franchise marketing

OMAHA, NE -PRNewswire –

As a winter storm threatens the East Coast, Home Instead Senior Care is encouraging us all to help senior loved ones and neighbors stay safe in the snow and extreme cold temperatures.

“Winter is a difficult time, and storms like this can be especially hard on seniors,” said Lakelyn Hogan, gerontologist at Home Instead Senior Care. “Older adults can be relatively sensitive to even moderately cold conditions and they can suffer hypothermia without knowing they’re in danger, so we want to make sure seniors and their loved ones are aware of simple ways they can stay safe and warm in extreme conditions.”

Those over the age of 65 account for nearly half of all hypothermia deaths. As the body ages, the ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature decreases, creating an insensitivity to moderately cold temperatures. Seniors may not realize they are putting themselves at risk until symptoms appear. Symptoms of hypothermia include: shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. If symptoms are present, immediate medical attention is necessary. The leading reason for hypothermia in the elderly is due to poorly heated homes, which is entirely preventable. Follow these simple tips to ensure a warm household.

Stay Warm

• Keep the thermostat at 65 degrees, at least. Consistently check it to make sure your home is sufficiently warm. Even as heating costs rise, your safety should be a priority.
• Put a carbon monoxide detector near where you sleep.
• Ensure that there is adequate insulation, and check and clean the fireplace and furnace. Furnace filters should be replaced monthly.
• Minimize drafts by filling old socks with sand and using them in drafty windowsills and door jambs. Weather-strip around windows and doors. Keep doors to unused rooms closed and close curtains at night.
• Add an extra blanket to the bed and warm the bed in advance with a hot water bottle. Never use an electric blanket – it may be difficult to operate the controls if the temperature needs to be adjusted in the night.
• Dress in layers of loose fitting clothing. If you go outside, make sure your head is covered.

Every year, more than 1.6 million seniors end up in the emergency room because of a fall. With icy conditions, the chances of falling are even greater.

Preventing Falls

• Take a couple minutes per day and stretch your limbs in order to loosen muscles.
• Stay inside – make arrangements for someone to shovel and salt driveways and walkways. Professional caregivers can assist with to-do items, such as bringing in the mail and/or picking up groceries.
• Wear shoes or boots with a non-skid sole.
• Have handrails installed on outside walls for frequently used walkways.
• If you use a cane or walker, check the rubber tips to make sure they are not worn smooth.

Winter weather can take a toll on everyone, especially seniors. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can occur in seniors and impact their emotional health. Some signs to watch for with SAD include: a loss of energy, an increased appetite and an enhanced feeling of lethargy and tiredness. If symptoms are present, talk to your medical provider about treatment options.

Additionally, winter storms can be unpredictable. It is important to be prepared in case of an emergency.

Build a network

• Stay in touch in with family, friends and neighbors. Schedule phone calls, or enlist the help of a professional caregiver to come in for an hour a week.
• Make arrangements for assistance in case of a blizzard or power outage. Keep important numbers in an emergency kit, along with non-perishable foods, water and medications.
• Be familiar with your local resources. Visit www.ready.gov/seniors, www.noaa.gov or www.redcross.org for more information about cold weather.

To learn how Home Instead Senior Care can assist in the cold weather, visit www.homeinstead.com.

ATLANTA, GA – PRNewswire 

Pretzelmaker® is extending its thanks to customers in the form of a great pretzel deal. As part of Customer Appreciation Month, the national pretzel bakery will offer $1 pretzels* (Original Salted or Unsalted) every Tuesday in January during regular store hours. No limit! To add another great twist to the deal, customers who purchase the $1 pretzels, will also receive a coupon for free Pretzel Bites with purchase on their next visit.

Pretzelmaker is known for fresh delicious pretzels and product innovation. With stores across the U.S., the bakery has thousands of loyal fans and is the original creator of Mini Pretzel Dogs, Pretzel Bites and Mozzarella Stuffed Bites. The $1 Customer Appreciation pretzel is a hot deal as Original Salted and Unsalted are regularly priced at $3 (suggested retail).

“Celebrating Customer Appreciation Month with our $1 pretzel deal has become an annual tradition at Pretzelmaker and it’s our way of sharing the love with our fans,” said Lisa Cheatham, Director of Marketing, Pretzelmaker. “Our customers have made us one of the country’s most popular pretzel bakeries and for that we are extremely grateful. Come visit us on Tuesdays in January with your friends and family and take advantage of this great deal.” For more information and store locations, visit our website www.pretzelmaker.com or join us on social media: follow @pretzelmaker on Twitter; add @pretzelmakerpics on Instagram; follow “Pretzelmaker” on Snapchat; or become a fan of the brand on Facebook www.facebook.com/pretzelmaker.
*Valid for Salted or Unsalted pretzels only. Offer valid on 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30. Valid at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer. Customer responsible for applicable taxes.

DENVER— -BUSINESS WIRE

Not all heroes wear capes. But as it turns out, this one sometimes does. Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) recognized today one of its biggest fans, a Tiffin, Ohio man named Bruce Wayne who has spent the past 426 days enjoying at least one entrée per day from his local Chipotle.

Chipotle commemorated the milestone by presenting Wayne with a custom-made Chipotle superhero cape and cufflinks – a nod to his love of both Batman and burritos. Chipotle will also reinvest his dollars spent over the course of his journey in a monetary donation to a nonprofit of his choice.

Wayne began the self-started challenge on Oct. 30, 2016 after learning of Chipotle’s plans to open a brand-new location in Tiffin. He conducted research about Chipotle and learned about a fellow fan who had ultimately consumed Chipotle for 425 days and maintained his fitness goals. Wayne then set out to become the new record holder.

“Day after day we’re committed to serving our customers the most delicious, real ingredients we can find and it’s great to see a customer like Bruce is as committed to us as we are to him,” said Chris Arnold, communications director at Chipotle. “While this might not be everybody’s New Year’s Resolution for 2018, it certainly shows that our menu of real and fresh ingredients offers something for everyone – even superheroes.”

After having consumed his record-breaking order, Wayne says he has no immediate plans to stop. His entire journey is documented on his personal Instagram account, including daily photos of his order and accompanying receipt: www.instagram.com/mrwaynethebat/.

AdvantaClean  America’s fastest-growing Light Environmental Services™ franchise system, announces the promotion of Chris Stefanco as Vice-President of Operations, effective December 18, 2017. In his new role, Stefanco will now be responsible for supervising the company’s Franchise Business Coaches, while working directly with AdvantaClean franchise business owners to implement new product development, new service lines, and promotion. He will also be forward focused on changes in industry standards for the benefit of franchise owner growth.

“I am honored to accept my new position as AdvantaClean’s vice-president of operations, “said Stefanco. “As a past successful small business owner myself, and having personally met and trained current franchise owners in my previous training role, I know they are expecting me to continue to find innovative opportunities to help them be even more successful, and to expand their business, while streamlining the process. I accept that challenge, and at the same time pledge to work to enlarge the AdvantaClean brand nationwide as the leader in indoor air quality and moisture control experience.”

Stefanco joined AdvantaClean in 1999, serving in several key positions, most recently as Director of Technical Operations and Training since 2006. In that role, he was responsible for oversight, as well as all hands on, and classroom training for new franchisees.

Stefanco has also served as Senior Project Manager of AdvantaClean’s affiliate, Loss Construction, and Recovery, managing large scale commercial, industrial, and government projects across the U.S.

He holds water and fire certifications through IICRC and is NADACA trained. Stefanco is also a Certified CMA and CMR for mold, has OSHA certifications, and is an OSHA construction outreach trainer.

AdvantaClean CEO and Founder, Jeff Dudan, recognizes Stefanco’s already positive impact on the company, and what he envisions for the future.

“For almost two decades, Chris has worked tirelessly to build AdvantaClean from a small local service business, to a national leading franchise brand. Chris is held in the highest regard by AdvantaClean Nation, and it is my honor and privilege to recognize Chris for his effort, dedication, and to provide him the platform to continue making a difference in the lives of our teammates, franchise partners, and customers across the country.”

Matt Phillips, President of AdvantaClean, identifies the reasons for Stefanco’s success, and what he brings to his new role.

“Chris has vast industry experience and proven excellence in his prior roles within the company that make him a great fit as AdvantaClean continues to grow. Chris has the respect of the entire AdvantaClean Nation and lives our core values and our commitment to building and sustaining relationships that embody community, accountability, respect, excellence and service.”

Stefanco, a native of New Jersey, lives in York, SC. with his wife, Diane, and two sons, Chris and Dillon.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Jan. 2, 2018 – PRNewswire

The Little Gym International, a children’s enrichment and development franchise with over 300 locations around the globe, announces that Alex Bingham will be named President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2018. He will succeed current President and CEO, Ruk Adams. In his new role, Bingham will continue to grow The Little Gym‘s legacy as the world’s premiere gym for movement-based learning and imaginative play that helps build the confidence and skills needed at each stage of childhood. He plans to enhance company operations and further deliver on the brand promise of providing the Springboard to Life’s Adventures for the families it serves, franchisees and employees.

Since joining The Little Gym in 2001, Bingham has held several roles within the company, most recently serving as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Some of his former responsibilities and positions include running a corporate location as a Gym Director, working with franchise owners in both their pre-opening and ongoing operations as a Business Consultant, and managing franchisee support as a VP of Franchise Services. Before joining the corporate team, Bingham was an instructor at The Little Gym of Scottsdale during his college breaks in 1996-1997, and was previously a student at The Little Gym‘s original location from age two to five.

“I have been incredibly fortunate to have shared in The Little Gym‘s growth, evolution and opportunities over the years. The experience has been nothing short of amazing, from playing an integral role of rebuilding the company in its early years, to seeing us grow into a worldwide brand that impacts the lives of families across the globe,” said Ruk Adams, exiting President and CEO of The Little Gym International. “I have complete confidence that my successor, Alex Bingham, will continue to lead The Little Gym to great success in his new role as President and CEO.”

“The Little Gym has been a part of my life since the age of two when I was a student, continuing into my young adulthood when I worked as a part-time instructor during college and, finally, turning into a fulfilling career that allows me to make a difference in children’s lives at each of our locations,” said Alex Bingham, President and CEO of The Little Gym International. “It’s a privilege to have my life come full circle as I assume my new role as CEO, and build upon The Little Gym‘s reputation in the early childhood development space that Ruk helped to diligently establish.”

Ruk Adams retires having served as The Little Gym President and CEO since 2013. For more than 23 years, Adams has held a variety leadership positions, having first joined the corporate team in 1994 as Executive Vice President of Franchise Development, a position he held through 1997. After leaving the company to head sales for Citadel Broadcasting in Salt Lake City from 1997 to 2002, Adams rejoined The Little Gym in a role as Senior Vice Present of Development and Franchise Services. Prior to working at the corporate headquarters, Adams and his wife, Ann, owned and ran one of the original locations of The Little Gym from 1993 to 1995 in Salt Lake City.

For more information on The Little Gym, please visit www.thelittlegym.com.

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Jan. 02, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) 

H&R Block (NYSE:HRB) opened its 10,000 offices nationwide today to serve taxpayers during the upcoming filing season. H&R Block has an office located within five miles of 95 percent of Americans. Whether they need help filing their 2017 return, W-4 planning for 2018, dealing with IRS-mandated refund delays or more, H&R Block can serve them when and how they want.

“We help taxpayers get their taxes won, starting with getting them their maximum refund,” said Karen Orosco, senior vice president of U.S. retail for H&R Block. “We don’t stop there to get your taxes won, though. We will serve you when you want, where you want and how you want, including through our new virtual method that allows you to never step foot in an office but still get your taxes won with our expert tax professionals.”

Millions can file for free at H&R Block offices

H&R Block’s free Federal 1040EZ offer will allow approximately 23 million taxpayers to file a Federal 1040EZ for free for a limited time at participating offices.

“Our free Federal 1040EZ offer gives taxpayers access to expert assistance in completing their returns and guarantees they get their maximum refund – all for free,” Orosco said.

“Filing a simple tax return may not be as easy as many taxpayers believe, especially if they are new filers, experienced a life change in 2017, face IRS refund delays or are concerned about how tax reform legislation will affect them in 2018, including the impact to their paychecks starting as early as February,” Orosco said. “Having assistance from a qualified tax professional provides taxpayers confidence that they aren’t leaving any money on the table and that they are prepared for the future.”

Generally, a 1040EZ filer is a taxpayer whose filing status is single or married filing jointly, who does not pay mortgage interest, has no dependents and earned less than $100,000 last year.

To learn more about filing a Free Federal 1040EZ and all other offers like H&R Block Tax Pro Go, find a nearby location or make an appointment, visit www.hrblock.com or call 1-800-HRBLOCK.

Springfield, MO  – RestaurantNews.com

With new franchise deals, expanding markets, and strong sales growth, 2017 has been an eventful year for Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar®!

This past year has brought record-breaking numbers and several milestones for the Southwest Missouri-based restaurant brand. In March, Big Whiskey’s opened their first franchise location in Bentonville, AR, experiencing record-breaking sales within the first few weeks of business. Quickly following, in May, a second franchise location was opened in Kansas City to kick-off a summer of more expansion.

In June, the brand welcomed a multi-unit franchise deal in Las Vegas, with the first location confirmed on Las Vegas Boulevard! Shortly following, in August, Big Whiskey’s eagerly opened their sixth corporate store and very first free-standing location in Republic, MO, expanding their existing footprint in the Midwest.

A new campaign, “Game On” was launched in September to ring in football season. The updated branding and campaign goals set the tone for expanded seasonal marketing blitzes. It proved to be a huge success and provided an extra boost to existing sales growth ahead of the holiday season.

Franchise expansion continued this Fall with another two-store deal signed for Birmingham, AL, in September. The first Alabama and Las Vegas locations are expected to open in late 2018.

“The continued support of our loyal customers, and eagerness of new customers to welcome our brand is invaluable to us,” states company President, Austin Herschend. “We’re ending 2017 with incredible success and a clear path for continued growth heading into 2018.”

As Big Whiskey’s celebrated exciting new opportunities and sales growth, many Americans were experiencing tragedy when hurricane season hit. The company has always held a commitment to partnering with community organizations, and quickly reached out to Springfield-based Convoy of Hope, to help hurricane victims. Following a month of fundraising efforts in the aftermath of hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the brand raised $10,000 for the national disaster relief organization, Convoy of Hope, and their continued relief efforts. Throughout 2017, Big Whiskey’s has contributed over $30,000 to various community organizations and causes. 

The 108-room Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Walpole, Massachusetts opened this month with a modern décor providing guests with a feeling of warmth and calm while traveling. Located at 630 Providence Highway, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Boston Walpole will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned by S&H Hospitality Realty Inc. and managed by Liberty Hotel Group.

Located minutes off highway I-95 and 20 miles from downtown Boston, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Boston Walpole offers guests convenient access to Logan International Airport, Gillette Stadium, Patriot’s Place, downtown Providence and the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets. Upon opening rates will start as low as $119.00 per night.

“Delivering both function and comfort, our new design and décor elevate the Fairfield brand, setting a new standard in the moderate tier category,” said Callette Nielsen, vice president and global brand manager, Fairfield Inn & Suites. “At Fairfield Inn & Suites, we provide an easy, positive and productive travel experience, as well as the promise of consistent and reliable service at an exceptional value. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Boston Walpole is a truly stunning example of the brand’s contemporary look and feel, and we are pleased to introduce Fairfield Inn & Suites hotels in the Walpole area.”

The new décor package is warm, timeless, forward-thinking, and inviting with simple nods back to the brand’s heritage. Specific elements meant to evoke feelings from the Fairfield Farm include a farmhouse table in the lobby for gathering and connecting, photography from the Fairfield Farm serving as artwork in the lobby and guest rooms, natural materials and unique textures featured throughout, and a history wall in every property showcasing the brand’s roots.

The new guestroom design is impactful, unique and addresses the functional needs of the Fairfield guest for a seamless experience. The room was designed with the modern traveler’s needs to stay productive on the road in mind without overcomplicating the guestroom. Each room features a modern lounge chair, serving as both functional and comfortable to either work or relax in. The artwork in the room takes center stage with the window treatment acting as a focal point, displaying photography taken at the Fairfield Farm. The material is sheer and allows light to pass through the photography, warming up the room and creating a comfortable environment. All guestrooms also feature a 55″ SMART TV, refrigerator, coffeemaker and microwave. Additionally, suites will feature a separate sitting area outfitted with a comfortable couch and a second 55″ SMART TV.

Additional hotel amenities include an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, the 24/7 Corner Market, valet laundry service, complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as fax and copy services, and the Neponset board room that accommodates up to 10 people. A complimentary hot breakfast, featuring oatmeal, scrambled eggs, sausage, make-your-own waffles and other healthy items, such as fruit, yogurt, and whole grain cereals and breads is also available.

DENVER, CO – PRNewswire

Motto Franchising, LLC announced that 50 Motto Mortgage franchises were sold across the country during the franchisor’s first year of operation. Motto Mortgage officially launched on October 25, 2016, and is the first national mortgage brokerage franchise in the U.S.

Motto Mortgage is an innovative mortgage brokerage franchise and the second member of the RE/MAX Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: RMAX) family of brands. Loan originators in the Motto Mortgage network work hard to give homebuyers options – and present competitive bids from wholesale lenders – because no loan is one-size-fits-all. Motto Franchising President Ward Morrison calls the mortgage brokerage franchise revolutionary and is celebrating the momentous achievement.

“The Motto Mortgage team is extremely proud to have 50 franchises sold in the brand’s first 12 months,” Morrison said. “When we developed the new concept, our goal was always to create a value proposition that worked for franchisees and provided an upgraded experience for consumers. Now having more than 25 franchises already open and operating validates the tremendous vision and dedication of the Motto Mortgage team – and confirms the need for the disruption in the marketplace.”

Motto Mortgage is a different idea – a network of mortgage brokers, focused on providing personalized guidance with more clarity and less jargon. Loan originators in the Motto Mortgage network work close by – and closely with – real estate agents to deliver a one-stop solution. Motto Mortgage franchises are increasing competition in the industry, resulting in more options and a better customer experience for consumers. Importantly, Motto Mortgage loan originators are not bound to the products of one specific lender but have access to quality loan options from various sources.

Motto Mortgage has franchises operating in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Texas. Motto Franchising, LLC is located at 5075 S. Syracuse St. #1200, Denver, CO 80237. Each Motto Mortgage franchise is independently owned, operated and licensed. For more information, please email newsroom@mottomortgage.com or visit mottomortgage.com.

SCOTTSDALE, AZ /PRNewswire/ 

TacoTime® (www.TacoTime.com) is adding more value and flavor to the menu with the $1.99 Fully Loaded Burrito, available for a limited time only, now through Feb. 27, 2018.

Loaded with seasoned beef, refried pinto beans, cheese sauce, Mexi-Fries® and your choice of Original, Green or the blazing 5-Alarm™ hot sauce, the Fully Loaded Burrito has all of the best ingredients rolled up in a home-style tortilla and grilled to perfection.