latestnews

27 01, 2026

Dogtopia Advances the Standard of Pet Wellness After a Record-Breaking 2025

2026-01-27T02:56:11-05:00January 27th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

Brand Advances Wellness-First Strategy with DASH, Technological Enhancements, and Spa Products

PHOENIX — Dogtopia, the nation’s leading pet wellness franchise, today announced a momentous 2025, marked by strong growth, a decade-long streak of positive year-over-year same store sales growth and decreased new store opening costs. While the broader pet services category faced rising construction costs, Dogtopia emerged as the only brand to reduce average build-out costs year-over-year—significantly strengthening unit economics and ROI for its growing network of franchisees.

“At Dogtopia, we’re not just adding more units—we’re redefining what dog daycare can be,” said Neil Gill, President and CEO of Dogtopia. “In 2025, we delivered a 90 NPS score, proving our parents love what our franchisees and teams are delivering. We doubled down on wellness, technology and efficiency so that every new location opens stronger, every playroom runs smarter, every franchisee can be more profitable, and every dog can live a longer, healthier, happier life.”

Growth

Dogtopia enters 2026 celebrating massive momentum with nearly 5 million dog visits last year. The brand is poised to cross the 300-store milestone this year with 27 new agreements signed last year, building on a development pipeline of more than 250.

Leveraging an efficient store design, supply chain scale and disciplined value engineering, Dogtopia was the only national brand over the past three years to reduce average initial investment cost. Dogtopia’s new 3.0 store design concept increased revenue-generating space by more than 10%, improving unit-level economics for franchisees while reducing build-out costs – all while preserving Dogtopia’s uniqe positioning, standards for safety, cleanliness and playroom design. These improvements, combined with rising consumer demand for dog daycare and the dedication of Dogtopia’s franchisees and team members, have helped extend the brand’s streak of positive year-over-year same-store sales growth to 10 consecutive years.

Accolades

Dogtopia received top honors once again in two of the most prestigious franchise industry awards:

  • #1 in the Pet Care Category in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 for the 7th consecutive year. The brand ranked #65 in the 2026 overall ranking, up 9 spots from 2025
  • #231 in Franchise Times’ Top 400 ranking, up 21 spots from 2024

Dogtopia is the largest pet services franchise in the world, with net growth of almost 80 units over the last three years. With a mature system and the highest brand awareness in its class, Dogtopia reported an impressive Net Promoter Score of 90, which is considered “world class” and ranks as the highest loyalty amongst any brand in North America.

Innovation

The 2025 launch of DASH by Dogtopia® has transformed the pet parent experience. As a proprietary daycare activity monitor integrated with the Dogtopia mobile app, DASH allows parents to track their dog’s steps, distance and rest. Dogtopia’s DASH leaderboards provide a ranking of dogs by distance in both the daycare and by playroom, where dogs are separated by both size and temperament. This gamified wellness ecosystem provides a level of transparency—beyond Dogtopia’s live webcams—that is currently unmatched in the industry.

DASH was rigorously tested for several years inside active playrooms and approved for use in a social setting, making wellness trackable rather than assumed. Dogs in Dogtopia daycare average a remarkable eight miles of activity, equating to more than 70,000 steps a day.

As Dogtopia crosses the major milestone of 300 locations in 2026, the brand will continue expanding DASH and elevating its focus on dog health and wellness. On track to hit 500 locations by 2030, Dogtopia remains one of the fastest-growing brands and hottest franchise opportunities within the pet industry and beyond.

Dogtopia continues to invest in its spa product line – available at Dogtopia Shop and on Amazon– including individualized dog shampoos, conditioners, facial scrubs, wipes and deodorizing sprays for at-home use between Dogtopia spa appointments.

Dogtopia’s success is also fueled by its purpose beyond profit. Its nonprofit arm, The Dogtopia Foundation, has sponsored nearly 800 service dogs for veterans, reflecting the company’s long-standing commitment to enabling dogs to positively change our world.

For more information about Dogtopia or to find a location near you, visit www.dogtopia.com.

About Dogtopia

Founded in 2002, Dogtopia is an early pioneer and innovator in the dog daycare industry, offering an experience focused on wellness, quality of care, safety, and transparency in the market. The ultimate destination for improving the physical and mental wellbeing of dogs and pet parents, Dogtopia helps our furry friends live long, healthy, and happy lives with services that holistically address canine wellness. Pet parents have the assurance of leaving their beloved furry family members in the hands of trained professionals in an environment created with the safety of dogs in mind, including spacious playrooms assigned by size and play style, comfortable rubber flooring to reduce the impact on joints and paws, and webcams for pet parents to check in on their pups. For more information, visit www.dogtopia.com.

27 01, 2026

BrightStar Care Marks a Transformative Year of Franchise Expansion Following Strategic Investment Partnership

2026-01-27T02:50:36-05:00January 27th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

Expanded Clinical Capabilities & Strong Franchise Performance Drive Momentum Into 2026

BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — BrightStar Care, a leading provider of in-home care, medical staffing, and senior living solutions, announced a milestone year marked by strategic investment, accelerated franchise growth, and record-setting performance across its national network. In 2025, BrightStar Care opened more than 30 new locations, welcomed 20 new franchise owners, and saw existing owners expand into 21 additional markets. This momentum reflects the strength of the company’s nurse-led care model and its differentiated structure of five revenue streams: companion care, personal care, skilled care, staffing, and national accounts.

For the 13th consecutive year, BrightStar Care earned the Joint Commission Enterprise Champion for Quality Award, highlighting its commitment to the highest standard of care. BrightStar Care’s multiple revenue streams provide franchisees the opportunity to grow their business beyond traditional companion and personal care, which drives greater market penetration. Franchisees also continued to achieve strong financial performance.

“Demand for home-based care continues to grow, and BrightStar Care is well-positioned to support franchise expansion,” said Pete First, Chief Development Officer at BrightStar Care. “Our nurse-led model, diverse revenue streams, and ongoing investments in technology give entrepreneurs a strong foundation to build high-performing businesses. Looking ahead to 2026, our focus remains on expanding our footprint while helping franchise owners meet the evolving needs of families in their local communities.”

The company’s new partnership with a leading middle-market private equity firm marks a new era of innovation, operational support, and long-term growth, enabling investments in technology, expanded clinical resources, and enhanced systems designed to strengthen franchise support and elevate the client experience.

As care continues moving into the home, BrightStar Care enters 2026 ready for continued expansion and innovation. These strategic investments, strengthened clinical capabilities, and a growing franchise network position the company to further its mission to deliver exceptional nurse-led care across the country. BrightStar Care remains committed to raising industry standards, supporting franchise owners, and leading the future of home-based healthcare.

About BrightStar Care
Founded in 2002, BrightStar Care is a leading franchisor of home care services with more than 420 franchised locations nationwide that provide skilled and unskilled home care to clients and custom medical staffing solutions to corporate entities. BrightStar Care franchise agencies employ more than 15,000 caregivers and 5,700 registered nurses who oversee the care and safety of each individual client. All BrightStar Care agencies are accredited by The Joint Commission, and the brand has been recognized as an Enterprise Champion for Quality for over a decade. In addition to supporting families at home, BrightStar Care partners with healthcare organizations to meet evolving staffing needs with experienced, credentialed professionals. Learn more at www.brightstarfranchising.com.

27 01, 2026

Express Employment Professionals Closes Out 2025 with Expanded Footprint and Franchise Momentum

2026-01-27T02:45:34-05:00January 27th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

Leading Global Staffing Franchise Opens 54 Units in 2025 With Expansion into New Markets Nationwide

OKLAHOMA CITY — Express Employment Professionals, the leading global staffing provider franchise, closed out 2025 with 54 new and resale franchise agreements, bringing the system to nearly 900 locations worldwide.

Over the course of the year, Express hosted 12 Discovery Days, providing prospective owners an in-depth look at the brand’s mission to connect businesses with qualified talent and job seekers with employment opportunities. These events resulted in 38 new franchisees joining the system, while five existing franchise owners expanded their portfolios by acquiring additional locations, signaling continued confidence in the Express franchise model.

The brand also entered seven new territories in 2025, including:

  • Raleigh, NC (East)
  • Greenville, SC (North)
  • Fredericksburg, VA
  • Queens, NY (East)
  • Naples, FL
  • Midlothian, VA
  • Virginia Beach, VA

“2025 reinforced the strength and durability of the Express franchise system,” said Melissa Davis, Vice President of Franchising at Express Employment Professionals. “Our franchisees stayed focused on growth, strengthening their operations, and delivering consistent results by meeting the evolving workforce needs of their local communities. That momentum positions us well as we move into 2026.”

Despite 2025 being a year of significant loss for the organization with the passing of both co-founders, William H. Stoller and Bob Funk Sr., Express franchisees demonstrated notable grit and resilience, continuing to support employers and job seekers in their local communities. That determination was reflected not only in system expansion, but also in sustained interest in the franchise opportunity, with more than 5,000 individuals expressing interest in becoming Express franchise owners, underscoring confidence in both the brand and the long-term stability of the staffing industry.

Express’s long-term goal of putting a million people to work annually remains central to the company’s vision: to help as many people as possible find good jobs by helping as many clients as possible find good people.

As the number-one staffing franchise for individuals, communities, and businesses, Express has achieved numerous accolades that showcase its success. For the 15th consecutive year, the brand was recognized as the top staffing franchise in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 and ranked #75 on the overall Franchise 500 list. Furthermore, Express ranked #32 on the Franchise Times Top 400 and #10 on FranchiseDirect’s Top 100 Global Franchises.

As Express looks ahead, franchise development efforts are focused on key growth markets across Georgia, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, Ontario, Illinois, and New York, supporting the brand’s long-term expansion strategy.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Express Employment Professionals, contact their franchise development team at franchising@expresspros.com or visit www.ExpressFranchising.com.

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 more than 11 million people globally since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

27 01, 2026

Waterloo Turf Expands Colorado Footprint with New Denver Franchise Partners

2026-01-27T02:41:09-05:00January 27th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Premier Turf Franchise Welcomes First Family-Owned Location

AUSTIN, Texas — Waterloo Turf, a national artificial turf franchise, has expanded into Denver, Colorado, marking the brand’s first family-owned franchise location. The Denver launch builds on Waterloo Turf’s existing presence in Boulder and Fort Collins, and strengthens its footprint across Colorado.

Mother-and-son team Misti and Steven Black will operate Waterloo Turf’s Denver location, serving the metro area and surrounding suburbs. As long-time Denver residents, they understand the environmental constraints and performance demands unique to the region.

“Denver is home for our family. Our roots are here, and we want to stay involved in the community we care about most,” said Misti Black. “We believe artificial turf is still early in Denver, and it can be a strong solution for the unique needs of the market, especially as water restrictions increase.”

Steven and Misti Black bring complementary skill sets to the Denver location, with Steven focused on installation quality, execution, and day-to-day operations, and Misti contributing her background in gardening and outdoor design. Together, they prioritize craftsmanship, clear communication, and long-term performance on every project.

“We joined Waterloo Turf as a mother-and-son team because our skills complement each other in a way that benefits our customers,” said Steven Black. “We’ve always been close, and we wanted to build something that reflects how our family tries to show up: treat people well, communicate clearly, and stand behind our work. When we signed on with Waterloo Turf, we knew this would be our long-term focus.”

The Denver franchise will serve customers across the following counties: Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, El Paso, Elbert and Jefferson.

“Denver embodies the active, outdoor lifestyle that inspired Waterloo Turf in the first place. Expanding here lets us help even more homeowners and business owners spend less time maintaining their lawn and more time enjoying the things they love,” said Tim Lovett, CEO of Waterloo Turf. “Denver is full of opportunity, and Misti and Steven represent the kind of driven, community‑minded entrepreneurs we’re proud to partner with. Their family‑run approach aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver exceptional service with a personal touch.”

Led by top leaders in both franchising and turf and backed by investors with over 60 years of combined franchise experience across 13 different brands, Waterloo Turf’s franchise opportunity was built off proven, streamlined operations and ongoing corporate support. Waterloo Turf is seeking franchisees with a “team captain” mindset, offering a 10% discount to owners who are ex-NCAA athletes and ex-military.

For more information, please visit https://waterlooturf.com/denver

About Waterloo Turf

Founded in 2021 and franchised since December 2024, Waterloo Turf offers a unique opportunity for franchisees to enter the growing turf industry with a low upfront investment and minimal overhead. Waterloo Turf offers services for both residential and commercial-based projects, delivering high-quality turf solutions for a wide range of properties including luxury homes, commercially owned areas, dog parks, daycares, schools and more. Waterloo Turf promotes the ideal lifestyle of “Getting your Saturdays Back,” allowing families and friends to focus on spending quality time together in their outdoor space.

26 01, 2026

Travel Careers on The Rise as Cruise Planners Dominates 2026 Franchise Rankings, Signaling Major Growth Ahead for the Industry

2026-01-26T00:41:08-05:00January 26th, 2026|Tags: , , , |

Industry leaders weigh in on why more people are transforming their wanderlust into a thriving travel career

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. — LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, just released its annual Jobs on the Rise list, highlighting remarkable growth in two key career paths: company founders, who ranked #9, and Travel Agents, coming in at #18. With exciting prospects in both entrepreneurial leadership and travel services, Cruise Planners—the nation’s largest home-based travel agency franchise—has firmly established itself as the top choice for those looking to pursue these careers. The company recently received its 16th recognition as a Top Franchise for 2026 from Franchise Business Review (FBR), underscoring an unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and exceptional support for its franchisees, as reflected by its advisors, who rated it an impressive 99 out of 100 in the Franchise Business Review (FBR) Satisfaction Report.

The FBR’s annual Top Franchises report is based on thousands of surveys completed by franchise owners who evaluate every aspect of their business experience, from overall satisfaction to the health of their franchise system. The research identifies the leading award-winning franchise brands across categories such as Top Low-cost Franchises, Recession-Proof Franchises, Best Franchises for Women and Veterans, and Most Innovative Brands. Brands cannot pay for a listing or higher placement on a list, providing potential franchisees with a true snapshot of the franchise business. The results provide prospective franchise owners with reliable, data-driven insights to help them make informed decisions about the investment that best aligns with their goals.

Cruise Planners franchise excelled across all these categories, with an “Excellent” rating in Training & Support, Leadership, Franchise Community, and the Franchise System ranking. The high marks reflect their dedication to providing their franchisees with the tools and support they need to succeed.

“We’re honored to once again be recognized on Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises of 2026,” said Michelle Fee, founder and CEO of Cruise Planners. “We continue to set the standard for how companies should support their franchise community, providing worldclass resources, best-in-industry technology, and exceptional marketing tools. It comes as no surprise that travel agents remain in demand, even in a fluctuating job market. Our recent ranking, combined with the growing interest in travel and hospitality, further demonstrates that owning a Cruise Planners travel agency offers a fulfilling, flexible and enjoyable career.”

LinkedIn reported a noteworthy 50% increase in the number of individuals identifying as travel advisors — a win for Cruise Planners, which serves at the forefront of this trend, thanks to its ongoing commitment to innovative technology and comprehensive marketing and training support programs that aid new franchisees in embarking on their journeys, even if they have no prior experience. The proprietary CP Maxx technology platform offers powerful tools for booking and customer relationship management, and the in-depth STAR University training program, along with continuous support and assistance from the Home Office Team, ensures that franchisees are well-equipped to be successful and navigate the fast-moving and exciting landscape of the travel industry. Cruise Planners thanks Franchise Business Review for this year’s recognition and looks forward to supporting new travel agents as they launch their careers.

ABOUT CRUISE PLANNERS

Cruise Planners was founded in 1994 and is the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network. As a leader in the travel franchise industry, Cruise Planners positions a nation-wide network of 3,000 franchise owners for success by providing innovative marketing programs, proprietary and cutting-edge booking and technology tools, as well as professional development and hands-on training with the industry’s top executives. The company continues to be an industry leader and was named the No.1 travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 18 consecutive years, plus awarded “Best-In-Category” by Franchise Business Review for two years. Franchise Business Review also ranked Cruise Planners #3 OVERALL on their list of Top 200 Franchises. Cruise Planners was recently featured in Entrepreneur as one of the top 30 franchise innovators in technology, has been consistently named as one of the Top Women-Owned Businesses by the South Florida Business Journal, is on the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing private companies in America, and was recognized as one of the Top Workplaces by the Sun-Sentinel. Visit our website, www.cruiseplanners.com, for more information or to view the complete list of awards and honors. For those interested in becoming a franchise owner, please visit https://www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com/.

26 01, 2026

JETSET Pilates Marks Milestone 2025 with 24 Studio Openings and Eyes International Expansion in 2026

2026-01-26T00:32:47-05:00January 26th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Premium Pilates franchise celebrates record growth in 2025, strengthening U.S. footprint, franchise infrastructure, and global ambitions as it enters 2026

MIAMI — JETSET Pilates, the fast-growing modern Reformer Pilates franchise offering premium, full-body workouts, closed out 2025 on a high note with 24 new studio openings, bringing its total footprint to over 270 studios open or in development. As the brand enters 2026, JETSET is focused on operational consistency, franchisee support, and strategic expansion across U.S. and international markets, including its first London studio.

2025 Studio Openings and Franchise Development

In 2025, JETSET opened 24 new studios across key U.S. markets, including Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Colorado, and Washington, D.C. The brand focused on premium neighborhoods and strong real estate fundamentals, reflecting its disciplined, strategic approach to expansion.

Most notably, JETSET officially opened its new headquarters in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, designed by Miami-based, globally-recognized architecture firm Kobi Karp. The space serves as the home of JETSET’s Instructor Training Academy and functions as a centralized training and collaboration hub for the brand’s growing network.

Infrastructure, Performance, and System Investments

To support its expanding studio network, JETSET continued to invest in its franchise platform throughout 2025, introducing more structured pre-sales and studio launch playbooks, expanded performance benchmarking, and tighter integration between marketing, training, and operations. The brand also received a strategic investment from Purchase Capital LLC, an investment firm that provides patient capital for companies with significant potential for long-term value creation. Nicholas J. Singer, Founder & Managing Partner of Purchase Capital, was appointed to the JETSET Board of Directors.

“JETSET has demonstrated an exceptional ability to scale while preserving brand integrity and a dedicated client base,” said Nicholas J. Singer, Founder & Managing Partner of Purchase Capital. “Their disciplined growth strategy, premium positioning, and focus on franchisee success make them a standout platform in boutique fitness.”

JETSET also introduced several client-facing initiatives designed to support engagement and retention across the system. These included new class formats to meet a range of client needs, as well as updated membership features such as expanded structures, premium access testing, and more dynamic introductory and re-engagement offers.

In addition to these investments, JETSET saw continued increases in average unit volumes (AUVs) across the system in 2025. Studios across the network also earned multiple local “Best Of” recognitions, highlighting the brand’s growing reputation as a leading modern Pilates concept within competitive fitness markets.

2026 Outlook and Expansion Plans

Building on the foundation established in 2025, JETSET plans to continue measured expansion across top U.S. markets in 2026 while advancing its international development strategy. The brand will open its first London studio in the Shoreditch neighborhood, serving as the foundation for its UK expansion, with plans for five additional London-area locations to follow. The brand also plans to expand into gateway cities in Canada and the EU. Priority regions in the U.S. will include major metropolitan areas across the Northeast, Southeast, Texas, California, and the Midwest. Additional training hubs are also planned, beginning with Dallas later this year.

“Our growth in 2025 reflects the strength of our model and the discipline behind how we scale, and we plan to maintain a measured but ambitious approach to growth in 2026,” said Bertus Albertse, CEO of JETSET Pilates. “We’re prioritizing premium real estate, the right franchise partners, and operational excellence to ensure long-term success as we expand domestically and internationally in 2026.”

As JETSET enters 2026, the brand is firmly positioned at the intersection of premium fitness, modern Pilates, and scalable franchising, and is building a durable platform for sustained global growth. 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 quickly become one of the most attractive concepts in the boutique fitness franchise space, with over 270 studios open or in development across the U.S. and Australia. The brand is known for its 50-minute classes that combine strength, cardio, and Pilates-inspired movements for a full-body workout, focusing on connection, consistency, and wellness in every community it serves. JETSET Pilates now offers franchising opportunities to entrepreneurs in some of the largest and fastest-growing markets in the fitness sector. For more information, please visit https://jetsetpilates.com/franchise/, or follow the brand on LinkedIn and Instagram.

26 01, 2026

/C O R R E C T I O N — PIRTEK USA/

2026-01-26T00:23:21-05:00January 26th, 2026|Tags: , , |

In the news release, PIRTEK USA Closes Record-Breaking 2025 with Unprecedented Franchise Growth and Expansion, issued 21-Jan-2026 by PIRTEK USA over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end:

PIRTEK USA Closes Record-Breaking 2025 with Unprecedented Franchise Growth and Expansion

Essential-Service Franchise Opens 41 New Locations, Awards 61 Units, now reaching 35 States Plus Puerto Rico

ROCKLEDGE, Fla. — PIRTEK USA, the nation’s leading provider of on-site and retail hydraulic and industrial hose services, closed out 2025 as the strongest year in brand history, setting new records for franchise development, systemwide expansion, and new location openings.

Throughout 2025, PIRTEK awarded a record-breaking 61 total franchise units, opened a record-breaking 41 new locations, and welcomed 40 new franchise owners through a combination of new awards and resale activity. By year’s end, PIRTEK’s U.S. footprint expanded to 35 states plus Puerto Rico, reinforcing the brand’s position as a leading essential-service franchise with national scale.

“2025 was a defining year for PIRTEK,” said Kim Gubera, President & CEO of PIRTEK USA and PIRTEK Canada. “The record number of openings and the caliber of franchisees joining our system reflect the strength of our franchise model, the dedication of our team, and the growing demand for essential, B2B service businesses that perform in any economic environment.”

Awards and Recognition in 2025

PIRTEK’s performance and franchisee-first culture earned widespread industry recognition in 2025, including:

  • Franchisee Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review for the fourth consecutive year, earning PIRTEK its highest satisfaction score to date
  • No. 110 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500®
  • No. 15 on Entrepreneur’s Top Franchises for Veterans list
  • Silver Franchise Award from the Franchise Brokers Association, ranking PIRTEK No. 2 out of more than 600 franchise concepts for overall franchise development process quality

These honors underscore PIRTEK’s continued leadership in franchisee support, operational strength, and long-term growth potential.

Record-Breaking Growth Highlights from 2025

Q4 2025 proved to be PIRTEK’s strongest quarter ever for new openings, with 16 locations launched, marking a major milestone for the brand.

Key Q4 highlights include:

  • Nine (9) franchise units awarded to six (6) new franchise owners, including two military veterans
  • Sale of PIRTEK’s first-ever Rhode Island location, and the opening of the first-ever New Hampshire location
  • Expansion activity from existing franchise owners, reinforcing multi-unit momentum across the system

New locations opened in Q4 spanned major markets, including Fairfax, VA, Manchester, NH, Savannah, GA, Coral Gables, FL, Cupertino, CA, and Mobile, AL, among others, reflecting PIRTEK’s strategic focus on high-demand industrial and infrastructure-driven regions.

“Breaking records for openings, especially in Q4, speaks to the strength of our development pipeline and the confidence entrepreneurs have in PIRTEK,” said John Dobelbower, Vice President of Franchise Development for PIRTEK USA and PIRTEK Canada. “We’re attracting owners who want a scalable, essential business with clear systems, strong support, and long-term opportunity.”

A Strong Foundation Heading into 2026

Entering 2026, PIRTEK is positioned for continued momentum, with a growing pipeline of new markets, expansion from existing owners, and ongoing demand from essential industries including construction, manufacturing, logistics, utilities, transportation, and waste management.

With a franchise model built around 24/7/365 service and a one-hour on-site ETA, PIRTEK continues to attract entrepreneurs seeking recession-resistant, B2B-focused businesses that play a critical role in keeping operations running nationwide.

“Our focus in 2026 is straightforward: support our franchisees, grow strategically, and continue strengthening PIRTEK’s position as the national leader in hydraulic and industrial hose services,” added Gubera. “Our record-breaking efforts were a system-wide achievement that will solidify our continued growth and momentum moving forward.”

To learn more about PIRTEK franchise opportunities, visit www.pirtekusafranchise.com.

ABOUT PIRTEK USA:
PIRTEK USA provides the fastest hydraulic and industrial hose maintenance and replacement services through on-site mobile and service centers. The brand has more than 500 franchise locations in 24 countries around the world, with more than 175 located in the U.S. PIRTEK has a 1-hour ETA for on-site hose service, is available 24/7/365, and is a simple solution that minimizes equipment downtime and eliminates the need for customers to leave their job sites or facilities to locate new hydraulic and industrial hoses as well as hydraulic fittings. WE’LL KEEP YOU OPERATING® For more information, visit www.pirtekusa.com or follow us at @PIRTEKUSA on FacebookLinkedIn, and Instagram.

Correction: The number of new locations has been updated.

26 01, 2026

HOW DO YOU KEEP DOGS SAFE DURING A WINTER STORM? ANIMAL EXPERT SHARES 5 CRITICAL TIPS

2026-01-26T00:15:03-05:00January 26th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Camp Bow Wow offers timely cold-weather safety tips as severe winter weather sweeps across the U.S.

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — As a major winter storm is forecast to blanket large portions of the United States at the end of this week, Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading doggy day care and boarding franchise, is urging pet owners to take precautions to protect their dogs from life-threatening cold-weather hazards.

While most people know not to leave dogs outdoors in the cold, Camp Bow Wow’s animal health and behavioral expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, has identified 5 critical safety risks that spike during severe winter weather—and that most pet parents don’t know about.

“Many pet owners don’t realize that the biggest risks to their dogs during winter storms aren’t just the cold temperatures—it’s what’s hidden in the snow and ice,” said Camp Bow Wow’s animal health and behavioral expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA. “From toxic ice melt salts to disorientation that causes dogs to get lost, these issues can be prevented with the right knowledge.”

5 Critical Cold-Weather Safety Tips Every Dog Owner Must Know

1. Wipe Down Your Dog After Every Outdoor Trip

What to Know: When dogs lick their paws after walking on treated surfaces, they may ingest ice melt that is toxic and can cause severe illness or death.

What to Do: Thoroughly wipe down dogs’ paws, legs and belly when they come back inside after being in snow or going for a walk. Use a damp towel to remove all traces of ice melt chemicals before dogs have a chance to lick their paws.

2. Never Let Your Dog Off the Leash in Snow or Ice

What to Know: Extreme cold can interfere with how scents travel, which may make it harder for dogs to track smells. This makes scent-based navigation more challenging and may increase the risk of disorientation.

What to Do: Keep your dog on a leash at all times during winter weather, even in familiar areas.

3. Provide Fresh Water at All Times

What to Know: Dehydrated dogs are more likely to lick ice and eat snow, which can cause them to ingest toxic ice melt salts or antifreeze.

What to Do: Keep fresh, clean water available and accessible at all times. Check water bowls frequently to ensure they haven’t frozen if kept outdoors.

4. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car—Even with the Heater On

What to Know: Vehicles act like freezers in winter, trapping cold air inside. Dogs can freeze to death quickly, even with the heater running initially.

What to Do: Always bring your dog inside with you or leave them safely at home. There is no safe amount of time to leave a dog in a car during winter weather.

5. Keep Your Dog’s Fur Long During Winter

What to Know: A dog’s fur is their natural protective layer against cold temperatures. Shaving or cutting it too short removes this critical insulation.

What to Do: Never shave your dog’s fur during winter months. For dogs with naturally short hair, use a jacket or sweater to provide extra warmth during outdoor time. For dogs with longer hair, frequent grooming can help keep long coats healthy and easier to maintain during winter months.

What to Do If Severe Weather Prevents Outdoor Exercise
When winter storms make outdoor exercise dangerous or impossible, dogs still need physical and mental stimulation. Camp Bow Wow offers a safe, climate-controlled environment where dogs can exercise, socialize, and burn energy regardless of weather conditions.

Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
Before the winter storm arrives, pet owners should:

  • Stock up on pet food, medications and supplies for at least one week
  • Ensure dogs are wearing collars with up-to-date identification tags
  • Microchip pets and update registry information
  • Identify a safe, warm indoor space for pets during the storm
  • Locate the nearest emergency veterinary clinic

About Camp Bow Wow®
Camp Bow Wow® is a leading dog daycare and boarding provider with over 220 locations in 41 states and Canada. For 25 years, Camp Bow Wow has brought joy to dogs and pet parents and helped them lead their best lives by providing the highest levels of fun, safety and service for Campers and peace of mind for their parents. Dogs romp together in an open-play environment and snooze the night away in spacious individual cabins. Additional services include personalized enrichment opportunities, grooming, training and the proprietary Pawsitive Start Jr. Program for puppy enrichment and socialization. Camp Bow Wow also supports the dog-loving community with the Bow Wow Buddies Foundation®, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing funds for urgent medical care to rescue groups and pet parents who cannot afford their veterinary bills. Camp Bow Wow is part of the Propelled Brands family of brands, a recognized leader in the franchising industry.

23 01, 2026

STRETCH ZONE OPENS TODAY IN WESTBOROUGH, MA

2026-01-23T03:23:30-05:00January 23rd, 2026|Tags: , , |

New practitioner-assisted stretching studio brings recovery and flexibility support to the
local community

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s leading brand for practitioner-assisted stretching, officially opens Stretch Zone Westborough today, bringing a personalized approach to recovery, flexibility, and overall wellness to the community. The studio is owned and operated by Fernando Zengotita, in partnership with Michael Scott, marking Fernando’s second Stretch Zone location.

For Fernando, opening a Stretch Zone in Westborough is especially meaningful. “This is my hometown,” he shared. “Being able to bring a health and wellness business here—one that I truly believe in—means a lot to me.”

Fernando’s interest in Stretch Zone stems from his background in martial arts, where flexibility, recovery, and long-term physical sustainability are essential. As a martial arts instructor and practitioner, he has experienced firsthand how practitioner-assisted stretching supports recovery and improves performance. “Stretching plays a critical role in health sustainability,” he explained. “It’s something I rely on personally, and it aligns perfectly with my entrepreneurial goals.”

Stretch Zone offers fully assisted stretch sessions led by certified practitioners who customize each session to the member’s body, limitations, and goals. Using a guided approach focused on recovery and flexibility, Stretch Zone helps members improve range of motion and move more comfortably—without forcing or strain.

“What sets Stretch Zone apart is the results,” Fernando said. “Our customized stretching provides real value for recovery and flexibility, and members feel the difference.”

Stretch Zone Westborough is managed by Brian Mercier and serves as a convenient wellness destination for residents throughout the Westborough area, complementing Fernando’s existing Stretch Zone location in West Boylston.

Stretch Zone Westborough opens today in Westborough, Massachusetts, and will operate Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will be closed on Sundays. To celebrate the opening, new members are invited to enjoy a complimentary first stretch consultation and session. For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com.

About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone has redefined how people approach flexibility and recovery. With more than 400 locations across North America, the brand’s patented equipment and certified practitioner training deliver safe, effective stretching experiences that improve mobility and enhance quality of life. Stretch Zone has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times Top 400 lists for growth and innovation. Learn more at www.stretchzone.com.

23 01, 2026

AtWork Staffing Group Closes Out a Successful 2025

2026-01-23T03:19:38-05:00January 23rd, 2026|Tags: , , , |

Franchise Growth, National Recognition and the Launch of AtWork Professional Fuel Momentum for 2026

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — AtWork®, an award-winning staffing agency franchise, is reporting noteworthy success in 2025, marked by the brand’s franchise expansion and continued national recognition. While the staffing industry faced somewhat challenging market conditions, AtWork has outperformed these broader trends, closing the year with a promising fourth quarter and carrying that momentum into early 2026.

Throughout 2025, AtWork continued to strengthen its national footprint by selling 15 new franchise territories and welcoming 12 new franchise owners. The brand now operates in 30 states nationwide and opened 13 new offices during the year. This expansion reflects ongoing confidence in the AtWork franchise model and its ability to support entrepreneurs in a challenging labor environment.

Operationally, AtWork delivered meaningful impact for both clients and talent. In 2025, the franchise helped put more than 31,000 people to work and partnered with approximately 2,000 clients across the country. The system also added more than 720 new clients, reinforcing AtWork’s reputation as a trusted staffing partner for businesses seeking dependable workforce solutions.

“AtWork’s continued growth in a down staffing market speaks volumes about the strength of our franchise system and the dedication of our owners,” said Jason Leverant, president and chief operating officer of AtWork. “We remain focused on serving clients and candidates with consistency and care, and that commitment is what continues to drive successful results.”

In addition to its growth, AtWork earned 10 national industry awards in 2025 for excellence in franchise satisfaction, operations, and service quality. Highlights include recognition on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms, ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing Client and Talent Awards, Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises, the Franchise Times Top 400, and FranServe’s Fran-tastic Brand list.

Individual franchisee success further highlighted the strength of the system, with Josephine Suryono, owner of AtWork Sacramento and Roseville, named the International Franchise Association’s Franchisee of the Year and a Franchise Rockstar by Franchise Business Review.

As the company enters 2026 on strong footing, including being recognized as one of Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises, AtWork continues to demonstrate leadership within the staffing industry with the introduction of its newest offering, AtWork Professional. This franchise category reflects the evolving dynamics of the modern workforce and the growing demand for specialized professional talent. Designed as a low-cost, flexible franchise opportunity, AtWork Professional eliminates the need for a brick-and-mortar location and can be operated independently without additional staff, making it an accessible model for experienced professionals and entrepreneurs alike.

To inquire about franchise opportunities, visit: https://www.atwork.com/franchise/

About AtWork

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, AtWork is an award-winning staffing franchise with more than 30 years of experience helping businesses find dependable talent and helping people find meaningful work. AtWork provides comprehensive workforce solutions, including temporary staffing, temp-to-hire, and direct hire services, supporting companies across a wide range of industries nationwide. AtWork delivers its staffing solutions through two distinct channels: their legacy brand, AtWork Personnel, focusing on commercial staffing (manufacturing, logistics, and administrative/clerical), and AtWork Professionals, the brand’s newest division, placing skilled professionals in areas such as Engineering, IT, Finance and Accounting, Scientific, Legal and other key sectors. AtWork is 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. The brand’s commitment to service excellence has earned ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award for both client and talent satisfaction. AtWork’s strong growth and franchisee support have secured its place on Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises for eight consecutive years, along with induction into the FBR Hall of Fame for more than 10 years of outstanding performance. Additional recognition includes rankings in Franchise Times Top 400, and Entrepreneur’s Top Franchises for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

For more information about AtWork, visit https://www.atwork.com/franchise/. To learn about AtWork Professional, visit: https://www.atwork.com/franchise/professional/.

Go to Top