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23 05, 2025

Express Employment International Announces New CEO

2025-05-23T17:53:19-04:00May 23rd, 2025|Tags: , , , |

Leadership Transition Follows the Passing of CEO/Co-Founder Bill Stoller

OKLAHOMA CITY — Express Employment International announces a leadership transition following the recent passing of co-founder and CEO Bill Stoller.

In alignment with a long-standing succession plan developed by Stoller and fellow co-founder Bob Funk, Sr., the company has appointed Bob Funk, Jr., as Chief Executive Officer, adding to his current role as President. In this expanded capacity, Funk Jr. will also serve as Chairman of the Board.

This transition reflects the vision set forth by Express’ co-founders to ensure long-term strength and continuity for the organization. The company remains steadfast in its mission to help people find meaningful work and connect businesses with reputable candidates, values that have guided Express since its inception.

“This leadership transition reflects the thoughtful planning and shared vision that Bill and Bob built together–one rooted in strength, stability and service,” said Bob Funk, Jr. “We will move forward together, grounded in our mission and more committed than ever to help the entrepreneurs, people and communities we serve.”

Since its founding in 1983, Express has grown into one of the largest privately held staffing companies in the world. As the franchisor of Express Employment Professionals, the company’s flagship brand is the fourth-largest staffing firm in the United States and 13th-largest globally, according to Staffing Industry Analysts, and operates in the U.S., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia and New Zealand.

Express’ portfolio includes affiliated franchised brands Specialized Recruiting Group, Express Healthcare Staffing and Frontline Recruiting Group. The company reported sales of $3.7 billion in 2024, marking the fourth-best sales year in more than four decades of operations.

“Our founders didn’t just build a company–they built a culture, a family and something that is built to last,” Funk Jr. said. “I have complete confidence in the future of Express, knowing it’s being carried forward by people of incredible talent, integrity and purpose.”

For media inquiries, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

About Express Employment International

Express Employment International supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and affiliated brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia and New Zealand. Express Employment International boasts a team of more than 500 professionals in Oklahoma City and a network of sales and support teams internationally. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

23 05, 2025

RNR Tire Express Named a 2025 Culture of Good Community Impact Award Winner

2025-05-23T17:48:23-04:00May 23rd, 2025|Tags: , , |

  • Culture Of Good, Inc., is an Organization Dedicated to Inspiring Businesses to Make a Positive Difference in the World
  • RNR Tire Express Was Recognized for its Contributions to the Communities it Serves and Corporate Social Responsibility

TAMPA, Fla. — RNR Tire Express, the leading franchise retailer for tires and custom wheels, has been named a 2025 Culture of Good Community Impact Award winner in recognition of its remarkable contributions to the communities it serves and corporate social responsibility. Presented by Culture of Good, Inc., an organization dedicated to inspiring businesses to make a positive difference in the world, this award celebrates companies that exemplify excellence in corporate citizenship and embody the values of compassion, generosity, and purpose-driven leadership.

“This award reflects the heartbeat of RNR Tire Express,” said Adam Sutton, CEO of RNR Tire Express. “Our culture is driven by one simple belief – to SERVE, not just provide service. That belief fuels everything we do, from the way we interact with our customers, to the initiatives we champion in the communities we call home.”

RNR Tire Express was selected for this prestigious award based on its outstanding efforts to create a culture of good within its organization and community. This was achieved through a wide-reaching, sustained focus on human rights and social justice, animal welfare, community development, and disaster relief efforts.

Signature programs such as the company-wide “Serve Day” have led to the construction of food pantries in underserved neighborhoods and the distribution of care packages to the homeless across all 30 states with RNR locations. RNR’s annual Back-to-School Giveaway provides over 10,000 backpacks filled with supplies to children nationwide, alleviating financial pressure on families and helping students thrive academically. The brand also launched the first-ever National Rescue Dog Day in 2023 to promote pet adoption in partnership with local shelters. These efforts all work in tandem with the brand’s annual giveaways for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Altogether, RNR Tire Express contributes more than $1.5 million annually to philanthropic efforts – ranging from supporting cancer survivors to empowering nonprofit partners – creating lasting, measurable impact in the lives of thousands.

“What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it highlights the impact of everyday actions taken by our team members,” Sutton added. “Whether they’re organizing a backpack giveaway, building food pantries, or leading pet adoption events, they are the heart and soul of our outreach efforts. We’ve built a culture where service is not only celebrated – it’s who we are – and we’re just getting started.”

RNR’s team members are the wheels that drive these efforts. From hands-on volunteering to spearheading local service projects, they are encouraged to take the lead in giving back. The brand’s leadership prioritizes sustainable, strategic growth of its community programs by aligning them with long-term business goals, securing consistent funding, and forging strong partnerships with like-minded organizations.

Ryan McCarty, the spokesperson for the award, said, “We are proud to recognize companies like RNR Tire Express. The Culture of Good Community Impact Awards is not just an event; it’s a movement towards recognizing businesses that integrate social good into their core.”

For more information regarding RNR Tire Express, please visit www.rnrtires.com. For more information regarding RNR franchise opportunities, please visit www.RNRfranchise.com.

For more information about the Culture of Good Community Impact Awards, visit www.cultureofgood.com or contact Ryan McCarty at ryan@cultureofgood.com.

About RNR Tire Express:
RNR Tire Express is a national franchise retailer of quality tires and custom wheels known for their customer-centric, flexible lease-to-own payment options. Established in 2000 by rent-to-own veteran Larry Sutton, RNR has grown to over 200 locations in 29 states. The brand ranked No. 186 in Franchise Times’ Top 400 list for 2024 and was recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners. Most recently, RNR ranked No. 245 in Entrepreneur magazine’s 2025 Franchise 500 ranking and #10 in the Automotive category. RNR Tire Express is seeking qualified multi-unit franchisees to help expand the franchise into prime markets throughout the country.

About Culture of Good, Inc.: The Culture of Good is an initiative that seeks to infuse businesses with a deeper sense of purpose, aligning corporate operations with community values and societal well-being. They have launched the awards to celebrate and recognize companies that embody this ethos, setting an example for others. Their mission is to build a bridge between profitability and altruistic endeavors, ensuring that businesses can thrive while being a force for good. The vision is to create a business community deeply rooted in ethical practices, social responsibility, and community engagement, ultimately fostering a global culture of good.

22 05, 2025

JETSET Pilates Enters Tennessee with Two Nashville Studios Confirmed and Eyes Further Expansion

2025-05-22T16:06:37-04:00May 22nd, 2025|Tags: , , |

Renowned Pilates Franchise Targets Music City as Tennessee Ranks Among Fastest-Growing Franchise States

MIAMI — JETSET Pilates, the modern Reformer Pilates franchise known for its curated music and full-body workouts, is gaining momentum in Tennessee with two new locations confirmed in the greater Nashville area. While exact addresses will be announced soon, both studios are expected to open in 2025. With long-term plans to open 6–8 locations across the region, JETSET is targeting high-growth, high-income suburbs like BrentwoodFranklin, and Green Hills, along with central neighborhoods including The Gulch and 12 South.

According to the International Franchise Association’s 2025 Franchising Economic OutlookTennessee ranks among the top 10 fastest-growing states for franchise growth—making it the perfect fit for JETSET as the brand grows in a market that mirrors its core demographic. Nashville’s ongoing population boom, wellness-oriented culture, and demand for premium fitness experiences position the city as an ideal home for JETSET.

Nashville has everything we look for in a growth market, including strong population trends, a wellness-focused community, and a clear appreciation for elevated fitness experiences,” said Bert Albertse, CEO of JETSET Pilates. “With two locations already confirmed and growing interest from potential franchisees, we’re excited to introduce JETSET’s modern, music-driven approach to a city that truly aligns with our brand.”

With more than 100 locations in development, JETSET Pilates is entering a new phase of growth fueled by rising demand from multi-unit franchisees and expansion into strategic markets. To support this momentum, the brand is reinforcing its commitment to quality with hands-on onboarding and real estate guidance, ensuring every studio reflects the elevated JETSET experience. As interest continues to build, both nationally and internationally, the brand is well-positioned to lead the next wave of modern, music-driven Pilates.

“As JETSET continues to grow, we’re excited to bring our brand to Nashville and look forward to welcoming passionate franchisees to join us in this dynamic market,” said Tamara Galinsky, Founder and Brand President of JETSET Pilates. “With our proven model and commitment to support, Nashville offers an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to be part of a rapidly expanding fitness brand.”

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

About JETSET Pilates 

Founded in 2010 and franchising since 2022, JETSET Pilates has rapidly established itself as one of the most attractive concepts in the boutique franchise business space. JETSET Pilates currently has plans to open studios across the U.S. and Australia, with over 100 studios in development. JETSET now offers franchising opportunities to entrepreneurs in some of the largest and fastest-growing markets within the fitness franchise sector. For more information, please visit https://jetsetpilates.com/franchise/, or follow JETSET Pilates on LinkedIn and Instagram.

22 05, 2025

Gotcha Covered widens its California footprint with a new location serving Walnut Creek

2025-05-22T15:59:34-04:00May 22nd, 2025|Tags: , , , |

Owner Sabrina Martin hopes to turn her passion for home design and renovation into a successful business that helps homeowners realize their decorating visions

SAN FRANCISCO — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, announced today that it has opened its fourth center in California to serve residents in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. The location is owned by Sabrina Martin.

California provides great opportunities for growth, and Sabrina’s enthusiasm will work to her advantage,” said David Dunsmuir, president of Gotcha Covered. “As we continue our expansion into California, we know that Sabrina will be a wonderful ambassador for the Gotcha Covered brand. We are confident she will take her location to new heights.”

Martin, who has both nursing and business management degrees, started her career in health and wellness services by owning a private-pay home care business before moving into sales and management positions in the pharmacological industry and working in real estate. After working for others for nearly 20 years, she decided to pursue her passion for design and home renovation by opening her own Gotcha Covered location.

“Joining the Gotcha Covered family combines my business acumen with my love for transforming spaces,” Martin said. “Opening this franchise has allowed me to control my own future. I feel uniquely attuned to the subtle balance between aesthetics and comfort—bringing softness, beauty, and a sense of warmth to any environment. Designing window treatments isn’t just about fabrics or finishes; it’s about transforming light, enhancing mood, and helping clients express their personal style.”

Gotcha Covered of Walnut Creek serves residents in Alamo, Contra Costa Centre, LafayettePleasant Hill and Walnut Creek.

Gotcha Covered currently has more than 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Walnut Creek visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/walnut-creek/ or call them at (925) 794-8222.

About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

19 05, 2025

Gotcha Covered opens third Chicagoland location in Oak Brook

2025-05-19T05:00:25-04:00May 19th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

Owner Shayla Griggs plans to use her problem-solving skills to help residents in Chicago’s western
suburbs find window treatments that are practical and beautiful

CHICAGO — Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, announced today it has opened a new location west of Chicago in the Oak Brook community. The new location is owned by Shayla Griggs and is the third Chicagoland center.

“Our growth in Chicago and its suburbs has been phenomenal,” said David Dunsmuir, president of Gotcha Covered. “Because of this growth, we want to ensure that the area’s window treatment needs are met. Shayla’s years of experience in sales and customer service and her ability to help solve problems makes her the right choice to carry on Gotcha Covered’s expansion throughout the Windy City.”

Griggs said she has long enjoyed using her skills to help others solve problems.

“As an account representative or as a customer service liaison, I often prided myself on being responsive to my clients’ needs,” she said. “I want to use the problem-solving skills I mastered during my sales career to provide homeowners with the resources they need to make practical decisions about their window treatments, while still offering them solutions that meet their aesthetic goals.”

Griggs said that outside of work, she has a full personal life. She and her husband, Travis Griggs, a disabled military veteran, enjoy spending time with family, listening to live music and traveling.

“Being an owner of a Gotcha Covered location allows me to have a healthy and balanced lifestyle,” she said. “I’m overjoyed with my decision to join the Gotcha Covered family.”

Gotcha Covered of Oak Brook will serve clients in Burr RidgeDowners GroveHinsdaleOak BrookWillowbrook and other locations southwest of Chicago.

Gotcha Covered currently has more than 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Oak Brook visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/oak-brook/ or call them at (630) 412-7558.

About Gotcha Covered
Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 170 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

19 05, 2025

LA MADELEINE BRINGS JOYFUL DINING BACK WITH ‘LE PICK 3’ FOR JUST $8.99

2025-05-19T04:55:49-04:00May 19th, 2025|Tags: , , |

New value offering blends comfort, quality and a touch of café charm

DALLAS — la Madeleine is raising the bar on value with le Pick 3, a new $8.99 meal that lets guests enjoy a handcrafted café experience for less than most fast-food combos.

With the new le Pick 3, guests can select a half sandwich, side and beverage — all made fresh, served with care and enjoyed in the welcoming charm of la Madeleine’s French-inspired cafés.

The new offering comes at a time when most fast-food meals exceed $10, with little customization available. La Madeleine’s le Pick 3 offers something unique: a freshly made, highly craveable meal made just the way guests like it and served in an environment built for connection and comfort. It’s the kind of experience that’s earned the brand decades of fan love, now part of a renewed wave of energy and innovation across la Madeleine cafés nationwide.

Le Pick 3 is more than just a great value. It’s a symbol of the exciting momentum we’re building at la Madeleine,” said la Madeleine President John Dillon. “Our guests don’t just want a meal, they want a place to create memories and enjoy affordable food that feels personal, satisfying and thoughtfully made. That’s what this brand delivers. Now with le Pick 3, we’re offering exceptional choice, craveable flavors and a welcoming café experience all at a sensible cost. It’s a smarter, more joyful way to dine.”

Fan-favorite options to choose from include signature sandwiches like the Chicken Parisien, Turkey Bistro, Chicken Caesar, Croque Monsieur and Four-Cheese Grilled Cheese; sides such as the la Madeleine Classic Caesar Salade and Tomato Pesto Pasta Salade; and a range of refreshing beverages. Guests can also upgrade to a full sandwich for $2 more or enhance their meal with premium sides, including la Madeleine’s famous Tomato Basil Soupe.

Le Pick 3 is available now for dine-in or takeout at participating cafés for a limited time.

To explore the menu or order online, visit lamadeleine.com/order. Guests can also join Bonjour Rewards to enjoy sweet surprises, exclusive deals and personalized perks at lamadeleine.com/bonjour-rewards.

About la Madeleine
Since 1983, la Madeleine has delivered an accessible, welcoming bakery and café experience made for comfort and connection. The café’s menu includes all-day breakfast, brunch, soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas, coffees and entrées — plus a traditional French bakery display featuring fresh bread and pastries. La Madeleine operates nearly 100 corporate and franchise locations in multiple U.S. states and one international café. Learn more at lamadeleine.com.

About Groupe Le Duff
The world leader in bakery, pastry and catering, Groupe Le Duff is present in more than 100 countries and on five continents. Since its founding in 1976, Groupe Le Duff has achieved success through its restaurant chains (Brioche Dorée, Del ArteLe Fournil de Pierre, la Madeleine [United States], and Kamps [Germany]), as well as its brands Bridor and Cité Gourmande, which manufacture premium-quality products for more than 45,000 restaurants and hotels worldwide.

19 05, 2025

BODYBAR Pilates Kicks Off 2025 with Extraordinary Growth, Partners with Franchise Growth Organization for Continued Expansion

2025-05-19T04:48:13-04:00May 19th, 2025|Tags: , , |

Fastest-Growing Boutique Fitness Brand Sees 96% Year-Over-Year Increase in Systemwide Revenue

FORT WORTH, Texas — BODYBAR Pilates, a leader in modern Pilates studios, is celebrating a successful first quarter: signing over 20 new franchise agreements, opening eight new studios, and generating nearly $10 million in systemwide revenue in Q1 alone. In a move to further fuel its nationwide expansion, BODYBAR has partnered with Prestige Franchise Partners (PFP), a franchise growth organization, to strengthen its development team and accelerate strategic growth.

With a focus on high-demand markets for dynamic group fitness, BODYBAR Pilates expanded its national footprint with eight new studios in the first quarter, bringing the total number of open locations to 54. New studio openings included:

  • Cypress, Texas
  • Heritage Harbour, Florida. (Bradenton)
  • Knox Square, Alabama (Hoover)
  • Oak Park, Illinois (Chicago)
  • La Jolla, California (San Diego)
  • Shadow Creek, Texas (South Houston)
  • Southlake, Texas
  • Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Additional franchise agreements were signed in ArizonaColoradoFloridaKansasMissouriNew JerseyNorth CarolinaOregonPennsylvania, and Texas – which speaks to the growing consumer demand for inclusive, Pilates-powered fitness experiences for everyone, no matter their fitness level.

“The momentum we’ve seen in the first quarter is a direct result of the passion and commitment of our franchisees and the growing demand for purposeful, community-driven fitness,” said Matt McCollum, CEO of BODYBAR Pilates. “We’re not just expanding our footprint, we’re deepening our impact in every community we enter. As we look ahead to the rest of 2025, we’re excited to continue building on this foundation of growth, innovation, and exceptional member experience.”

To support and sustain this trajectory, BODYBAR’s partnership with Prestige Franchise Partners (PFP) marks a pivotal milestone for the brand. With PFP’s deep expertise in franchise development, the brand aims to grow from more than 140 locations in development to over 500, both domestically and internationally. Within the next 24 months, BODYBAR expects to add over 200 new domestic locations while making its initial entry into global markets.

“With BODYBAR, we identified a significant opportunity in the premium fitness space,” said Mike Baguley, Vice President of Franchise Development at Prestige Franchise Partners. “This concept has demonstrated exceptional unit economics driving more than $180,000 to the bottom line, with average unit sales volume greater than $750,000 per year. They are outperforming competitors, making it an attractive investment for prospective franchisees. At PFP, we’re a team of seasoned franchise professionals, growth strategists, and industry experts aiming to help both franchisors and franchisees thrive with confidence. We’re thrilled to be part of this incredible journey and look forward to helping BODYBAR continue raising the bar.”

Further underscoring BODYBAR’s position as a leader in the boutique fitness space, the brand also saw strong growth in member acquisition. More than 5,000 new members joined the BODYBAR community in first three months of 2025, bringing total systemwide membership to nearly 16,000 – up 86% year-over-year. As BODYBAR grows, the brand is thrilled to bring its Pilates-powered formula to an even wider audience.

BODYBAR Pilates remains committed to its mission: leading with excellence, fostering inclusive community, and consistently raising the bar in boutique fitness. By delivering a fiercely effective workout experience that is challenging, transformative, and welcoming, BODYBAR is redefining what group fitness can be.

For more information about BODYBAR Pilates franchise opportunities, visit BODYBARPilates.com/Franchise.

About BODYBAR Pilates
Founded to redefine fitness, BODYBAR Pilates’ mission is to cultivate a balanced, athletic, and real community. We are committed to providing a fiercely effective workout experience, powered by Pilates, that helps individuals discover their physical potential and enhance their overall well-being both on and off the Reformer. Our expert-led classes cater to all fitness levels in a welcoming environment, utilizing state-of-the-art Pilates equipment. Ranked as one of the country’s fastest growing companies by Inc. Magazine, BODYBAR presents an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs in the fitness industry. Joining the BODYBAR family means becoming part of a movement that empowers individuals to achieve their fitness goals while building a thriving, community-centric business. This opportunity is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful impact in the fitness world with a reputable, innovative brand.

19 05, 2025

AtWork Staffing Named to Forbes America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms 2025 List

2025-05-19T04:41:49-04:00May 19th, 2025|Tags: , , , |

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — AtWork®, an award-winning leader in the staffing industry, is proud to announce its inclusion on the Forbes list of America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms 2025. This prestigious recognition, presented in collaboration with Statista, a global authority in industry rankings and statistics, reflects AtWork’s commitment to excellence in the temporary staffing space.

AtWork ranked among the top 200 firms selected in the temporary staffing category, which includes providers of temporary workers and contract positions, excluding interim management positions. Based on an independent survey of industry professionals and clients — including more than 49,200 recruiters, 20,800 HR and hiring managers, and job candidates — this honor reflects AtWork’s consistent success in connecting top talent with the evolving needs of today’s workforce.

“The inclusion in Forbes’ list is a testament to the dedication and passion our entire team brings to the table every day,” said Jason Leverant, President and COO of AtWork. “It reflects not only the quality of service we deliver, but the trust we’ve built with both clients and job seekers across the country. We’re honored by the ranking and energized to continue delivering the best for our clients and job seekers.”

AtWork places candidates across a wide range of industries, including professional services, manufacturing, warehouse operations, and administrative/clerical support. The brand offers flexible staffing solutions, from temp-to-hire to direct hire and executive search services — all tailored to meet unique client needs and help candidates thrive.

About AtWork

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, AtWork is an award-winning staffing franchise. For more than 30 years, leading companies from across the nation have trusted AtWork to recruit the best talent. Recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Largest and Best Staffing Firms to work for in the U.S. and as an Entrepreneur Verified Franchise, AtWork can staff an entire production facility or provide temporary support that keeps businesses thriving. AtWork’s dedication and unparalleled service earned them a spot on Forbes America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms and ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® award for client and talent satisfaction. Additionally, the franchise’s growth and support for its franchisees have secured them a place on Franchise Business Review’s (FBR) Top 200 Franchise ranking for seven years in a row and is in the FBR Hall of Fame for 10+ years of stellar performance. AtWork is also ranked in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, Franchise Times Top 400, and Entrepreneur’s Top Franchises for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. To learn more about AtWork’s services, visit https://www.atwork.com/.

19 05, 2025

Celebree School Speeds Up National Growth with Wave of Q1 Franchise Signings

2025-05-19T04:36:21-04:00May 19th, 2025|Tags: , , , , |

  • Eyes 30 Agreements in 2025
  • Eight New Franchise Agreements in Q1 by Mission-Driven Entrepreneurs
  • Growth Continues Across Key Markets Including Illinois, GeorgiaTexasMassachusettsFloridaSouth Carolina, and New Jersey
  • Rising Demand for Trusted, High-Quality Early Childhood Education Fuels Brand Growth

BALTIMORE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, builds strong momentum in Q1 with eight new signed franchise agreements. These new agreements represent a total of 13 schools planned across key growth markets nationwide including ChicagoAtlantaBostonHoustonTampaClover, SC, and East Hanover, NJ.

With franchise output projected to exceed $936.4 billion in 2025, marking a 4.4% increase from $896.9 billion in 2024, and franchise GDP set to grow by 5% to reach $578 billion, the surge in growth highlights the entrepreneurial spirit driving the industry.

Meet the Q1 Franchisees: Diverse Backgrounds, Shared Passion for Impact, All Opening in 2027

  • Poonam Thakkar, along with family partners Bhumika Sachdev and Gunjan Thakkar, is set to open two Celebree School locations in the Chicago area. With a background in finance and a strong desire to solve local childcare challenges, Poonam views this new venture as a meaningful step toward community impact.
  • Abigail Okeh, an experienced IT and cybersecurity program manager, has signed a one-unit agreement in Atlanta. Drawn to Celebree’s supportive model, she is excited about making a lasting difference in children’s lives.
  • An attorney and founder of a solo law practice in Boston, brings her passion for community-focused service into early education with plans to open her first Celebree School under a one-unit agreement.
  • Shruti Jindal, together with her spouse Gaurav Goyal, is taking over operations of an existing Celebree School in The Woodlands Creekside, Houston. Together they both bring over 40 years of corporate and entrepreneurial experience, bringing leadership, innovation, and growth to the brand.
  • Michele and Derrick Moore, with backgrounds in child welfare and cybersecurity, have signed a one-unit agreement in Tampa, where they are committed to creating safe, supportive, and inspiring spaces for children.
  • Kelly and Lee Souder from Clover, SC, are bringing Celebree’s quality education to their community with plans to open a new school. As parents and community members, the Souders have signed a one-unit agreement and are dedicated to providing a strong foundation for local families.
  • A successful independent pharmacy owner and community leader is bringing his business acumen to early childhood education with plans to open three Celebree Schools in East Hanover, NJ.
  • Nagur Noorbhasha, a licensed mechanical engineer and energy sector leader in Houston is drawn to Celebree’s mission and curriculum. He signed a one-unit agreement and is excited about the opportunity to open a new school in his community.

Looking Ahead: Expanding in High-Growth Markets Nationwide
With a strong Q1 foundation, Celebree School is on track to reach its goal of 30 signed agreements by year-end. Expansion efforts remain focused on high-opportunity markets including AtlantaBostonChicagoColumbusCincinnatiDallasDenverHoustonIndianapolisPhiladelphiaPhoenix, and San Antonio. These markets are experiencing growing populations, increased demand for childcare, and strong economic conditions that support multi-unit ownership and long-term brand growth.

“The level of passion and purpose we’re seeing from this new group of franchisees is truly inspiring,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “These are leaders who believe in the power of early education and are stepping up to bring lasting change to their communities. They’re not just opening schools, they’re creating spaces where children can thrive, families feel supported, and futures are shaped. This kind of momentum reflects something bigger: a nationwide commitment to giving every child the strongest possible start.”

With a foundation built on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School continues to lead with a model that combines educational excellence, community connection, and an unwavering focus on the whole child.

Celebree School is continuing its national expansion efforts, and is currently seeking qualified and engaged individuals for single and multi-unit opportunities to bring quality childhood education to their communities.  To learn more about Celebree School franchising opportunities, visit https://www.celebree.com/franchising.

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

16 05, 2025

PuroClean Champions Education Through Summer-Long PuroClean Cares®: Adopt A Classroom Campaign

2025-05-16T04:39:04-04:00May 16th, 2025|Tags: , , , , , |

The Paramedics of Property Damage Team Up with Educators Nationwide for Supply Drives

TAMARAC, Fla. — In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, has launched its summer campaign, PuroClean Cares®Adopt A Classroom. The campaign is kicking off this month and will run throughout the summer, in an effort to celebrate and support educators across the country. Franchise Owners across the PuroClean franchise network will collect donations throughout the summer, culminating in a nationwide distribution of supplies to teachers in August, just in time for the start of a new school year.

According to a survey by the U.S. Department of Education, 94% of teachers pay for classroom necessities with money from their own pockets. Participants of the PuroClean Cares®Adopt A Classroom campaign know that educators and students throughout the country deserve access to the tools and resources to help them be successful, and they are aiming to do their part to empower them.

“Teachers are the heart of our communities, shaping future generations every single day,” said Alex Pericchi, Vice President of Marketing and Online Learning at PuroClean. “Through this campaign, franchisees in our network are coming together to let educators know that we see their dedication, and we value their contribution to our community.”

Throughout the summer, participating PuroClean offices across the country are accepting classroom supplies such as:

  • Binders
  • Electric pencil sharpeners
  • Dry-erase boards
  • Markers
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Paper

Donations can be dropped off at collection boxes inside participating franchise locations and will be given to the local school or teacher that the Franchise Owner has chosen to recognize in their community.

“Backing our educators is more than a seasonal gesture; it’s a commitment to the success of our children and the strength of our communities,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “At our core, PuroClean is a service organization, and as Servant Leaders, we are dedicated to supporting those who are uplifting our future; this is a responsibility we proudly embrace.”

For more than 20 years, PuroClean has helped home and business owners with their restoration and remediation needs, serving communities across the United States and Canada with a network nearing 500 offices. PuroClean Cares® is the brand’s commitment to community, creating avenues for franchises nationwide to extend their service beyond restoration by participating in nationally organized charitable givebacks and community support initiatives.

For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit https://www.puroclean.com/community-focus/.

About PuroClean

PuroClean is a leading, world-class service brand for property water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, and biohazard clean-up services, working with both residential and commercial customers across the U.S. and Canada. Founded in 2001, PuroClean is a diverse, fast-growing network of nearly 500 North American franchise locations, each independently owned and operated. With a commitment to respond within two hours, the professionals at PuroClean are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest cutting-edge mitigation technology to complete the remediation task at hand. For more information about PuroClean, call 800-775-7876 or visit www.PuroClean.com.

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