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12 09, 2024

Clean Eatz Debuts New Café Menu Revamp Nationwide

2024-09-12T20:40:27-04:00September 12th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Health Food Franchise Plans Fresh Initiatives to Bring America’s Youth into the Clean Eating Conversation

WILMINGTON, N.C. — The Clean Eatz Foundation, which acts as the charitable arm for the award-winning Clean Eatz health food franchise and meal delivery brand, is on a mission to raise awareness and money for efforts combating childhood obesity. Funds are raised through a series of nationwide campaigns and initiatives, and earmarked for purposes meant to further the foundations mission.

After raising $45,000 at their annual franchise conference late last year, a partnership was formed with Camp Pocono Trails, a health and wellness summer camp, wherein Clean Eatz financed the camp fees for 10 kids from around the country. And this month marks the foundation’s 2nd annual Go Bananaz smoothie campaign; a month-long fundraiser that commits a portion of sales from the limited-edition smoothie to the foundation’s efforts, which in 2025 will include helping to pay for the college tuition of five different students entering into health and wellness-related fields of study.

“America’s youth have historically been a demographic left out of the conversation when it comes to dietary habits, health risks of improper nutrition, and obesity. To see that reality flipped little by little through each of our foundation’s initiatives makes me incredibly hopeful in the possibility of a more health-conscious future,” said Evonne Varady, Co-founder of Clean Eatz. “The new efforts we have planned ahead will only further that, and just in time to kick off National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month in a couple of weeks.”

The success and impact of the foundations campaigns and partnerships each serve as a significant springboard for future endeavors targeting childhood obesity. Endeavors that will only grow in scope and scale as the Clean Eatz franchise continues to expand its reach and develop its footprint in markets nationwide.

In the meantime, those wanting to find their nearest Clean Eatz location can visit https://locations.cleaneatz.com/.

ABOUT CLEAN EATZ
Clean Eatz, which launched in 2011 and started franchising in 2015, was co-founded by husband-and-wife duo Don and Evonne Varady, as a means of helping individuals and families change their lives by providing them with better nutrition options, a steady dose of health and wellness education, and a diverse support community that’s committed to helping each other in becoming their best selves. By supplying such healthy alternatives, the Clean Eatz brand has continued to win over communities with their dine-in, grab-n-go, catering, marketplace, and weekly online meal plan selections. With 94 locations operational and 87 in development, the franchise will likely be coming to an address near you soon.

8 09, 2024

Staying Safe from Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE): A Comprehensive Q&A with Mosquito Squad® VP – Dr. Kurt Vandock, PhD

2024-09-08T20:45:30-04:00September 8th, 2024|Tags: , , , , , |

MACON, Ga. — As cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), a rare but serious virus, continue to rise in parts of the Northeast, Mosquito Squad® is helping homeowners stay informed about the virus and the important safety measures to take.

With much still to learn about EEE, Dr. Kurt Vandock, PhD in Cell Biology and Entomology and Vice President of Strategic Growth at Mosquito Squad, is sharing what homeowners need to know about the mosquito-borne virus to help reduce the risk of transmission as mosquito season continues.

How can I tell if my child or pet has EEE versus another mosquito-borne illness?

Infection can cause a range of illnesses. Most people have no symptoms; others get only a mild flu-like illness with fever, headache, and sore throat. For people with infection of the central nervous system, a sudden fever (103ºF to 106ºF), severe headache, and stiff neck can be followed quickly by seizures and coma. The best way to confirm any illness is with an approved and accurate test administered by a medical professional.

What should I do if I suspect that someone in my family has EEE?

Seeking immediate medical attention is key with any arbovirus. Eastern Equine Encephalitis is a serious disease with symptoms occurring fast. If you live in an area with noted EEE activity and have flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito you should seek medical care immediately.

Are there certain times of the day when contracting EEE is more likely?

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Culiseta melanura is the primary vector of EEE and can bite at any time of the day; however, studies indicate it is most active around dusk.

How can I keep my family safe from EEE as school and extracurricular activities commence?

Avoiding areas where mosquitoes are numerous and EEE has been reported is a great first line of defense. When this is not possible, dressing with long sleeves, pants, closed toe shoes, and defending with repellant can all help mitigate exposure to mosquito bites.

My town is coordinating aerial sprays to help mitigate the mosquito population in the area. Does that mean that I don’t need to take any other measures to protect my yard?

The insecticides sprayed from airplanes and trucks are non-residual broad-spectrum insecticides that kill insects on contact. These products are only effective while they are in the air and can contact a target pest. Targeted barrier sprays such as the ones deployed by Mosquito Squad provide longer term control of mosquitoes and are more selective since they are only applied where mosquitoes rest and harbor. Additionally, local larviciding is completed which helps interrupt the entire lifecycle of the mosquito.

For more information or to find services near you, visit www.mosquitosquad.com.

About Mosquito Squad 
Mosquito Squad’s mission is to be the premier outdoor pest control company in the industry by providing state-of-the-art products and services through its best-in-class technicians and sales teams while bringing awareness to the importance of pest management to help control diseases transmitted by pests. For more information, visit https://www.mosquitosquad.com/ and https://www.authoritybrands.com/.

About Authority Brands 
Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, Authority Brands’ companies include 16 leading home service franchise brands: America’s Swimming Pool Company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, The Cleaning Authority, Color World Painting, DoodyCalls, DRYmedic Restoration Services, Homewatch CareGivers, The Junkluggers, Lawn Squad, Mister Sparky, Monster Tree Service, Mosquito Squad, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Screenmobile, STOP Restoration, and Woofie’s. Together, these brands provide home services through more than 2,000 territories operated by more than 1,000 franchise owners. Authority Brands is dedicated to supporting individual franchise owner growth by providing strong marketing, technology, and operational support. See https://www.authoritybrands.com/ for more information.

8 09, 2024

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. Sets Record Attendance at 14th Annual Outside Sales Summit

2024-09-08T20:38:55-04:00September 8th, 2024|Tags: , , , , |

Franchisor Achieves New Milestones, Issues Highest Number of Sales Achievement Awards.

CARROLLTON, Texas — FASTSIGNS International, Inc., the world’s leading custom sign and visual solutions franchisor with more than 770 FASTSIGNS centers worldwide, hosted its 14th annual Outside Sales Summit August 22-24 in Schaumburg, Ill. The event achieved record attendance with over 600 participants, including franchisees, sales professionals, corporate staff and exhibitors.

“Our 14th Outside Sales Summit in Schaumburg was an exhilarating experience for FASTSIGNS attendees. This year’s event was the highest attended for the network, and I am proud to say we issued the most sales awards given to date for individual sales excellence,” said FASTSIGNS President Andrea Hohermuth. “We also unveiled our new Value Selling System emphasizing the value we bring to our customers and the ongoing relationships we have with them.”

With the theme “Lead With Value”, the FASTSIGNS 2024 Outside Sales Summit celebrated the network’s sales achievements between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, and added two new awards: The Diamond Award for Outside Sales Professionals who achieved over $2 million in sales, and The Rising Star Award, recognizing an outstanding Outside Sales Professional, promoted from within the center in 2022 or 2023, who achieved the highest total sales in their first full 12 months as an Outside Sales Professional.

At the awards event, 307 Outside Sales Professionals were recognized, including nine individuals who received the new Diamond Sales Award for achieving over $2 million in individual sales during the 12-month period, 46 Platinum Sales Award winners for sales between $1 million to $1.9 million, 64 Gold Sales Award winners for sales between $700,000 to $999,999, 63 Silver Sales Award winners for sales between $500,000 to $699,999 and 125 Bronze Sales Award winners for sales between $300,000 to $499,999.

Shelly Wells from FASTSIGNS® of Tigard, Ore., was recognized as this year’s recipient of the Catherine Monson Salesperson of the Year Award, marking the sixth year for this honor. With this award, FASTSIGNS recognizes one Outside Sales Professional who best represents the concept and the spirit of the brand, both in the business community and within the FASTSIGNS network.

Additional awards included The National Sales Achievement Award for the highest total sales, The CRM Ambassador Award for outstanding proficiency, dedication and innovative use of the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software. Ten center employees received the Circle of Excellence Award recognizing their daily commitment to the success and growth of their FASTSIGNS center. The Rookie of the Year Award was issued to an individual with the highest total sales in their first full 12 months of employment. An additional 63 individuals became Certified FASTSIGNS Sales Executives after completing an extensive certification program.

Featured speakers included FASTSIGNS President Andrea Hohermuth and Damon Dunn, a Dunkin’ brand operator and the founder and CEO of Lagunita Franchise Operations. Jay Baer, bestselling author and sales growth catalyst, also spoke at the event. Speakers also covered a variety of topics, including AI, creating proactive inside sales cultures, managing personalities for sales growth and more, along with informative roundtable discussions.

FASTSIGNS® franchisees and their employees, vendors and FASTSIGNS International, Inc. corporate staff participated in the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback “Breakfast with a Purpose” event to assemble 200 care packages for teachers and single-parent families in the Chicago area with the nonprofit Brightpoint. This giveback event was also made possible by the generous support of the FASTSIGNS Community Giveback sponsors, including Colex Finishing, Epson, Graphic Image Flooring, Grimco, iZone imaging, Kapco, Retreva, Specialty Tapes Manufacturing (STM), Plasticade and WS Display.

Some 90 vendors participated in this year’s Outside Sales Summit, including Diamond sponsors Epson, Fellers, Grimco and Signs365 as well as Gold sponsor 3M and Silver sponsors 4Over and Avery Dennison. The Opening Night Networking Party was sponsored by Retreva.

“Leading With Value is not just our theme, but our commitment to our customers, our community and our network,” said Hohermuth. “By focusing on delivering exceptional value, we ensure that our growth is sustainable and that our impact is meaningful. This summit has reinforced our dedication to these principles and has inspired us to continue pushing the boundaries of excellence.”

About FASTSIGNS®:

FASTSIGNS® is the leader in the custom signs and visual solutions industry. With nearly 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 770 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 2024 for the eighth 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.

8 09, 2024

Assisted Living Locators Celebrates National Assisted Living Week, Highlights Franchise Opportunities

2024-09-08T20:33:19-04:00September 8th, 2024|Tags: , , , , , , |

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — As National Assisted Living Week approaches (Sept. 8-14), Assisted Living Locators, a nationwide senior placement and referral service, is marking the occasion by spotlighting its franchise opportunities. The company aims to expand its network of care advisors to meet the surging demand for senior living solutions.

The assisted living industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. According to the National Center for Assisted Living, approximately 1 million Americans live in assisted living facilities. The U.S. Census Bureau projects the 65-and-older population will nearly double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060.

“National Assisted Living Week reminds us of the critical role assisted living communities play in caring for our aging population,” said Angela Olea, RN, Founder and Brand President of Assisted Living Locators. “As the demand for these services grows, so does the need for compassionate, knowledgeable advisors to guide seniors and their families through the complex process of finding the right care solution.”

Assisted Living Locators offers a unique franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the booming senior care industry. Franchisees receive comprehensive training, ongoing support, and access to an extensive network of senior care providers nationwide to help them succeed.

“Our franchisees are more than business owners; they’re vital community resources,” Olea added. “They combine their local knowledge with our national network to provide personalized, expert guidance to families during a often stressful time.”

The company’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity has recently been recognized, with Assisted Living Locators being named to Entrepreneur’s 2024 Top Franchises in Diversity, Inclusion & Equity list. This accolade underscores the company’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for franchisees and clients alike.

With its established brand recognition, Assisted Living Locators provides franchisees a solid foundation for success. The company’s home-based business model offers the perfect balance of independence and support, allowing franchisees to manage their own schedules while benefiting from a proven system and ongoing corporate assistance. This flexible structure enables franchisees to build their business while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

For more information on franchise opportunities, visit www.assistedlivinglocators.com.

About Assisted Living Locators

Assisted Living Locators, a member of Evive Brands with 150 franchises across 39 states and Washington, D.C., offers no-cost senior placement and referral services for in-home care, independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

8 09, 2024

Veteran NFL Kicker Brett Maher to Open Lincoln’s First Mathnasium Center

2024-09-08T20:28:25-04:00September 8th, 2024|Tags: , , |

Brett and Jenna Maher Bring Their Passion for Education to Home State, Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb.Mathnasium Learning Centers, an internationally known franchise with over 1,100 math-tutoring centers worldwide, is thrilled to announce its first location in Lincoln, Nebraska. The new center, located at 2901 Pine Lake Road, Suite E, is on track to open later this fall, and will be owned and operated by NFL veteran Brett Maher and his wife Jenna, who has a strong background in education.

Brett Maher, a five-year NFL kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, and Los Angeles Rams, transitions from the gridiron to the classroom with this new venture. The couple, originally from Kearney, Nebraska, has deep roots in education. Jenna is a former elementary school teacher who actively participates in her children’s PTA and serves as the communications coordinator for the local elementary school. Brett’s father is the Commissioner of Education for Nebraska, and his sister also works in the education field.

The Mahers were introduced to Mathnasium two years ago by a friend of Brett’s who had prior experience with the brand. Having lived in Lincoln for over a decade with their three daughters, they recognized Mathnasium as a perfect fit for their backgrounds and community needs. With the vital support of their Center Director and former LPS teacher Taylor Kieser, the couple is excitedly preparing to open their center this fall.

“Opening this Mathnasium center in Lincoln is a thrilling new chapter for us. As someone who’s experienced the dedication and discipline required in professional sports, I understand how important a solid foundation is for success, said Brett Maher. “I’m excited to bring that same level of commitment to helping local kids excel in math to prepare them for their future education and professional careers. It’s a fantastic way for Jenna and I to give back to our community and support the future stars of Lincoln.”

Mathnasium Learning Centers specializes in math-only tutoring and is committed to providing the world’s best instruction. The goal: teach children math in a way that makes sense to them. For decades, the Mathnasium Method™ has transformed the way kids learn math — building students’ understanding of math concepts through personalized instruction and a customized learning plan — all while producing tremendous results and helping students achieve their full potential in math and in life.

“With my background as a former elementary school teacher, where I developed a deep understanding of educational challenges and successes, this opportunity allows me to leverage the connections I’ve built with schools and educators to offer a valuable resource that fosters academic growth,” said Jenna Maher. “We’re passionate about giving back to our community, and opening this center will enable us to make a meaningful impact in Lincoln by helping students thrive and succeed.”

The fast-growing brand has observed a substantial increase in student enrollments due to the ongoing rise in supplemental education, coinciding with a concerning drop in math scores since the pandemic. With recently released data from the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) indicating that growth has slowed to levels below pre-pandemic rates, achievement gaps are not only widening but, in some cases, surpassing what was previously considered the lowest point.

“It’s our goal to create a fun and positive culture for both our team and students,” Brett added. “During my football career, I’ve had the privilege of working with teammates from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common goal. We aim to bring that same team spirit and collaborative mindset to our Mathnasium center, ensuring we support kids in their math journey with enthusiasm and unity.”

Mathnasium has prime territories available and provides franchisees with comprehensive training and support, including an initial training program, ongoing training, a balanced approach between corporate and locally driven marketing to capture the addressable market, and access to proprietary software tools and resources.

“Launching the first Mathnasium in Lincoln is a major milestone in our national expansion,” said Tyler Sgro, Chief Executive Officer of Mathnasium. “The involvement of NFL veteran Brett Maher and his wife Jenna as franchisees represents a remarkable opportunity for us. Their strong dedication to education and deep ties to Nebraska make them perfect ambassadors for our brand. We’re eager to see how their leadership will drive a significant and positive impact in the Lincoln community.”

For information about Mathnasium’s franchise opportunities, visit — https://mathnasiumfranchise.com/.

About Mathnasium

Mathnasium Learning Centers is North America’s leading math-only supplemental education franchise. Since 2002, the Mathnasium Method™ — the result of decades of hands-on instruction and development — has been transforming the lives of children in grades K-12 by offering comprehensive assessments, fully individualized learning plans, and teaching true math comprehension. With more than 1,100 learning centers worldwide in 9 countries, Mathnasium has been ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine’s list of top 500 franchises 16 times since 2004. For more information about Mathnasium franchise opportunities, visit https://mathnasiumfranchise.com/.

4 09, 2024

The Designery widens its North Carolina footprint with a new location in Concord

2024-09-04T17:16:18-04:00September 4th, 2024|Tags: , , , , |

Owner Carolina Preciado wants to help local residents turn their houses into homes with expertly designed kitchens, bathrooms and closets

CONCORD, N.C. — The Designery, an immersive, full-service kitchen, bath and closet design center featuring high-quality cabinets, countertops and flooring, will celebrate its newest location at 96 McGill Avenue, NW, Concord, North Carolina, with a grand opening event from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18, in the outlet’s showroom.

The event will feature music from local artist David Gibson, a “Taste of Concord” event featuring a sampling of dishes from the area’s favorite restaurants, and a chance to win prizes, such as an Amazon Echo and gift cards to local eateries.

“In an age of morally ambiguous corporations, we are incredibly excited to bring a sense of local, personalized and care-oriented customer service that goes beyond the mentality of profit over people,” said The Designery Concord owner Carolina Preciado. “By prioritizing the well-being of both our clients and our employees, we plan to use our location as a source of good in the community while creating a path for generational wealth and family legacy.”

Preciado said she plans to establish relationships with local nonprofit organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Future Business Leaders of America, and with area schools and other local businesses to create a professional community. She wants to be able to provide employment and training opportunities, excellent products and services, and support to the people of Concord.

Preciado is originally from BogotaColumbia, but moved to Florida when she was 2 years old. She moved to Huntersville, North Carolina, in 2006. She lived in Charlotte, North Carolina, prior to opening her location in Concord.

North Carolina is not only visually stunning for nature lovers, it also has towns like Concord that have managed to retain their small town charm despite their recent growth,” she said. “I just can’t wait to start helping the good people of this community turn their house into a home.”

Preciado is no stranger to serving the public. She has worked as a realtor and spent 20 years in the culinary industry before opening her own business. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her partner, her nieces and nephews, and her three cats.

The Designery Concord will serve clients in AlbemarleBadinChina GroveConcord, Endy, Enochville, FranklinGold HillGranite QuarryHarrisburgKannapolisLandisLocustMidlandMt. PleasantNorwoodOakboroSalisburySpencerTroy and Yadkin.

The Designery’s in-house design expertise and extensive selection of products, including more than 100 cabinet styles, provide advantages to both homeowners and contractors. Its showrooms provide the ideal setting for personal design consultation, material and finish selection, and a virtual reality design view.

For more information about The Designery Concord, visit https://thedesignery.com/locations/concord/.

About The Designery

The Designery was founded in 2007 as A1 Kitchen and Bath, a product wholesale outlet serving the Chattanooga, Tennessee market. In 2019, it rebranded as The Designery and established a franchise model to expand its unique concept: to simplify the kitchen, bath and closet design process by offering premium products, design expertise, project management and trusted professional installation. Its selection of high-quality cabinets, flooring, countertops and accessories makes it a destination for any remodeling, renovation or new construction project. It is a one-stop shop for homeowners and a trusted partner for contractors, with knowledgeable staff to walk clients through every step, from design to project management and installation. The Designery’s immersive showroom and personalized guidance bring luxurious designs to life without the luxury price tag. To learn more about The Designery, please visit https://thedesignery.com/.

About HomeFront Brands:

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands — Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, Top Rail Fence and Yard Patrol Pros – to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands’ current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit https://homefrontbrands.com/.

29 08, 2024

This Labor Day, Workers and Companies Face Irrelevance Without Immediate Reskilling

2024-08-29T19:09:03-04:00August 29th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

The Jobs of Today Are Not the Jobs of Tomorrow, but Training Opportunities Are Abundant

By Bill Stoller, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Express Employment International

OKLAHOMA CITY — A few years after one of the hottest job markets in decades, which led to soaring wages and opportunities for job seekers, stabilizing economic conditions are allowing businesses to reassess their operations, including headcount.

Job seekers are feeling the shift: 31% fear losing their jobs before finding new ones, according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey. A similar study from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York also shows rising job seeker uncertainty, with fewer people employed, a record number looking for work, and a higher likelihood of unemployment.

So, if unemployment remains relatively low at 4.3% and the U.S. currently has 8.2 million open jobs, why are so many job seekers saying they aren’t receiving offers?

The skills mismatch.

The jobs of yesterday are not the jobs of tomorrow, especially considering the new kid in town — generative AI.

According to the World Economic Forum, 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted in the next five years with cognitive skills at the top of the ideal candidate wish list for recruiters. A similar 2023 Express-Harris Poll survey found hiring managers deem dependability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn absolutely essential.

Just as I tell myself the 1970s were “only” 30 years ago, the next five years will be gone in the blink of an eye, and the skills mismatch will either continue to worsen or businesses and individuals can invest in reskilling today.

I’ll be the first to admit that finding the time to reskill or upskill can be daunting, especially heading into the busyness surrounding the end of the year. Kids’ activities, work obligations, and holidays dominate schedules. But with increasing competition for employment, job seekers can’t afford to wait.

Fortunately, short, focused certificates or courses, known as microcredentials, are flexible and efficient training options widely available in-person and online. Instead of, or in addition to, higher-education degrees, microcredentials focus on specific skill sets such as accounting, business management, anatomy and physiology essentials, and drilling basics. Some are even stackable to achieve associate and bachelor’s degrees.

Several companies also offer certificates and microcredentials for the general public, like Google and LinkedIn. For example, Google offers certificates for data analytics, cybersecurity, IT support, and more through the Coursera platform.

At Express, we are proud to be part of the skills mismatch solution by offering our own training and certifications:

Before committing to microcredential coursework, research how to demonstrate proof of completion for a future employer. Often, programs will issue a unique digital badge from third parties such as Credly or a competency-based transcript. Digital badges can be added to your LinkedIn profile or resume.

Microcredentials appear to be gaining traction as 77% of hiring managers in the 2023 Express-Harris Poll survey said they are just as valuable or more valuable than traditional degrees, and 81% agree they provide the workforce with skilled workers in a timely manner.

On the employer side, shrinking budgets are elevating reskilling urgency, providing a way to fill roles without hiring new talent.

Sixty-eight percent of hiring managers say they plan to reskill employees this year—a 13% increase since 2021. The most popular reskilling option is to offer company-led training programs (71%) followed by on-the-job training by other employees (62%) or third-party training courses (46%).

Jumping on the AI train, 16% say they will use artificial intelligence to help train workers.

Whether you choose to completely overhaul your skill set or close gaps in knowledge, as H. Jackson Brown, Jr. said, “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.” The future of work is here, and you don’t want to get left behind.

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., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia 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., CanadaSouth AfricaAustralia and New Zealand, employing 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

29 08, 2024

PuroClean Joins National Veteran Business Development Council as Corporate Member, Launches Initiative to Support Veteran Business Owners

2024-08-29T19:02:59-04:00August 29th, 2024|Tags: , , , , , |

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, a leader in the disaster restoration services industry, proudly announces its new corporate membership with the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC). This strategic partnership underscores PuroClean’s commitment to supporting veteran business owners and promoting opportunities in the rapidly growing disaster restoration industry.

Through this collaboration, PuroClean aims to increase awareness among veteran entrepreneurs about the lucrative and essential services provided within the disaster restoration sector. As part of this initiative, PuroClean is excited to introduce the PuroVet program, designed specifically to empower veterans transitioning into business ownership.

Veterans who choose to franchise with PuroClean will benefit from a substantial 25% discount on their franchising fee, offered under the PuroVet program. This discount is a gesture of gratitude and recognition of the skills, discipline, and leadership qualities that veterans bring to the table—qualities that are invaluable in the restoration industry.

This initiative is spearheaded by Frank Torre, a passionate advocate for veterans and a descendant of a proud military family. Torre’s father was a U.S. Marine during World War II, serving with distinction in the elite Carlson’s Raiders unit. His dedication to supporting veteran business ownership is deeply personal and driven by his family’s legacy of service.

“We are honored to join forces with the NVBDC and to support our nation’s heroes as they transition into successful business ownership,” said Frank Torre. “The PuroVet program is our way of giving back to those who have given so much to our country. We believe that veterans, with their unparalleled work ethic and commitment to excellence, are uniquely positioned to thrive in the disaster restoration industry.”

Retired US Marine Colonel Gerhard, a long-time friend of Frank Torre, expressed his support for the initiative, saying, “Having known Frank for many years, I can attest to his deep commitment to supporting our nation’s veterans. Veterans possess a unique set of skills and experiences that make them ideal candidates for entrepreneurship. PuroClean’s PuroVet program is an exceptional opportunity for our veterans to leverage those strengths in a field that values leadership, resilience, and dedication. It’s inspiring to see Frank and PuroClean not only recognizing these qualities but also actively supporting our veterans as they transition to civilian life.”

The NVBDC is the leading third-party certification organization that ensures credible documentation of veteran status, ownership, and control. By becoming a corporate member, PuroClean is furthering its mission to provide meaningful opportunities for veterans and to strengthen the veteran business community.

General Dick Miller, President of the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), added his endorsement of the initiative, saying, “The PuroVet program is a shining example of how corporate America can play a pivotal role in empowering our veterans. Frank Torre and PuroClean are setting a standard for what it means to truly support those who have served our country. By offering veterans a significant discount on franchising fees and opening doors in the disaster restoration industry, they are not just providing opportunities—they are building a foundation for long-term success. We are proud to have PuroClean as part of the NVBDC family.”

Veteran business owners interested in learning more about the PuroVet program and the opportunities within the disaster restoration industry are encouraged to visit PuroClean’s website or contact their local PuroClean representative.

Keith King, Founder and CEO of the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), also praised the initiative, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome PuroClean as a corporate member of NVBDC, their participation exemplifies the growing recognition among top companies of the value that veteran-owned businesses bring to the table. We look forward to a strong and mutually beneficial partnership with PuroClean as we continue to open doors for veterans in business.”

About PuroClean:

PuroClean is a leading franchise in property damage restoration, specializing in water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup. With a network of franchise offices across the U.S., PuroClean is committed to providing top-tier service to its customers and offering valuable opportunities to its franchisees.

About the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC):

The NVBDC is the premier third-party veteran business certification organization, dedicated to certifying veteran-owned businesses of all sizes and connecting them with corporate partners that value veteran-owned businesses.

28 08, 2024

Friends and Sales Veterans Set to Introduce Blingle! to Central Texas

2024-08-28T18:55:03-04:00August 28th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

This is The Brand’s Fifth Location in The Lonestar State

AUSTIN, Texas — Blingle!, the premier outdoor lighting franchise, announced today the signing of its newest franchise location in Austin, which is owned and operated by friends Chelsea Turner and Kelli Katzman. With the heart of operations based out of Liberty Hill, the new location will serve the greater north Austin area as far west as Bertram over east to Taylor, and as far south as Manor with reach into north Austin.

After moving to Austin at two separate times, Turner and Katzman had no clue in 2012 when they met while working at the same pharmaceutical company just how strong their friendship would be. Turner, originally from Missouri, was ready to ditch those frigid Midwest winters and randomly placed her finger on a map, and now 14 years later, she is bringing her own business to Austin. Katzman on the other hand, an Ankeny, Iowa native, graduated from the University of Iowa, and went to visit a friend in Austin for a week, and before she knew it, was an Austin resident herself.

Katzman and Turner covered the same territory in pharmaceutical sales and realized how well they complemented each other to build success. Before doing pharmaceutical sales, Turner worked in corporate sales and started her own door-hanging business. Katzman started her career in sales for a copier business followed by manufacturer and pharmaceutical sales before being recruited by Johnson & Johson (J&J) for medical device sales. When the opportunity arose with an opening on the team at J&J, Katzman knew just who the perfect person was for the job, and she brought Turner over.

After over a decade of working together in pharmaceutical and medical device sales, Turner and Katzman were ready to leave corporate America. Knowing how well they work together, and how their strengths play off each other, they decided to partner up to open a business. They knew they wanted to bring something to their beloved community of Liberty Hill, but at first, did not know what that business would be. After diligently doing research, the duo found Blingle!. They immediately put their sales hats on and saw the potential for growth, making the decision an easy one.

“We are excited about bringing this service to our community,” said Turner. “This brand has a design aspect that is fun and creative that allows for us to be personable. This just made sense for us.”

“We want to build this brand in Central Texas,” added Katzman. “Our goal is not only to provide great products and services to our customers, but also be able to give back to our community in various ways.”

Blingle! of Central Texas is anticipated to open in mid-September of this year.

“We are excited to have Kelli and Chelsea join the Blingle! family,” Josh Skolnick, Founder of HorsePower Brands said. “To be able to bring the premier products and service that we have to offer to the Austin community is a great opportunity.”

To learn more about Blingle! please visit: blingle.com. For more information about franchising opportunities, please visit: blingle.com/franchising and horsepowerbrands.com.

ABOUT BLINGLE!
Founded in Omaha, Neb. in 2014, Blingle!, a part of HorsePower Brands, specializes in providing year-round premium lighting services for homes, businesses and events. Blingle!’s services cover all outdoor lighting needs, including landscape, permanent, holiday, patio, event, and commercial lighting. As the premier lighting service, Blingle! uses state-of-the-art designs and products to transform outdoor spaces and create memorable illuminations with spectacular lighting. Blingle! is Ida Dark Sky approved, and accredited by the Better Business Bureau and The Institute of Wedding and Event Design. Additionally, Blingle! was named an Elite Service and Screened and Approved by HomeAdvisor. To learn more about Blingle! and HorsePower Brands, please visit https://www.blingle.com/ or https://horsepowerbrands.com/.

28 08, 2024

Dogtopia Revolutionizes the Dog Daycare Experience with New Virtual World

2024-08-28T18:50:02-04:00August 28th, 2024|Tags: , , , |

Nation’s Leading Dog Wellness Franchise Partners with Obsess to Bring an Interactive Tool to All Pet Parents

PHOENIX — Dogtopia, the nation’s leading dog wellness franchise, recently announced the launch of its new virtual world with Obsess, an AI-powered interactive tool creating the next-generation online shopping interface. The tool lets dog moms and dads experience everything Dogtopia has to offer without leaving their homes.

The innovative virtual world provides a convenient way for pet parents to learn more about Dogtopia’s daycare, boarding and spa offerings and how they help dogs live long, healthy and happy lives. Jam-packed with immersive features, this tool will prepare parents for their dog’s Meet & Greet and answer frequently asked questions. Additionally, it will enhance the experience for existing Dogtopia parents with entertaining and educational elements.

Not only can dog parents tour the virtual daycare, but they can also participate in a scavenger hunt to win a prize, take an educational quiz about dogs and learn more about Dogtopia’s services. Pet parents can also peruse products from the Dogtopia Shop, which features at-home items for both dogs and parents, and discover more about the Dogtopia Foundation.

“As the world advances technologically, Dogtopia is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation to ensure the best experience for all dogs and their families,” said Neil Gill, President and CEO of Dogtopia. “We are thrilled to introduce this cutting-edge virtual world and provide parents with a modern, immersive way to explore our wellness offerings and choose Dogtopia with confidence.”

Dogtopia has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. The company’s live webcams provide parents peace of mind and the ability to check in on their pups when they are away. Its mobile app has been ahead of its time in the industry, offering curbside drop-off and pickup concierge services long before the pandemic. To top it off, Dogtopia has a new device releasing soon that will allow parents to monitor their dog’s daily activity—a first in the dog daycare space.

The virtual world can be found here. 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.

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