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6 04, 2025

PuroClean Recognizes Community Leaders with PuroClean Cares® National Superhero Day Campaign

Paul Zboichyk2025-04-06T10:49:16-04:00April 6th, 2025|Tags: biohazard cleanup, Fire and Smoke Damage Mitigation, mold removal, property restoration, PuroClean, water damage remediation|

The Paramedics of Property Damage Join Forces with Local Organizations Nationwide for a Day Celebrating Heroes

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, is teaming up with its local partners to honor community superheroes with their PuroClean Cares^® National Superhero Day campaign. PuroClean is thrilled to be recognizing individuals nationwide that share the brand’s values of service, dedication, and compassion through surprise recognitions, events, and call outs for their efforts.

PuroClean Franchise Owners across the country will be nominating local superheroes for outstanding commitment and service in their community, while partnering with local city organizations, chambers of commerce, and other community groups in the days leading up to National Superhero Day (April 28), to recognize and honor their shared commitment to giving back. Nominated superheroes may include frontline workers, teachers, volunteers, or other individuals making a lasting difference in their neighborhoods.

“PuroClean was founded on values of service and giving back to the communities we serve,” said Steve White, President and COO of PuroClean. “National Superhero Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the everyday heroes who share these values, going above and beyond to make a difference in their communities. Together, we will reinforce the power of community, kindness, and acts of service and gratitude.”

The PuroClean Cares^® National Superhero Day campaign is a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes who make our local communities stronger every day. Born from a collective desire to honor those who go above and beyond, this annual giveback is a celebration of their contributions and a reflection of gratitude for their generosity and courage. By shining a light on their stories, the brand looks to honor their impact while inspiring others to appreciate the everyday champions making a difference.

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 through a network nearing 500 locations. PuroClean Cares^® is the brand’s commitment to community. Through PuroClean Cares^® initiatives like the PuroClean Cares^® National Superhero Day campaign, the company extends its service beyond property recovery by actively engaging in the communities they serve, helping those in need while making a difference, united as one team.

For more information about PuroClean, please visit www.PuroClean.com.

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.

5 04, 2025

Celebree School Launches ‘Little Learners, Big Earners’ Campaign to Spark Financial Literacy in Young Learners

Paul Zboichyk2025-04-05T08:20:50-04:00April 5th, 2025|Tags: Celebree School, early-childhood education, preschool, summer camp programs, toddler care|

Piggy Bank Pledge, Fun-Filled Activities, and Nationwide Penny War Encourage Kids to Develop Smart Money Habits

BALTIMORE — It’s never too early to start learning about money! Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education, is taking financial literacy to the next level with the launch of its “Little Learners, Big Earners” campaign this April in honor of National Financial Literacy Month. Designed to help children develop smart money habits, the campaign will introduce kids to the basics of saving, spending, earning, and sharing in a fun and engaging way.

Studies show that children start forming money habits as early as age five. With financial literacy rates in the U.S. hovering around 50%, Celebree School is stepping up to ensure families have the tools they need to raise money-smart kids.

“Financial education isn’t just about dollars and cents – it’s about shaping responsible, confident decision-makers,” said Kristen Miller, Director of Education at Celebree School. “By introducing financial literacy early, we’re giving children the foundation they need to make smart financial choices that will benefit them for a lifetime.”

How to Get Involved: Throughout April, families can take part in a variety of interactive activities, including:
- Take the Pledge & Be Entered to Win: Families are invited to take the “Little Learners, Big Earners Pledge“ – a fun and creative way for children to commit to learning about money. Kids can decorate their very own pledge piggy bank printout and promise to save smart, spend wisely, earn proudly, share kindly, and keep learning about money. Parents can join the fun by sharing photos of their little savers using #LittleLearnersBigEarners on social media for a chance to win a Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register and Celebree Swag Bag complete with a karaoke machine!
- Financial Fun Packs – Downloadable Money Magic: Parents can bring financial education to life at home with Celebree School’s free, printable activity kits filled with games and creative activities to teach kids about money in an engaging way. From Piggy Bank Bingo to “pretend store” shopping and coin-counting challenges, these packs encourage kids to learn while they play.
- Parent Webinar – Preparing Financially for Your Child’s Future: Celebree School is hosting a free webinar on April 28 from 6-7 p.m. ET. The session will feature financial expert, Gino Zazzetta, CFP from Fusco Financial, where he will provide insights into different savings options and considerations to help parents make informed decisions that align with family goals – an overview of financial preparation and educational planning for children’s futures. Register Here.
- In-School Activations & Nationwide Penny War: Inside Celebree classrooms, children will be showcased on Financial Scholars Walls, displaying their decorated piggy banks, pledge certificates, and drawings of their financial goals. Schools will also engage in a friendly Penny War fundraiser, teaching kids the value of giving back while raising money for Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Celebree School invites families nationwide to participate in the “Little Learners, Big Earners” campaign and help create the next generation of financially savvy kids.

With programs available for children six weeks to 12 years old, Celebree School lives by its promise to Grow People Big and Small™. The brand was founded on the belief that success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and a connection that extends beyond the classroom to address the needs of the whole child and the whole family. Curriculums are designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about the world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities.

For more information on Celebree School’s “Little Learners, Big Earners” campaign, visit https://www.celebree.com/little-learners-big-earners/

For more information about Celebree School programs and enrollment, visit https://www.celebree.com/find-a-location/.

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

5 04, 2025

FASTSIGNS® Puerto Rico Team Honored with ‘The FASTSIGNS Possibility Award’ for Innovative Work with KFC

Paul Zboichyk2025-04-05T08:07:22-04:00April 5th, 2025|Tags: Custom Signs, Custom Visual Communications, FASTSIGNS, Franchise Business Review, Franchisee Satisfaction and Performance|

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS®, the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise, presented The FASTSIGNS Possibility Award, now in its second year, at the 2025 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. This award was given to Jose Corujo, Teresa Caballero and Juan Rivera for their groundbreaking work with Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in Caguas, Puerto Rico at the 2024 SME Marketing Summit.

The FASTSIGNS Puerto Rico team created a life-sized, walk-thru KFC bucket, incorporating video walls and structural trussing to support the installation. The immersive experience was enhanced with coroplast graphics and mirror vinyl, transforming the Coca-Cola Music Hall entrance into a social media sensation. This high-impact installation, completed swiftly, became the event’s highlight, captivating attendees and elevating brand visibility.

“We are thrilled to receive recognition across the entire FASTSIGNS network for our work with KFC,” said Juan Rivera, production and innovation partner at FASTSIGNS. “This project pushed our team to new creative heights, and we are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our client while sharing this achievement.”

Using a consultative sales approach, FASTSIGNS provides tailored strategies that improve customer engagement and business efficiency through visual communication. With four locations in Puerto Rico—Caguas, Carolina, Guaynabo and Las Piedras—as well as a center in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the company ensures that clients receive expert guidance in selecting the right solutions for their specific needs.

“Working with the FASTSIGNS team in Puerto Rico is always a pleasure, as they prioritize listening to your business needs and delivering creative, executable ideas,” said Ana Agrelot, CMO and vice president of marketing at Encanto Restaurants/KFC Puerto Rico.”The KFC bucket is a perfect example of how they brought to life our vision of letting consumers step inside a bucket of KFC chicken. Using video within a structure, they showcased our food visuals in a way that created an engaging social media moment for both the brand and its customers—it was truly ‘finger-lickin’ good!”

The FASTSIGNS franchise model enables local business partners to introduce world-class best practices to a variety of industries and market verticals. With a global presence, FASTSIGNS remains committed to helping brands make powerful brand statements through innovative design, expert execution and impactful visual solutions to elevate businesses and engage audiences.

“One of the key advantages of being part of the FASTSIGNS franchise is access to a vast network of over 785 centers worldwide,” said Teresa Caballero, business development partner at FASTSIGNS. This provides our team with the latest tools, best practices and ongoing learning opportunities to consistently deliver top-tier solutions to our clients.”

“This award is yet another incentive for our continued expansion,” said Jose Corujo, managing partner at FASTSIGNS. “Our growing presence in the region demonstrates the strength and reliability of our brand, and we look forward to bringing even more innovative solutions to businesses across Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and beyond.”

About FASTSIGNS®

FASTSIGNS® is the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry. With 40 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps customers bring their vision to life and achieve more than they ever thought possible. As the largest service-oriented business within the Propelled Brands® family, FASTSIGNS spans over 785 independently owned and operated centers 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 with awards that include being ranked #1 in its category on ENTREPRENEUR’s highly competitive Franchise 500® List in 2025 for the ninth consecutive year, and being named a 2024 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review for the sixth consecutive year.

For more information or to learn about opportunities, visit fastsigns.com or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).

5 04, 2025

Sport Clips Haircuts is “Honoring our Heroes” by sending five first responders to the World Police & Fire Games

Paul Zboichyk2025-04-05T08:01:00-04:00April 5th, 2025|Tags: haircuts for men and boys, personal care services, Sport Clips, sports-themed haircutting franchise, veterans|

Deadline for video entries is April 12

GEORGETOWN, Texas — Leading haircare provider Sport Clips Haircuts is extending its support of our nation’s heroes to include first responders. “Honoring our Heroes” launches today for first responders to submit a brief video sharing why they should be chosen for an all-expenses paid trip to compete in the World Police & Fire Games this summer in Birmingham, Alabama. Entry deadline is 11:59 p.m. ET on April 12, 2025.

Sport Clips has thanked veterans through its Help A Hero Scholarship program, which has provided nearly $15M toward career-enhancing education for those who serve. So, the veteran-founded brand is now broadening its reach to include those who protect and serve as first responders, whether in law enforcement, as firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, correctional officers, investigators, Customs officers, and more through this Honoring our Heroes contest.

“This is a way Sport Clips can thank those who serve through combining two of our passions: heroes and sports,” says Edward Logan, CEO and president. “We are looking forward to being an active part of the world’s largest sporting competition dedicated to first responders who put their lives on the line for our health and safety. It’s the first time since 2017 that the World Police & Fire Games have been held in the United States, and we are thrilled to be a part of the experience. In addition to sending five athletes, we’ll be onsite during the event to offer free haircuts and be part of the action to cheer these folks on at the games.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Sport Clips for their unwavering support of the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities every day,” said DJ Mackovets, CEO of the Birmingham 2025 Host Committee. “Their commitment to the World Police & Fire Games helps us honor the strength, courage, and unity of first responders around the globe. We look forward to welcoming the Sport Clips Awarded Athletes to Birmingham in 2025.”

Current or retired first responders can submit a video between 30-120 seconds introducing themselves, sharing their story about how and why they became a first responder, what sport they plan to compete in, and why they would make a great Sport Clips-sponsored athlete. Only the first responder should appear in the video, and it can be entered online and posted publicly or privately to sites such as YouTube, Vimeo, or other social media accounts. Five winners will be selected to compete in the games that will be held June 27 – July 6, 2025. To find out more about eligibility and to enter, visit sportclips.com/honoringourheroes.

About Sport Clips Haircuts
Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. It was established in 1993 and began franchising in 1995. The sports-themed haircutting franchise, which specializes in haircuts for men and boys, offers online check in for clients, and ranks #52 in the Entrepreneur “Franchise 500” for 2025 and was named a 2025 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review. There are almost 1,900 Sport Clips stores open in the U.S. and Canada. Sport Clips is the “Official Haircutter” of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises and was named a 2024 Top Franchise for Veterans by Entrepreneur. Sport Clips provides “Haircuts with Heart” through its annual Help A Hero fundraiser that has contributed $15 million to the VFW; national partnership with St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants; and other national and local philanthropic outreach. Sport Clips is a proud sponsor of NASCAR’s Joe Gibbs Racing team, and partners with other NCAA and professional sports teams. To learn more about Sport Clips, visit sportclips.com.

31 03, 2025

ShelfGenie® Announces Collaboration with Clutterbug to Transform Home Organization

Paul Zboichyk2025-03-31T16:40:10-04:00March 31st, 2025|Tags: home based franchise, home services franchisor, Neighborly, owner operated franchise opportunity, residential and commercial clients|

Collaboration to Be Showcased at 2025 NAPO Summit, March 25-28, 2025

WACO, Texas — ShelfGenie®, a Neighborly® company and the leading provider of custom glide-out shelving and home organization solutions, is excited to announce its collaboration with Clutterbug, the popular organizing philosophy and brand founded by Cassandra Aarssen. This strategic partnership will take center stage at the 2025 NAPO (National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals) Summit, happening March 25-28 in Chicago.

By combining ShelfGenie’s innovative, custom storage solutions with Clutterbug’s unique organizing styles and strategies, this collaboration will provide homeowners with personalized, practical and accessible organization solutions to reduce clutter and enhance functionality in their living spaces.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Clutterbug and Cassandra Aarssen, whose organizing philosophy has transformed the way people think about decluttering and home organization,” said Tony Ditzler, President of ShelfGenie, a Neighborly company. “Together, we can help make organization easier, more intuitive, and tailored to each homeowner’s unique needs.”

As part of this collaboration, ShelfGenie and Clutterbug will share expert tips, educational content, and practical solutions to help homeowners identify their organizing style and implement lasting, stress-free systems. Attendees at the NAPO Summit will get an exclusive look at how these two powerhouse brands are revolutionizing home organization.

“This collaboration with ShelfGenie aligns perfectly with Clutterbug’s mission to help people find the best organizing system for their unique personality,” said Cassandra Aarssen, Founder of Clutterbug. “ShelfGenie’s custom solutions make home organization effortless and accessible, and I’m excited to work together to inspire even more homeowners.”

Revolutionizing Home Organization

ShelfGenie specializes in custom storage solutions to transform cluttered spaces into beautifully functional areas with custom glide-out shelves that maximize storage without the need for a full renovation. Built with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, ShelfGenie’s solutions help homeowners regain effortless control over their kitchens, pantries, and beyond.

Get Inspired to Transform Your Home:

Explore expert organization tips on the ShelfGenie Blog
Discover innovative storage ideas in the free ShelfGenie Solutions Magazine
Schedule a FREE, no-obligation consultation to experience the ShelfGenie difference firsthand! Book Now

To learn more, visit www.shelfgenie.com.

About ShelfGenie:

ShelfGenie®, a Neighborly® company, is a residential and commercial custom glide out shelving solutions franchise with more than 200 franchise locations throughout the United States and Canada. Acquired in 2020, ShelfGenie® is part of Neighborly®, a family of global brands focused on being remarkable with consumers and franchise owners with more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchise locations across North America and Europe serving millions of customers. For more information about ShelfGenie®, visit https://www.shelfgenie.com/. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

About Cassandra Aarssen

Cassandra Aarssen is a leading organizing expert, best known as the host of HGTV’s Hot Mess House, and founder of Clutterbug, a popular organizing philosophy and brand. From transforming her own life from a self-proclaimed “super-slob” to an organization guru, she has built a thriving career helping others conquer clutter. She shares her expertise through her popular YouTube channel, podcast, and best-selling books, including Real Life Organizing, Cluttered Mess to Organized Success, The Clutter Connection, and The Declutter Challenge.

Her organizing and decluttering advice has been featured on HGTV, The Marilyn Denis Show (CTV), Oprah.com, and Better Homes & Gardens.

When she’s not helping others create organized, stress-free spaces, Cassandra enjoys spending time with her family in Ontario, Canada. Learn more at www.clutterbug.me.

31 03, 2025

Empower Brands Delivers Unprecedented Growth and Franchisee Success, Reinforcing Market Leadership with Record-Breaking Year and Annual Meeting

Paul Zboichyk2025-03-31T16:32:43-04:00March 31st, 2025|Tags: commercial and residential services, Empower Brands, home services|

RICHMOND, Va. — Empower Brands, a multi-brand franchisor of premium commercial and residential services, celebrates another year of exceptional growth, setting new records across its expanding portfolio.

In 2024, Empower Brands awarded 287 new franchise territories and welcomed 113 new franchise owners—including 97 new owners and 16 who joined through transfers—while surpassing $1.3 billion in systemwide sales.

“Each milestone we’ve hit this year reinforces the power of our franchise system and the strength of our brands,” said Scott Zide, CEO of Empower Brands. “Our continued success is a testament to the dedication of our franchise owners, corporate team, and strategic partners who are committed to building strong businesses and delivering exceptional service in their communities.”

The exceptional growth has garnered recognition for Empower Brands in prominent industry listings, including rankings in Inc. 5000, Franchise Business Review and most recently, Entrepreneurs Franchise 500 with rankings for six of its brands.

Empower Brands remains committed to its franchisee-first mission, expanding its leadership team, investing in new resources, and supporting emerging brands through its incubation program. The company’s strategic investments have enabled brands like Bumble Roofing to gain traction, with 15 new agreements this year.

As Empower Brands moves into 2025, its focus will be on continued expansion through additional brands and unit-level growth. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, refining operational efficiencies, and investing in franchisee success, the company is positioned for another great year.

Furthering its commitment to success in 2025, Empower Brands kicked off the year with its 25th Annual Meeting at the Fairmont Austin, where franchisees, corporate leadership, and industry experts gathered for impactful learning and collaboration. The theme of this year’s meeting, Make Your Mark, urged attendees to take bold steps in shaping their personal legacies while driving collective growth across the Empower Brands system. From powerful keynote sessions to breakout workshops focused on innovation, leadership, and operational excellence, the event offered fresh insights and practical strategies to equip franchisees for a strong year ahead.

For the second year in a row, the event welcomed more than 1,000 registered franchisee and vendor partners. Keynote speaker Amy Jo Martin shared her Why Not Now? philosophy, encouraging attendees to stop delaying and start taking action on long-standing business and personal goals.

During the event, CEO Scott Zide and Chief Marketing Officer Felicia Reeves emphasized the importance of meeting today’s evolving customer where they are—by delivering personalized, relevant experiences that resonate on a local level. They encouraged franchisees to leave the meeting with a renewed focus on engaging with their communities, strengthening their personal brands, leveraging data to drive smarter strategy, and expanding their marketing mix beyond digital channels to build a more well-rounded and authentic presence.

Empower Brands recognized the most awards the brand has seen since its inception, honoring top performers across its brands with the coveted Franchisee of the Year Award:

Conserva of Myrtle Beach – Bill & Dawn Hester, Pam & Jay Griffith
Superior Fence & Rail of Eastern NC – Billy Casey
Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Chicago – Rick Norwood
Archadeck of Kansas City – Dan & Bonnie Hall
FRSTeam by Rogers of Orlando, FL – Kristen & Mitchell Rogers
Bumble Roofing of Philadelphia – Greg Van Horn
Wallaby Windows of the Triangle – Ashley Selzer (Clearly Different Award)
JAN-PRO Franchisees of the Year: Dallas-Fort Worth – William “Bill” Davis; NW Arkansas – Nolen Hughes; Milwaukee – Richard Johnsen; Columbus – Robert “Bobby” Springer
Koala Insulation of New Mexico – Pranav, Avinash, and Akash Patel

To learn more about franchising with Empower Brands, visit EmpowerFranchising.com.

About Empower Brands
Empower Brands is a commercial and home services platform company encompassing ten industry-leading brands: JAN-PRO, FRSTeam, Archadeck Outdoor Living, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives (OLP), Conserva Irrigation, Superior Fence & Rail, Wallaby Windows, Koala Insulation, Bumble Roofing and Canopy Lawn Care. Empower Brands is dedicated to providing its customers with the highest quality products and services in the commercial and home services industries while simultaneously delivering its franchise owners committed personal support, tools, and empowerment to pursue their own success. Empower Brands is a portfolio company of MidOcean Partners, a leading private equity firm with an excellent track record investing in successful, growth-focused franchise businesses. For more about Empower Brands, visit the company’s website at EmpowerFranchising.com.

31 03, 2025

Mosquito Joe Warns of a Heavy Outdoor Pest Season Ahead, Urges Early Prevention

Paul Zboichyk2025-03-31T16:27:44-04:00March 31st, 2025|Tags: eliminating mosquitoes and ticks from outdoor living spaces, Lyme disease, Mosquito Joe, outdoor pest control|

Leading Pest Control Company Shares Solutions to Combat Spring Pests

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — As temperatures rise with the season changing, Mosquito Joe®, a Neighborly® company, and the leading pest control service, is urging homeowners and business owners to take early preventive measures against mosquitoes and ticks before peak season arrives as well as preventing perimeter pests from invading the home.

Recognized with a Gold Level designation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP), Mosquito Joe remains committed to environmentally responsible pest control as the 2025 mosquito season begins. Experts predict a longer and more intense season due to rising global temperatures and increased precipitation, creating ideal breeding conditions for pests. The urgency for early prevention is further heightened by last year’s spike in mosquito-borne illnesses in the U.S., including Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and Dengue Fever.

“Mosquito activity is already ramping up in many regions due to fluctuating temperatures and lingering moisture from recent storms, which signals a potentially intense season ahead,” said David Price, Associate Certified Entomologist for Mosquito Joe. “Taking action now can help property owners prevent infestations before they start, reducing the nuisance and health risks associated with these pests.”

Top ways owners can prevent mosquitoes, ticks and other perimeter pests this spring include:

Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty birdbaths, fountains and buckets – especially after a rainstorm – and repair any leaky faucets that can cause water pooling. Removing standing water significantly reduces mosquito populations.
Clean Gutters: Clogged gutters collect water and organic debris, creating an ideal nesting place for pests. Keeping gutters clean helps prevent water accumulation and reduces the risk of pest infestations.
Maintain Swimming Pools: A neglected pool can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. To avoid this, keep the pool water circulating and clean from debris.
Tidy the Yard: Tall grass, weeds and piles of leaves attract mosquitoes, ticks and rodents. Regularly mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs and raking leaves can make your yard less attractive to these pests.
Call in the Professionals: For mosquito, tick or other pest issues, professional treatment is the most effective solution. A reputable pest control company like Mosquito Joe uses targeted, eco-friendly solutions to eliminate pests safely and effectively from your property.

Don’t wait for pests to take over your outdoor spaces—start prevention efforts today! For more information about Mosquito Joe and how to take early action in pest control this season, visit mosquitojoe.com/startofseason.

About Mosquito Joe:
Dedicated to making outside fun again by eliminating mosquitoes, ticks, and exterior pests from customer’s yards and preventing them from invading their homes, Mosquito Joe®, a Neighborly® company, is a leader in the outdoor pest control industry. The brand was founded in 2010 and has since expanded to more than 430 locations throughout the U.S. Acquired in 2018, Mosquito Joe® is part of Neighborly®, a family of global brands focused on being remarkable with consumers and franchise owners with more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchise locations across North America and Europe serving millions of customers. For more information about Mosquito Joe®, visit www.MosquitoJoe.com. To learn about franchising opportunities with Neighborly®, click here.

31 03, 2025

Huffman Family Brands Announces 100th Location Milestone: A Franchise-Owned Celebree School

Paul Zboichyk2025-03-31T16:21:32-04:00March 31st, 2025|Tags: Celebree School, early-childhood education, preschool, summer camp programs, toddler care|

Milestone Marks Development Achievements, Fueling Entrepreneurship Across the Country
Celebree School of Northbrook Honored with the Company Milestone
Celebration Includes Formal Ribbon Cutting and Local Book Drive, Reinforcing the Brand’s Commitment to Early Childhood Education

NORTHBROOK, Ill. — Huffman Family Brands (HFB), a unified umbrella company committed to a shared vision of social development, innovation, and empowerment, is proud to announce a significant milestone with the opening of its 100^th location at 1200 Shermer Rd. in Northbrook, IL. This landmark achievement is driven by Celebree School franchisee, Magdalena (Maggie) Pisarczyk, who will be introducing the brand’s first Illinois location soon. To commemorate HFB’s 100^th location milestone, Celebree School of Northbrook invites the community to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, April 7 at 11 a.m., featuring a book drive to support early childhood literacy in the local area.

Originally from Poland, Pisarczyk found her true calling in early childhood education after a successful career in finance. While teaching in Highland Park, IL, she discovered her passion for nurturing young minds, leading her to Celebree School. Drawn to the brand’s mission and strong support system, she is now dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where children can grow and thrive.

“Owning a Celebree School is truly a dream come true,” said Pisarczyk. “Opening the 100^th Huffman Family Brands location makes this milestone even more special, and I am honored to play a role in the company’s incredible growth. I believe children are the most incredible gift, and early education is essential for instilling kindness, compassion, and strong values. I look forward to serving new and familiar families in the North Shore community soon empowered by Celebree’s mission.”

As part of the ribbon-cutting celebration, Celebree School of Northbrook will host a community book drive, aiming to collect 100 children’s books in honor of the school becoming the 100^th HFB location. These books will be donated to the Northbrook Public Library during National Library Week (April 6-12), reinforcing Celebree’s commitment to early childhood education and literacy development. Local families are invited to join the celebration, meet the team, and contribute new or gently used books to help provide young learners with greater access to reading resources.

“Books are the building blocks of literacy, and libraries are where the love of reading flourishes. During National Library Week, we celebrate how libraries connect communities with the transformative power of books,” said Kate Hall, Executive Director of Northbrook Public Library. “Celebree School’s generous ‘100 Books for 100 Locations’ initiative shows a deep understanding of how important early access to books is for developing young minds. As we welcome this new educational partner to Northbrook, we’re inspired by their commitment to literacy right from the start. Together, we can ensure that every child in our community discovers the joy and wonder that books bring to our lives.

The milestone opening highlights the remarkable growth of Huffman Family Brands’ expanding portfolio, comprising six brands. Together, they provide early childhood education, enrichment programs, franchise opportunities, and philanthropic support to communities across the United States. As the company continues to scale nationwide, this achievement underscores its commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education and enrichment programs while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

“Reaching 100 locations is an extraordinary achievement, and it is a testament to the dedication and passion of our network of entrepreneurs, like Maggie, who bring our mission to life in communities nationwide,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Huffman Family Brands. “Whether opening a preschool, establishing enrichment programs, or supporting educational institutions, Huffman Family Brands guides individuals and families to professional and personal success.”

Huffman Family Brands is deeply committed to empowering communities through its platform, leveraging expertise and resources to drive meaningful change across the nation. At the heart of this mission are Celebree franchisees, who are more than business owners—they are dedicated community members with a passion for making a difference.

Celebree School of Northbrook is committed to serving the local community and supporting parents by offering flexible and accommodating childcare solutions. The school welcomes children from 6 weeks to 12 years old and provides a range of enrollment options designed to meet the diverse needs of families. Operating from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Celebree School offers full-time and part-time enrollment options. Drop-in care is available for families who need occasional support, while before and after school care includes reliable transportation. Additionally, the school offers an engaging summer camp program to keep children active and learning during the summer months. With a focus on creating a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment, Celebree School of Northbrook ensures that every child has the opportunity to thrive while giving parents peace of mind.

For those who share this vision, Celebree School offers an unmatched opportunity. With over 30 years of experience, a proven business model, and a strong culture of support, franchisees gain access to the tools and systems needed to excel in the rewarding field of early childhood education. Whether pursuing single-unit or multi-unit ownership, Celebree provides the perfect foundation for individuals eager to create lasting, positive impacts in their communities.

For more information on Huffman Family Brands, please visit, https://huffmanfamilybrands.com/

For more information on Celebree School of Northbrook, please visit, https://www.celebree.com/northbrook-il/

For more information on Celebree School franchising opportunities, visit https://www.celebree.com/franchising/.

About Huffman Family Brands
Huffman Family Brands (HFB) is a unified platform company dedicated to fostering social development, innovation, and community empowerment through its portfolio of powerful and beloved brands. Led by founder Richard Huffman, HFB builds on decades of success with brands like Celebree School, Caliday School Age Programs, Celebree Enterprise, and more. Together, all operating brands under HFB provide early childhood education, enrichment programs, franchise opportunities, and philanthropic support to communities across the United States. With over 150 locations open or in development in 15 states, Huffman Family Brands continues to lead the way in supporting families, entrepreneurs, and communities. For more information, visit huffmanfamilybrands.com.

31 03, 2025

Always Best Care Senior Services Names Todd Hillman as VP of Franchise Development

Paul Zboichyk2025-03-31T16:08:59-04:00March 31st, 2025|Tags: Always Best Care, Exclusive Programs, Senior Assistance, senior care|

Franchise Industry Veteran to Lead Strategic Growth and Expansion Efforts

ROSEVILLE, Calif. — Always Best Care Senior Services, one of the leading senior care franchise systems in the United States, has appointed Todd Hillman as its new Vice President of Franchise Development. Hillman, an accomplished franchise executive with over two decades of experience in franchise sales, development, and operations, will lead the company’s expansion efforts across key U.S. markets.

Bringing a strong track record in franchise growth, Hillman has successfully scaled multiple franchise brands in diverse industries, including health and wellness, home services, and quick-service restaurants. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in expanding brands by hundreds of locations and strengthening their franchise development strategies. At Always Best Care, Hillman will focus on targeting new markets, optimizing franchisee recruitment efforts, and strengthening relationships with brokers and consultants to drive continued system growth.

“Joining Always Best Care is an incredible opportunity to be part of a mission-driven brand that is making a real difference in communities across the country,” said Todd Hillman, Vice President of Franchise Development for Always Best Care. “Senior care is one of the most recession-resistant and essential industries, and the demand for in-home care services continues to grow as our population ages. I look forward to working with the team to attract passionate franchisees who are eager to make a meaningful impact while building successful businesses.”

Hillman’s franchise career began as a franchisee, giving him firsthand experience of what it takes to successfully own and operate a franchise. His early days as a business owner taught him the value of strong franchisor support, a lesson he carries into his leadership philosophy today. Since then, he has held franchise development leadership roles at Massage Envy, Hammer & Nails Grooming, Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade, and Central Bark, where he was instrumental in driving system-wide growth.

“Our franchise system has experienced tremendous expansion over the past few years, and we are confident that Todd’s leadership will help propel us even further,” said Jake Brown, President & CEO of Always Best Care. “His deep expertise in franchise development, combined with his personal understanding of the importance of senior care, makes him the perfect fit to lead our next phase of growth. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to the impact he will make.”

As part of his growth strategy for Always Best Care, Hillman will focus on expanding the brand’s footprint in high-potential markets throughout the US, with an emphasis on Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Arizona, Missouri, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. With an aging U.S. population and increasing demand for quality senior care services, Hillman believes the brand is well-positioned to expand its footprint exponentially over the next several years.

For more information about franchising opportunities with Always Best Care, visit https://alwaysbestcare.com/franchise/.

About Always Best Care

Founded in 1996, Always Best Care Senior Services is based on the belief that having the right people for the right level of care means peace of mind for the client and family. Always Best Care has been assisting seniors with a wide range of conditions and personal needs for over 28 years and currently provides thousands of hours of care every year. Franchise opportunities are available to individuals interested in leveraging the company’s clear strategy and proven track record for delivering affordable, dependable service to seniors in their local areas.

Always Best Care also offers exclusive programs such as Always in Touch, Balance Tracking System, remote patient monitoring and a 24/7 Virtual Care. For more information regarding Always Best Care’s solutions, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com.

31 03, 2025

Workplace Hostility Pushes Employees to Seek New Jobs: 30% Report Higher Confrontation

Paul Zboichyk2025-03-31T16:02:33-04:00March 31st, 2025|Tags: business services, Express Employment Professionals, professional education, staffing solutions|

Recent Survey Shows Toxic Behaviors Eroding Workplace Culture

OKLAHOMA CITY — New data reveals a troubling increase in toxic behaviors within the workplace, underscoring the critical need for companies to take immediate action to prevent employees from becoming job seekers.

This is according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.

With 30% of employed U.S. job seekers reporting employees at their company are more confrontational than they were three years ago, the urgency to address these issues has never been greater. The trend is particularly pronounced among male job seekers, with 34% noting increased confrontational behavior compared to 23% of female job seekers.

Furthermore, more than one in five employed job seekers (22%) have observed a rise in employees being mean to others at work over the past year. This escalation in toxic behaviors is not only damaging workplace relationships but also undermining the overall company culture, prompting many employees to seek new job opportunities.

Personal Accounts of Toxicity

Several personal accounts from survey respondents shed light on the specific toxic behaviors they have experienced:

“I remember when some workers got physical with each other because one of them made offensive and disrespectful comments about the other’s personal life. It created a hostile environment and affected everyone on the team.” — Employed 36-year-old male job seeker
“I had a coworker who consistently tried to make me do tasks that weren’t in my job description and actively tried to sabotage my work. I reported her multiple times to management, but nothing was done about it until I had to quit due to needing to take care of my parents and my deteriorating mental state.” — Unemployed 30-year-old female job seeker
“When I was employed as an RN on an inpatient hospital unit, I experienced bullying by senior nurses toward younger nurses. They were envious because they did not hold the same accreditations as the incoming graduates. When I started to display mental health issues, there were opportunities for the others to target me, as well.” — Employed 59-year old female job seeker

Company Culture and Adaptation
The findings underscore the significance of company culture in addressing toxic behaviors. More than half of job seekers (54%) believe that company culture should adapt to changing times and employee desires rather than expecting employees to conform to existing culture. This sentiment is stronger among female job seekers (59%) compared to males (49%).

Additionally, 55% of job seekers agree that it is inappropriate for employees to demand the same boundaries from their coworkers that they set with their family and friends. Nearly 3 in 5 (57%) find it difficult to distinguish between a hostile work environment and a clash of coworkers’ personalities in today’s workplace.

Hiring Managers’ Perspective
Hiring managers also report a troubling increase in toxic behaviors. Half of U.S. hiring managers (50%) have observed more instances of poor employee behavior being reported now than they did three years ago. Nearly three-quarters (74%) have witnessed toxic traits regularly, with gossiping (39%) being the most common, followed by unprofessional communication (27%), employees avoiding collaboration (24%), micromanaging direct reports (19%) and employees taking credit for another person’s work (19%).

Specific Incidents Reported by Surveyed Hiring Managers

“An employee constantly gossiped about colleagues, spreading negativity and undermining team morale, which created unnecessary tension and damaged trust within the workplace.” — 44-year-old male hiring manager
“During a team meeting, one employee repeatedly interrupted others to push their ideas, disregarding everyone else’s input. They made dismissive comments like, ‘That is not going to work,’ without offering constructive alternatives.” — 36-year-old female hiring manager
“An employee was sending inappropriate texts and threats.” — 26-year-old male hiring manager

Proactive Measures Needed
While 84% of employed job seekers say their company implements measures to manage conflicts, more proactive approaches are needed. This includes:

Providing resources on conflict resolution: 53%
Encouraging open communication with supervisors: 52%
Mandating training on appropriate workplace behavior: 36%
Displaying signs or other materials regarding appropriate workplace behaviors: 27%

Additionally, 62% of job seekers agree that companies need to have signage to remind people to be nice to one another. This sentiment is particularly strong among Gen Z, millennial and Gen X workers (78%, 64% and 56%, respectively) compared to boomer/senior job seekers (44%).

“Addressing toxic behaviors in the workplace is crucial for businesses aiming to attract and retain top talent,” Express Employment International CEO Bill Stoller said. “A toxic environment not only drives employees away but also tarnishes a company’s reputation, making it more difficult to recruit skilled professionals. By fostering a positive and respectful workplace culture, companies can enhance their appeal to skilled professionals, reduce turnover and strengthen their overall market position.”

Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals Nov. 11 – 26, 2024, among 1,001 U.S. hiring decision-makers.

The Job Seeker Report was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from Nov. 21 to Dec. 10, 2024, among 1,039 adults ages 18 and older.

For full survey methodologies, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

If you would like to arrange for an interview to discuss this topic, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

About Bill Stoller
William H. “Bill” Stoller is chairman and chief executive officer of Express Employment International. Founded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the international staffing franchisor supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and related brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, employing 427,000 people globally in 2024 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

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