealand, and Brazil, as well as countries throughout North Africa, Southwest Asia, Latin America, and Europe.

FASTSIGNS is consistently ranked as a top franchise opportunity. In 2019, Entrepreneur magazine named FASTSIGNS the #1 franchise opportunity in its category and 95 overall on its annual Franchise 500^® list, making it the only sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise to be recognized in the top 100. Entrepreneur also named FASTSIGNS one of the Top Franchises for Veterans in 2019. FASTSIGNS also was recognized as one of the top business opportunities for veterans in Franchise Business Review‘s 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans report. FASTSIGNS was named to the 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. FASTSIGNS made Franchise Direct‘s list of the Top 100 Franchises 2019 and ranked #2 on this year’s Franchise Gator Top 100 list, both ranking the best franchises for 2019. Franchise Business Review has recognized FASTSIGNS as one of the “Best of the Best” for franchisee satisfaction for the last 10 years, as well as naming FASTSIGNS to its “Innovative Franchises” list in 2017, and its Top 50 Franchises for Women and Top Service Franchise lists in 2019. In 2018, Franchise Business Review named FASTSIGNS a “Best-in-Category” franchise. This year, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) awarded FASTSIGNS International, Inc. the Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the seventh consecutive year for its strong relationship with Canadian franchisees, as well as extensive franchisee training and support.

About FASTSIGNS^®

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. celebrates its 35^th anniversary in business in 2020 as the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 700 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers in 10 countries including the United States, Canada, Chile, England, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, Spain, and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®).

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and visual graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touch points. FASTSIGNS has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 for the past four years, a 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans by Franchise Business Review and a 2019 America’s Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine. Learn more about sign and visual graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com.

27 12, 2019

Valvoline Announces Opening of Company-Owned Quick-Lube Center in Columbus, Ohio Metro Area

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-12-27T14:21:23-05:00December 27th, 2019|Tags: automotive services, supplier of premium branded lubricants, Valvoline|

New location marks company’s 27th service center in Greater Columbus and expands network of approximately 1,400 company-owned and franchised quick lube locations

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Valvoline Inc. – a leading worldwide supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services – announced today that it has opened a new company-owned Valvoline Instant Oil Change^SM (VIOC) service center in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

A core element of Valvoline’s strategy is to accelerate the growth of its industry-leading quick-lube model, which is all about delivering a quick, easy and trusted experience for every customer, every day. The service center is at 8231 E. Broad Street in Reynoldsburg. No appointments are necessary.

Valvoline Instant Oil Change service centers let customers stay in their cars and watch VIOC’s certified technicians perform their service. Technicians complete a professional ASE®-accredited training program that is ranked #4 globally by the Association for Talent Development’s 2019 BEST Award. In addition to full-service oil changes done in about 15 minutes, VIOC performs a wide range of preventive maintenance services, including transmission, radiator and air-conditioning services; safety parts replacement, including wiper blades and light bulbs; and tire rotation. Most locations also offer fuel system and battery services. VIOC services most vehicle makes and models, including luxury, diesel, and hybrid. Visit www.vioc.com to learn more.

About Valvoline™

Valvoline Inc. (NYSE: VVV) is a leading worldwide marketer and supplier of premium branded lubricants and automotive services, with sales in more than 140 countries. Established in 1866, the company’s heritage spans more than 150 years, during which time it has developed powerful brand recognition across multiple product and service channels. Valvoline ranks as the No. 3 passenger car motor oil brand in the DIY market by volume. It operates and franchises approximately 1,400 quick-lube locations, and it is the No. 2 chain by number of stores in the United States under the Valvoline Instant Oil Change^SM brand and the No. 3 chain by number of stores in Canada under the Valvoline Great Canadian Oil Change brand. It also markets Valvoline lubricants and automotive chemicals, including the Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife technology motor oil for engines over 75,000 miles; Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic motor oil; Valvoline Premium Blue™ heavy-duty motor oil; Valvoline Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid; and Zerex™ antifreeze. To learn more, visit www.valvoline.com.

^TM Trademark, Valvoline or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries
^SM Service mark, Valvoline or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries
® Register mark owned by third party

23 12, 2019

Wendy and Erik Skaalerud Sign Lease for Denver Area’s First Big Blue Swim School in Centennial, Colorado

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-12-23T10:30:47-05:00December 23rd, 2019|Tags: Big Blue Swim School, child care franchise, child education franchise, child engagement specialists, swim school franchise|

Denver-based entrepreneurs sign lease on the first of five Big Blue pools

DENVER — Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest-growing swim school franchises, is coming to Colorado thanks to Denver-based entrepreneurs Wendy and Erik Skaalerud. The pair recently signed a lease for their first pool, which will be located at the intersection of Himalaya and Smokey Hill Road in Centennial, Colorado.

As initial investors and franchisees of Orangetheory Fitness, Erik and Wendy grew their Denver footprint for Orangetheory to 30 locations before selling. The couple also started their own finance company 15 years ago—Capital Lending—to help small business owners get off the ground financially. When the two learned about Big Blue Swim School while looking for their next franchising endeavor, they were attracted to the high-quality investment opportunity and the best-in-class consumer offering.

“Big Blue offers a recession-resistant model with solid lasting power in the market, but most importantly, it’s a mission-driven business that helps prevent drowning by teaching a necessary and critical life skill,” said Erik Skaalerud. “We are excited to create a whole culture of quality swimmers and open the door to a new level of swim instruction in Colorado.”

The Skaaleruds signed a five-unit deal in March of 2019, becoming Big Blue’s first franchise partner. As they prepare to open the Centennial Big Blue Swim School, they will continue scouting real estate for four additional Big Blue pools in the surrounding areas.

“As we grow with Big Blue Swim School, we look forward to building an incredible community of families who value confidence, water safety and fun,” said Wendy Skaalerud. “Erik and I made a life commitment to align with people of integrity, kindness, grace and authenticity and the team at Big Blue fits the bill completely.”

Since opening in 2009, Big Blue has worked to change the way swim lessons are taught. “Everything we do is focused on showing kids they can do anything through the magic of weekly swim lessons,” said Chris DeJong, Founder of President of Big Blue Swim School. “This mission drives every operation at Big Blue and we think Erik and Wendy will deliver that mission with passion and enthusiasm.”

With an aggressive growth plan in place, Big Blue has already signed 58 units across the country. With a goal of reaching 150 units by 2021, the brand is uniquely positioned to be the leader in the $3 billion learn-to-swim industry. “The Big Blue brand offers franchise partners strong differentiators like a superior curriculum focused on distance-based learning, an innovative proprietary enterprise system, a data-driven real estate strategy and top-tier franchisor support,” said Big Blue’s Chief Development Officer, Scott Thompson. “Beyond that, Big Blue has the experience and data-driven approach needed to scale quickly.”

“We are very excited about Erik and Wendy’s first Big Blue Swim School opening in Centennial,” said Thompson. “Their franchise and business experience will help set them up to be strong and successful franchise partners in Colorado. Their passion for mission-driven work means they will deliver on the Big Blue mission to inspire big moments for kids in the communities they serve.”

ABOUT BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL

23 12, 2019

Huntington Learning Center Announces Results Of SAT, ACT And Scholarship Survey For 2019

Tatyana Stemkovski2019-12-23T10:25:07-05:00December 23rd, 2019|Tags: child services, education franchise, preps for the SAT and ACT, tutoring and test prep provider|

2019 Represents a Year of Significant Growth, Leadership Changes and Awards for the Leading Tutoring and Test Prep Company

ORADELL, N.J. — Huntington Learning Center, the leading tutoring and test prep company with approximately 300 locations across the country, recently announced the results of its annual SAT, ACT and scholarships survey for 2019. On average, students who participated in Huntington’s standardized test prep programs reported an increase of 229 points on the SAT, and 5.4 points on the ACT. Additionally, Huntington students reported receiving over $71,000 in scholarships on average, up from $57,000 in 2018. Total scholarships awarded to Huntington students surveyed was $187 million, up from $140 million in 2018.

“We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our students, parents, tutors and franchisees over the past year,” said Anne Huntington, President of Huntington Learning Center. “Our individualized programs have a proven track record of success, and we’re honored to be able to have a positive impact on so many students’ lives.”

These scores bring to a close a year of celebration for Huntington, which in 2019 received top honors from Training Magazine for its employer-sponsored training and development programs. Additionally, Huntington Learning Center was named a Top Franchise by both Entrepreneur Magazine and the Franchise Business Review, and received top honors from Newsweek for its excellent customer service.

Also this year, Anne Huntington was named President of Huntington Learning Center, and was honored as Woman of the Year in Franchising by the Stevie Awards, as well as named to NJBiz’s prestigious 40 Under 40 List and the Education Power 50 List. Anne and her mother, Huntington Co-Founder and CEO Eileen Huntington, were also named to Franchise Dictionary’s 50 Women of Wonder List.

2019 was a period of notable growth and expansion for the company, which opened up more than 40 franchising opportunities across the Northeast region — the company’s most significant period of franchise expansion since its inception in 1977. To date, more than 50% of these franchise locations have been sold.

For information about Huntington Learning Center franchise opportunities, please visit www.HuntingtonFranchise.com or call 1-800-653-8400.

About Huntington Learning Center

Huntington Learning Center is the nation’s leading tutoring and test prep provider. Its certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry and other sciences. It preps for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of Common Core State Standards. Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn how Huntington can help at www.HuntingtonHelps.com and for franchising opportunities www.HuntingtonFranchise.com.

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