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4 10, 2021

Cruise Planners Continues to Focus On the Future of Travel

2021-10-04T10:07:36-04:00October 4th, 2021|Tags: , , , , |

With a “Back to the Future” Themed Annual Convention, Cruise Planners celebrates the future of travel by bringing their network together in Mexico.

CANCUN, Mexico — Cruise Planners travel advisors were excited to safely return to its largest in-person event by hosting its annual convention in Cancun, Mexico at the El Dorado Royale. With clever “Back to the Future” movie nods and creative sessions focused on energizing Cruise Planners travel advisors, the five-day event was jam packed with information, entertainment and innovation.

“Cruise Planners’ conventions never disappoint. They are always filled with fun, engaging high-quality productions, videos and best of all, their exciting new innovation announcements,” said Vicki Freed SVP, Trade, Sales Support and Service for Royal Caribbean International. “Cruise Planners certainly did not stop during the pandemic and they will go into the future stronger than ever.”

Cruise Planners leaders reflected on the success of several new programs introduced in 2020 – mainly as a result of the pandemic.  The Where2Next™ Virtual Travel series proved to be enormously successful with twelve events completed to date and over $20 million in total sales resulting from the events.  The Task Manager tool which allows advisors to create a series of tasks and sets reminders and is integrated throughout their entire CRM system, helps advisors never miss a step in servicing their clients.  Over 125,000 tasks have been created so far.  And the All-Inclusive Resort Tool bringing hundreds of resorts into one easy to search and filter location within Cruise Planners’ proprietary booking tool, CP Maxx.

During the executive opening, Cruise Planners executive team including Michelle Fee, CEO and founder; Vicky Garcia, COO and co-owner; Brian Shultz, CIO; Theresa Scalzitti, CSO; and Scott Koepf, SVP of Strategic Development shared over twenty major announcements to the network including:

  1. SOAR Dashboard Analysis – Highly Detailed Business Analytics dashboard for Advisors containing 120 different metrics to analyze their business and includes a heightened focus on setting and tracking business goals
  2. Enhanced Sales Opportunities Tool – Allows advisors to easily track the sales stage of their leads and integrates with Task Manager for follow-up reminders
  3. White-Label Websites– Customized, professional websites for cross marketing with local businesses and organizations
  4. Landing Page Templates – Helps advisors easily create professional landing pages on their websites to promote groups, promotions, blogs and more
  5. Enhanced Website Customization Options – Ability to further customize the homepage of their site to showcase franchisee’s unique attributes, services and specialties
  6. Enhanced Social Media and Digital Services – A new, third level of social media and digital footprint management.  The new “CP Pro Elite” program includes daily posting to Facebook and Instagram, Facebook digital ad boosts, directory listings and reputation management, all in one easy to use dashboard
  7. Enhanced Trigger Emails – New cleaner and more concise messaging
  8. Shore Excursion Marketing Email Triggers – Automated emails focused on shore excursion sales leading to a 40% higher conversion
  9. Client Lead Form & Contact Sharing – Automated Advisor Contact Sharing built into the client lead form
  10. Care Team – One Stop Customer Service for franchisees including Phone, Email and Chat communication methods
  11. Hotel Booking Engine – Coming soon, a new hotel booking engine that incorporates American Express hotel programs, enhanced commissions, customer savings
  12. Automated Marketing Program – New marketing program that encompasses emails, push notifications and more utilizing AI and big data
  13. Dedicated Supplier Landing Pages – Robust landing pages on all consumer websites for top suppliers showcasing supplier videos, exclusive offers, featured itineraries and more
  14. Automated Client Texting Communications – Text communications sent automatically for important date reminders such as deposit and final payment dates, as well as, the ability to send quotes and other information in the method preferred by clients
  15. Destination Content Provider – Destination content on over 9,000 destinations will be available throughout their websites, customer marketing tools and more
  16. CP Destination Hub – Central place for all destination content including community sourced information from the Cruise Planners network such as hotel, restaurant, transfer and activity recommendations
  17. Sherpa Travel Restrictions Interactive Map – Interactive map with real-time travel restriction information available on consumer websites and advisor CRM to help easily stay up to date on the ever-changing restrictions by country
  18. 2022 Events – With 5 Bootcamps, 2 Elite Events, 3 CP Tech Days, Land and Luxury Event and the Annual Convention, there are 12 In Person Events available for advisors in 2022 in addition to 6 STAR University training events for new franchisees
  19. Romance Travel Specialist Program – Advisors will be able to receive this designation after completing robust wedding and honeymoon training program 
  20. Task Manager Integration in the Mobile App – The very popular Task Manager tool will now be fully integrated into the advisor’s mobile app which allows them to quote, sell and service from anywhere

“The Power of Cruise Planners is strong, we are ready to put the pandemic behind us and focus on the future of travel,” said CEO and Founder, Michelle Fee. “Our travel advisors have been incredibly resilient and our entire team’s performance continues to solidify our leadership in the industry.”

Fee continued, “We are fighters, we aren’t going to stop innovating, marketing, and helping our network grow into the future.  There’s no turning back – there’s only looking ahead.”

Day 1 ended with Keynote speaker, Shari Wallack, President of Buy the Sea.  Wallack published her memoir, From Hell to Challah and shared her inspirational message about struggle and perseverance during the pandemic.  Wallack hopes that travel advisors can grow, learn, and benefit from her story.

“The future is bright with Cruise Planners,” Fee said about sales for 2022 and beyond.  Cruise Planners, together with strong supplier partnerships, will help rebuild the travel industry and propel us into the future.”

About Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel advisor franchise network and an American Express Travel Representative, has more than 2,500 franchise owners who independently book vacations and travel experiences for their clients. Headquartered in Coral Springs, Fla. since 1994, Cruise Planners provides its travel advisors with access to award-winning, innovative marketing; cutting-edge mobile technology; dynamic, hands-on training; lead-generating tools, as well as professional coaching and development. Cruise Planners has achieved top producer status with every major cruise line, many land vendors and maintains a philanthropic drive earning an International Franchise Association FranTech award for innovation and Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly. Learn more at http://www.cruiseplanners.com

1 10, 2021

Premium Service Brands Adds Handyman Franchise House Doctors to Its Thriving Roster; Second Acquisition in Two Weeks

2021-10-01T11:03:45-04:00October 1st, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

Following the acquisition of The Grout Medic on September 17, House Doctors will be the ninth brand joining the Premium Service Brands family, with all current Handyman Pro franchisees transitioning into the House Doctors system.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Multi-brand home services franchisor Premium Service Brands has announced the acquisition of 36-unit handyman franchise House Doctors. The franchise, which was previously owned and operated by Saltire Brands, LLC, will join Premium Service Brands’ impressive roster of integrated home service concepts that includes kitchen-remodeling brand Kitchen Wise, painting brand 360° Painting, cleaning brand Maid Right, outdoor surface cleaning brand Renew Crew, home-repair brand Handyman Pro, junk removal franchise Rubbish Works, garage-door services brand ProLift Garage Doors and recently-acquired tile and grout cleaning franchise The Grout Medic.

“House Doctors is an innovative and constantly-evolving home-services provider with qualified and passionate owners all over the country,” said Jim Hunter, CEO of House Doctor, who will remain on the team to assist with the transition of House Doctors to Premium Service Brands. “Teaming up with Premium Service Brands, the leading home services name in North America, is an incredibly exciting moment for the brand and the franchisees. The robust support provided by Premium Service Brands’ multi-brand system will allow House Doctors to continue growing its infrastructure with high-quality service for customers and well-positioned business ownership opportunities for franchisees.”

Founded in 1995, House Doctors has been helping homeowners with home repair and light remodeling projects for over 25 years, as well as providing franchisees with a simplified, home-based business model. According to Premium Service Brands CEO Paul Flick, the brand is the perfect complement to Premium Service Brands’ existing portfolio of franchises and will help connect customer bases and increase referrals between brands.

And this year, Premium Service Brands franchisees are being given more concepts to choose from than ever before. House Doctors marks the second acquisition in the last two weeks for the multi-brand franchisor, who recently announced the addition of 63-unit tile and grout cleaning franchise The Grout Medic. PSB also acquired junk removal franchise Rubbish Works in late 2020.

ABOUT PREMIUM SERVICE BRANDS:

Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, Premium Service Brands (PSB) is the leader in home services franchise opportunities. More on franchising opportunities at: https://www.premiumservicebrands.com/.

1 10, 2021

Senior Helpers® Opens State-of-the-Art Caregiver Training Facility in Scottsdale, Ariz., October 1

2021-10-01T10:54:40-04:00October 1st, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

National In-home Senior Care Company Invites Professional Caregivers, Family Caregivers and Members of the Local Community to Hone Skills at Premier Training Venue.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.Senior Helpers®, the nation’s premier provider of personalized, in-home senior care, today announced the official opening of the Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving at its Scottsdale, Arizona, location. The Center of Excellence in Caregiving will open to the public on October 1 and serve as a comprehensive training facility where Senior Helpers-certified caregivers, family caregivers, and members of the community who assist the elderly can expand their skills and knowledge of administering specialized care that is designed to meet the needs and requirements of senior citizens at various stages. With the goal of elevating the overall level of care provided to the elderly in Scottsdale and the surrounding communities, the new location joins existing Senior Helpers corporate training facilities in Baltimore and Chicago.

“It has always been our mission to provide high-quality care to the senior population within our community, and we are extremely grateful and excited to be expanding our Scottsdale location,” said Tiffany Phelan, owner, Senior Helpers Scottsdale. “The new Center of Excellence will allow us to be even more involved with the caregiver community and broaden our reach among families who have loved ones in need.”

Tiffany and Shaun Phelan have owned the Senior Helpers Scottsdale franchise for 15 years and this expansion will bolster the location’s capabilities to serve professional and family caregivers, as well as members of the community who are interested in a caregiving profession. The franchise has partnered with organizations and experts in various fields to develop different training sessions, which will be available for free at the new Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving in the weeks following the grand opening. Each training session will feature a unique curriculum for different areas of care, including hospice-specific training, patient autonomy and dementia care, giving attendees hands-on experience in an apartment setting complete with a living room, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.

Senior Helpers operates with a vision to be the leading home care company in each community it serves and its caregivers in Scottsdale are trained to offer the highest level of care possible based on the company’s Senior Gems® Alzheimer’s and Dementia care program. The Center of Excellence in Caregiving aims to support caregivers’ professional growth and give members of the community—caregivers and those assisting elderly loved ones alike—the tools and experience to hone their caregiving skills, ensuring that local seniors can continue to enjoy the comfort of their own homes despite age-related illnesses and mobility challenges.

“We’re thrilled to be opening a Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving at our Scottsdale location,” said Peter Ross, chief executive officer, Senior Helpers. “Shaun and Tiffany Phelan have a passion for their community and a strong dedication to compassionate senior care, and this new facility can only enhance the quality of services we provide to seniors and families throughout the surrounding area.”

The newest Senior Helpers Center of Excellence in Caregiving is located at 9832 N Hayden Rd, Suite 103, Scottsdale, Ariz. For more information, please visit www.seniorhelpers.com/az/scottsdale. For inquiries about training session availability, please call Tiffany Phelan at (480) 621-6672 or email tphelan@seniorhelpers.com. Senior Helpers Scottdale is also hiring caregivers. For more information on available jobs call Jorge Pena at (480) 621-6672 or email jpena@seniorhelpers.com.

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

Senior Helpers was the first national in-home care provider to be certified as a Great Place to Work. The company has been named by Fortune Magazine as one of the best places to work in the aging services category and one of the best places to work in the state of New York. Senior Helpers is named to the Entrepreneur 2020 Top Low-Cost Franchises list as well as one of Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise Companies. Moreover, the company is an approved partner in the Military Spouse Employment Partnership. Senior Helpers is also an active member of the Healthcare Leadership Council — an exclusive alliance of leading healthcare companies from all health sectors committed to advancing the American healthcare system. Learn more by visiting http://www.seniorhelpers.com.

1 10, 2021

Signarama Celebrates Third Consecutive Year as Title Sponsor for World Axe Throwing League Championship

2021-10-01T10:36:54-04:00October 1st, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Signarama , a part of the United Franchise Group and the world’s leading sign franchise, is proud to announce its official title sponsorship of the World Axe Throwing League’s (WATL) Championship event for the third consecutive year, taking place December 12th at Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, TX.

“We are excited to be partnering with WATL for the third year in a row! Signarama has watched this event gain popularity since we first sponsored it in 2018. This is the perfect event to mark the close of our 35th anniversary and our most successful year yet,” said A.J. Titus, President of Signarama.

The 2021 Signarama World Axe Throwing Championship will air live on ESPN+ on December 12th, 2021, at 1PM EDT. Global top throwers, in three major disciplines: Hatchet, Big Axe and Duals will compete for a total prize pool of $50,000

Signarama is also unveiling a preferred partnership program with the league. In this program, Signarama will provide expertise on signage and branding materials for axe-throwing venues, leagues, and recreational facilities.

“We’re excited to continue our close partnership with Signarama,” shared Mario Zelaya, Commissioner of the World Axe Throwing League. “It will greatly benefit all entrepreneurs in the axe throwing space. Signarama is the perfect partner for WATL, and we look forward to our continued collaboration with them.”

About United Franchise Group

Led by Founder and CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to an affiliated family of brands, including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Jon Smith Subs, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, Venture X, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, Network Lead Exchange, Resource Operations International (ROI) and Graze Craze. With over three decades in the franchising industry and more than 1,600 franchisees throughout the world, UFG offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.

About Signarama

Signarama, the world’s leading sign and graphics franchise, offers branding and messaging solutions in addition to comprehensive sign and graphic services to consumers and commercial customers – from business signs, vehicle wraps, and digital signs, to advertising and marketing services. Signarama is part of a successful system of business-to-business franchise brands and development services under the United Franchise Group (UFG). For more information, visit signarama.com. For more information on the Signarama franchise opportunity, visit SignaramaFranchise.com.

29 09, 2021

Unity Rd. Vice President and Franchise Partner to Present at MLive Cannabis Insights Event on October 7

2021-09-29T16:46:07-04:00September 29th, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , |

Dispensary Franchise Joins Notable Roster of Cannabis Industry Leaders & Marketing Innovators for Virtual Michigan Event – Encourages Interested Investors to Attend for Free.

DETROIT — Unity Rd., the cannabis dispensary franchise from Item 9 Labs Corp. (OTCQX: INLB), continues to lead at the forefront of the industry. As part of the brand’s commitment to cannabis education and franchise expansion, Unity Rd. will be presenting at the virtual MLive Cannabis Insights event on Thursday, October 7, which kicks off at 4:00 p.m. EDT. The presentation will include a live Q&A with Unity Rd.’s VP of Franchise Development, Justin Livingston, and Unity Rd. franchise partner Nate Wetzel, who recently opened the doors of his Unity Rd. shop in Boulder, Colorado.

The virtual event’s theme is Grow Your Brand, and will cover practical tools, tactics and insights on effective marketing strategies in the cannabis industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from six speakers, some of whom include: David Herrold, Director of Audience Target Strategy at Advance Local; Andrew Brisbo, Executive Director of Michigan’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency; and Tatiana Grant, President of Cultivate MI Solutions. Unity Rd.’s presentation will cover how to Grow in Cannabis with the Proven System of a Franchise, featuring an authentic Q&A session with Livingston and Wetzel, providing insight into the franchise partnership process, while exploring potential questions and other considerations that prospective operators may have.

Register for the October 7 virtual MLive Cannabis Insights Event
for free here.

Learn more about Unity Rd. franchise opportunities,
contact franchise@unityrd.com or 720-923-5262, or visit franchise.unityrd.com.

“Before finding Unity Rd., I was fully prepared to take on the burden of launching a dispensary from scratch – I’m so glad I didn’t,” shared Wetzel. “Opening a dispensary has been a goal of mine for years. After putting in the research, that goal became increasingly daunting. Unity Rd. helped make the opening process as smooth as possible. Looking back, I can’t even imagine having to navigate that on my own. That said, before signing on with the team, I had plenty of questions. Our goal with this Q&A is to answer the questions that interested investors likely have in hopes of helping them decide what route they’d like to take.”

The cannabis industry is notoriously complex, which is why Unity Rd. has developed a streamlined and straight forward approach to opening a dispensary. The brand’s team boasts a combined 120-plus years of legal cannabis and franchising experience, and provides guidance every step of the way – from securing a dispensary license to managing cash flow and product selection. The veteran team passes on their knowledge and trusted resources, as well as provides the ongoing support needed to successfully operate a dispensary.

“Franchising is a solid way to bring support and structure to any industry, but for years, leaders have shied away from franchising cannabis – no doubt due to its complexity. Yet, franchising dispensaries is the only way we’re going to see explosive industry growth with business ownership in the hands of the local operator,” explains Livingston. “So, whether you’re interested in learning about franchising in cannabis, or are looking to take some best practices back to your business, I encourage you to attend this event. There are so many nuances in cannabis, so this event is sure to be filled with helpful insight.”

Unity Rd. has pinpointed Michigan for growth as statewide adult-use cannabis sales are projected to total upwards of $2.4 billion by 2024. In 2020 alone, combined cannabis sales were $984.6 million, with medical accounting for $474 million and adult-use generating $510.7 million. The brand is actively seeking qualified franchise partners in target development markets including Detroit, Lansing, Kalamazoo, and Grand Rapids.

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 more than 10 entrepreneurial groups across the country. Recently, it was named one of the top cannabis retail leaders in the nation by MJBizDaily magazine and one of the “Best Cannabis Companies to Work For” in both the dispensary and cultivation categories in Cannabis Business Times’ elite 2020 list. The company is also the first cannabis business to earn a Franchise Times Dealmakers award. For more information, visit unityrd.com.

29 09, 2021

Saladworks Celebrates 35 Year Milestone by Fundraising for No Kid Hungry

2021-09-29T16:33:06-04:00September 29th, 2021|Tags: , , , , |

Fast Casual Restaurant Franchise Creates Fall LTO to Drive Awareness and Donations for Kids in Need of Meals.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Saladworks, the nation’s leading fast-casual create-your-own salad franchise and part of the WOWorks family of brands, will celebrate its 35th birthday on Sept. 30. To commemorate this milestone, the brand wants to give back to the communities it serves by donating 35 cents from the sale of each of its new Amy’s Fall Fest entrees to No Kid Hungry. Saladworks will also give 35 bonus points to each Saladworks Rewards member that donates $5 to its No Kid Hungry fundraiser, the High Five Challenge, which started on September 1 and runs through October 17, 2021.

Amy’s Fall Fest was created from the winning recipe of the Saladworks’ Flavor Your World Original Recipe Challenge, which invited Saladworks Rewards members across the nation to create a new original recipe from Saladworks ingredients over the summer. Amy Sarli-Prelle was the winner of the Flavor Your World Original Recipe Challenge, and her recipe is featured for a limited time in the form of a themed Salad, Warm Grain Bowl, and Wrap.

Sarli-Prelle’s winning salad, Amy’s Fall Fest, is perfect for the fall weather rolling in. The entree is a blend of radiatore pasta, romaine/iceberg blend, roasted turkey, smoky bacon, diced apples, diced red onions, applewood smoked gouda cheese, walnuts and apple cider vinaigrette.

The Saladworks’ Flavor Your World Challenge was developed to help support No Kid Hungry, a cause to help end childhood hunger. The High Five Challenge has been created by Saladworks’ parent company WOWorks’, which also includes Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, Frutta Bowls and The Simple Greek. Collectively, WOWorks brands are trying to raise $400,000 to give 4 million meals to kids in need.

There are five ways guests can team up with Saladworks to be a part of the High Five Challenge and support No Kid Hungry:

  • Making a donation of $1 or $5 to No Kid Hungry after purchasing their meal, either in person at a Saladworks restaurant or via online ordering. $1 donors receive an “I Joined the Team” sticker and an opportunity to sign a “High Five Hand” image symbolizing their personal commitment to the cause. To sweeten the deal, every guest who donates $5 or more receives the above, along with a high five value coupon for use on a future visit through October 31, 2021. Each individually signed “High Five Hand” will be posted on the wall signifying the progress made.
  • Purchasing Saladworks limited-time only Amy’s Fall Fest entrees will donate 35 cents to No Kid Hungry.
  • Additionally, purchasing a Saladworks Kids Works meal will give a donation of 10 cents to No Kid Hungry.
  • For each catering order, guests will also have the option to donate $5, $10 or $25 to No Kid Hungry on an ongoing basis.
  • Making a donation via a special WOWorks section within the Fundraising page of the No Kid Hungry website at: https://www.nokidhungry.org/partners/homepage-partner/WOWorks

“We’re so proud of Saladworks reaching an amazing milestone. There is no better way to celebrate this birthday than to partner with an impactful organization that helps end childhood hunger. WOWorks is all about making the communities they service a “WOW” place to live and we are continuously working to reach that goal,” said Kelly Roddy, CEO of WOWorks.

Saladworks, throughout its 35 years, has always placed a focus on guest originality through its array of over 60 fresh, flavorful and healthy ingredients. In addition to its 12 Signature recipes, Saladworks offers Create-Your-Own options — including Salads, Warm Grain Bowls, Wraps — as well as Soups and a Kids Works menu – plus, new Signature Sandwiches and Panini Melts in many locations.

For more information about its menu, current offers, or to become a Saladworks Rewards member, visit www.saladworks.com or download the Saladworks Rewards app.

ABOUT NO KID HUNGRY:
No child should go hungry in America. But in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, 1 in 6 kids could still face hunger this year. No Kid Hungry is working to end childhood hunger by helping launch and improve programs that give all kids the healthy food they need to thrive. This is a problem we know how to solve. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of Share Our Strength, an organization committed to ending hunger and poverty.

ABOUT SALADWORKS:
Founded in 1986, Saladworks is the nation’s leading fast-casual create-your-own salad destination, with over 150 locations across 18 states and two countries. Part of the WOWorks family of brands, which also includes Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, Frutta Bowls and The Simple Greek, Saladworks encourages guests to be original, giving them the option to choose from salads, warm grain bowls or wraps, along with an endless array of fresh vegetables, fruits, proteins and delicious dressings. Ranked #7 on Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers and Shakers in 2021, Saladworks has been delivering the most original and incredible salad experience to guests for more than 30 years. For more information, visit www.saladworks.com.

ABOUT WOWORKS:
WOWorks was formed in 2020 with a mission to help guests pursue their passions and live their best lives by serving healthy, nutritious and flavorful meals along with first-rate hospitality. Fully owned by Centre Lane Partners, LLC, WOWorks’ portfolio consists of: Saladworks, the nation’s leading fast-casual salad brand; Frutta Bowls, a unique restaurant franchise serving a variety of superfood bowls, fresh fruit smoothies, protein bites and more; Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, a popular Mediterranean restaurant concept; and most recently, The Simple Greek, which offers a fresh and healthy take on traditional Greek recipes in a fast-casual setting. WOWorks seeks to drive explosive growth across all of its brands through a variety of channels, both traditional and non-traditional, including ghost kitchens, food trucks, grocery retail and more.

29 09, 2021

Blo Blow Dry Bar Partners with Saks Fifth Avenue to Introduce the Blo American Dream Pop Up

2021-09-29T16:18:35-04:00September 29th, 2021|Tags: , , , , , |

Local Franchisee Collaborates with Luxury Department Store on new Brand Initiative in American Dream Mall.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Blo Blow Dry Bar, North America’s original blow dry bar and the world’s largest blow dry bar franchise, has partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue to create the ‘Blo American Dream Pop Up’ located in the American Dream Mall at 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. This 5-week partnership brings a pop up Blo Blow Dry Bar location to the mall’s luxury wing dubbed ‘The Avenue’, offering visitors a destination for quality blow outs now through Monday, October 25.

Behind Blo Blow Dry Bar’s first steps onto this new pink carpet is multi-unit franchisee, Kari Valcich, who owns and operates locations in Greenwich, CT, Franklin Lakes, NJ and Jersey City, NJ. Having opened her first Blo Blow Dry Bar less than three years ago, Valcich has already grown to become amongst the company’s top performing franchisees who cultivates success and innovation in each of her locations. Valcich’s own career journey has had highs and lows over the last two decades but ultimately has come full circle, resembling the true American Dream.

“Collaborating with Saks to bring a one-of-a-kind Blo Blow Dry Bar pop up location holds a special meaning to me,” shared Valcich. “Within each of my locations, I aim to create an experience that is specifically tailored to meet the needs and wants of the surrounding community. I look forward to the Blo American Dream Pop Up becoming a beauty destination for both local and visiting luxury-minded shoppers.”

The brand has implemented a collaborative environment since inception, welcoming franchisees to share ideas and new business strategies. Franchisee ideas are encouraged and all proposals are carefully evaluated. Strong ideas, such as adding makeup services to the menu, often become brand staples and business successes. Blo Blow Dry Bar looks forward to evolving this pop-up model into a brand-building opportunity for franchisees in additional markets.

“We believe that innovation and experimentation are keys to success, and that partnerships with brands that align with our values and mission are crucial opportunities for us to grow,” said Vanessa Yakobson, CEO of Blo Blow Dry Bar. “The chance to participate in high-profile projects is desirable to our franchisees and we look forward to exploring the potential of expanding partnerships, like this one with Saks, across our system.”

The Blo American Dream Pop Up reaps benefits for the brand, franchisees and for partner, Saks Fifth Avenue. Blo Blow Dry Bar looks at this initiative as an opportunity to expand the brand in existing locations and make all services accessible to more people. Franchisees have the opportunity to grow outside their brick-and-mortar locations with an additional revenue stream. The collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue is a perfect match because target audiences and business goals are well aligned.

As e-commerce takes shoppers out of the mall, Blo Blow Dry Bar’s services represent an important strategy to attract customers back into the retail environment. The American Dream Mall itself represents this strategy through the offering of experiences that can’t be replicated at home.

The growing franchise is just at the start of the runway, staking its claim as a leader in the $47 billion a year industry and continues to expand at a rapid rate. Every year, more cities across the globe are painted pink. Every day, a new guest discovers how wonderful the Blo Blow Dry Bar experience is. Superior service and consistent results are a top priority for all guests as well as franchisees. The brand goes beyond beauty – it is strategically positioned to meet growing customer demands within the wellness and self-care industries with an established foundation for business success.

Blo Blow Dry Bar is currently seeking single- and multi- unit operators to join the brand’s rapid expansion. For more information about franchise opportunities visit https://franchise.blomedry.com/.

About Blo Blow Dry Bar 

Blo Blow Dry Bar is North America’s original blow dry bar and the world’s largest blow dry bar franchise. The company transformed beauty norms and reinvented the salon industry when it launched the “no cuts, no color” concept: only blow outs. Since opening its first location in Canada in 2007, Blo has grown to over 130 locations across the U.S. and Canada and continues to expand rapidly. With a mission to enhance the lives of those in the community through the power of flawless blow outs and beauty services, Blo Blow Dry Bar offers perfectly styled hair and exceptional customer experiences seven days a week. For more information visit www.blomedry.com.

28 09, 2021

NerdsToGo Pursues Franchise Expansion in Florida, With Goal Set to Develop 65 New Units Within the Next 5 Years

2021-09-28T10:48:26-04:00September 28th, 2021|Tags: , , , |

CARROLLTON, Texas — NerdsToGo, a leading computer and technology repair services franchise, is looking to expand its presence in the state of Florida by approximately 65 units by 2026, as the demand for in-home technology solutions increases.

“With the rising number of people working from home, managed IT services for both small and medium-sized companies is a definite need,” said Mark Jameson, Chief Support and Development Officer at Propelled Brands. “We see great growth potential in Florida and are confident that our proven business model, along with the support and resources we provide, will allow potential franchisees to thrive.”

In September 2020, NerdsToGo joined Propelled Brands. Under new leadership, the NerdsToGo brand and its franchisees receive ongoing training, support, and unparalleled resources to position the brand as a leader among the industry and the local communities it serves.

Prospective franchisees do not need experience in information technology but should have a strong desire to grow a successful business in their local community, developing relationships with small business owners to become their outsourced IT department.

The initial investment for a NerdsToGo franchise is approximately $146,200$217,050, including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, NerdsToGo offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs, and firefighters, including a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $24,875.

For information about the NerdsToGo franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679)

About NerdsToGo
NerdsToGo, Inc. launched its original location in Guilford, CT in 2003 and quickly became the emerging leader in providing computer and technology-based services to both the small and medium-sized business market and the residential market. NerdsToGo began franchising in 2017 and quickly grew to 25 independently owned franchise locations in 16 states. In 2020, Fastsigns Holdings Inc. acquired GTN CAPITAL GROUP, LLC, the parent company of NerdsToGo.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, the corporate umbrella that includes FASTSIGNS®, SIGNWAVE® in Australia where FASTSIGNS centers operate under the SIGNWAVE brand, NerdsToGo®, an emerging IT services franchise brand acquired in September 2020, and Suite Management Franchising, LLC, the parent company of MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza in June 2021. With a focus on business-to-business franchises and the people behind those businesses, Propelled Brands will help each franchise confidently navigate forward based on their unique position, momentum and purpose.

NerdsToGo locations provide the total solution in computer and technology support to customers, and the company’s signature service is delivered by sending a Nerd onsite to customer locations in a well-branded, eye-catching Nerd Van. Customers can also receive service through remote support or by visiting a local NerdsToGo service center. NerdsToGo acts as the IT department for small to medium sized businesses by helping to design, implement and support IT networks, provide data backup & continuity services, cybersecurity solutions, cloud services, remote support, vendor management services and overall routine maintenance.

28 09, 2021

Neighborly® Launches New Mobile App, Offers Early Users a Chance to Win $10,000

2021-09-28T10:42:14-04:00September 28th, 2021|Tags: , , , , , |

Home repairs and enhancements app goes live with sweepstakes presenting opportunities for daily prizes worth up to $100, plus the chance for three lucky users to receive $10,000 each.

WACO, Texas — Neighborly®, the world’s largest franchisor of home service brands, announced today the launch of the company’s new mobile app in the US, available for both iOS and Android and designed to quickly and easily connect homeowners with top local service professionals to address their home maintenance and enhancement needs. Between now and Dec. 31, 2021, those who download and begin using the app will have the opportunity to enter a sweepstakes in the U.S. for a chance to win daily prizes, with three grand prize awards of $10,000 each awaiting three lucky winners.

The Neighborly app is a homeowner’s go-to platform for connecting with local Neighborly home service franchise brands through the use of primary features including a “click to call” capability for scheduling made easy, service status update notifications, exclusive offers and promotions and expert tips to empower customers to hire with confidence thanks to Neighborly’s Done Right Promise™.

“We have made significant investments in our digital platform with Neighborly.com and the Neighborly App to aid in the acquisition, retention and overall value for Neighborly customers,” said Mike Bidwell, President and CEO of Neighborly. “The launch of our app marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of our organizational vision to Own the Home™, warranting an exciting and interactive experience for our early users. I’m excited for our customers to begin using the app and experience how we have made it easier than ever before to interact with our Neighborly brands in local communities.”

Upon downloading the new Neighborly App, users can access the sweepstakes from the home screen by tapping on the Neighborly Sweepstakes banner. Along with entering for the $10,000 grand prize, users can also win daily prizes, including $100 prepaid cards and $20 coffee gift cards. The three grand prize winners will be announced in early January 2022.

To download the app now, visit Neighborly.com/theneighborlyapp.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.  LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES (D.C.) 18 YEARS AND OLDER.  VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Promotion ends 12/31/21. For Official Rules, alternate method of entry, prize descriptions and odds disclosure, visit http://neighborly.com/rules. Sponsor: Dwyer Franchising LLC d/b/a Neighborly, 1010 North University Parks Drive, Waco, TX 76707.

About Neighborly®

Neighborly® is the world’s largest home services franchisor of 29 brands and more than 4,800 franchises collectively serving 10 million+ customers in nine countries, focused on repairing, maintaining and enhancing homes and businesses. The company operates online platforms that connect consumers to service providers in their local communities that meet their rigorous standards as a franchisor across 18 service categories at Neighborly.com. More information about Neighborly, and its franchise concepts, is available at Neighborlybrands.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

27 09, 2021

Assisted Living Locators Awards Top Franchisees For Their Success

2021-09-27T10:12:27-04:00September 27th, 2021|Tags: , , , , , , |

PHOENIX — Assisted Living Locators, a national senior referral and placement service franchisor, announced the honorees of the company’s annual awards of distinction. The Franchisee of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, Rookie of the Year and Most Improved were revealed during the organization’s fire and ice-themed conference held Sept. 22-24 at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix.

The national conference hosted more than 100 attendees celebrating the hard work, dedication and success of the franchisees and company. Awards were presented to the following franchisees:

Franchisee of the Year: Dustin Baker, East Valley AZ

Rookie of the Year: Rick Campomizzi, Harrisburg, PA

Rising Star: Ashly Blackwell, Northern AZ

Most Improved: Leana Walsh, Westchester, NY

“Each of the leaders recognized this year are integral, entrepreneurial members of the Assisted Living Locators family who inspire fellow franchisees and help make us the top senior care brand in the industry,” said Angela Olea, RN Assisted Living Locators CEO. “I want to praise the efforts of all our hardworking franchise owners that navigated the coronavirus pandemic to continue growing their businesses. From embracing technology to adapt to a virtual world during the pandemic, to leveraging their knowledge with system-wide dementia care certification, our franchisees offer a new standard of solution-based alternatives for families, enhancing seniors’ lives.”

The conference also included keynote speaker Bob Roth, Managing Partner of Cypress HomeCare Solutions.  An aging advocate and recognized leader in elevating the home health industry, Roth is passionate about making life better for the elderly and disabled and their caregiver. His company has won numerous awards for innovation in family caregiving training.

For the third consecutive year, Assisted Living Locators was named to the Inc. 5000 list of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies and is a top performing franchise organization ranked in Entrepreneur’s 2021 Franchise 500®.

About Assisted Living Locators

Assisted Living Locators offers a no cost, nationwide senior placement and referral service for in-home care, independent retirement options, assisted living communities and memory care. The company has 140 franchisees in 36 states and the District of Columbia. To learn more, visit www.assistedlivinglocators.com.

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