franchise magazine

MILWAUKEE, WI –  PRNewswire

School of Rock, the leader in performance-based music education, is coming to Summerfest this year to take its students center stage with live performances throughout the festival. More than 500 students from School of Rock locations across the world will arrive in Milwaukee to play in their own student-led bands across six different stages. Throughout the festival students will share the spotlight with some of the biggest names in music including mainstream and legendary rock acts, Imagine Dragons, Arcade Fire, Journey and more.

School of Rock provides students of all ages an exciting and engaging learning environment for taking guitar lessons, drum lessons, bass lessons, keyboard lessons, and singing lessons. Drawing from all styles of rock and roll, School of Rock students learn theory and techniques via songs from legendary artists such as Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Frank Zappa. Thanks to the school’s performance-based approach, students around the world have gained superior instrumental skills and confidence on the big stage, with some moving on to record deals and larger platforms such as American Idol, The Voice and Broadway.

“At School of Rock we know one of the best tools in music education is live performance,” says Rob Price CEO of School of Rock. “Summerfest is the perfect opportunity for these students to experience real stages that can inspire their performances and ignite their passion to pursue music for the rest of their lives. We’re proud to be apart of such an iconic music festival and rejoice in the experience of these student-led bands.”

For more information on School of Rock please visit www.SchoolofRock.com.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ 

The Little Gym International, the world’s premier children’s enrichment and development franchise that offers movement-based learning and imaginative play for children ages four months through 12 years, announces the opening of its milestone 400th location today in Waco, Texas. Since opening the first The Little Gym in 1976, the children’s franchise continues to deliver on its promise of Serious Fun and serving as a springboard to life’s adventures.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to see families benefit from our programs while our franchisees achieve their dreams,” said Alex Bingham, President and CEO of The Little Gym International. “In the 26 years since The Little Gym began franchising, we have experienced plenty of joys and challenges that come with building an iconic brand. With the opening of our 400th location, we feel exceptionally rewarded and humbled that our concept is embraced the world over.”

An innovative educator, musician and kinesiologist, The Little Gym Founder Robin Wes envisioned a nurturing place where children could explore their physical development while also growing socially, emotionally and intellectually. He opened the first The Little Gym in 1976 in Bellevue, Washington, and infused those early classes with the same positive, noncompetitive spirit that characterizes The Little Gym today.

The company began franchising in 1992 and today embraces a philosophy of “Three-Dimensional Learning”:

• Get Moving!, which builds flexibility and strength and lays the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy activity
• Brain Boost!, which fosters listening skills, sustained concentration and decision-making to stretch the mind and develop a love of learning
• Citizen Kid, which promotes sharing, teamwork, listening and leadership – all valuable tools to help kids grow into well-adjusted, well-rounded citizens of the world

“Over the years, The Little Gym program has evolved as a result of a desire to continually improve the quality and value for parents and children,” said Bingham. “While the core purpose and foundation of the program has remained the same, we consistently push ourselves to enhance the program through smart, calculated adjustments to meet kids’ developmental milestones as well as parents’ wants and needs.”

Today, The Little Gym International operates in 400 locations in 32 countries, including the U.S., Canada, China, the United Kingdom, Australia and more. For more information on The Little Gym, please visit www.TheLittleGym.com.

MEMPHIS, TN – BUSINESS WIRE

From beach trips and BBQs to hanging out by the pool, summer is the best time of year to unwind, whether you’re staying at home, enjoying a quick weekend away, or an honest-to-goodness vacation. Merry Maids, one of the nation’s largest home cleaning services and a ServiceMaster (NYSE: SERV) company, wants to make sure that if you’re lucky enough to get away for a bit, the walk through your front door upon return is as relaxing as possible.

“Coming home can be stressful when the reality of work, busy schedules and household chores are waiting for you,” said Debra Johnson, Merry Maids home cleaning expert. “The good news is there are some simple things you can do to avoid unnecessary stress when you return.”

Here are five tips from Johnson that can make coming home a little easier, and help you enjoy your vacation vibes as long as possible:

1. Tidy up before you leave. To avoid coming home to chores, do a little light cleaning before you leave. Coming home is easier when you know the trash has been emptied, beds have been made and clutter has been put away.
2. Get ahead on laundry. Nothing wipes out a relaxed vacation mindset faster than unpacking a suitcase full of dirty laundry only to find that the clothes hamper is already overflowing. Take some of the pressure off by doing a few loads of laundry before you leave. You’ll rest easy when you get home, knowing that everyone already has clean clothes to wear in the days that follow.
3. Hire a cleaning service. According to a recent Merry Maids survey, two-thirds (68 percent) of adults say having a clean home alleviates stress. Take your vacation relaxation to the next level by having the trusted pros from your local Merry Maids work their magic while you’re away. Once you experience how refreshing it is to come back to a professionally cleaned home, you’ll want to do it every time you travel. Splurging for extras like a laundry room, refrigerator or oven cleaning can add to the peace of mind you feel when you’re on vacation.
4. Sort, don’t stack. It’s easy to set your vacation mail on the counter and plan to come back to it later, but the clutter just creates unnecessary stress. Take five minutes to sort it as soon as you get home. Toss the junk mail in the trash, pull out any pieces that require immediate attention and file the rest for later.
5. Now you’re (not) cooking. Order takeout or a delivery service before you leave the airport or when you’re about 30 minutes from home. With the convenience and added bonus of little to no mess in your kitchen, you’ve practically added another night onto your vacation. Not going out of town? This can also be a great way to jump-start any summer weekend.

ATLANTA, GA – PRWEB 

The FIFA World Cup is underway and already providing soccer fans with thrilling action and memorable moments. Now, Flavorholics following the games have a chance to win big with a promotion being offered by Wing Zone in which they could win free wings every week for a year if they pick a perfect bracket in the knockout round of 16. The company will launch their FIFA World Cup Bracket Challenge Contest on June 30 in conjunction with the start of the 16 team knockout stage.

“The World Cup brings together fans from all across the globe and our wings are a perfect companion to share with friends, family or by yourself as you watch all of the action,” said Matt Friedman, co – founder and CEO of Wing Zone. “We want to add even more fun to the mix by giving our fans the chance to pick their favorites to advance and ultimately win the Cup, and then have the opportunity to win some great prizes for themselves if they choose correctly, including free wings every week for an entire year.”

Also, during the entire World Cup, Wing Zone fans can receive ten percent off all online orders by using the coupon code “FIFA2018” to redeem during checkout.

Prizes for the FIFA World Cup Brackett Challenge Contest include:

• Perfect Bracket (All Correct Picks) – One free order of six boneless wings per week for 52 weeks
• First Place – Apple Watch and $100 Wing Zone Gift Certificate
• Second Place – $50 Wing Zone Gift Certificate and WZ Swag Bag (includes gym bag and t – shirt)
• Third Place – $25 Wing Zone Gift Certificate and WZ Swag Bag (includes gym bag and t – shirt)

The website for the Bracket Challenge is https://www.tourneytopia.com/WorldCup/WingZoneFIFA/default.aspx. The registration window and entries will open starting Thursday, June 28 once the round of 16 teams is set and will close on Saturday, June 30 at 2 p.m. EST.

Scoring is as follows:

• Round of Sixteen – Correct picks receive 1 point(s) multiplied by the seed number
• Quarter – Finals – Correct picks receive 2 point(s) multiplied by the seed number
• Semi – Final – Correct picks receive 3 point(s) multiplied by the seed number
• Final – Correct picks receive 4 point(s) multiplied by the seed number

To find the closest Wing Zone, visit https://www.wingzone.com/locations/. More information can be found by visiting Wing Zone on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL  – 24-7PressRelease 

As people gather to celebrate Independence Day with family and friends, the party doesn’t stop once the firecrackers and sparklers fizzle out. Jon Smith Subs® is offering its customers celebrating freedom in the land of the free with a special July 4 promotion. Any customer purchasing one full-size sub can exercise his or her independence by redeeming a coupon for a free six-inch sub on a return visit.

Robert Frost wrote: “Freedom lies in being bold.” By using fresh ingredients to make its high-quality overstuffed, marinated grilled sirloin steak and real chicken breast subs, Jon Smith Subs is very bold in flavor and is a fan favorite – especially on July 4 when consumers can buy one and get one free.

The brand is a member of United Franchise Group, and has experienced dramatic growth throughout the country with 22 locations in six states. In addition to its popular marinated sirloin steak and marinated grilled chicken subs, the popular fast-casual chain also offers tasty roast beef subs and giant deli subs, using the freshest meats, cheeses and vegetables. Its menu also contains healthy salads, side options, and a combo meal for the kids, with turkey, ham, meatball, cheeseburger, or grilled cheese options. At Jon Smith Subs, the price is right, the taste is bold, and on July 4 its buy one, get one free.

For more information about Jon Smith Subs, visit www.jonsmithsubs.com.

DALLAS – Smoothie King, the leading smoothie company with nearly 1,000 locations worldwide, continues its record-setting growth with a new franchise partner that will introduce the brand to cities in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and central Florida.

John Clancy and his team at Smoothie King Midwest have signed an agreement to develop 60 locations, starting in Indianapolis and Palm Beach County, Florida. Clancy, a longtime Planet Fitness franchisee with a strong background in real estate and finance, has an aggressive growth plan for the brand.

“This is the right time to invest in brands that cater to healthy living, and Smoothie King stands out in that space,” said Clancy. “Wan Kim’s leadership and commitment to the company vision, combined with its superior products, finely tuned franchise organization and strong financials make this a great opportunity for our team. At the same time, it gives us the opportunity to inspire thousands of customers to achieve their health goals.”

Clancy and his team currently own 27 Planet Fitness gyms in Ohio and Florida. They opened three Smoothie King locations with partner Bob Viani in Connecticut, New York and Florida in the past year under a separate development agreement.

“As our brand continues to grow, its vision and strength are attracting highly successful, multi-unit operators like John and his team,” said Smoothie King CEO Wan Kim. “The deep experience in the wellness space and their ability to facilitate growth allows us to help even more guests in new communities live healthy, active lifestyles.”

Already the fastest-growing chain in its category, Smoothie King expects to open 150 new locations in 2018, the most it has ever opened in the U.S. in a single year. Clancy and his team plan to open the first Indianapolis location this year.

Virginia Beach, VA – Liberty Tax, Inc. (NASDAQ: TAX) – The postcard-sized Form 1040 tax return looks to be a reality for the 2019 tax filing season, and Liberty Tax, a leading tax preparation franchise, stands ready to help taxpayers understand the new form and navigate the complexities of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Liberty Tax offices will provide educational opportunities for taxpayers to learn more about the law and will continue to provide the advice and information that taxpayers have come to value.

“For more than 20 years, we have helped taxpayers file their taxes and gain a better understanding of the U.S. tax system,” said Liberty Tax CEO Nicole Ossenfort. “Next tax season will be no different. We will continue to offer a friendly smile and the professional tax assistance that millions know and trust from Liberty Tax locations across the country.”

A recent IRS survey showed that taxpayers identify paid tax professionals as a valuable source of advice and information. Only the IRS ranked higher than paid tax professionals on the survey. Liberty Tax values the public trust and works to provide knowledge to taxpayers.

Liberty Tax realizes that postcard-sized tax return, which Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said will be released next week, is one of many changes that will face taxpayers. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is the biggest shift in the tax code in more than 30 years. To help taxpayers better understand the new law and how it will affect their bottom line, Liberty Tax will host Tax Talks at locations across the U.S. The Tax Talks are free, information-packed sessions led by tax professionals. They feature PowerPoint presentations and question-and-answer periods. Taxpayers can call 1-866-871-1040 or visit LibertyTax.com to find a location near them.

BOCA RATON, FL

Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, announced the company’s updated franchise opportunity website, which outlines the growing opportunities in the automotive styling industry and what sets apart Tint World® from other franchises, not only in the automotive space but across all franchise markets.

“Updating the franchise opportunity side of our web presence has been a huge passion project for me,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World®. “There are so many opportunities in the automotive styling industry, and since we’re the fastest-growing independent automotive franchise, I felt it was important to help convey the advantages that entrepreneurs, regardless of background, have by joining the Tint World® family.”

The new Tint World® franchise site offers a variety of information about the automotive aftermarket industry, as well as crucial information about Tint World®, from virtual tours of local stores, company videos and an outline of the company’s aggressive, strategy-driven online marketing; to an overview of Tint World®’s Single Sign-On Franchise System, which provides each franchisee with a simple and intuitive modular cloud-based platform to manage their entire franchise business.

“We’ve set a goal of having 300 stores by 2025,” Bonfiglio said. “This summer alone we’re looking at nine new store openings, eight of which are stateside with the last being in Dubai. We’re looking to make headway overseas in the coming months with more international franchise opportunities. We’re also looking to expand even further in the U.S. into areas like Colorado, Virginia, Connecticut, and South Carolina, and to boost our presence in states like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and California.”

The new site also outlines Tint World®’s 6-step process to ownership, as well as the variety of franchise programs that include single-store franchise, multi-store franchise, and international master-franchise opportunities, along with conversion store programs and co-brand store programs, which offer discounted franchise fees.

“Ultimately, the goal is to make the process of discovering and deciding on a Tint World® franchise as streamlined and informative as possible,” Bonfiglio said. “As a former franchisee in the automotive services world, I have a unique understanding of what entrepreneurs are looking for – and what they need – to succeed. Above all, we’re looking forward to finding people from all walks of life who see the benefit, excitement and the potential of opening up their own Tint World® store.”

Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World® is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.

PITTSBURGH – Kim Ellis, a veteran in planning and executing franchise growth strategies, has been named vice president of franchise development for Bruster’s Real Ice Cream as the chain continues its fast-paced expansion.

Most recently, Ellis held the same title at Snip-its Haircuts for Kids, where she managed franchise expansion strategy, including developing system expansion goals, franchisee-recruitment best practices, and recruiting qualified franchisees. She also was senior consultant for Michael Seid & Associates Worldwide, vice president of corporate development at Process Peak and vice president of online strategy for Hot Dish Advertising.

“Bruster’s is an established brand with proven systems, seasoned support and outstanding unit economics,” she said. “We have some aggressive growth goals ahead, but with all the positive attributes of this brand I’m confident we will achieve them.” The premium frozen treat chain is in the midst of a national expansion program, focusing on the South and West as key regions in its growth strategy. “Kim has proven expertise in developing and executing successful franchise development plans,” said Bruster’s CEO Jim Sahene. “She has a passion for our brand and knows how to recruit franchisees who share that passion.”

The premium frozen treat chain recently signed a franchise agreement for its first Las Vegas shop and opened its first Memphis shop in January. Late last year the brand’s sixth southern California location opened in the Los Angeles suburb of Torrance. It most recently opened in Hagerstown, Maryland; Dallas, Texas; and Stockton, California. In total, the brand has commitments for 35 more restaurants, with 14 scheduled to open this year. Six are under construction in San Antonio and Dallas, Texas; Phoenix, Arizona; Windermere, Florida; Haverhill, Massachusetts; and Athens, Georgia.

In 2017, Bruster’s recorded its fourth consecutive year of same-store sales increases, with cumulative sales growth just under 25 percent for the four-year period.

NASHVILLE, TN

Shoney’s®, the All-American iconic restaurant brand, today launched its Summer Road Trip limited-time menu featuring regional-themed sandwiches and a signature burger. In addition, the celebrated brand and America’s Dinner Table for more than 70 years, has created six delicious takes on its classic taste of refreshing Shoney’s lemonade.

Beginning today through July 29, Shoney’s guests, even those taking summer vacations, will feel right at home with the following delicacies:

• Memphis-Style Pulled Pork Sandwich – Pulled pork smothered with Shoney’ss weet & tangy BBQ sauce, covered with house-made coleslaw and served on a toasted brioche bun
• American Cuban – Seasoned pork and grilled smokehouse ham smothered with Swiss cheese, pickle chips and mustard on a toasted hoagie roll. Served with a pickle spear.
• Texas Burger – Fresh, hand-pattied 100% ground beef topped with grilled pickled jalapenos and onions, then smothered in Swiss cheese, A-1 sauce, mayonnaise, shredded lettuce and tomatoes on a toasted brioche bun
• Buffalo Chicken Sandwich – Crispy chicken breast in Buffalo sauce, served with lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise and a side of bleu cheese dressing on a toasted brioche bun
• Philly Steak & Cheese – Savory shaved ribeye grilled with bell peppers, sweet onions and mushrooms, smothered in American cheese and served on a toasted hoagie.

Through July 29, Shoney’s guests can also experience the following, all twists on Shoney’s Signature Lemonade:

• Old-Fashioned Lemonade
• Strawberry Lemonade
• Mango Lemonade
• Strawberry Banana Lemonade
• Berry Pomegranate Lemonade
• Lemonade Iced Tea

“Shoney’s wants to share the summer with you and we’ve created a special menu and some incredible drinks to make us the perfect choice for your special family time,” saidShoney’sChairman and CEO Mr. David Davoudpour. “You can always count on Shoney’s for fresh quality food at agreat value withfriendly serviceand we look forward to welcoming our neighbors at our restaurants across America.”

During the dual promotion, Shoney’s guests will also have the chance to enter a sweepstakes to win 4 tickets to any Six Flags® Theme Park. Details about the sweepstakes can be found at www.shoneys.com.

Always known for having best-in-class value, Shoney’s was voted one of the best 8family dining restaurants in the United States in the 2016 Consumer Picks Survey via Nation’s Restaurant News, placing #6 overall.In the survey, Shoney’s was recognized for having the best rating for value among all family dining chains and also scored well for its service, menu variety and diners being likely to recommend it. The distinction has been the vision of Shoney’s Chairman and CEO Mr. David Davoudpour.

Since acquiring the great American eatery in 2007, Mr. Davoudpour has been on a driven and spirited mission to reinvigorate and revitalize Shoney’s, a family-friendly, southern-style restaurant brand. Shoney’s is one of the first, and has always been one of the most popular, family casual dining concepts in the United States.

In order to get back to what Mr. Davoudpour confidently calls Shoney’s “Glory Days,” the brand is now growing through franchising following an extensive revitalization effort. Shoney’s is offering franchising opportunities to qualified single and multi-unit candidates.

Prices may vary by location.