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11 04, 2022

Unity Rd. Partners Awarded Medical Cannabis Establishment Registration Certificate in South Dakota

2022-04-11T10:51:10-04:00April 11th, 2022|Tags: , , , , , , |

Local Partners Kick Off Development with Groundbreaking for One of the First Establishments in Hartford; Cannabis Dispensary Franchise Now Developing in 10-Plus U.S. Markets

SIOUX FALLS, S.D.Unity Rd., the national cannabis dispensary franchise from Item 9 Labs Corp. (OTCQX: INLB), announced today that the brand’s first partners in South Dakota have received approval from Hartford, a suburb of Sioux Falls and the state for a registration certificate to operate a medical cannabis establishment in the South Dakota Medical Cannabis Program. Local entrepreneurs, B.J. Olson and Adam Jorgensen officially broke ground on their Hartford medical cannabis establishment at 404 West Opal Lane on February 25, 2022 and anticipate the shop will open this summer.

Prior to partnering with Unity Rd., Olson was a multi-unit franchisee in the technology repair space and has an impressive entrepreneurial background that spans across various industries including wireless technology, retail and clothing. Jorgensen has also spent the past 20-plus years in the wireless technology industry, where he led and supported sales teams at two Fortune 50 companies.

“Partnering with Unity Rd. was a given for us,” explained Olson. “Though I have a deep entrepreneurial background and experience in retail, I know operating a cannabis establishment adds a significant level of intricacies to navigate. Unity Rd. paves a path for entry into the cannabis industry and offers us the knowledge, resources and support we need to thrive compliantly in our market.”

Olson and Jorgensen are true believers in the power of cannabis, both directly experiencing the medicinal benefits of the plant first-hand.

“Educating our community about cannabis is our top priority. We want to make sure our neighbors have the best experience possible with the plant.” Jorgensen added. “Our Unity Rd. shop will be their go-to local resource they can rely on to find the right products.”

With state and city approval, the medical cannabis establishment will be one of first of three in Hartford. South Dakota residents began applying for medical cannabis patient cards on November 8, 2021, and currently there are a few hundred card holders in the program. As the state continues to award cultivation and registration certificates simultaneously, Unity Rd. is assisting Olson and Jorgensen in keeping close contact with cultivators in the new cannabis market. The team anticipates that initial crops will be harvested and tested throughout the summer.

Expansion into South Dakota marks 11 states, from coast-to-coast, where Unity Rd. has signed agreements with dedicated entrepreneurial groups who are in various stages of development.

“Unity Rd. represents the intersection where local business ownership meets cannabis,” said Mike Weinberger, chief franchise officer at Unity Rd. “As we continue to rapidly grow in new markets across the U.S., we search for passionate partners such as B.J. and Adam to bring onto our team, who understand the benefits of cannabis first-hand and want to tap their entrepreneurial backgrounds into a complex, yet budding industry.”

Unity Rd. offers one of the safest routes for cannabis entrepreneurs interested in staking their claim in an industry that is bursting with potential. The dispensary franchise’s time-tested Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and experienced team, with a combined 200-plus years in cannabis and franchising, guide franchise partners through every operational function of the business, whether it be securing a license or assisting with cash flow, product selection or changing regulations.

Industry newcomers have deemed Unity Rd. the go-to franchise opportunity for entering and navigating the complex cannabis industry. The marijuana dispensary franchise is actively seeking qualified partners who would benefit from the systems, processes, and ongoing support the franchise offers. Currently, Unity Rd. has multiple agreements signed with 20 entrepreneurial groups.

To learn more about the Unity Rd. franchise opportunity, contact franchise@unityrd.com, call 720-923-5262 or visit unityrd.com.

Forward-Looking Statements 
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, risks and effects of legal and administrative proceedings and governmental regulation, especially in a foreign country, future financial and operational results, competition, general economic conditions, proposed transactions that are not legally binding obligations of the company and the ability to manage and continue growth. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual outcomes may vary materially from those indicated. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this news release include the introduction of new technology, market conditions and those set forth in reports or documents we file from time to time with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to revise or update such statements to reflect current events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

ABOUT UNITY RD.
Unity Rd. is bridging the two previously disconnected worlds of cannabis and franchising. The industry trailblazer is the first to bring the cannabis dispensary franchise model to the United States—with duality of prowess in both industries to back it up. Built up from a collective 200 years in the legal cannabis industry and franchising, the company helps eager operators enter the complex industry with ease. The marijuana franchise pioneer offers its partners the knowledge, resources and ongoing support needed to compliantly and successfully operate a dispensary. Launched in 2018, Unity Rd. has signed multiple agreements with 20 entrepreneurial groups across the country who are developing the brand across 10-plus states. In 2021, Unity Rd. became the first member of its kind to join the International Franchise Association (IFA), solidifying its position as the first true cannabis dispensary franchise in the U.S. The franchise was also named one of the “Best Cannabis Companies to Work For” in the dispensary category for Cannabis Business Times’ 2022 and 2020 lists. For more information, visit unityrd.com.

ABOUT ITEM 9 LABS CORP. 
Item 9 Labs Corp. (OTCQX: INLB) is a vertically integrated cannabis operator and dispensary franchisor delivering premium products from its large-scale cultivation and production facilities in the United States. The award-winning Item 9 Labs brand specializes in best-in-class products and user experience across several cannabis categories. The company also offers a unique dispensary franchise model through the national Unity Rd. retail brand. Easing barriers to entry, the franchise provides an opportunity for both new and existing dispensary owners to leverage the knowledge, resources, and ongoing support needed to thrive in their state compliantly and successfully. Item 9 Labs brings the best industry practices to markets nationwide through distinctive retail experience, cultivation capabilities, and product innovation. The veteran management team combines a diverse skill set with deep experience in the cannabis sector, franchising, and the capital markets to lead a new generation of public cannabis companies that provide transparency, consistency, and well-being. Headquartered in Arizona, the company is currently expanding its operations space by up to 640,000 square feet on its 50-acre site, one of the largest properties in Arizona zoned to grow and cultivate flower. For additional information, visit item9labscorp.com.

8 04, 2022

Eat The Frog Fitness Go’in Big in Texas

2022-04-08T13:44:06-04:00April 8th, 2022|Tags: , , , , , |

FORT WORTH, Texas — The franchise Eat The Frog Fitness is opening new locations across Texas and the rest of the United States, making it one of the fastest-growing fitness franchise brands in the United States. “With explosive growth (1,150%) in just three years, we’ve rapidly become one of the leading franchise opportunities in the fitness industry,” says CEO and Co-Founder, Joe Culver.

Currently, Eat The Frog Fitness has 30 locations open including 6 in pre-sale with an additional 40+ in development.. This is driving expansion in markets like California, Kansas, North Carolina, Florida, Arizona, Illinois, and more. The brand is also breaking into entirely new markets in Iowa, New Jersey, and Texas, with plans to launch several corporate studios in the Texas market over the next two years. Five new franchisee groups have also joined the brand in the past quarter.

NBA player and Eat The Frog investor Anthony Tolliver said, “the aggressive expansion of Eat The Frog Fitness into Texas is a great step for the brand. I am personally excited to have several new studios opening throughout my home state.”

Eat The Frog Fitness has a proven franchise-based business model that benefits franchisees and members. Eat The Frog features:

  • Workouts in an immersive studio experience
  • One-on-one coaching
  • Live and virtual training
  • A 24/7 business model that minimizes the need for staffing while maximizing membership potential
  • 16, 20, and 24 station models – offering flexibility to enter any market

About Eat The Frog Fitness

Eat The Frog Fitness (eatthefrogfitness.com) is about doing the work and not procrastinating. Co-Founded by Olympic Gold Medalist Bryan Clay, Eat The Frog is one of the fastest-growing boutique fitness franchise companies. Backed by elite athletic insights – Eat The Frog Fitness has developed a unique hyper-personalized approach to fitness that combines the best of personal training, group fitness, FitTech, and community to help members achieve real results. Eat The Frog disrupts the fitness industry completely. You get the motivation of a group and the results of personal training with an individual training plan, custom heart rate algorithm, one-on-one coach support, and a truly immersive workout experience. So even though fitness is hard, with Eat The Frog, you’ll feel like you have an entire team of professionals at your back. For more franchising information, visit FrogFranchise.com. Media inquiries can be directed to marketing@etffitness.com.

7 04, 2022

Zoom Room Announces New VP Leadership Roles

2022-04-07T13:50:14-04:00April 7th, 2022|Tags: , , , |

Experienced Executives Appointed to Strengthen Operations of Revolutionary Dog Training Organization.

REDONDO BEACH, Calif. — Zoom Room, the venture-backed, revolutionary indoor dog training gym, announced the promotion and hiring of two experienced executives in leadership roles that will help to strengthen and support the brand as the organization continues to expand nationwide. As the pet industry continues to experience unprecedented growth, Liz Claflin has been promoted to the franchisor’s newly developed position of Vice President of Strategic Projects, while Stephanie Knepp has been appointed as the Vice President of Operations. In their new roles, Claflin and Knepp will be responsible for project management and operational business support for Zoom Room.

With years of service in law enforcement, Claflin was ready for a change when she learned of Zoom Room’s unique business model. Claflin’s next act became a reality in 2013 when she opened a Zoom Room location in Walnut Creek, California. After operating the dog training gym and realizing the potential of the brand, Claflin joined Zoom Room as a company executive to make a more substantial impact in helping grow the system. Having served as the Vice President of Operations for Zoom Room from 2017 to 2022, Claflin has now moved into the role of Vice President of Strategic Projects where she will oversee projects requiring substantial institutional knowledge of the system, helping to benefit current and prospective franchisees. Claflin will be closely working with CEO Mark Van Wye and other members of the executive team.

“After ten years with Zoom Room, I’m excited to step into this new role and create enhancements to Zoom Room’s unique system that will immediately impact our mature and new franchisees in positive ways while creating a more efficient and nimble operational process for our internal team,” said Liz Claflin, VP of Strategic Projects. “My most immediate goal in this position is to create an advanced knowledge base platform to provide franchisees instant access to best practices as well as to assist in the creation of an engaging, asynchronous learning system that will provide education to franchisees and their staff on topics from dog training to product knowledge and merchandizing.”

Knepp has been brought on as Vice President of Operations of Zoom Room. With her home base in Arizona, Knepp brings years of experience in operational services having started her career in lifestyle amenity management as well as additional operational experience in spa and beauty services. In her new role, Knepp will be overseeing the operational support of all Zoom Room locations as the leading member of the operational team. Knepp will assist in general operations of open locations, the development and launch of new locations, on-boarding and training of additional support team members, assisting with the franchise sales process, and implementation of system-wide enhancements.

“I am thrilled to join the Zoom Room team and support the brand’s overall growth of the support system as Zoom Room expands nationwide. In this new role, a top priority is to get locations that are currently in site development to business launch – offering our modern approach to dog training, making it a lifestyle, to communities across the country,” said Stephanie Knepp, VP of Operations. “I will bring a fresh perspective to the table and provide our franchisees with the advice and guidance they need to succeed.”

“The pet sector has always fared well, even during the most economically-challenged times; the recent boom in dog ownership is unprecedented, and we are expanding our Zoom Room executive team to keep up with this demand. The Vice President of Strategic Projects role was created to oversee high-impact projects that will ensure that Zoom Room provides the best experience it can for its clients and be the best business to own and operate for our franchisees. No one is better suited than Liz to fill these new shoes,” said Mark Van Wye, CEO of Zoom Room. “As our newest hire, Stephanie will be taking up the reins to helm Zoom Room’s core business operations and to oversee the operational support of all Zoom Room franchises. I am confident that with her depth of experience in operations, Stephanie will excel in this role.”

For more information about Zoom Room, visit https://zoomroom.com/. For those interested in learning about franchise opportunities: https://zoomroom.com/franchise/.

ABOUT ZOOM ROOM

Founded in 2007, Zoom Room® is a venture-backed and revolutionary indoor dog training gym with locations across the U.S. With an emphasis on socialization, positive reinforcement, human education and the value of interactive learning, the company aims to strengthen the bond and communication between dogs and their owners. Zoom Room’s key revenue streams include dog training classes, socialization events and retail products. Zoom Room celebrates responsible pet owners who love to socialize with their dogs and embrace positive dog training methods in a fun, friendly environment for working out with your dog. They are the authors of Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps, the best-selling dog training book of 2020, and Ultimate Puppy Training for Kids. Rooted in the belief that it’s important to give back to the community, Zoom Room works closely with animal rescue and welfare organizations both locally and nationwide. Learn more at https://zoomroom.com/.

4 04, 2022

DoodyCalls Pet Waste Removal to Scoop Poop in Johnson County

2022-04-04T16:56:59-04:00April 4th, 2022|Tags: , , |

The new location provides dog waste removal services to residents and communities of all sizes.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — DoodyCalls, a nationwide leader in pet waste removal services, is growing its footprint in the pooper scooper industry with the opening of an office in Overland Park, Kansas. DoodyCalls currently cleans up in over 57 territories across 23 states and has been named the number-one pet waste removal franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur Magazine’s annual Franchise 500 list.

Amidst an eclectic career that includes time spent as Chief-of-Staff to the Global Brand President at Ralph Lauren and as a lead project manager in the recruitment of private equity energy C-suite executives and board members, Aaron Griffith was looking for a new opportunity. After spending over a decade on the East Coast, Griffith returned to his roots in the Kansas City metro area to care for his aging grandparents and to be closer to family. A big believer in the bond between pets and their humans with a knack for business, Griffith decided to scoop the poop with DoodyCalls.

“I am honored to begin this new venture with DoodyCalls and leverage my passion for dogs into business success in my hometown that is so dear to me,” said Aaron Griffith, owner and operator of DoodyCalls of Overland Park. “I am so excited for this unique opportunity to serve our community and pursue my business passions.”

Inspired by his late grandfather’s battle with Parkinson’s disease and dementia and fueled by his lifelong love of dogs, Griffith was drawn to the DoodyCalls business model and how it provided him an opportunity to serve his community as a whole. A strong believer in supporting his neighbors, Griffith also plans to give back to the community with charitable initiatives and hopes to expand his business in the near future.

“We are excited to further expand our footprint into the Sunflower State and our Overland Park leader Aaron has the right amount of drive and determination to create success in the market,” said Jacob D’Aniello, COO and founder of DoodyCalls. “We know his passion for business and love of dogs will help him flourish in the community.”

The Johnson County DoodyCalls franchise will service the following areas: Leawood, Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park, and Stillwell.

The scoop on what DoodyCalls offers:

  • For residential dog owners, DoodyCalls provides dog waste pickup, brown spot treatment and deodorizing services.
  • For communities and parks, DoodyCalls designs, sells, installs, services and maintains common areas, pet waste stations, equipment and supplies.

To learn more about the Overland Park franchise location, please visit https://www.doodycalls.com/overlandpark. DoodyCalls is currently seeking poop scoop franchise operators who align with the brand’s values of humility, ethical leadership, integrity, respect, and providing the best service experience possible. To learn more about franchise opportunities or to find a local service technician, visit https://www.doodycalls.com/locations/.

About Doody Calls

DoodyCalls was founded in 2000 by Jacob and Susan D’Aniello in the Northern Virginia suburbs of Washington DC. In 2004, the company began franchising its pet waste removal business nationwide and established corporate headquarters in Charlottesville, VA. DoodyCalls provides service to 23 states and the District of Columbia with dog waste pickup with consumer and industrial services. For more information about Doody Calls, visit www.doodycalls.com.

31 03, 2022

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. Names U.S. And Canadian Vendor Of The Year

2022-03-31T14:20:08-04:00March 31st, 2022|Tags: , , , , |

Grimco and ND Graphics Recognized for Incredible Supplier Relationship. 

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., franchisor of FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise with more than 750 locations in nine countries worldwide, presented the U.S. Vendor of the Year Award to Grimco, Inc. and the Canadian Vendor of the Year Award to ND Graphics at the 2022 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Grapevine, Texas.

The FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year is selected by FASTSIGNS franchisees and is based on the integrity of business practices, product quality, and having a long-term commitment to the FASTSIGNS network. Since 2015, Grimco has received this recognition. This also marks the second year for recognizing the Canadian Vendor of the Year.

“The FASTSIGNS Vendor of the Year Award for the US and Canada recognizes a supplier that delivers outstanding service and consistently provides excellent support to our franchisees,” said Mark Jameson, Chief Support and Development Officer. “We’re happy to recognize Grimco and ND Graphics, and we appreciate all that they do for our franchise network.”

For the past 16 years, Grimco has been working with FASTSIGNS centers, supplying sign and visual graphic materials and products equipment and everything from Signs and Blanks to Digital Media and LED’s.

“To be named Vendor of the Year in 2021 is truly an honor. We hoped that 2021 would move us forward from the pandemic and provide a more stable supply chain. Unfortunately that did not happen and everyone dealt with challenges that we had never expected or experienced in our industry,” said Julie McClain, Director of National Accounts at Grimco. “Through all of this, we appreciate our partnership with FASTSIGNS and the patience that everyone has shown throughout the year. We look forward to continuing the partnership with our goal of providing everyday products in a timely manner and to bring new products forward as the supply chain allows.”

Since 2017, ND Graphics has been working with FASTSIGNS centers, supplying sign and visual graphic materials and products. This includes equipment and everything from sign supplies to digital media and electrical solutions.

“It is an honor for ND Graphics to be awarded the Canadian Vendor of the Year from FASTSIGNS,” said Amber Mundy with ND Graphics. “After an unprecedented year, we appreciate working with such an incredible group of people. It has always been a pleasure to support FASTSIGNS and their growing success. At ND Graphics, we are fortunate to have 10 locations across Canada dedicated to serving Canadian businesses. As an industry leader, we pride ourselves on our exceptional team, extensive experience, and specialized knowledge to assist on every project. We look forward to continuing our valued relationship with the FASTSIGNS network for years to come.”

About FASTSIGNS®

FASTSIGNS is a leading national visual ideas company that creates a wide variety of comprehensive sign and graphics solutions. With over 35 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps you achieve more than you ever thought possible. We are the worldwide franchisor of more than 750 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS® centers. FASTSIGNS locations span across the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE®). FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and  through franchising awards which include being ranked #1 on Entrepreneur’s Highly Competitive Franchise 500® List For The Sixth Consecutive Year for 2022 as well as being named a 2022 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, and is now the multi-brand franchisor for  FASTSIGNS®, NerdsToGo®, MY SALON Suite® and Salon Plaza® brands.

To learn more visit fastsigns.com. Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns, Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS. For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).

31 03, 2022

redbox+ Experiencing Rapid Expansion with a Burgeoning Support System

2022-03-31T14:07:00-04:00March 31st, 2022|Tags: , , , , , |

Roll-off Dumpster Rental Company Identified as Fastest-Growing Franchise; Supporting Nationwide Growth by Adding Key Team Members.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Since its inception, redbox+ has become the answer to the construction, renovation, and restoration industries’ woes on how to keep job sites clean and efficient.

The brand’s innovative, patented roll-off dumpsters as well as its promise of delivering them on-time has led to tremendous expansion for redbox+ over the past year. It wrapped up 2021 with upwards of 300 franchise territories and over 80 franchisees across the country. By the end of 2022, redbox+ is expecting another year of double-digit unit growth by adding individuals to the franchise system who have a desire to be independent, and are dedicated to providing the highest level of customer care.

“Our franchisees are proud to live and share the redbox+ story every day. We have a special system of individuals who come from various professional backgrounds — but what brings us all together is our mission to lead the industry in customer service and quality of support,” said Tim Fagan, President of redbox+. “We’ve found that once customers try redbox+ and experience our service combined with our unique line of roll-off containers, they stay with redbox+.”

Since becoming a part of the BELFOR Franchise Group, the company has invested in bolstering its redbox+ franchise support team in order to have a strong foundation for its continued national expansion. The brand recently added new regional business coach Aaron Stone, and Stephan Taub, as franchise development director. Another recent hire is Alex Trent, who brings strong overall marketing experience as marketing coordinator.

As opposed to other dumpster rental companies, redbox+ provides a wider variety of roll-off containers, including its patented combined roll-off dumpster and portable toilet “Elite” product line. Redbox+ holds a 90 percent retention rate with contract partners and has a growing residential DIY sector with whom its smaller roll-off dumpsters are very popular. Additionally, franchisees are supported by ongoing national marketing, local marketing tools, operational business coaching, and a franchise model that provides low labor costs.

To learn more about the redbox+ franchise opportunity, visit www.redboxplus.com/franchising/.

About redbox+

The redbox+ concept began as an idea hand-drawn on a notepad seeking a better solution for the waste removal industry. Today, it has nearly 300 territories across the U.S. while continuing to offer the only patented combination portable toilet and roll-off dumpster container. In 2022, Entrepreneur magazine recognized redbox+ in the top half of its prestigious ‘Franchise 500’ list and identified it as one of the ‘Fastest-Growing Franchises’ worldwide at #59 and in the U.S. and Canada at #46, and one of the ‘Top Home-Based & Mobile Franchises’ at #53.

Visit www.redboxplus.com to find out more.

29 03, 2022

Interim HealthCare Inc. Ranked No. 1 in Senior Care on Entrepreneur’s 2021 Franchise 500® for Fourth Consecutive Year

2022-03-29T21:51:31-04:00March 29th, 2022|Tags: , , , , |

The First in Home Care™ company has experienced consistent growth for more than 50 years, bolstered by its full continuum of care offerings and comprehensive franchise support services.

SUNRISE, Fla.Interim HealthCare Inc., the nation’s leading franchise network of home care, senior care, home health, hospice and healthcare staffing services ranked No. 1 in the Senior Care category of Entrepreneur‘s 43rd annual Franchise 500®. Overall, the company ranked No. 56 in its fourth consecutive appearance on the list, rising 45 positions from its 2021 placement (No. 101). The Franchise 500® is the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking.

With a decades-long history as one of the most experienced franchise brands, Interim HealthCare’s home health, hospice and healthcare staffing services represent a trusted source of care and a rewarding business opportunity. To meet the growing demand for its services, Interim HealthCare worked aggressively in 2021 to recruit and retain skilled caregivers through its award-winning “Made For This” recruiting campaign, which connects jobseekers from across industries with a rewarding career in home healthcare.

“The value of home-based care has only grown stronger over the past year, as demonstrated by our incredible rise on this ranking,” said Jennifer Sheets, president and CEO of Interim HealthCare. “Interim HealthCare’s unique combination of business value and personal reward makes owning a franchise an ideal opportunity for those looking to do well by doing good, and I extend my congratulations to all of our franchise owners whose dedication has helped make this achievement possible.”

Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the Franchise 500® ranks companies based on outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power. Over its 43 years in existence, the Franchise 500® has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Interim HealthCare’s continued presence at the top of this highly sought-after list is a testament to its strength as a company and a franchise opportunity.

“The past year has been one of the most challenging for businesses in recent memory, which made putting together our 43rd annual Franchise 500® list more enlightening than ever,” says Entrepreneur Editor in Chief Jason Feiffer. “The companies named to this year’s list showed us how being resilient, supportive, and nimble can help navigate extraordinary challenges and also underscore the grit and innovation that define entrepreneurship.”

Interim HealthCare has been steadfast in its industry advocacy work over the past year, continuing to elevate home care as the patient-preferred method of care within the wider healthcare industry. The company’s experienced franchise support network and demonstrated business value has attracted multiple new owners in 2021 while continuing to expand its presence across the U.S. Additional highlights from 2021 include:

  • Completing three franchise acquisitions to align with the company’s overarching goal of expanding its reach to serve more individuals in need around the country through the purchase of Interim HealthCare of Sacramento Hospice and Interim HealthCare of San Diego in California, and Interim HealthCare of the Treasure Coast in Florida.
  • Furthering its advocacy work by commissioning the Home Health Insights Study. This research examined consumers’ shifting perspectives around access to medical care and changing opinions on healthcare careers brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic to inform the company’s business focus and outreach moving forward.
  • Elevating its HomeLife Enrichment® standard of care through unveiling new caregiver guides for dementia, diabetes, heart failure and hospice. These comprehensive resources are integral to the holistic care of patients that supports the mind, body, spirit and family.
  • Ranking No. 81 on the 2021 Franchise Times Top 400, which evaluates the 400 largest franchise systems in the United States by global systemwide sales, based on the previous year’s performance.
  • Continuing to celebrate healthcare workers’ commitment and dedication since the start of the pandemic through innovative campaigns to unify messages of appreciation for nurses and caregivers across the healthcare space.

In Entrepreneur‘s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 43-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation, including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500® in ranking order.

To view Interim HealthCare’s placement in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500, also published in the January/February 2022 issue of Entrepreneur.

For more information about Interim HealthCare’s franchise opportunities, please visit: https://www.interimfranchising.com.

About Interim HealthCare Inc.

Founded in 1966 and First in Home Care®, Interim HealthCare Inc. is unique in combining the commitment of local ownership with the support of a national organization that develops innovative programs and quality standards. The only major franchise brand in its category to offer the full continuum of care, the company strives to improve the delivery of home healthcare and staffing services through 330 plus locations servicing the U.S. Ranked number one for the fourth year in a row by Entrepreneur magazine, franchisees employ nurses, therapists, aides, companions and other healthcare professionals who provide 25 million hours of home care to 200,000 people each year, as well as telehealth and care coordination services, to meet a variety of home health, senior care, hospice, palliative care, pediatric care and healthcare staffing needs. For more information or to locate an Interim HealthCare office, visit www.interimhealthcare.com.

29 03, 2022

Fibrenew Closes Out Q1 with Cancun Opening, Surpasses 290 Franchise Locations

2022-03-29T21:43:35-04:00March 29th, 2022|Tags: , , , |

Mobile Leather, Plastic, Vinyl, Fabric and Upholstery Repair Franchise Adds 13 New Franchisees, Heads into Q2 on High Note.

BLACK DIAMOND, AB — After a record-breaking year in 2021 that brought the signing of 40 franchise agreements in 21 states plus Saudi Arabia, Fibrenew, the leading mobile service franchise specializing in the repair, restoration, and renewal of leather, plastic, vinyl, fabric, and upholstery, has come out of the gates swinging in 2022. The close of Q1 brought many milestones for the mobile franchise, including the signing of 13 new franchisees which brings the brand to 292 locations worldwide. In addition, Fibrenew opened its first location in Cancun, Mexico – further solidifying the strength of the franchise business model and its ability to transcend international borders with its unmatched eco-friendly service offerings.

“Fibrenew has spent decades building a reputation founded on proprietary repair techniques which has positioned us as an industry-leading franchise opportunity,” said Jesse Johnstone, president of Fibrenew. “Our team continues to drive excitement around our brand and both investors and consumers alike are taking notice. I am confident Fibrenew will be the brand to watch as we head into the second quarter and beyond.”

Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar franchise opportunities, Fibrenew franchisees are not stuck behind a desk, or counter and have freedom to set their own hours. The mobile concept allows franchisees to go directly to where the work is for all leather, plastic and vinyl repair needs. The attractive business model, coupled with the confidence these franchisees demonstrate by investing in Fibrenew, helps showcase the brand’s strength and durability during a particularly challenging year for business owners.

Looking ahead at the year to come, Fibrenew anticipates surpassing 300 international locations by the end of Q2 and will host its international convention to celebrate growth and recognize stellar franchisee performance in Nashville in September 2022. Fibrenew has seen unparalleled growth over the past five years, including 16% year over year growth from 2020 to 2021. The brand projects even more expansion this year with the goal of 15% growth in 2022. Franchise Business Review recently ranked Fibrenew on its Top Franchises for 2022 list for the fifth year in a row and the brand was also named the Best of 2022 by Franchise Journal Magazine. Rankings such as these further solidify that Fibrenew is an investment opportunity worth pursuing.

By equipping its franchisees with first-rate hands-on training, in-house technology for operations and ongoing workshops and seminars, Fibrenew is able to ensure its owners are set up for success. In addition to the supportive culture, the exclusive territory rights ensure there’s no internal competition. Rather, the franchisees band together and help one another during training and beyond; some even split the cost of hiring an administrative assistance to help with scheduling and handling inbound leads.

About Fibrenew

Fibrenew is a leading mobile service franchise that specializes in the repair, restoration, and renewal of leather, plastic, vinyl, fabric, and upholstery. With a rich history that dates back to 1985, Fibrenew manufactures a highly-specialized proprietary product line and has pioneered the repair techniques and exclusive color matching technology used by its technicians every day. With 290+ franchise locations and 350+ technicians across the USA, Canada, Mexico, Chile, New Zealand and Saudi Arabia, the company’s eco-friendly restoration services save customers time and money by offering an alternative to replacing their damaged couches and chairs, car and marine components, commercial furniture and more. For more information about Fibrenew franchise opportunities, visit https://www.fibrenew.com/franchising/.

29 03, 2022

My Eyelab Set to Enter Iowa

2022-03-29T21:37:11-04:00March 29th, 2022|Tags: , , , |

Franchisees to Bring Four New Locations of Optical Retail Brand to the Cedar Rapids Region

CEDAR RAPIDS, IowaMy Eyelab, a retail brand of Now Optics, is gearing up for expansion in the Iowa market. This growth is being driven by a recently signed franchise agreement with a trio of entrepreneurs looking to bring easy and affordable eye care to Iowans. The franchisees, Shelan Patel, Nikki Gosal and Pritesh Patel have plans to open four locations over the next few years in the Cedar Rapids area. Their first two stores are on track to open between summer and fall of 2022.

As former Now Optics employees with combined experience north of 23 years, Patel and Gosal are well positioned for success in this new venture with My Eyelab. Gosal was a Regional Manager of 11 Now Optics stores, with a clear emphasis on multi-unit franchises and store management. Patel was the Director of Finance, Accounting and Business Intelligence over the course of a 10+ year employment with Now Optics.

“We are thrilled to be growing My Eyelab in Iowa over the next few years,” said Gosal. “My Eyelab will give Iowan’s access to easier and more affordable eye care, and we look forward to furthering our ongoing relationship with the brand.”

Added Shelan Patel: “Having a strong understanding of the telemedicine concept and the general business model of the brand is what makes us delighted to kick-start our franchising careers. We are excited to be representing a brand that we’ve felt passionate about from the very beginning. Nikki, Pritesh and I can’t wait to bring our expertise and love for what we do to our future customers throughout Iowa.”

My Eyelab remains committed to making franchising in the eye care retail space easier than ever. To continue its impressive trajectory, My Eyelab is seeking qualified entrepreneurs that share the same vision and have a passion for managing their own business. My Eyelab’s streamlined business model makes it easy for anyone to own and operate a retail eye care store and hit the ground running from day one. Their corporate team of experts have over 50 years of combined experience to share and provide the needed training and on-going support in all aspects of running the operation, from site selection to marketing, merchandising and technology.

For more information about My Eyelab, visit www.myeyelab.com. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit www.myeyelabfranchise.com or contact Charles Kowanetz at ckowanetz@myeyelab.com or 561-331-0933.

ABOUT NOW OPTICS:

Now Optics is a leader in the eye care industry. Its retail brands, My Eyelab and Stanton Optical, are among the nation’s fastest growing, full-service retail eye care centers. The company continues to expand its retail footprint with over 250 corporate and franchise locations in 28 states while delivering affordable eye health and eyewear solutions. The company consistently ranks among the largest optical retailers in the country by Vision Monday and was ranked #3 on Entrepreneur’s list of Top New Franchises in 2021. Visit myeyelab.com or stantonoptical.com for more information. Find details about franchise opportunities at myeyelabfranchise.com.

28 03, 2022

Cruise Planners’ exclusive Elite Summit Sails toward success on the Danube

2022-03-28T21:56:05-04:00March 28th, 2022|Tags: , , , , |

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — After two years in the making, Cruise Planners’ Elite Summit finally made its way along the Danube river aboard the magnificent AmaMagna for a scenic and productive tour of Eastern Europe. Cruise Planners proudly hosted the event to celebrate the achievements of their top producers at the 2022 Elite Summit on AmaWaterways luxury ship last week. Over 170 travel advisors from all over the U.S. convened on the Danube to network, learn and revel in the fruits of their labor.

Cruise Planners CEO and Founder Michelle Fee hosted the eight-day event alongside Cruise Planners Senior VP of Strategic Development Scott Koepf and Chief Sales Officer Theresa Scalzitti. Although this trip was originally planned for March 2020, it had a spate of delays due to the covid-19 pandemic and travel restrictions.

“It was definitely worth the wait,” said Michelle Fee, CEO and Founder of Cruise Planners. “These agents are the equivalent of travel advisor royalty. They are successful self-starters and experts in their fields and this summit is a chance to celebrate their achievements in an undeniably difficult year. They have led by example to show that it’s possible to turn lemons into lemonade—topped with a splash of sparkling champagne.”

This is the first time Cruise Planners has had a full ship charter and the trip began on March 13th in Vilshofen, Germany with stops in Passau, Linz & Grein, Melk & Spitz, Vienna, and Bratislava before wrapping up in Budapest on March 20th.

The Elite Summit featured supplier partner one-on-one meetings and networking. Industry partners in attendance included:

  • AmaWaterways – Kristin Karst, Co-Owner & VP
  • AmaWaterways – Diane Marie Curchy Horan, Director, Strategic Partner Networks
  • Carnival Cruise Line – Jodi Kinmon, Director of Strategic Partnerships
  • Silversea – Laurie Bohn, Senior Director, National Accounts
  • Norwegian Cruise Line – Soleil Domagala, Sr. Manager, National Accounts
  • Oceania Cruises – Nikki Upshaw, Senior Vice President
  • Princess Cruises – Mary Irene Jencen, National Account Business Development Manager
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Lisette Thurman, Strategic Accounts Director
  • Allianz – Jeff Schafer, Regional Sales Director
  • Celebrity Cruises – Yolanda Sheppard, Manager, National Accounts
  • Royal Caribbean Cruises – Vicki Freed, SVP, Sales and Trade Support & Service
  • Kensington – Stephanie Governali, Director, Agency Sales
  • Disney – Jodi Bainter, Director, Travel Agency Sales
  • Seabourn – Wendy Whitener, Director, North America Sales

The AmaMagna features multiple dining venues, and is twice the size of traditional river cruises, adding space and luxury to the river cruising experience. Guests on board also had access to a massage and hair salon, a fitness room, a swimming pool and whirlpool. AmaMagna is also the first of AmaWaterways’ ships to feature a water sports platform complete with the Sundowner boat for evening river excursions.

“The Elite Summit is always one of the most amazing experiences of the year,” said Joel Wilder, who has been on nine top producer trips. “It’s always so uplifting and inspiring to exchange ideas, visit with CP and cruise line executives, see old friends– all while seeing the world! I have sailed on most European rivers onboard Viking, Uniworld and Avalon and now AmaWaterways, which certainly did not disappoint. The AmaMagna is an amazing ship and I’m planning on putting a group cruise together to sail on her.”

The summit included executive presentations, one-on-one meetings with suppliers while also giving top producers a chance to network and immerse themselves in the culture of these historic, top destinations. Sample excursions include, “Hungarian goulash making class”, “wine tasting and castle walking tour”, “Passau River biking tour” and ” Cesky Krumlov Excursion with Czech Beer” to name a few.

“This year feels extra special because 1) the ship was chartered for just Cruise Planners 2) because it feels like we are back on track after the two past difficult years,” said Mellanie Ingle, who is based in Huntington Beach, CA. “I love that all of us have a bond that encourages sharing information, helping each other when we can, and looking forward to our time together each year.  We all understand what it takes to achieve this level of sales, and support each other.”

AmaWaterways co-owner Kristin Karst also hosted a special surprise dinner for its top producer and Cruise Planners Executives with Count Carl Philip Clam in Austria.

Cruise Planners hosts two Elite Summits each year, with the second one slated for May 1-5  at the Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau. In addition, there will be a series of four, in-person Boot Camp events including around the country with locations in Las Vegas, Connecticut, Dallas, and Orlando. To culminate, Cruise Planners annual convention will take place in Miami and complete on the Norwegian Prima as it makes its inaugural sailing.

“They truly earned this,” said Fee. “You can’t ask for a better setting, for a more dedicated and talented group of travel advisors to recharge, innovate and immerse themselves into the world of travel before they get out there and keep doing what they do best. It’s only going to go up from here.”

About Cruise Planners

Company Background: Cruise Planners, an award-winning American Express Travel Representative, is the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network. Cruise Planners positions a nation-wide network of 2,500 franchise owners for success by providing innovative marketing programs, proprietary and cutting-edge booking and technology tools, as well as professional development and hands-on training with the industry’s top executives. The company continues to be an industry leader and was named the No.1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 18 consecutive years and awarded by Franchise Business Review as “Best-In-Category” for 2 years. FBR also ranked Cruise Planners #3 OVERALL on their list of Top 200 Franchises of 2022. Cruise Planners was recently featured in Entrepreneur as one of the top 30 franchise innovators in technology, has been consistently named as one of the Top Women-Owned Businesses by the South Florida Business Journal, is on the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America, and was recognized as one of the Top Workplaces by the Sun Sentinel.

Visit our website, www.cruiseplanners.com, for more information or to view the complete list of awards and honors. For those interested in becoming a franchise owner, please visit https://www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com/.

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