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6 08, 2025

Senior Helpers – Farmington Hills Achieves Prestigious CHAP Age-Friendly Care at Home Certification

Paul Zboichyk2025-08-06T19:55:31-04:00August 6th, 2025|Tags: Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, dementia, family caregivers, in-home senior care, pairing clients with compatible caregivers, personal and companion care, senior care, Senior Helpers, trained and certified caregivers|

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. — Senior Helpers, the nation’s premier provider of in-home senior care services, is the first private duty in-home care provider in the United States to be Age-Friendly Care at Home certified by Community Health Accreditation Partners (CHAP). On July 24, 2025, locally owned Senior Helpers Farmington Hills joined the list of Senior Helpers CHAP Age-Friendly Care at Home Certified locations.

“Senior Helpers’ achievement as the pioneering Age-Friendly Care certified home care organization is truly remarkable. Their proactive approach in implementing numerous tools to enhance care for older adults, even before receiving the AFC certification, speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence,” said Teresa Harbour, COO of CHAP. “Their use of LIFE Profile to reduce the risk of hospitalizations, their Senior Gems program for dementia care, and their Centers for Excellence for staff training and competency set them up for success, so adding the Age-Friendly Care at Home Certification was a logical next step.”

Owner, Denise Bellinger stated, “It is a distinguished honor to be recognized as the first home care franchise in Michigan to attain this certification. Our voluntary pursuit of this designation underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standard of care to those we serve. This accomplishment stands as a testament to the exceptional dedication and professionalism of our caregivers and administrative team, whose efforts make such milestones possible.”

What is Age-Friendly Care at Home?

The first-of-its-kind certification was created to help meet the demand for high-quality care for older adults and showcases companies that use all-encompassing, person-centered care to address the unique needs of every individual. The focus is on the 4Ms (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility), a research-backed and evidence-based approach to care. To receive the CHAP certification, Senior Helpers – Farmington Hills, MI worked to ensure that the 4Ms Framework is an integral part of operations and daily interactions with clients.

What Matters puts clients at the center of care and empowers them to be involved in goal setting and preferences for their care.
Medication should be used in an age-friendly way that does not interfere with What Matters to the client.
Mentation focuses on preventing, identifying, treating, and managing depression and dementia.
Mobility ensures older adults move safely and maintain function so they can do What Matters to them.

CHAP provides training, certification, and accreditation for senior care providers, ensuring quality and compliance with the highest standards of care using the 4M Framework and other guidelines.

Senior Helpers Elevates Care Standards for Seniors

In addition to the CHAP certification, Senior Helpers – Farmington Hills elevates its care for clients through three key programs: the proprietary LIFE Profile assessment tool, the Senior Gems® program, and the Center of Excellence training spaces.

LIFE Profile is a research-based technology tool that uses data to identify a client’s risk of being hospitalized.

The Senior Gems® program provides effective strategies for supporting and caring for loved ones from normal aging through late stage dementia, focusing on what is precious and unique about each senior at each stage.

The Senior Helpers Center of Excellence is a training space designed to simulate a client’s home, allowing caregivers to learn and train in a real-world environment and demonstrate their ability to provide the highest quality of care in a client’s home.

Senior Helpers – Farmington Hills, MI provides in-home care for seniors to help them age in place and live quality lives. They provide personalized care, including chronic disease care, Alzheimer’s, dementia and Parkinson’s care, transportation, end-of-life care, and more.

To learn more about Senior Helpers Farmington Hills, MI services, visit www.seniorhelpers.com/mi/oakland, or call 248-865-1000.

About Senior Helpers^® and Senior Helpers – Farmington Hills
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. Locally owned Senior Helpers – Farmington Hills is proud to serve the needs of seniors and their families in Southeast Michigan, which includes areas of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb. Learn more by visiting www.seniorhelpers.com/mi/oakland.

About CHAP:
CHAP is an independent, nonprofit organization accrediting providers of home and community-based care. Founded in 1965, CHAP was the first to recognize the need for and value of home and community-based care standards and accreditation. As a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)–approved accrediting organization, CHAP surveys organizations providing home health, hospice, and home medical equipment services to establish if Medicare Conditions of Participation and DMEPOS Quality Standard are met and recommend certification to CMS. CHAP’s purpose is to partner with organizations nationwide to advance quality in the delivery of care and services in the home and community.

6 08, 2025

Five Star Franchising names Ben Kramer as Brand President of Bio-One

Paul Zboichyk2025-08-06T19:46:49-04:00August 6th, 2025|Tags: Bio-One, crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, decontamination and biohazard cleanup services, Five Star Franchising|

Seasoned home service executive to lead strategic growth for the trusted biohazard cleanup franchise

SPRINGVILLE, Utah — Five Star Franchising, a growing platform of home services franchise brands, announces Ben Kramer as Brand President of Bio-One, a nationally trusted provider of biohazard cleanup and decontamination services.

Kramer brings nearly two decades of leadership experience across franchising, restoration and manufacturing. He has held senior executive roles at nationally recognized home service brands, including Brand President and Senior Vice President of Operations. Known for his process-driven mindset and values-based leadership, Kramer has a track record of building high-performing teams and delivering sustainable growth.

As Brand President, Kramer will oversee all aspects of Bio-One’s operations, focusing on strategic brand expansion and supporting franchise owner success at every stage.

“Ben brings exactly the kind of operational excellence and cultural alignment we look for in a brand leader,” said Andrew Mengason, Chief Growth Officer for Five Star Franchising. “His leadership will not only help accelerate Bio-One’s growth trajectory but also strengthen the systems that empower our franchise owners to thrive.”

Bio-One offers a compelling opportunity for purpose-driven entrepreneurs to build scalable businesses that make a lasting impact. Specializing in essential biohazard cleanup services—ranging from crime scenes to trauma events—the brand equips franchise owners to serve their communities with compassion, discretion, and professionalism. With low startup costs, no prior industry experience required and a powerful support system behind them, Bio-One owners are positioned to scale successful businesses while becoming trusted community partners.

“Bio-One is a rare opportunity—a chance to lead a brand where doing good is built into the business model,” said Kramer. “I’m excited to build on the brand’s momentum—partnering closely with our team and franchise owners to drive smart growth, expand into new markets, and ensure every owner is set up to succeed.”

For more information about Bio-One’s services, visit biooneinc.com. For information about owning a franchise, visit bioone.fivestarfranchising.com.

About Bio-One

Bio-One is a national leader in biohazard cleanup and decontamination, providing essential services with discretion, compassion, and technical expertise. Trusted by families, first responders, and public agencies, Bio-One is known for navigating sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism. Part of the Five Star Franchising platform, the brand partners with local authorities, hoarding task forces, and victim services groups to help create cleaner, safer communities. More information about Bio-One can be found at biooneinc.com. To learn about franchising opportunities, visit bioone.fivestarfranchising.com.

About Five Star Franchising

Five Star Franchising is an innovative, growing platform of home service brands with more than 1,500 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 four times, ranking #157 in 2024. 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.

6 08, 2025

JETSET Pilates Marks Strong First Half of 2025 With 16 Openings and First International Location, Reaching 160 Locations Sold

Paul Zboichyk2025-08-06T19:39:33-04:00August 6th, 2025|Tags: fitness franchise, JETSET Pilates, Reformer Pilates Franchise|

Pilates franchise studio celebrates new market entries, leadership hires, and 21 additional studios set to open before year’s end

MIAMI — JETSET Pilates – the Miami-based modern Reformer Pilates franchise, is excited to celebrate a dynamic first half of 2025 with 16 studios opened in just the first six months of the year, and 67 development deals signed across premier markets in the U.S. The brand has focused on innovation and growth this year, strengthening their leadership team and launching new programs to elevate the customer experience, with big momentum on the horizon for the remainder of the year.

Studio Growth and Market Expansion

JETSET’s growth thus far in 2025 has brought the opening of 16 new locations throughout Florida, NYC, Colorado, and North Carolina. In addition to their U.S. expansion, JETSET also opened a location in Glen Iris, their debut international studio in Melbourne, Australia.

The brand also made its first entrance into several key cities and regions including Charlotte, Denver, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Austin, Houston, Boston, and more. With 67 development deals signed across major key markets, 21 studio openings confirmed for the remainder of 2025, and 50+ more development deals expected to be signed this year, the brand has no plans to slow down.

“JETSET has experienced incredible growth so far this year, and I couldn’t be more proud of the growing community we’re building,” said Tamara Galinsky, Founder and Brand President of JETSET Pilates. “Our recent and upcoming openings further strengthen our presence in the existing markets we serve, and will establish a strong foothold in new territories, allowing us to bring the JETSET experience to more individuals throughout the country.”

Innovation, Leadership, and Infrastructure

To support their expanding franchise network, JETSET Pilates significantly expanded its leadership team and launched several brand innovations this year. They welcomed several experienced executives to strengthen operations and franchisee support, including Ricardo Quesada as Vice President of Marketing, Uri Kenig as Head of Franchise Operations, Alex Lyons as Vice President of Product and Talent, Michael Zennedjian as Vice President of Real Estate and Construction, Christa Dellebovi as Director of New Studio Openings, Artemis Bennedetti as Director of Field Marketing, Shayna O’Rourke as Director of Franchise Business Management, and Dan Thomas as Senior Director of Digital Marketing.

Other key investments focused on innovation in infrastructure and customer experience, with highlights including:

Launching a national membership program allowing clients to access any JETSET studio worldwide
Introducing DJ-curated in-studio playlists to elevate the in-studio experience
Expanding a new Training Academy Center in Miami’s South of Fifth neighborhood

Additionally, the brand has seen high engagement from its JETSET on the Mat pre-opening activations, which have driven community excitement and attendance prior to studio openings.

“We are proud of the steps we’ve taken this year, strengthening our collaborative and healthy culture within the system,” said Bert Albertse, CEO of JETSET Pilates. “Our studios continue to deliver high AUVs, showcasing the work we’ve put in towards operational success and the strong consumer demand we’ve experienced.”

Positioned for Record-Breaking Growth

Through strategic market targeting, site selection refinement, consistent delivery of a premium and differentiated experience, and significant investments to their franchisee support infrastructure, JETSET aims to surpass 200 awarded territories by the end of the year. The brand looks to continue to expand into metros such as Boston, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, New York, and DC, while targeting strategic suburban regions across the Southeast and Florida, and West Coast markets such as Phoenix, Scottsdale, Seattle, San Diego, and the LA suburbs.

To support these growth plans, JETSET plans to roll out more key initiatives including a refreshed branded merchandise line, upgraded digital tools, and further product and instructor training enhancements.

For more information about JETSET Pilates and its franchise opportunity, please visit https://jetsetpilates.com/franchise/.

About JETSET Pilates
Founded in 2010 and franchising since 2022, JETSET Pilates has rapidly established itself as one of the most attractive concepts in the boutique franchise business space. JETSET Pilates currently has plans to open studios across the U.S. and Australia, with 160 studios in development. JETSET now offers franchising opportunities to entrepreneurs in some of the largest and fastest-growing markets within the fitness franchise sector. For more information, please visit https://jetsetpilates.com/franchise/, or follow JETSET Pilates on LinkedIn and Instagram.

6 08, 2025

Growing People Big and Small: Celebree School Debuts in Branchburg-Somerville

Paul Zboichyk2025-08-06T19:32:08-04:00August 6th, 2025|Tags: Celebree School, early-childhood education, preschool, summer camp programs, toddler care|

Early Childhood Education Franchise Opens in Branchburg–Somerville, Brings Well-Rounded Program to the Community

BRANCHBURG–SOMERVILLE, N.J. — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, will open its newest school on Aug. 11 in Branchburg–Somerville. Located at 1005 US-202, the new school will provide a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to New Jersey’s early education standards.

Celebree School in Branchburg–Somerville is owned and operated by Jalpesh Chokshi, a local entrepreneur and father of two who left a career in finance in 2012 to follow his passion for small business. While running local Mexican restaurants, he was inspired by his own children’s daycare experience to focus on early education and make a lasting impact in the community.

“I didn’t just want to build a business—I wanted to build something meaningful for my family and the community,” Chokshi said. “Celebree is a place where children grow, families feel supported, and community ties are strengthened.”

Chokshi will own and operate the location with the support of his wife, Dhruti, a Clinical Scientist and current PTO President at a local school. The couple is committed to giving back to the community through meaningful partnerships. For every child enrolled, the school will make donations to nonprofit organizations such as Make-A-Wish and the Ronald McDonald House of Southern New Jersey.

In addition, Celebree School is exploring a partnership with Somerset Pediatric Hospital to further support children and families in the area. Local residents may also see Celebree School featured on kids’ menus, activity mats, and other fun, family-friendly items as part of its community engagement efforts.

The new school opens on Aug. 11 with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the local chamber of commerce on Aug. 18. The early childhood education center will serve infants through preschool-age children and bring more than 25 new jobs to the community.

Celebree School lives by its promise to Grow People Big and Small™, and was founded on the belief that success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and a connection that extends beyond the classroom to address the needs of the whole child and the whole family. Each Celebree School is a village made up of parents, children, and educators while providing curriculum-based care that prepares your child for kindergarten and beyond.

With a 30-plus-year history of providing superior early childhood education, Celebree School delivers a stable, secure learning environment that helps children develop a lifelong love of learning. Programs are available for children six weeks to 12 years old with unique curriculums designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about their world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities. Care is available part time or full time and parents are allowed to drop in and visit at any time.

“We’re honored to continue to help brilliant entrepreneurs like Jalpesh Chokshi actualize their business goals and have them join our Celebree School family,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “As we continue to expand our brand’s footprint through franchising, it’s more important than ever that we partner with local community leaders who have a passion for early childhood education. The opening of Jalpesh’s school brings me immense pride and joy. I know he is the perfect franchisee to drive our mission forward.”

Celebree School – Branchburg–Somerville is open Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. For more information on Celebree School in Branchburg–Somerville, please visit https://www.celebree.com/branchburg-nj/ or call (908) 420-1692.

About Celebree School
Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs. With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines. In 2019, Celebree School launched its franchise offering. In 2024, Celebree School’s founder, Richard Huffman, launched a new parent company called Huffman Family Brands, merging Celebree affiliated concepts under one multi-brand company structure. Learn more about how we grow confident children who are prepared for school and life at Celebree.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

27 07, 2025

AtWork Group Reports a Strong First Half of 2025

Paul Zboichyk2025-07-27T19:07:33-04:00July 27th, 2025|Tags: AtWork, franchise growth, staffing franchise, temp-to-hire and direct-hire services|

Staffing Franchise Expands with New Locations and Earns Top Industry Honors

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — AtWork®, an award-winning leader in the staffing industry, is proud to announce significant growth and recognition in the first half of 2025. Amid a cautiously optimistic outlook for the staffing industry, AtWork continues to outpace expectations with new office openings, strong franchise development, and multiple national awards.

“Despite the headwinds facing the staffing industry, the first two quarters of 2025 have proven to be a period of strength for AtWork,” said Jason Leverant, president and COO of AtWork. “Our ability to adapt to evolving workforce needs while maintaining our commitment to client and candidate satisfaction continues to set us apart.”

New Locations

AtWork continues to grow its national footprint in 2025. Arkansas became the latest state to join AtWork’s growing list of markets, further expanding the brand’s national presence. AtWork opened eight new offices across the country so far in 2025:

Virginia: Richmond South
Georgia: Cartersville
Georgia: West Gwinnett
South Carolina: Greenville
Washington: Seattle Southwest
Arkansas: Bentonville
Texas: Austin Northeast
Indiana: Indianapolis NW

Awards & Recognition

AtWork earned several prestigious industry honors in 2025, including:

Forbes’ List of America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms (2025) – Recognized among the top 200 U.S. firms in the temporary staffing category.
Staffing Industry Analysts’ (SIA) 2025 Largest Staffing Firms in the US-Recognizing AtWork’s impact and scale in the staffing industry.
ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Client and Talent Awards (2025) – Awarded to fewer than 1% of staffing firms in the U.S. and Canada.
Franchise Business Review’s 2025 Top Franchises Satisfaction Award – Based on independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction.
FranServe Fran-tastic brand-Honored for exceptional commitment in helping individuals realize their dream of owning a business by providing strong franchise opportunities.

A stand-out franchisee, Josephine Suryono, who owns and operates AtWork locations in Sacramento and Roseville, California, has received several accolades for her success this year. Josephine was named the International Franchise Association’s Franchisee of the Year as well as a 2025 Franchise Rockstar by Franchise Business Review in the Women’s category. Her Roseville office led the AtWork system in revenue and gross profit in 2024 and continues to set a high standard in 2025.

Additional Achievements

In the first half of 2025, AtWork’s leadership remained actively involved in national workforce conversations:

COO Jason Leverant published a practical employment AI Guide designed to help job seekers navigate the evolving job market with new technology.
Leverant’s expertise has been featured in Newsweek, Yahoo! News, The Washington Examiner and other major outlets, covering topics such as Gen Z’s fear of layoffs, the transition of federal workers into private sector roles, and the shifting landscape for white-collar employment.

With over 30 years in business, AtWork remains committed to supporting entrepreneurs, connecting businesses with high-quality talent, and delivering exceptional staffing solutions nationwide.

To learn more about AtWork’s franchise opportunities, visit www.atwork.com/franchise.

About AtWork 
Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, AtWork is an award-winning staffing franchise with nearly 100 locations. 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 a spot on Forbes America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms and ClearlyRated’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/.

27 07, 2025

LINE-X and Merchants Fleet Sign Preferred Partnership Agreement to Expand Nationwide Up-Fitting Capabilities

Paul Zboichyk2025-07-27T18:57:35-04:00July 27th, 2025|Tags: LINE-X, professional installation services, spray-on protective coatings, vehicle up-fitting|

New Collaboration Builds on $2M+ Partnership, Reinforcing LINE-X’s Commitment to Franchisee Success

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — LINE-X, the leader in vehicle up-fitting for over 30 years, recently announced that it has joined the Preferred Upfit Network for Merchants Fleet, the nation’s fastest-growing fleet management company. The signed agreement builds on a 5-year collaboration between the two companies with steady growth.

LINE-X Fleet Solutions will support Merchants Fleet with their growing need for high-quality, reliable upfitting services, helping to prepare vehicles for the field faster and more consistently. LINE-X has hundreds of locations that service up-fitting requests while maintaining national service standards across diverse applications and industries.

“This agreement deepens the longstanding relationship between LINE-X and Merchants Fleet and enhances the support we can provide to Merchants and their clients, but it also creates meaningful new opportunities for our franchisees,” said Matt Labuda, Vice President at LINE-X. “Partnering with Merchants Fleet is a strategic win for both companies, and we’re proud to bring consistency, speed, and innovation to a growing commercial segment that’s critical to the future of mobility.”

With LINE-X’s dedicated support team who centralize components of the fleet up-fit process, partners can trust that the job will get done right. LINE-X’s growing influence in the fleet space signals its continued commitment to serving franchisees by securing partnerships that offer long-term opportunity, stability, and innovation. From the outset, LINE-X has prioritized creating pathways for its franchisees to tap into commercial revenue and building meaningful connections within their local markets.

“Over the past five years, LINE-X has consistently impressed us with their reliability, responsiveness, and ability to adapt to our evolving needs,” said Charles Mathew, Assistant Director Orders & Upfits for Merchants Fleet. “As we invest in technology and begin incorporating EVs into our fleet, it’s clear that LINE-X is a partner we can grow with. Their forward-thinking approach and attention to detail give us confidence in where we’re headed.”

LINE-X, which originally gained global recognition for its premium spray bed liners and protective coatings, is proud to offer over 80 up-fitting services for medium and light-duty work trucks and vans. Services range from expert electrical work like strobe lights, light bars, and backup alarms, to truck toppers and truck caps, van shelving, rack systems and accessories, and life-saving safety equipment.

For information about available franchise opportunities with LINE-X, please visit www.LINEXFranchise.com.

About LINE-X:
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., LINE-X LLC (www.LINE-X.com) is North America’s leader of spray-on protective coatings and vehicle up-fit services. For over 30 years, LINE-X signature spray-on bed-liners and accessories have provided customers with enhanced surface coatings and professional installation services for their trucks, Jeeps, vans, and SUVs.

About Merchants Fleet:
Merchants Fleet is the nation’s innovative leader in comprehensive fleet management solutions. For more than 60 years, Merchants has pushed the boundaries in the fleet industry with flexible funding, vehicle remarketing, and fleet acquisition options, plus complete end-to-end electrification solutions. As the only fleet management company in North America offering both long and short-term fleet services, Merchants is uniquely positioned to provide clients with unparalleled flexibility, services, and support essential for keeping businesses ahead of the curve. Headquartered in the Greater Boston area, with its Innovation Center in Chicago, Merchants is steering change and driving results for fleets of all sizes throughout North America.

27 07, 2025

1-800-Packouts provides guidelines for homeowners affected by flooding

Paul Zboichyk2025-07-27T18:51:36-04:00July 27th, 2025|Tags: 1-800-Packouts, Contents Restoration Services, Inventory Management|

Nationwide contents and personal property restoration franchise shares best practices for ensuring safety and promoting a smooth recovery in the wake of a significant flood

ATLANTA — 1-800-Packouts, the nationwide leader in contents restoration, highlights guidelines for homeowners whose properties have experienced intense flooding—including tips for ensuring personal safety and for streamlining the recovery process.

“We’re well into hurricane season now, and even for homeowners who are outside the direct path of tropical storms, there can still be looming threat of major rainfall,” said Stefan Figley, president of 1-800-Packouts. “Between severe storms and plumbing mishaps, any home can be at risk for flooding, making it imperative for homeowners to prepare themselves with some guidelines and best practices.”

After a major flooding event, homeowners will naturally want to get back to their home to begin the restoration process as quickly as possible, but safety is always the top priority. Homeowners who live in a regional flood zone should wait until their city or municipality gives the go-ahead to return home. Upon doing so, it’s important to avoid floodwaters whenever possible, as they may conceal toxic chemicals or sharp debris.

“In terms of immediate safety, it’s important to temporarily turn off the utilities, preventing the risk of fire or electrocution,” said Figley.

Homeowners who have a flood policy are advised to begin the insurance claims process as quickly as possible, especially when regional flooding means that other local homeowners are bound to be filing claims at the same time, congesting the claims processing system.

Specific suggestions for ensuring a prompt claims process include:

Collecting extensive photo and video evidence of damaged areas and submitting them with the insurance claim.
Creating a list of damaged assets, especially high-value items (like expensive electronics) or items with great sentimental value (like family heirlooms or photo albums).
Keeping clear records and receipts for any items that require immediate repair or replacement.

Depending on the severity of the flooding, homeowners may be able to attempt cleanup on their own, using wet-dry vacs to remove moisture and disinfecting surfaces to prevent bacterial growth. For more extensive damage, many insurance policies will cover a water damage mediation professional—though it is always prudent to review the specifics of the policy.

“For repairs to specific assets or household contents, including items with sentimental value, it’s important to ask the insurance company about bringing in a contents restoration service,” Figley said. “Beginning the claims process quickly can get a packout service to the home sooner rather than later, maximizing the odds of precious items being salvaged.”

To learn more about 1-800-Packouts, visit https://www.1800packouts.com.

About 1-800-Packouts

1-800-Packouts, the leader in property contents restoration, delivers expert inventory management, packing, cleaning, and climate-controlled storage services for homes and businesses during stressful times. Trusted by property owners and the largest insurance carriers to secure and protect valuable possessions when disasters happen, 1-800-Packouts is expanding rapidly to meet the growing demand for contents restoration services across North America. For more information, visit https://www.1800packouts.com.

27 07, 2025

Amazing Lash Studio® Expands Pilot Concept Amaze™, Bringing Lash-Safe Facials to Arizona

Paul Zboichyk2025-07-27T18:45:33-04:00July 27th, 2025|Tags: affluent female consumer, Amazing Lash Studio, beauty and wellness franchise platform, WellBiz Brands Inc|

Innovative Beauty Brand Debuts Two Locations in Tucson

TUCSON, Ariz. — Amaze™, the bold brand pilot from Amazing Lash Studio^® leading the industry with lash-safe facials at a lash extension studio, is expanding to Arizona with two new locations in Tucson. Opening Aug. 8, Amaze Tucson Park Place at 5870 E. Broadway will be the first Amaze concept built specifically for the new brand.

This milestone marks a significant step in redefining beauty and self-care through an all-in-one destination for lash, brow and skincare services. Tucson got a preview of the Amaze concept in May when the Amazing Lash Studio at 4811 E. Grant Rd. in the Crossroads Festival Shopping Center rebranded to Amaze. Both locations offer the Amaze expanded service menu featuring cutting-edge wrap-around lash extension technology for increased lash retention, advanced brow solutions, and the brand’s signature lash-safe facials.

Owned and operated by Tucson natives, Autuam and Damon Safranek, the pair bring a powerful mix of leadership and business acumen to Amaze. Autuam’s background spans guest service, retail management, and regional leadership in the convenience, floral, and hospitality industries.

“Our clients value both convenience and quality,” said Autuam Safranek, franchisee of Amaze in Tucson. “With the addition of lash-safe facials and advanced skincare, we’re better positioned to meet their needs.”

To celebrate the launch, both Tucson locations currently have pre-launch specials, followed by an exclusive grand opening event in September, inviting local media, influencers, and guests to experience Amaze firsthand. The event will feature complimentary beauty services, live demonstrations, and interactive experiences designed to showcase the innovation and luxury behind Amaze’s offerings.

“We saw tremendous success from the Amaze pilot openings in greater Denver and Colorado Springs, and now we’re thrilled to bring this transformation to Tucson,” said Amanda Clark, Chief Executive Officer of WellBiz Brands, Inc., the franchisor behind Amazing Lash Studio and the new Amaze brand. “Amaze is redefining what beauty and self-care can look like, offering a seamless, all-in-one destination for lash, brow, and skincare services. With our expanded collaboration with Sanitas^®, guests no longer must choose between premium skincare and their lash extensions; they can have both.”

As part of its rebrand, WellBiz Brands has deepened its partnership with award-winning skincare line Sanitas, introducing advanced facial treatments that deliver visible, confidence-boosting results. Whether guests are lash lovers or simply seeking effective, targeted skincare, these protocols are thoughtfully designed to nourish the skin while supporting lash retention. Amaze also offers collagen and lip mask enhancements that can be added to both facial and lash services, creating a seamless, elevated experience tailored to each guest’s unique self-care routine.

During the four weeks leading up to the studio’s grand opening, new guests can experience the Amaze brand difference with exclusive introductory pricing: enjoy a first facial for just $49 and a full set of classic eyelash extensions for $79. Guests can take advantage of both services for a total of $128, saving up to 60% by claiming the offer on the Amaze brand website.

Following the studio’s opening, new guests can continue to enjoy special savings, including a $49 facial and up to 50% off a lash starter set by visiting the Amaze brand website and redeeming their reward.

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 Amazing Lash Studio^®^,Drybar^®, Elements Massage, Fitness Together^®. and Radiant Waxing^®. The company’s cross-brand digital marketing program drives effective member acquisition strategies, creating a world-class membership ecosystem. 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.

27 07, 2025

Ideal Siding More Than Doubles Footprint Over the Past Year Amid Surging Growth

Paul Zboichyk2025-07-27T05:33:48-04:00July 27th, 2025|Tags: home repair, Ideal Siding, Siding Renovation|

Franchise Growth, Leadership Expansion, and Manufacturer-Backed Training Fuel the Rapid 2025 Momentum of America’s Largest Siding Renovation Company

VANCOUVER, BC — Ideal Siding, North America’s largest siding renovation company, is marking the halfway point of 2025 with record-setting momentum. The brand has already awarded 12 new franchise agreements and opened 10 new locations this year alone pushing its total footprint to 82, more than double what it was in April 2024.

Fueling this growth is the continued success of Ideal Siding’s existing franchisees, whose strong performance, word-of-mouth referrals, and high satisfaction rates have served as the brand’s greatest growth engine in early 2025.

“Franchisees are our best ambassadors,” said Alex Filipuk, CEO and Founder of Ideal Siding. “Their achievements and dedication have driven incredible organic growth, allowing us to scale with confidence and speed.”

Ideal Siding is on track to reach over 100 locations by the end of 2025, with expansion into new markets including Philadelphia, Virginia Beach, and additional high-potential regions across North America. As the company scales, it has also strengthened its leadership structure with the appointment of longtime franchisee, Arkady Vitrouk, as Brand President, a move that underscores Ideal Siding’s commitment to long-term leadership development and operational excellence.

Siding Academy Grows into Industry-Supported Training Platform

Ideal Siding’s rapid expansion has also accelerated the growth and evolution of its proprietary Siding Academy, a university-style training platform that equips franchisees and crews with the knowledge and certifications needed to succeed.

In the first half of 2025, Ideal Siding entered active discussions with leading siding manufacturers to sponsor specific “faculties” within the Academy, similar to how university departments are named after major benefactors. Each sponsored faculty will specialize in a specific siding material category (e.g., fiber cement, vinyl, wood), and offer structured coursework modeled after a collegiate curriculum, including:

Siding 101 – Introductory Concepts
Siding 201 – Intermediate Practices
Siding 301/302 – Advanced Installation, Troubleshooting & Product Knowledge

In addition to sponsoring departments, manufacturers will send their technical and product specialists to serve as guest speakers and instructors within their respective categories. These experts will bring real-world experience, advanced product insight, and best-in-class installation practices directly into the classroom.

“This approach brings together the best of both worlds with our operational expertise and the manufacturer’s product mastery,” said Filipuk. “The result is a uniquely powerful training program that gives our franchisees and their teams a real edge in the field.”

Recognized Culture and Strong Outlook Ahead

Ideal Siding was recently named by Franchise Business Review as one of the Top Franchise Cultures for 2025, an honor that reinforces the brand’s commitment to building a system rooted in transparency, excellence, and partnership. With a strong foundation, growing brand awareness, and an evolving training infrastructure, Ideal Siding is poised for continued momentum through the remainder of 2025 and beyond.

Ideal Siding’s proven model eliminates many of the barriers in traditional home improvement businesses, offering franchisees a turnkey system with centralized marketing, lead generation, and operations support all designed to drive performance from day one. At the same time, the brand helps homeowners enhance curb appeal and energy efficiency, transforming neighborhoods with high-quality, modern siding solutions across North America.

To learn more about the Ideal Siding franchise opportunity, visit www.idealsiding.com/franchise. To learn more about Ideal Siding, visit www.idealsiding.com.

About Ideal Siding
Ideal Siding is North America’s fastest-growing siding renovation franchise, serving homeowners across the United States and Canada. With over 80 locations, Ideal Siding specializes in transforming homes with top-quality materials and expert craftsmanship. By combining innovative digital marketing strategies, a centralized call center, and a proven operational model, we ensure consistent lead generation and support for franchisees, helping them build successful businesses. Our mission is to bring exceptional customer service and flawless siding renovations to every neighborhood. For more information, visit www.idealsiding.com.

27 07, 2025

Hiring Confidence Wavers as US Employers Reassess Growth Plans for 2025

Paul Zboichyk2025-07-27T05:27:38-04:00July 27th, 2025|Tags: business services, Express Employment Professionals, professional education, staffing solutions|

New Survey Reveals a Shift in Sentiment as Companies Weigh Caution Against Opportunity

OKLAHOMA CITY — As summer unfolds, many U.S. employers are taking a hard look at their hiring plans, and what they see is prompting a more cautious approach.

A new survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals reveals that while most hiring managers (78%) still feel positive about their company’s hiring outlook for the remainder of 2025, that optimism has dimmed since last fall, when 84% felt confident. At the same time, concern is growing: 37% now express a negative outlook, up from 30% just months ago.

Behind these shifting sentiments lies a more restrained hiring strategy. Only 58% of companies plan to increase their workforce in the second half of the year, a noticeable drop from 63% in the fall of 2024. One-third of employers expect to hold steady, while 7% anticipate cutting back.

For those still planning to hire, the reasons are clear: they need to manage growing workloads (52%), fill newly created roles (49%) and replace employees lost to turnover (42%). But for others, the focus has shifted to tightening budgets. Among companies planning to reduce staff, more than half (54%) cite cost-cutting as the primary driver, followed by adapting to government policy changes (26%) and responding to declining demand (25%).

The types of roles companies are targeting are also evolving. Full-time positions remain the most sought-after (81%), though that figure has dipped from 86% last fall. Part-time roles are gaining traction (28%), and hiring is now evenly split between entry-level and mid-level positions (50% each). Notably, entry-level hiring has dropped sharply from 68% in the spring of 2024.

“These numbers tell a story of employers recalibrating,” said Bob Funk, Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “They’re still hiring, but with more intention, more strategy and a sharper eye on the future.”

Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from June 2 to 28, 2025, among 1,000 U.S. hiring decision-makers.

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 427,000 people globally in 2024 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

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