small business opportunities

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.

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.