The Alternative Board (TAB) offered Denise O’Neill an elegant exit from the corporate world when she and her husband bought the Baltimore Washington location in Maryland 10 years ago. By Lizzy Yeserski
The new year brings exciting news of continued growth for Ace Handyman Services, according to Colette Bell, vice president of franchise development. The franchise, known for being a successful technology-based repair and remodeling company, recently opened in its 45th state, adding to 362 established territories with over 200 owners. By Cindy Charette
Giving and gratitude are part of the culture at Schooley Mitchell, a cost-reduction franchise. Many franchisees are drawn in by the opportunity to help reduce expenses for local businesses and nonprofits. By Sarah Lindauer
Corporate umbrella company for leading franchise brands showcasing franchise opportunities across its portfolio.
CARROLLTON, Texas — Propelled Brands, the multi-brand platform company of FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE®, NerdsToGo® and MY SALON Suite, will be attending the International Franchise Expo (Booth #214) in New York, NY, taking place June 1-3 at the Javits Center. The International Franchise Expo (IFE) 2023 is the world’s leading event where potential franchisees can network and connect with large, medium-sized and emerging franchise brands.
“The International Franchise Expo is an opportunity to network, share best practices and showcase the available opportunities within the Propelled Brands network,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer at Propelled Brands. “FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo and MY SALON Suite offer world-class services, brand recognition and the support of an established network. With all three of our brands represented, we look forward to attending IFE once again and connecting with potential franchisees.”
The International Franchise Expo brings together attendees, exhibitors, expert speakers and sponsors for information sharing, education and business development. Mark Jameson and other key leaders at Propelled Brands will be in attendance to showcase franchise opportunities across the three brands. NerdsToGo, MY SALON Suite and FASTSIGNS are seeking qualified franchisees to be owner-operators to help the brands continue their aggressive growth trajectories.
NerdsToGo is a growing IT and technology repair services franchise that makes IT accessible for small to medium-sized businesses and provides a simple path to overcoming the pain points of technology, with plans to expand into new markets all across the country. MY SALON Suite, a salon suite franchise that offers a unique semi-absentee ownership model, has now grown to over 275 locations and is seeking multi-unit franchisee prospects nationwide. FASTSIGNS is the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America. The brand has now reached over 765 centers in the network, offering a variety of franchising options through co-brands and conversions.
For more information about Propelled Brands franchise opportunities, please visit https://www.propelledbrands.com/franchising-opportunities/, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679.
For more information about the International Franchise Expo, visit https://www.franchiseexpo.com/ife/.
About Propelled Brands®:
Propelled Brands is the multi-brand platform company of FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE®, NerdsToGo® and Suite Management Franchising, LLC, the parent company of MY SALON Suite® and Salon Plaza®. Propelled Brands advances the strategic path for each brand, offering support, guidance, and a clear vision to fully equip every franchisee, helping them maximize success.
Propelled Brands is looking to partner with other service-oriented franchise concepts that align with its forward-thinking growth objectives. For more information or to learn about opportunities with Propelled Brands, visit propelledbrands.com. To learn about franchise opportunities with FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo, or MY SALON Suite, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).
MINNEAPOLIS — Discover Strength, a strength training concept built on the principle that busy people don’t have time to waste on exercise that doesn’t work, was recognized as one of the Top New and Emerging Franchises for 2023 in the May/June issue of Entrepreneur magazine. The ranking highlights some of the strongest companies that have begun offering franchise opportunities in the last five years (since 2018). Discover Strength was ranked #116.
“It is an incredible honor to be recognized as one of 2023’s Top New Franchises,” said Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength. “This would not be possible without the amazing Discover Strength family, and we look forward to being able to continue providing the communities we serve with evidence-based strength training with a hospitality-obsessed culture; all delivered by expert exercise physiologists.”
The Top New and Emerging Franchises ranking is based on information submitted to Entrepreneur for its annual Franchise 500® and is part of the brand’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace. Companies featured on the 2023 list have been offering a franchise opportunity for five years or fewer and were assessed across multiple data points, including unit growth, startup costs and fees, training and support, the parent company’s financial stability, and brand strength.”
The franchise industry is full of big new ideas, which is why Entrepreneur’s Top New and Emerging list is always so exciting,” said Entrepreneur editor in chief Jason Feifer. “If anyone’s looking to get in on the ground floor of the next big thing, they should start with the brands we’ve identified — that are all full of creativity, innovation, and accessibility for aspiring entrepreneurs.
To view Discover Strength in the full ranking, visit https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/topnew. Results can also be seen in the May/June issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands May 2nd.
As the brand continues its franchise expansion, it is actively seeking both single and multi-unit franchise partners looking to invest in the growing market of strength training. The initial franchise fee of Discover Strength is $49,000 with an estimated total investment of $373,000 – $611,000.
To learn more about Discover Strength’s franchise opportunity, please visit: https://discoverstrengthfranchise.com/.
About Discover Strength
Founded in 2006, Discover Strength is a Minnesota-based strength training studio built on the principle that busy people don’t have time to waste on exercise that doesn’t work. Discover Strength delivers 30-minute strength training workouts, twice per week with exercise physiologists. They help their clients look and feel their best in a fraction of the time. Discover Strength currently has 15 locations (11 in Minnesota, one Scottsdale location, and three locations awarded in Salt Lake Valley) with more on the way. Learn more at discoverstrengthfranchise.com.
Leading Massage and Facial Franchise Expands Footprint in Midwest as Demand for Holistic Care Rises.
CLEVELAND, Ohio — Massage Heights, a leading massage and wellness franchise, signed a franchise agreement in the Cleveland market, offering resort-quality massage, skincare and wellness services. Already open for business at 18240 Royalton Road in Strongsville, this is the third retreat within the state.
Behind the franchise agreement is Kim Higgins, who previously served as a Franchise Business Consultant for Massage Heights Franchising for six years at the brand’s headquarters in Texas. After making the transition from consultant to franchisee, she’s now serving the Midwest market. Having two decades of experience working in the beauty industry and the experience of supporting franchisees in her operations role, Higgins will capitalize on her industry knowledge to create an elevated member experience and a strong culture for her 20+ massage and skin care therapists.
“I’ve always had a passion for the wellness and beauty industry, which is what drew me to the operations role at Massage Heights Franchising back in 2018,” Higgins said. “I have had the privilege to work with so many Massage Heights franchisees over the years and supporting and guiding them through their journey in business ownership felt like the perfect next step for me.”
According to the 2023 Franchising Outlook report by the International Franchise Association, service-based industries will witness higher growth than other industries with beauty, fitness, health and wellness concepts ranking high on this list. With the industry primed for increased growth, Massage Heights has identified target markets and has vast whitespace available nationwide.
“Having been a consultant for our franchisees for many years, Kim knows exactly how to best support members, massage therapists, and skin care therapists,” said CEO & President Susan Boresow. “With her passion, expertise, and drive to provide personalized, therapeutic experiences, we know that the community will greatly benefit from her retreat.”
Massage Heights is currently seeking single and multi-unit operators to join its growing brand. To learn about Massage Heights franchise opportunities, visit https://www.massageheightsfranchise.com/.
About Massage Heights
The massage franchise started in 2004 and has grown to more than 115 Retreats throughout North America by providing personalized wellness treatment options through therapeutic massage and skincare services. For more information about Massage Heights and its franchise opportunities, please visit MassageHeightsFranchise.com.
Matthew Koster to lead Gotcha Covered of Coastal Charleston in offering premium consultation services.
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, has announced the opening of Gotcha Covered of Coastal Charleston. This marks the fifth location in South Carolina.
The new home-based center is owned and operated by Matthew Koster. With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, this business will provide the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in Charleston, Berkley and Dorchester counties. The center will offer a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.
“At Gotcha Covered, we are the example for what a window treatment franchise should be,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. “From our consultation services to the product we provide, we are a partner that homeowners and businesses can rely on when they need window treatment services. Matthew will continue that legacy by being an asset to the Charleston community, and we are excited to see his business thrive.”
A veteran in the franchise industry, Koster owned and operated three Servpro franchises and a construction company for 15 years. He earned an M.B.A. in business management as well.
After deciding to sell his Servpro franchise, Koster moved back home to South Carolina. Once he decided to look into franchise opportunities locally, he came across Gotcha Covered.
“I was searching for a franchise that offered flexibility and a work-life balance,” said Koster. “Gotcha Covered has that and much more. The franchise offers low overhead and minimal employee management as well. I also have the freedom to run the business how I like, which is a main factor for me.”
Ultimately, Koster said he wants to run his business like a mini franchise.
“I want to give others opportunities to own their own business within my business,” Koster said. “I want them to be able to have their own schedules and the ability to market themselves while maintaining the core values across the board.”
Adding 40 new franchise locations in 2022, Gotcha Covered currently has over 155 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 Coastal Charleston, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/coastal-charleston/.
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 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.
Eco-friendly carpet cleaning franchise announces development plans in Boston.
LAKEWOOD, Colo. — Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning, one of the nation’s greenest and fastest-growing carpet cleaning franchises, is expanding their brand presence in Boston and its surrounding communities through franchising.
With 5 territories currently available to prospective franchisees, Oxi Fresh is excited to team up with local entrepreneurs who love Boston and are passionate about serving their communities.
“We have 5 exceptional carpet cleaning franchise territories available in Boston and neighboring areas,” said Matt Kline, Director of Franchise Development. “We’d love to see those territories in the hands of qualified, talented entrepreneurs by the end of 2023.”
This carpet cleaning franchise company has, since first opening in 2006, stood out in its industry. Its rapid growth is due to many factors, and chief among them is consumers’ love of Oxi Fresh’s green, fast-drying cleaning system. Rather than rely on traditional steam cleaning practices that saturate carpets, Oxi Fresh employs a low-moisture cleaning method that utilizes the power of oxygen.
“We’ve created an environmentally friendly cleaning system that combines the best equipment with the highest quality products,” said Jonathan Barnett, founder and CEO. “With hundreds of locations throughout the United States and Canada, we want to keep pushing forward and continue our mission of providing everyone with access to high quality, eco-friendly carpet cleaning services.”
The company is committed to providing its carpet cleaning franchisees with advanced business support tools. These include a centralized Scheduling Center, a specialized CRM designed for their business, automated marketing tools, and more. With these modern tools, Oxi Fresh’s franchisees have the opportunity to focus on business development rather than mere daily tasks.
About Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning®
Through innovative products and modern technology, Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning offers green carpet cleanings and exceptional results. The company’s powerful combination of knowledgeable people, innovative technology, and strong processes has landed the brand in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500, ranked in Inc. magazine’s Inc. 500|5000, and saw them named as one of “America’s Best Franchises to Buy,” by Forbes magazine. Oxi Fresh has over 460 locations throughout the United States and Canada, with more locations currently in development. For more information, visit oxifresh.com.
Nation’s Leading Fast-Casual Salad Brand Adds Craft Hot Honey, Berries and Poppyseed Dressing LTOs to the Menu for Q2.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Saladworks, the nation’s leading fast-casual create-your-own salad franchise and part of the WOWorks family of better-for-you restaurant brands, is mixing sweet and spicy flavors in its new summer Limited-Time Only (LTOs) menu items. The new LTOs will add craft Hot Honey to several popular menu items during Q2, as well as bring back a guest favorite for the season, the Summer Berry Salad with their new Poppyseed Dressing.
The new featured menu offerings with a twist of sweetness and spice are available now through September 5, 2023 at all Saladworks locations. The fast-casual eatery will offer guests the option of adding chicken or shrimp tossed with craft hot honey sauce to some of their fan-favorite menu items. The featured summer LTO items on the menu include:
“We are excited to share a sweet and spicy option that allows guests to put a unique, summery twist on some of our classic flavors and menu items. We are also excited to offer our guests a light, berry-based salad and poppyseed dressing that they will enjoy in the warm weather” said Lauriena Borstein, Chief Brand Officer of Saladworks. “Making these subtle changes allows our famous salads and bowls to change with the seasons and offer customers something new and unique for summer.”
For more information about owning a Saladworks franchise, visit https://franchise.saladworks.com/.
About WOWorks:
WOWorks was formed in 2020 with a mission to help guests pursue their passions and live their best lives by serving healthy, nutritious and flavorful meals along with its Vow to “WOW!” guest hospitality. Fully owned by Centre Lane Partners, LLC, WOWorks’ portfolio, in addition to its newest brands, Barberitos Southwestern Grille and Cantina and Zoup! Eatery, consists of: Saladworks, the nation’s leading fast-casual salad brand; Frutta Bowls, a unique restaurant franchise serving a variety of superfood bowls, fresh fruit smoothies, protein bites and more; Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, a popular Mediterranean restaurant concept; The Simple Greek, which offers a fresh and healthy take on traditional Greek recipes in a fast-casual setting. WOWorks seeks to drive explosive growth across all of its brands through a variety of channels, both traditional and non-traditional, including ghost kitchens, food trucks, grocery retail and more.
ABOUT SALADWORKS:
Founded in 1986, Saladworks is the nation’s leading fast-casual create-your-own salad destination, with over 165 locations across 25 states and two countries. Saladworks encourages guests to be original, giving them the option to choose from salads, warm grain bowls or wraps, along with an endless array of fresh vegetables, fruits, proteins and delicious dressings. Ranked #7 on Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers and Shakers in 2021, Saladworks has been delivering the most original and incredible salad experience to guests for more than 35 years. Saladworks is part of WOWorks, a parent company family of restaurant brands that also includes Frutta Bowls, Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, The Simple Greek, Barberito’s Southwestern Cantina and Grille and Zoup! Eatery. For more information, visit http://www.saladworks.com
Laysha will drive a new platform approach to supporting franchisees.
DENVER — WellBiz Brands Inc., the pre-eminent beauty and wellness franchise platform, has named Ankin Laysha as the company’s chief operating officer. In her new role, Laysha will help the company implement a new operations support model for franchisees.
Laysha brings broad experience in strategy, innovation and franchising in the beauty, wellness and fitness sectors to her new role. Most recently, she served as head of innovation and consumer insights and senior director of strategy and design at 24 Hour Fitness®, where she led partnerships with boutique fitness franchisors and wellness/recovery franchise networks and operated in multi-unit multi-brand environments. Previously, she served as an engagement manager at McKinsey & Company® and focused on service operations and customer experience in retail and consumer sectors. She holds a bachelor’s degree in banking and finance from the London School of Economics and a master’s in business administration from the Anderson School of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles.
“In moving to a new operations support model for franchisees, WellBiz Brands is beefing up support, creating common toolkits and systems to fuel operational improvements and business growth of its franchisees, adding more cross-functional and specialized expertise and a single point of contact for franchisees to further strengthen relationships,” Laysha said. “I’m also a loyal customer of the brands, and so it’s exciting to see how those businesses are growing organically and contributing to the communities in which they operate.”
The WellBiz Brands portfolio features category leaders including Drybar®, Amazing Lash Studio®, Radiant Waxing™, Elements Massage® and Fitness Together®, with nearly 900 franchise locations open globally and over 300 in development.
WellBiz Brands CEO Jeremy Morgan said, “Ankin brings impressive energy and experience to WellBiz Brands’ operations team at a critical time. Her background in training and consulting in the corporate environment, along with her unwavering pursuit of best practices and the empathy she developed while operating multiple franchise locations herself, will serve franchisees well.”
WellBiz Brands offers opportunities to experienced and prospective entrepreneurs that fit their passions and goals. For more information, please visit: WellBizbrands.com.
©2023 WellBiz Brands, Inc. (“WBB”). Unauthorized duplication, dissemination, distribution, or use of this material is strictly prohibited. Each Drybar®, Amazing Lash Studio®, Elements Massage®, Fitness Together®, and Radiant Waxing™ location is independently owned and operated. The WBB logo is a registered trademark owned by WBB. Drybar + design are registered trademarks owned by Helen of Troy Limited and used by DBF under license. Amazing Lash Studio®, Elements Massage®, Fitness Together®, and Radiant Waxing™ + designs are trademarks owned by their respective companies.
About WellBiz Brands Inc.:
WellBiz Brands Inc. is the pre-eminent beauty and wellness franchise platform catering to the needs of the affluent female consumer. The WellBiz Brands’ portfolio features category leaders including Drybar®, Amazing Lash Studio®, Radiant Waxing™, Elements Massage® and Fitness Together®. The company’s cross-brand digital marketing program drives effective member acquisition strategies, creating a world-class membership ecosystem. WellBiz ONE, a proprietary technology platform, enhances studio operations for franchisees, fueling member engagement and retention. With expertise in supply chain management, e-commerce and product innovation, WellBiz Brands provides franchisees with a leading edge. The company has received national recognition on lists such as the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies, Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 and Franchise Times Fast & Serious, among others. For more information, visit WellBizBrands.com.