franchisee of the year

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.

IRVINE, CA – PRWEB

Realty ONE Group, a full-service lifestyle real estate brand and one of the fastest growing franchisors in the nation, is painting the globe gold with its rapid expansion. With over 10,000 agents in 130+ offices across 35 states, Realty ONE Group continues to make an impact within the industry. In 2018 alone, Realty ONE Group has opened almost 40 offices and expanded into 7 new states with international expansion on the horizon. A major contributor to the company’s growth is the “coolture” (a playful portmanteau on the words “cool and culture”) at Realty ONE Group.

Realty ONE Group’s founder, CEO and devout soccer fan, Kuba Jewgieniew, decided to create custom jerseys for the Realty ONE Group team to be worn in celebration of the 2018 World Cup taking place in Russia. Attached to the jerseys was a note from Kuba himself, explaining his love for the game from being the son of Polish immigrants and learning the idea of community from a very young age. The village his parents grew up in literally had ‘no doors’ creating this belief of everyone being the same and everyone being accessible. Kuba brought this philosophy to Realty ONE Group where everyone is part of the same team and everyone has a voice. This small gesture creates a universal feeling amongst the members of the Realty ONE Group team. The current coolture at Realty ONE Group revolves around the beautiful game, but constantly is evolving as the world continues to change.

“Growing up with a father that was a high school football coach and playing a lot of football myself, I never anticipated I would be waking up early to watch a World Cup soccer match,” explained Chief Operating Officer, Michael Clear. “Working in a company where soccer is the sport everyone follows has made this World Cup a new adventure and I am enjoying this wonderful ride!”

LIVONIA, MI – PRNewswire

Pet Supplies Plus, the United States’ largest and most trusted pet retail franchise, is pleased to introduce an assortment of dog treats into its Redford Naturals® product line. The line of grain-free jerky treats is now available to neighbors in all Pet Supplies Plus stores across the country.

Following in the footsteps of Redford Naturals’ previous products, the line’s jerky treats do not contain unnecessary additives, animal by-products, artificial preservatives, colors or flavors. The treats are slow-smoked and made in the USA with high quality ingredients, responsibly sourced both locally and from abroad. Offering the most selective pups a variety of flavor options to choose from – chicken, beef, salmon, duck and lamb.

“Our neighbors view pets as a part of the family and are increasingly placing an importance on the meals and treats they feed them,” said Chris Rowland, Pet Supplies Plus’ CEO. “We’re happy to introduce dog treats into our Redford Naturals’ line and have focused a great deal on ensuring we’re creating quality products full of nutrients so that our neighbors can feel confident that they’re feeding their pets food that will improve their overall wellbeing.”

Redford Naturals® dry and wet food diets for dogs and cats are available in each of Pet Supplies Plus’ 435 locations. The line provides complete and balanced formulas, with offerings for small and large breed dogs, as well as puppies and kittens. Redford Naturals® formulas contain vitamins, minerals and Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids to help support overall pet health. The line is free of corn, soy and wheat, and has with grain, grain-free and Limited Ingredient Diet options.

Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods and a variety of ‘Made in the USA’ pet consumables. These include wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and their pets by name at every store. Many locations also feature a full offering of grooming services tailored to meet every pet’s needs, including washes, haircuts, body brushing, flea treatment and nail, skin, ear and oral care.

FORT COLLINS, CO – PRNewswire

As health and fitness continue to stay top of mind for Fort Collins-area residents, Burn Boot Camp, a national fitness franchise, is thriving in the current market. Situated at 353 W Drake Rd Ste 140, Fort Collins, CO 80526, Burn – FoCo is giving away 14 days of free workouts to help clients achieve their fitness goals.

“My energy level was restored, I became less stressed out, and gained great muscle definition. Burn Boot Camp continues to impress me and I can’t wait to bring this program to FoCo! People, start putting yourself first and sign up for our 30 Days FREE. We’re here to support you so that you’ll have an awesome transformation story to share too!”

“My energy level was restored, I became less stressed out, and gained great muscle definition. Burn Boot Camp continues to impress me and I can’t wait to bring this program to FoCo! People, start putting yourself first and sign up for our 30 Days FREE. We’re here to support you so that you’ll have an awesome transformation story to share too!”

Todd and Casey Sussman own the Fort Collins location. Casey started out as a member of local Burn Boot Camp in North Carolina! Instantly hooked on the concept and the fantastic results she saw, Casey decided she wanted to break out of her comfort zone and open her own fitness business.

Each camp involves a 45-minute circuit style workout comprised of 72 different styles and 15 different formats, e.g., HIIT training, suspension training, etc. Burn Boot Camp has a rigorous recruiting program for trainers with every session led by an NCCA-accredited certified personal trainer who creates new, innovative programs daily, so attendees never do the same workout twice. Clients learn far more than just healthy eating and exercise tips at Burn Boot Camp, as the concept strays from the competition by operating on a five-pillar philosophy to help clients achieve success: mindset, nutrition, burst training, strength training, and positive environment.

“Casey and Todd are joining the strong network of Burn Boot Camp franchise operators at an exciting growth point for the brand,” said Devan Kline, CEO, and co-founder of Burn Boot Camp. “The Fort Collins location is well on its way of transforming the lives of residents and creating a meaningful community environment under their guidance.”

Members are not required to register for camps in advance to reserve a spot, but instead enjoy flexibility in selecting camps that fit with their schedules. The fitness concept also provides a convenient environment for women, ensuring a worry-free workout; all sessions before 5 p.m. are only available to women, and childcare is available for mothers free of charge while they’re on-campus.

DALLAS – Beginning this week, Fridays is bringing a timely refresh to its longstanding bar popularity with the launch of America’s longest ever happy hour and the Fridays Five menu at participating restaurants. No longer is the fun-loving, bar-hopping public constrained by the usual evening-only happy hour. Day or night, Fridays bar Guests can choose from a variety of $5 beer, wine, and clean-label premium cocktails – including the new Shimmering Diva cocktail made with real shimmer dust – and a variety of $5 bar bites including wings, sliders, and warm pretzels.

Featured On The Fridays Five Menu This Summer

Cocktails

• NEW Shimmering Diva
• NEW Frozen Blue Hawaiian
• NEW Fridays Long Island Tea
• NEW Fridays ‘Rita

Beer

• 23oz Light Drafts
• 16oz Leinenkugel Summer Shandy
• 16oz Local Draft

Wine

• 6oz Cupcake Rosé
• 6oz Canyon Road Cabernet Sauvignon

Appetizers

• Boneless Wings (2 flavors)
• Cheeseburger Sliders
• Giant Onion Rings
• Warm Pretzels
• Chicken Quesadillas

The launch of Fridays Five Menu is part of Fridays ongoing evolution strategy enhancing its menu as a whole, introducing in June new freshly-crafted pasta dishes and shareable appetizers, plus a completely redesigned menu which still includes the Fridays favorites America has come to love.

“Bars and restaurants can make Happy Hour confusing with inconsistent specials, and we don’t think it should be one or two hours only. As the inventors of Happy Hour, we wanted to make Happy Hour just that – fun, simple, and on your terms,” said Stephanie Perdue, Fridays Chief Marketing Officer. “We have created a bar menu with great bar pairings, and as seasons change, so will we so Guests can count on Happy Hour anytime.”

In addition to the new Fridays Five menu, Guests can enjoy new summer cocktails – the Sangria ‘Rita and Barbados Tropical Punch Shareables, as well the Flaming Frozen Lava Flow and the Flaming Mai Tai. These drinks are literally on fire.

Participation may vary, so Guests are encouraged to check their local Fridays for availability.

PEARLAND, TX –  PRNewswire

With the computer programming and STEM fields expanding at rapid rates and parents and kids alike realizing its importance, concepts like Code Ninjas, a startup kids coding franchise, are seeing the impact first hand. The booming franchise, with 25 locations currently open and more than 225 in development, has signed a total of 145 franchise agreements already in 2018, including an agreement for 33 units.

The recent 33-unit agreement is being developed by entrepreneur Jazmin West and her husband, based out of San Diego. As a mother of three with a master’s degree in technology and education, Jazmin understands the importance of preparing kids for the technology-driven world that lies before them. The Wests’ 33 locations will be opening in regions across the country including Southern California (San Diego, Los Angeles, and Orange County), Salt Lake City, Ohio, Atlanta, Huntsville, and Indianapolis. Locations in San Diego, Salt Lake City and Atlanta will open in 2018.

“Partners like the Wests validate for us that there’s a massive, unmet demand across the country, and how vital it is for us to make learning to code accessible to more and more children,” said David Graham, CEO and founder of Code Ninjas. “Statistically, only about 18 percent of franchise concepts ever reach the 100 unit mark. Part of the reason Code Ninjas has been able to surpass this point so early on is our ability to combine learning with fun. This allows us to appeal to the needs of both parents and children, essentially doubling our market reach.”

In addition to the Wests’ development, Code Ninjas has recently signed agreements to bring new centers to markets including Virginia Beach, Orlando, Washington D.C., Chicago, and Seattle. These new franchise partners will be joining the successful group of current Code Ninjas owners, who operate centers in Charlotte, Houston, Austin, Kansas City, Columbus, Minneapolis, Omaha, San Diego, and other areas.

Code Ninjas seeks qualified franchise partners looking for a personally and financially rewarding business opportunity that positively impacts America’s youth. Interested candidates do not require previous coding experience. The Code Ninjas leadership team brings decades of experience in the software development and franchising fields, and offers significant support for marketing/sales, operations, and extensive training.

As a low-cost investment opportunity in the thriving children’s enrichment sector, Code Ninjas franchisees can expect an investment ranging from $110,140 to $353,270. In addition to the Wests’ recent signing, the brand looks to further expand its footprint in existing markets, as well as break into new territories. Specifically, the brand is targeting Denver, Cincinnati, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York, among other areas.

LOS ANGELES , CA –  PRNewswire

Mathnasium Learning Centers, the math-only education experts for grades 2–12, proudly announces it has renewed its partnership with National PTA, continuing its mission to change lives through math. This is Mathnasium’s third year working with National PTA as a Founding Sponsor of National PTA’s STEM + Families initiative.

“We are thrilled to extend what we started two years ago – providing engaging math experiences to students and families through Math Night events and grants to support them,” said CEO Peter Markovitz, Mathnasium co-founder. “We look forward to working further with National PTA, our valued partner, to bring quality math experiences to kids and parents, inspiring them to further explore STEM subjects and activities. Together, we truly are changing lives through math.”

In the 2017–2018 school year, Mathnasium sponsored 35 National PTA STEM + Families Math Grants of $1,000 each to local PTAs around the country to help schools host Math Night events. Math Nights engage students and parents together in math activities, using hands-on learning experiences and fun games. These experiences inspire students’ interest in math, help them understand and master math concepts, promote STEM literacy, and empower families to support their children’s success in math.

As part of this renewed partnership, Mathnasium and National PTA will continue to support Math Nights in communities nationwide in the 2018–2019 school year.

“The response to Math Night events thus far has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Markovitz. “We’re honored to continue our partnership with the dedicated parent leaders of PTA, to reach out to even more students and families, promote the awareness of STEM education and careers, and pursue our mission to help children understand and master math.”

“We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Mathnasium,” said Jim Accomando, president of National PTA. “Mathnasium’s support of our efforts to increase access to STEM experiences for all students and engage families in STEM education is essential to student success in STEM and to inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.”

BROOMFIELD, CO

TCBY (The Country’s Best Yogurt), the original frozen yogurt brand, is celebrating Father’s Day on Sunday, June 17 by offering dads their first six ounces of frozen yogurt free. Any father who visits their local TCBY from opening to closing will receive the sweet deal.

Knowing that all dads deserve a delicious treat on their special day, fans can choose from a variety of flavors with an array of delightful toppings to celebrate those impactful men. TCBY offers a widespread product line with most yogurt flavors low in fat, nonfat or no sugar added. For those looking for something a bit decadent, TCBY serves up a fun spin on frozen yogurt like banana splits, Chillers, milkshakes, parfaits and Shivers, giving fans a variety of options to celebrate Father’s Day.

“We’re inviting families to bring their dads in on Father’s Day to their local, neighborhood locations to eat a cup of froyo and spend time with the men who matter most in their lives,” said Dustin Lyman, CEO of TCBY. “Fathers have such a profound influence in our lives, and we want to spoil them in the most appropriate way we know how – with a sweet treat.”

For more information regarding TCBY, including store locations, please visit www.tcby.com. Like TCBY on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TCBY or follow on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/TCBY and on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/TCBY.

ATLANTA, GA –  PRNewswire

The Krystal Company announces the Square Up Scholarship program designed to empower and retain employees at the South’s original quick-service restaurant. The Square Up Scholarship program was established with a $500,000 contribution from Michael Klump, Chairman of Krystal and CEO of Argonne Capital Group, which acquired Krystal in 2012.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8339151-krystal-square-up-scholarship/

“We’re delighted to launch this scholarship program in support of the 8,000-strong Krystal family,” Klump said. “Our people are our brand. Their passion for our customers and their devotion to Krystal’s iconic legacy set us apart in the industry. We want to reward their dedication and loyalty with our own.”

The Square Up Scholarship program is designed to support, promote and encourage the educational pursuits and goals of individual Krystal employees, including both full and part time workers at company-owned and franchise restaurants. Recipients will be selected through an application process that evaluates academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, brand tenure, unusual family and personal circumstances, and financial need. Eligible applicants must be in good standing and have a six-month employment tenure with the company.

The $2,500 individual awards may be used toward four-year or two-year degrees, trade degrees or technical certifications from accredited learning institutions. Krystal plans to award up to 20 scholarships in its initial rollout and even more scholarships going forward to recipients who enroll in at least one class per semester. The scholarship fund will grow over time with contributions from employees, franchisees, partners and community support.

“We have employees who have been with the company for decades, and their leadership and institutional knowledge are invaluable,” said Paul Macaluso, Krystal CEO. “But employee retention is an industry-wide challenge. These scholarships are an investment in our people. We want to do everything we can to attract good workers in our restaurants and support their career aspirations so they can support themselves and their families.”

The Square Up Scholarship application window will open in August. Partnering with Scholarship America, Krystal will announce Square Up Scholarship recipients in November for the 2019 spring term.