Just months after launching their Kitchen Tune-Up business in January, Paul and Kathryn Jost had racked up several achievements. In September, they received the brand’s National Customer Service Award, and several of their kitchen updates had received National Project of the Month Awards. By Nancy E. Williams

Just months after launching their Kitchen Tune-Up business in January, Paul and Kathryn Jost had racked up several achievements. In September, they received the brand’s National Customer Service Award, and several of their kitchen updates had received National Project of the Month Awards.

The Josts’ prior work experience, although not identical to their work with Kitchen Tune-Up, nonetheless helped contribute to their ambition and passion to make their franchise successful. Paul had been a senior marketing executive for more than 15 years and Kathryn operated her own business as a hair stylist for a decade. For Kathryn, the transition to a different owner-operated business was relatively easy. For Paul, the desire to leave his corporate career provided motivation to make a go out of business ownership.

“I benefited tremendously from my corporate experience, but the longer I was in it, it became obvious to me that the culture was changing from when I first got in,” Paul said. “It no longer represented the values that I had, specifically as it related to being part of a team or family.”

The Josts knew they wanted to own a franchise because of the established systems and processes, as well as built-in brand recognition and support. Kitchen Tune-Up, which specializes in affordable kitchen updates for residential and commercial enterprises completed in one to five days, appealed to them on many levels.

“We thought the opportunity was incredible,” Kathryn said. “I grew up in a real-estate family, and I know the value that kitchen and bath remodeling brings to a home. It’s not only about the joy it brings to homeowners when they see the final product, but we know we’re helping families directly increase the value of their homes. I feel like I’m living an HGTV life.”

The Josts strongly encourage others, especially those who aren’t happy in their corporate lives, to explore alternatives. “With franchising you can build something that has durability and value,” Paul said. “Don’t be afraid to explore the option. In the corporate world, you are just a number.”

To learn more about Kitchen Tune-Up, visit kitchentuneup.com.

– Nancy E. Williams