Franchising Magazine USA March 2023

VOlumE 11, iSSuE 3, 2023

On the cover: O h M Fitn E ss

pRES id E n T: colin Bradbury. colin@cgbpublishing.com

publi S h ER : Vikki Bradbury. vikki@cgbpublishing.com

E di TOR ial d E pa RT m E n T: editor@cgbpublishing.com

adVERT i S ing: vikki@cgbpublishing.com jasonb@cgbpublishing.com

Edi TOR ial TE am: Michelle Quinn rob swystun

pRO du CT i O n: usaproduction@cgbpublishing.com

dESign:

Jejak graphics. jejak@bigpond.com

Cgb publiShing

canadian Office: sidney B.c canada

u.S. Office: 800 5th ave, #101 seattle, Wa 98104-3102 www.franchisingmagazineusa.com

Welcome to our march issue of franchising magazine uSa

This issue is packed full of useful advice and a number of choices if you are looking to take the step into running your own business. The front Cover and Cover story this issue showcases O hm fitness who are currently Experiencing Electrifying g rowth across the Country. The h ot n ew E mS fitness franchise h as Established a d evelopment pipeline of Over 150 Studios Just Six m onths after Opening its first l ocation & l aunching franchise Sales. You can read more about them on page 10.

We have our regular experts in this issue as always and some new contributors offering some great advice and insights on Franchising, We have regular contributors such as g eorge Knauf who asks “Why do we do this” it is a thought provoking article offering some great suggestions. steve chambers, Vice President of r etail and Business Development for t he UPs store, inc., discusses “ h ow Franchises c an Win in 2023.” t his is just a taster so delve into this issue to read a lot more great advice.

Our Main Feature this issue is “Franchises in You Price r ange” and you can find some great stories on Franchisees and their journeys along with in depth articles from Franchisors and experts such as, Evan hackel who is the cEO of ingage consulting, covers “Keys to Buying a Franchise You c an afford.” chris conner of FMs Franchise offers some advice on “ h ow to invest in a Franchise on a Budget.”

Every issue of Franchising Magazine USA has our Veterans in Franchising and this issue we meet Lennol “Lenny” absher who began serving as an officer in the U. s army in 2000, and as a Military Veteran adds a patch to his life story with a new business endeavor. From West Point to army Veteran we see h ow chris aune supports Local Entrepreneurs through his Phenix s alon suites.

i hope you enjoy reading this issue and don’t forget to take a moment to scroll thorough to our a-Z Directory at the back of the magazine. happy r eading.

the

Vikki Bradbury | Publisher Franchising Magazine USA

information and contents in this publication are believed by the publisher to be true, correct and accurate but no independent investigation has been undertaken. accordingly the publisher does not represent or warrant that the information and contents are true, correct or accurate and recommends that each reader seek appropriate professional advice, guidance and direction before acting or relying on all information contained herein. Opinions expressed in the articles contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. the publication

M arch 2023

22 German Donar Kebab (GDK):

Have Your Say

18 Griswold: reveals new Brand Evolution centred around it’s “Live assured” Promise

24 Ori’ Zaba’s: starting a Business in Face of an Uncertain Economic Outlook

52 Gaby Casanas: Franchise Opportunities, navigating challenges and Embracing Benefits

Snapshot

16 Aloha Poke Co.: announces record-Breaking sales in 2022

26 Wayback Burgers: aloha Poke co.’s responsibly sourced Menu and simple, Efficient Operations Positions Brand in the

Make Strength a Habit this Year with Discover s trength Unleashe D Bran Ds Unveils Plans for Continued Momentum in 2023

Unleashed Brands, the leading youth enrichment growth-focused platform that includes category-leading brands Urban Air Adventure Park, snapology, t he Little Gym, XP League, Class 101, and Premier Martial Arts, proudly announced a banner year of growth and expansion in 2022.

Discover strength, the efficient, evidence-based strength training workout personalized to clients’ needs, knows that with the new year comes new fitness goals. Rather than making a fitness resolution that likely won’t be effective or seen through, Discover strength knows that with their 30-minute, twice weekly strength training workouts, goals can be made and achieved all year long. With the combination of educated, expert trainers and the ever-growing list of strength training’s benefits, Discover strength is the answer to reaching fitness goals in 2023.

strength training provides clients with the opportunity to not only improve their body composition and increase their metabolic rate, allowing the body to burn more calories at rest, but also provides an opportunity to improve cognitive function and even combat depression. Whatever fitness goals are top of mind for clients this year, Discover strength provides them with the opportunity to become healthier both inside and out.

Fad workouts aren’t the answer to reaching fitness goals in 2023, and Discover strength’s cEO, Luke c arlson agrees. “ strength training at Discover strength is truly the furthest things from a fad workout,” said c arlson. “ it’s backed by the preponderance of scientific literature and supervised by educated, expert trainers, which lets our clients see results in a fraction of the time.”

t he Discover strength franchise is built around the idea that busy people don’t have time to waste on workouts that don’t work, which is why Discover strength’s 30-minute, twice a week schedule allows for fitness to be easily implemented into the lives of busy clients with hectic work schedules and families.

For more information, please visit: https://discoverstrengthfranchise.com/

t he company added two new brands to its platform - class 101 and XP Leagueand awarded 220 new franchises, opened 160 new locations, and signed 127 new leases across the country bringing the total number of open and in-development locations to over 1,300. With a 23 percent increase in 2022, the platform is approaching $1 billion in system-wide revenue.

in addition to these impressive milestones, Unleashed Brands made significant investments to build out their shared s ervices team which supports all platform brands and franchisees. t he company expanded its home office space and hired 124 new team members to support the platform’s growth. in December 2022, Unleashed Brands opened a 10,000 sq ft g uest Loyalty center which operates seven days a week and acts as the front line of support equipped to handle a variety of customer service needs, including birthday party bookings, membership support, online inquiries, and more for all six brands.

to learn more about franchising with Unleashed Brands and current opportunities, please visit unleashedbrands.com.

Joaquin Erazo Joins Dream m aker Bath an D k itchen as Marketing Strategist

DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen recently announced the hire of Joaquin erazo as Marketing strategist. A recognized marketing expert with nearly 30 years of strategic marketing experience, erazo will primarily focus on strategic marketing development, working closely with new and existing franchisees.

Erazo is a sought-after consultant, speaker, strategist, and visionary marketer. his digital marketing insights and commentary has been published in t he Washington Post, Fast company, Forbes, inc. Magazine, Professional r emodeler, Qualified r emodeler and r emodeling Magazine. h e also frequently speaks at remodeling conferences.

“ i am thrilled to join DreamMaker and be a part of this remarkable brand,” said Joaquin Erazo. “ i ’ve been thoroughly impressed by every franchisee i ’ve met so far – true entrepreneurs with the business experience, character and integrity that’s needed to become a success in interior remodeling business. i ’m excited to help them do it.”

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen has 40 independently owned and locally operated franchises in 24 states.

Learn more about DreamMaker at DreamMakerFranchise.com.

HOUSTON’S kolache sho PPe TO OPEN FOURTH LOCATION IN PEARLAND

Kolache shoppe, Houston’s boutique bakery that’s served scratch-made texasCzech kolaches and coffee since 1970, will open a fourth location in Pearland, texas. enthusiastic franchisees Cecilia and Luis Rey have partnered with Kolache shoppe owners Lucy and Randy Hines to helm the new location at 11940 Broadway, located within Pearland’s new Broadway Plaza shopping center. t he bakery will open in summer 2023.

“We are thrilled to have the r eys share our time-tested kolaches with the residents of Pearland, one of the fastest-growing towns in texas and the community they call home,” says r andy. “Luis and cecilia are a natural fit for our company culture. We can’t wait to cheer them on as they introduce themselves to Pearland’s breakfast scene.”

cecilia, a h ouston native, and Luis, who immigrated from Mexico more than a decade ago, established their home in Pearland in 2021 to raise their two young children in a town they’ve always loved. t hey knew one of their goals in life was to own a business, and opening a franchise seemed an ideal way to get started, with guidance through the process. a s loyal customers of the bakery’s h eights location, the

franchise opportunity immediately called to them.

“We couldn’t be prouder to see our kolaches spreading joy to customers across the h ouston area,” says hines

For more information, please visit kolacheshoppe.com

Kolache shoppe

Kol A che Shoppe o wner S e xpA nd the h i S toric B AK ery FAM ily with n ew Fr A nchi S e pA rtner S hip

t he Marco’s Pizza Foundation teamed up with n o Kid Hungry to help combat child hunger and poverty in the United states.

together with the generous donations from its customers and various other fundraising campaigns, the Foundation guarantees a minimum donation of

$250,000 to n o Kid hungry, which can help provide 2.5 million meals* to kids.

t he new partnership brings the Marco’s Pizza brand, its franchisees, and the communities it serves together under one common cause. customers at select U. s stores can donate either $1, $3, or $5 to support this initiative. t he Marco’s Pizza Foundation plays a vital role in the brand’s success as a business and as an effective corporate citizen. t his campaign with n o Kid hungry is a national extension of the local store efforts already happening and will magnify the overall impact that the Marco’s Pizza brand can have in the communities where it serves and operates. community giveback is a key business priority for Marco’s Pizza as the brand closes out a historic 2022. t he nation’s fastest-growing pizza brand** reached key milestones with the opening of its 1,100th store and surpassing $1B in annual systemwide sales. at the crux of Marco’s ongoing growth is its renowned highquality pizza which has provided the core foundation to scale.

* s ource: n o Kid h ungry

**Marco’s Pizza is the fastest-growing pizza brand based on year-over-year unit growth, according to 2021 nrn top 500 U. s r estaurant r anking L sr Pizza s egment.

West Coast’s Largest Franchise Expo Returns to Phoenix this March to Connect Entrepreneurs with Top Business Opportunities

Phoenix, ariz. at the Phoenix convention center on March 31-april 1. anyone can register via the registration form.

Franchise e xpo West opens registration for the public to meet with many of the country’s top franchisors

MFV Expositions and comexposium, the nation’s leader in connecting the franchising world with motivated entrepreneurs for over 30 years, is inviting current and aspiring small business owners across the West coast to register for and attend this year’s Franchise Expo West taking place in

Working with the international Franchise a ssociation (iFa) in an exclusive expo partnership, the event showcases a wide range of franchise brands and provides exclusive insight into various trends and growth plans for the future of franchising, making it the ultimate epicenter for both current and aspiring entrepreneurs to identify and begin pursuing their next business endeavor.

Franchise Expo West is the largest franchise expo on the west coast and the first of three franchising expos being

produced by MFV Expositions in 2023. With franchise opportunities starting at investment levels as low as $5,000, Franchise Expo West is geared to help entrepreneurs explore opportunities and make connections with franchisors. attendees will have the chance to meet face-to-face with many of the top franchisors from every industry.

to learn more about the Franchise e xpo West 2023 in Phoenix, visit franchiseexpowest.com.

to learn more about MFV, visit franchiseexpo.com.

to learn more about Comexposium, visit comexposium.com.

t he m arco’s Pizza Fo U n Dation teamed up with n o k i D hU ngry to help combat child hunger and poverty

aDvent U re k i Ds Playcare Announces Big Plans for 2023

Adventure Kids Playcare – the hourly childcare franchise specializing in fun and flexible care options – is happy to announce it is looking to strengthen its presence in existing markets throughout 2023, while seeking further expansion into new markets on the e ast Coast.

t he brand has also pinned down a new franchise location in Orlando, which will be the first to be located in the state of Florida. adventure Kids Playcare provides flexible childcare with by-the-minute pricing, allowing parents the option to drop-off and pick-up on a whim while their children enjoy an adventure-filled experience. t he brand currently has 18 locations open throughout texas, Washington and n ew Jersey, with a goal of having 50 locations open and operating by 2024.

“Overall, 2022 was a great year for adventure Kids Playcare as we welcomed a new franchise partner to our system

and experienced one of the most wellattended location grand openings we’ve ever had in cherry hill, n ew Jersey,” said Dana Oliver, cEO and President of adventure Kids Playcare. “We have every intention to replicate that opening’s success as we look to enter new markets on the East coast throughout the remainder of 2023.”

at adventure Kids Playcare, children ages

6 weeks – 12 years old are encouraged to discover and pursue their own interests as they explore the multi-sensory environment each franchise location has to offer.

For more information on Adventure Kids Playcare, or if interested in franchising opportunities, please visit https:// adventurekidsplaycare.com/franchise/

Door r enew Seeks National Expansion Through Franchising

Door Renew – America’s only high-end door restoration franchise - is excited to share the brand is now looking to expand nationwide through the offering of new franchising opportunities. With nearly 25 locations currently operating throughout the U. s ., Door Renew has established itself as an expert in the door restoration services industry through its emphasis on preserving homes while using superior techniques and materials.

Door r enew provides services for both residential areas and commercial businesses. t he brand prides itself on offering top quality services to its clients, while remaining committed to perfecting the quality and craftsmanship of each door it services. instead of offering just a quick paint job, each door is preserved and finished away from the client’s home by the Door r enew team. Door r enew professionals complete their jobs by coating doors with environment friendly materials to preserve their client’s homes and history.

“With this year being our brand’s 20th anniversary, we now view national expansion through franchising as the next step in our efforts to preserve and beautify homes across the Us .,” said cEO of Door r enew, g reg Longe. “Every homeowner deserves to have a nice entrance into their home, as it makes a first impression on all their guest. Door r enew experts make sure their client’s homes are represented in a tasteful manner for an affordable price point.”

Door r enew is leading the door restoration industry by taking on one Us home at a time. r estoring services are increasingly viewed as a more sustainable option as well, with less new wood required to repair an existing door than replacing it.

For more information please visit https://www.doorrenew.com/

oh M Fi T ness e xperiences eL ec T ri F yin G Grow T h across coun T ry

The Hot New EMS Fitness Franchise Has Established A Development Pipeline of Over 150 Studios Just Six Months After Opening its First Location & Launching Franchise Sales

in 2021, experienced franchisee and entrepreneur Doug Payne was introduced to electro muscle stimulation (eMs) through business partners, eric Hamann and steve Belknap. initially, he couldn’t quite grasp how realistic the idea of building a business around eMs would be, because even he was a bit skeptical.

However, after digging into extensive research on EMS, Payne, Hamann and Belknap were astounded by their findings. EMS was proven to deliver insane results,

but wasn’t very accessible unless you were an elite athlete or celebrity - or you were prepared to drop serious money. They had a vision to make the concept approachable, efficient and innovative - a far cry from the way EMS was being used today in expensive personal training settings where you are tethered to a machine that’s more like physical therapy than fitness. They saw an opportunity to deliver EMS through high-energy, low-impact group fitness classes. Thus, OHM Fitness was founded. The first studio opened in Scottsdale, Arizona in August 2022 and within six months, the hot new fitness franchise had eight territories in development totaling more than 150 future studios.

Doug Payne O hm f itness

the ohm Fitness e xperience

The concept is one of the first fitness franchises to use EMS technology wirelessly in a group setting, offering a high-tech experience that packs the benefits of an intense two-hour workout into one low-impact, 25-minute session. Upon entering the studio, guests are immersed in a high-energy experience complete with curated music and lighting sequences that are synced to the pace of the workout. They change into an EMPower Bodysuit, OHM’s wearable technology, which has electronic pads that deliver electronic pulses to your muscles. During the class, a certified fitness instructor controls each person’s suit individually based on their fitness levels and goals.

These EMS pulses are proven to produce impressive results with a desirably low rate of wear and tear on the joints, ligaments, and muscles. Normally, the body’s central nervous system can only send one pulse per second that controls up to 55% of your muscle fibers during an exercise, the EMS technology within the wireless EMPower Bodysuit activates 95% of the muscle and is able to send impulses to muscle fibers up to one hundred times faster, causing muscles to feel fatigued faster than a traditional weight training exercise, which is how it shrinks a two-hour workout into just 25 minutes.

“At OHM Fitness, we help you beat your brain at its own game,” said Payne. “Your brain sends electrical signals to your muscles to make them move. But muscles can only contract about once per second or repetition. OHM Fitness lets you use science and technology to actively game the system.”

This low-impact workout is ideal for all fitness levels, has been connected to researched-based benefits such as fat loss, skin health, energy, stress and anxiety levels, muscle strength, and acute and chronic pain.

ohm’s e xperienced Founding team

The creation of OHM Fitness has allowed Payne, who serves as CEO, to leverage two very different facets of his life. Over the last 15 years, Payne has had the

opportunity to work with some of the world’s most successful concepts at the franchisor level, including Massage Envy, European Wax Center and Orangetheory Fitness. He also worked as an area developer for Orangetheory Fitness and a multi-unit franchisee for European Wax. This experience gave him a deep understanding of all areas of franchising. Plus, given the nature of the EMS technology that is the core component of the concept, Payne has been able to utilize his initial training and background in electronic engineering with the United State Navy and then with Boeing. His cofounders Hamann and Belknap have also been partners with Payne in European Wax Center and a number of other businesses.

In November 2022, OHM Fitness unveiled some major news that European Wax Center co-founder Joshua Coba was joining the franchise. Coba founded European Wax Center (NYSE: EWCZ) with his brother in 2004 and began franchising the concept in 2008, growing it to more than 900 open locations and more than 300 additional licenses in development. He retired from the concept in 2017 but remains a shareholder and supported the company through its $180 million IPO in 2021.

Coba and his wife, Jenni, flew out to Scottsdale to check out the concept after hearing about this new fitness franchise that Payne was developing.

“We were instantly impressed,” said Coba. “The 25-minute class with the level of results this workout delivers plus the low impact it has on the body is a simple sell once you experience it. This is one of the most exciting franchise concepts I’ve seen in a long time. Plus, it’s an affordable investment with a relatively low cost to get up and running.”

Coba joined OHM Fitness as a minority investor and he was awarded the South Florida area developer rights,

with a total of 34 franchise licenses. He and Jenni will open and operate multiple locations themselves.

electrifying growth across the country

With more than 150 locations in the development pipeline, OHM Fitness could quickly become one of the fastest-growing franchises in the country. Locations are currently in development to open in the next six to twelve months in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, San Diego, South Florida, New Jersey and Washington D.C.

The very first territory, Arizona, was sold before the first location even officially opened. Alexis Krisay and Melissa DiGianfilippo purchased the area representative rights, including 35 total licenses across the state of Arizona. The duo are co-founders of a leading creative, PR & social media agency, Serendipit Consulting, with extensive branding, PR and marketing experience for franchise concepts like Orangetheory Fitness, Drybar, Perspire Sauna Studios, Modern Acupuncture and more. Their agency was sourced to build the OHM Fitness brand and activate the marketing and PR efforts, and immediately the entrepreneurial women saw an opportunity.

“While we are experts in branding, storytelling and marketing, we have always been obsessed with health and wellness and we have learned the ins and outs of franchising over the years by supporting some of the country’s top brands,” said Krisay. “It was obvious to us from early on that OHM Fitness was going to be the next big thing and we knew we had to be a part of it.”

OHM Fitness is a special first-to-market franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs and experienced franchise industry professionals who are eager to capture their share in the $96 billion dollar fitness industry. The initial franchise fee is $39,000 and the total estimated initial investment ranges from $337,500 to $612,700.

For more information about franchise opportunities available in your area, please visit OHMFitness.com or email Franchising@OHMfitness.com.

“ It was obvious to us from early on that OHM Fitness was going to be the next big thing and we knew we had to be a part of it.”

w hy w e d o This

“ What most people are working for is to secure their future, possibly their children’s and grandchildren’s future as well. They want to spend more time with their family, not in an office or travelling on business.”

That alone is not a good reason to get into business.

What most people are working for is to secure their future, possibly their children’s and grandchildren’s future as well. They want to spend more time with their family, not in an office or travelling on business. The want to be present in their future, not an occasional spectator.

Business is not something you DO as much as it is something you BUILD.

Life is something you do. Being a Father or Mother is something you do. Being part of your kids growing up is something you do. Being happy is something you do.

With that in mind, I have a plan for building in a way so you can do more of the things that matter to you. Let’s figure out how you can build an empire and what you do with it.

compound growth Plan:

There are a number of ways to pursue this from a multi-unit growth of a single brand to building out locations representing multiple brands into a portfolio. You can diversify risk by partnering or syndicating deals. You can work at the franchisee, Area Developer or Regional/Master Franchisee level.

However you do it the core concept is the same. Make an initial investment, put in the work to make the first

George Knauf is a highly sought after, trusted advisor to many of the top franchise ownership groups in the world. With over 25 years of experience in both start-up and mature business franchise operations he is uniquely qualified to advise individuals that have dreamed of Building their own empires. Whether you have an existing portfolio or searching for your first franchise, he can help you to pursue your dreams.

www.MyPerfectFranchise.com

location a success, replace yourself in that operation and take some of your profits and open the next. As you build your empire you will begin to have enough team and resources that your top managers can do the new opens while you step into a more strategic role.

After a few decades in franchising and almost as long as a business owner, I have my own thoughts on how to maximize this plan. I have also seen others build in ways that I wouldn’t, but they were successful too. A well thought out plan is the key to making any approach work.

I am a big fan of the franchisors that have built a family of brands in one style of business. These can be restaurants, fitness, services, etc. You get a lot of benefit in terms of systems, technology, support, training and real estate strategy. One of the key benefits is that with multiple brands to work with you can densely place locations you own by picking from among the brands. I recently drove past a mall with 2 different boutique fitness brands, both from the same parent company. In service brands you could even share office space and staff among the multiple brands you own from the same family.

Staying focused on continuously replacing yourself and leveling up as you steadily add operational revenue to your portfolio is key. Some businesses have trends that wax and wane so you will sometimes sell a business out of your portfolio as you add more.

generational wealth transfer:

If your goals include building for your

children’s or grandchildren’s future, we need to think about how this is going to come together. There are many approaches for wise tax strategy and I will leave the routine stuff for you and your accountant to discuss. With the right team of advisors you can maximize your generational wealth transfer.

One strategy is somewhat related to a popular tax and penalty free 401K rollover plan that has been used by thousands over the years to fund their franchises. With a couple tweaks to that plan, I am told, they have set it up so that instead of funding your business, you prepare for the eventual sale. When you sell your business the proceeds incur mitigated capital gains taxes and drop directly into a tax shelter going forward. This plan needs to be put in place as you are starting your business. Once you are under way of when you are getting ready to sell, it is too late for this approach. There are other avenues, including pulling your kids into the business as a succession plan. Just this month I started working with the adult Son of a candidate I have worked with for years. We are moving the Son from a multi-unit owner to a Regional Developer, just like his Father has been. From there I will continue to look for opportunities that fit the Son and we will grow his portfolio like I did with his Father.

Succession planning is very common and many of our candidates have brought in their next generation for us to advise on growth opportunities.

What will be your success story? Let’s go find it!

A lot of owners get into business with the product they sell in mind. they have an affinity for the product itself or more likely they have good memories wrapped around experiences they have had with the product as a consumer. they may even be a raving fan of the product or service.

s lim c hick E ns p rov E s g lobA l p osition A s b r EA kthroughc hick E n b r A nd hEA ding i nto 2023

Fast Growing Better-Chicken Brand Closes Out the Year with More Than 300 Development Deals

Bringing southern hospitality and its hand-branded, cookedto-order tenders, slim Chickens continues to break barriers in the fast-casual segment. this year the brand made history with more openings across the United states and globally than ever before.

In 2022, the brand celebrated several milestones including its 200th store opening, conquering 15 new franchise territories with its development deals, and opening 50 new locations. With the lucrative year on its ledger, the brand made history, establishing more than 300 signed agreements across the globe attaining a total of 1,100 units in development deals. In addition to its rapid

franchise growth, Slim Chickens boasts a 3.8 million AUV*. More impressively, the brand has held a robust 44% increase in comp stores sales growth over the last four years.

“This year we have tallied up an impressive year of growth into new markets on a national and global scale more than ever before and we could not be prouder,” said Vice President of Franchise Development, Jackie Lobdell.

“We are honored to have a dedicated team of skilled and knowledgeable franchisees who continue to extend our southern hospitality to new markets around the world. As the chicken craze continues to flourish, our leadership team, training methods, resources, and established franchisees will continue to maintain our positive growth trajectory. We remain

resilient and relentless time and time again and look forward to further grabbing the attention of highly qualified restaurant operators who want to be a part of our story in communities around the world.”

In addition to the brand’s immense success in 2022, Slim Chickens has been recognized by several restaurant and franchise trade publications for its robust reputation in the industry. To start, Slim Chickens was named the Breakout Brand of the Year by QSR Magazine and was recognized as a Top Recession-Proof Business by Franchise Business Review. In addition, the brand was also named in the top percentile as one of the FastestGrowing Franchises by Entrepreneur and a Mover & Shaker by Fast Casual. Most recently, Franchise Times Magazine ranked the better-chicken brand in its ‘Fast & Serious List at #5 smartest-growing brands and was also acknowledged as a 2023 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review.

“We have spent a lot of time and investment in the people that enable us to do this.” Says COO Sam Rothschild. “We understand what it takes to support our franchisees and we have the systems and processes in place to do so. We are honored to have the quality of franchisees that we have today but are eager to continue the momentum. There is still a lot of opportunity in the U.S. to grow Slim Chickens and we have started to open in Michigan, Wisconsin, the Carolinas, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Not only are we rapidly expanding domestically but we are thrilled to continue to enter new markets abroad as well.”

Heading into 2023, Slim Chickens is slated to sign 200 development deals with more than 50 openings domestically and 15-plus new locations abroad. As the leading better-chicken brand continues its burgeoning momentum and upward trajectory, it’s looking to extend its southern hospitality and fuel the demand for its hand-breaded cooked-to-order tenders across the United States as well as both sides of the Atlantic in countries such

as France, Spain, Germany, Poland, Turkey, and the GCC.

With hundreds of thousands of happy customers, the brand has developed a strong devoted fanbase, also known as “Slimthusiasts,” helping to fuel demand for the hand-breaded, cooked-to-order tenders. Slim Chickens has distinguished itself in the “better chicken” segment by offering high-quality food and 17 housemade dipping sauces, allowing customers to enjoy a different flavor profile with each visit. Its menu is broader than many in the category, offering chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items. Fans also resonate with the southern contemporary look and feel and the open and inviting layout of Slim Chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

Slim Chickens’ franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team and a worldclass franchisee support system. As Slim Chickens expands, it is awarding franchise

opportunities to qualified, experienced and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.

For more information on the Slim Chickens franchise opportunity, visit slimchickensfranchise.com.

aBoUt slim chickens:

slim Chickens, a leading fast casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-through in the better-chicken segment, opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Offering high-quality food with a focus on fresh, delicious ingredients, the brand prides itself on its southern flair and commitment to hospitality, all in a fastcasual setting.

Food is cooked to order, and the differentiated menu features chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items, alongside 17 housemade dipping sauces.

today, there are more than 200 slim Chickens locations open and 1,100 restaurants in development.

*AUV of Group #1 in the 2022 FDD item 19.

the poke segment of the fast-casual restaurant category has been gaining ground postpandemic, not only for its healthy, on-the-go food offerings, but for franchisees looking to move from the supply chain and labor challenges of traditional concepts to more manageable and profitable restaurants.

Chicago-based Aloha Poke Co.’s responsibly sourced menu and simple, efficient operations position the brand as the leader of this movement.

Fast-casual eating has become an essential element of families’ weekly meal planning. Where burgers and pizza were once firmly established as part of this routine, the American mindset has shifted toward health and wellness. As we continue to make these

elements regular parts of our daily lives, we increasingly think about what we consume to fuel our bodies.

This thinking is what led franchisees Amanda and Corey Tabb to open the first Aloha Poke Co. restaurant in the Houston, Texas market. As parents to three beautiful children, they wanted to instill the value of healthy eating, especially with so many fastfood options readily available. Aloha Poke Co. has made the values of service and sustainability, through fresh-packed sashimi-grade fish, clean and simple ingredients, core to the brand. Amanda and Corey opened their Aloha Poke Co. restaurant with the belief that the brand’s success comes from its firm adherence to these values, making the decision to participate in Aloha Poke’s franchise business ownership that much more attractive.

“We are thrilled to be the first Aloha Poke restaurant in the state we love, the state we are raising our family,” said Amanda. “As first-time franchise owners, we decided on Aloha Poke for several reasons, including the brand’s franchise development program, the projected return on investment, the ease of operations, low labor requirements, and most importantly, the sheer beauty and highquality nutritional value of the brand’s dedicated menu.”

Amanda explains that while there are some consumers unfamiliar with the category, once they try it, they are hooked. In fact, with a higher than 80% return rate for first-time guests, Amanda’s store is in line with the other locations in Aloha Poke Co.’s chain. Amanda is also focused on communicating the nutritional value and freshness of her food to her greater community. Her work is paying dividends, as evidenced through her catering offerings, which have become favorites with local businesses such as BHP, Memorial Hermann Hospital and Phillips 66.

From a franchise opportunity perspective, Aloha Poke Co. is gaining traction and interest from new and veteran multifranchise owners. The brand continues its commitment to FDD transparency, sustainable food sourcing practices, and a strong franchise development support program with simple back-of-house operations, low food and labor costs, and a stable distribution network.

Aloha Poke Co. continues to attract franchise restaurant investors drawn to the brand’s attractive initial capital requirements, unit economics, and appealing sales-to-investment figures. According to industry analysts, the market for poke and similar food concepts is expected to grow by $1.2B by 2024. Aloha Poke franchising is uniquely poised to meet this growing demand with consumers looking for new, innovative ways to eat clean, unprocessed foods while on the go.

A Poke Co.’s res P onsibly sour C ed menu A nd sim Ple, effi C ient o Per Ations P ositions br And in the h e Althy m ovement

Ld r evea L s n ew Brand e vo Lu T ion c en T ered around iT s “Live a ssured” pro M ise

the marketplace demands,” said Griswold CEO Michael Slupecki. “Caregivers love working with Griswold, and we’ve always offered superior care to our clients, which will never change. But, in a sea of sameness, Griswold must stand out.”

The Griswold name has always meant something special, but it has evolved over the years, Slupecki says. Today, the franchise’s primary promise comes down to two words: Live Assured.

The company recently coined the phrase during a year-long evolution process that involved everyone from its caregivers to its leadership team. This evolution comes with new visual branding, an emphasis on innovation and technology, the inspiring Tokens of Appreciation initiative, a name modification—and more.

Griswold has over 40 years of experience providing quality home care to the elderly,

disabled adults and individuals recovering from illness. Dr. Jean Griswold was a senior care professional who had multiple sclerosis (MS) and saw firsthand that the elderly often lacked the assistance they needed to remain independent at home. Founding the company in 1982, Griswold set out to offer a wide variety of in-home support services, with care plans customized to fit each client that could be adjusted as their needs change over time.

“Just as our founder Dr. Jean Griswold was a true visionary when she started Griswold as one of the the first non-medical home care franchises in the United States, we must continue to advance her legacy in the home care space by adapting to what

Griswold clients live assured they have the care they need to live life to its fullest. Families live assured that their loved ones are being cared for so they can live a worry-free life. Caregivers live assured they work with a company that cares about them and their well-being. Employees live assured they work for a company with a solid foundation and bright future. The community lives assured that Griswold is there to support those members who need help, thereby making the community a happier, healthier place to live.

“Live Assured is the promise we make to clients, their loved ones, caregivers, employees and the communities where we live and work,” said Griswold VP of Marketing Shelley Kanther. “What makes our promise better than our competitors is the special recipe that brings the Live Assured concept to life.”

For over a year, the brand created the perfect recipe with the brand evolution. By performing a study to help measure and define the meaning behind the brand and ensure frontline care professionals, office staff and Griswold administration are aligned in the story they convey to

At Griswold, the fast-growing non-medical home care franchise with over 170 locations, two words define the meaning behind the brand: “Live Assured.”

Griswo

The non-medical home care franchise is satisfying the needs of clients, families, caregivers and employees by updating its branding and design to better align with today’s industry, while doubling down on innovation and technology.

the world, Griswold identified three main pillars that resonate most with employees and match what consumers value:

• Trusted Relationships: The brand’s commitment to honesty and transparency assures the connections both employees and caregivers build stay strong.

• Care is Personal: Griswold’s work is about people, and everyone works together to support clients’ unique needs with respect, empathy and dedicated attention.

• A Foundation of Expertise: The team’s collective wisdom benefits the people they serve, and the strong Griswold community ensures all team members will continue to learn and grow.

In addition to a new tagline, Griswold is evolving its visual brand. The brand dropped “Home Care” from its name and is now simply “Griswold.” It has also decided to remove the house and hearts design from its previous logo in exchange for a more modern and unique design that represents the importance of people and connections. These updates are designed to keep Griswold aligned with the current marketplace and to allow the company to unite all new revenue streams under one brand name as it prioritizes technology and innovation moving forward.

“We aspire to launch new products and services under the brand name in the future — whether it be technological innovations like remote monitoring or staffing services or opening facilities,” said Slupecki. “The sky’s the limit. The last thing we want is a brand that keeps us in a box, unable to scale and expand over time.”

The brand also gave its employees a

roadmap to success by defining the behaviors each role should take to embody the brand. Slupecki noted that, when it comes to bringing these three pillars to life, franchise owners have a key role to play.

“We need our leaders to keep our founding spirit strong while embracing current trends and future innovation,” said Slupecki. “They need to lead by example and show their teams what it means to live our promise. If our behaviors collectively match our promise, our value proposition is solid. That makes it easier to secure new clients, generate referrals and attract and retain staff.”

The brand is rolling out a new Tokens of Appreciation program to ensure all franchise owners have the tools to recognize and celebrate their team members living the Griswold promise in their daily roles. Franchisees will review all digital token recipients at the end of every month and will choose one caregiver and one employee to be awarded an actual Griswold token. The special token holder will be able to proudly display the fruits of their hard work and dedication. And at the end of each year, all Groswold offices will recognize those who received Griswold tokens and choose one caregiver and one employee who they believe truly embodied the Griswold brand throughout 2023. Those team members will be the “Employees of the Year” and will receive a special gift and a commendation from Griswold’s home office in Blue Bell, PA.

As the need for quality, in-home senior care reaches an all-time high throughout every community, Griswold is preparing

for strategic franchise growth and is looking for compassionate, empathetic individuals to partner with in this new era. Griswold is the perfect opportunity for prospective franchisees who want to join a proven brand, take control of their destiny and give back to the people in their community.

“For over 40 years, we’ve remained at the forefront of the home care industry and have been setting the industry standard as we expand across the country,” said Slupecki. “Now, we are ready to embrace change to not only remain relevant in this competitive industry but to continue to be a leader other companies aspire to emulate. It’s time for brand evolution, and our new brand will provide a pathway to success for years to come.”

aBoUt griswold

With 170 locations in 31 states, Griswold is one of the country’s top home care companies, providing professional, compassionate caregivers 24/7. Griswold’s “Live Assured” promise gives both clients and their loved ones peace of mind, so they can live without the weight of worry. Griswold helps adults maintain quality of life despite advanced age, onset of illness, or post-surgery recovery through services including companion care, home services, personal care, and respite care. Founded by the late Jean Griswold in 1982, the company has maintained its founder’s profound sense of empathy for older and disabled adults and those living with chronic conditions. in 2023, Griswold was ranked #267 on entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 and named a 2023 Best of Home Care® endorsed national Provider. For more information, visit www.griswoldhomecare.com or call 215.402.0200.

look bE yond t r A dition A l loA ns to g row your f r A nchis E

selecting a bank is one of the most important decisions a small or midsize business must make. Your choice can significantly impact your financial strategy, cash flow, ability to fund expansion and ultimately your long-term success.

Consultative banks get to know their clients in a way that transactional banks simply cannot. Truly consultative banks are designed to be an integral part of a business’s financial team. They also offer financing options that may not be available from other types of banks.

A consultative banking relationship proves particularly valuable when a creative financing solution, such as a valuation-based or U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan instead of a traditional loan, may be in the best interest of a business. Only with an understanding of the nuances of a business and knowledge of a wide array of financial products can a banking advisor recommend and assist with nontraditional financing products. Nékter Juice Bar, based in Costa Mesa, California, has leveraged its consultative banking relationship as it has continued to build its brand and expand its reach since opening its doors in 2010. Nékter makes fresh juices, smoothies and açaí bowls that are made to order.

Nékter is nearing a total of 200 franchise stores and 32 corporate locations across 22 states, as of early January. In addition, Nékter signed over 70 new franchise locations in 2022, scheduled to open over the next few years.

Particularly after the onset of the pandemic

in 2020, many people became more health conscious. Nékter provides a solution for these individuals, and the ability to secure financing swiftly has allowed Chief Executive Steve Schulze to reach this audience and work towards its mission to make a healthy lifestyle affordable and accessible.

As the company has grown, a term loan and line of credit based on the value of the company as a whole, rather than existing collateral, have supported corporate growth, while also allowing Nékter to identify and purchase additional facilities. In some instances, we have also helped facilitate acquisitions. A close banking relationship opens up different growth opportunities that would not have otherwise been considered or quickly accessible.

At Enterprise, it’s about understanding the cash flow for this type of business — namely, not your traditional manufacturer and distributor. A franchise-heavy business model like Nékter’s shouldn’t be compared to traditional C&I [commercial

Kamil Wozowicz serves as a Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking for Enterprise Bank & Trust in Los Angeles. He has nearly 20 years of experience in commercial banking, serving the local business community.

and industrial] business. Instead, we adopt a forward-looking approach. We take the time to understand how each store performs and consider the timing from opening to when it will generate cash flow. Now, Nékter is focused on attracting new franchisees while also supporting existing ones. Many Nékter franchise owners have between five and 15 locations. Giving these team members — who share Shulze’s passion for bringing fresh, unprocessed juices, smoothies, and more to their community — the tools and resources to grow their business is an important piece of his vision.

Having worked with the Nékter team since the company comprised few locations in 2013, helping facilitate its growth and seeing the company grow are why we’re dedicated to guide our clients to financial success.

Similar to Néktar’s position, collateral-light loans are a better fit for many franchiseheavy businesses. This type of loan can be based on the value of the company as a whole, allowing you to continue your plans to grow while securing funding inclusive of your business model.

Here are additional nontraditional options that might be a good fit for the unique circumstances of your business.

sponsor Financing

A common alternative to equity financing, Sponsor Financing is a type of leveraged financing used to monetize the perceived value of an organization or other intangibles. Frequently used to finance business recapitalization and expansion, Sponsor Finance loans are also often used for acquiring closely-held businesses where the owner is looking to exit the business or realize partial liquidity for retirement.

Sponsor Finance loans serve to support business growth and increase returns to investors by financing business operations that generate incremental profits.

asset-Based lending

The opposite of Sponsor Financing, asset-based loans use accounts receivable and inventory as collateral and are often set up as a revolving line of credit. Funds from asset-based loans are frequently

used for working capital, debt refinancing, acquisitions or simply an infusion of cash to get over a financial hurdle. These loans are well-suited for manufacturers, distributors and service companies that have seasonal revenues or tight cash flows, or are growing rapidly. Asset-based loans are also often utilized by new businesses that don’t have the track record to qualify for a more traditional loan. This form of financing can help stabilize operations by providing improved liquidity, financial stability and predictable cash flow.

new markets tax credit Program loans

The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Program is a federal lending program available for companies pursuing projects that are located in certain low-income communities. The goal of the program is to stimulate business and real estate investments that result in jobs and other benefits to people living in these neighborhoods.

NMTC loans can provide a source of lowcost, long-term financing or refinancing for a company’s working capital, equipment, real estate or other projects located in areas designated by the U.S. government. To qualify for a NMTC loan, the project or business must be in a Qualified Census Tract.

NMTC loans have many advantages, including below-market interest rates, lower origination fees, longer period of interest-only payments, higher loan-tovalue ratios and often longer payback periods. Enterprise Bank & Trust is one of the few lenders that has deep expertise in helping companies navigate and close both federal and state NMTC loans.

small Business administration loans

The SBA offers a number of loan programs for business expansion or operations. SBA loans have many benefits including favorable interest rates, flexible terms and lower down payment and collateral requirements than traditional commercial loans. Enterprise can consult with you on which of the following SBA programs

might be a fit for your business financing needs.

• SBA 7(a) Loans SBA’s basic loan program providing funds for business acquisitions, partner buyouts, real estate and working capital.

• SBA 504 Loans Fully collateralized loans for real estate or equipment for use by companies that don’t qualify for traditional financing.

• Express Program Offers loans up to $350,000 including term loans and lines of credit; often used to refinance debt, obtain working capital or buy real estate.

• Export Express Program SBA’s simplest export loan product offering streamlined financing up to $500,000.

• CAPLines Program Offers loans up to $5 million to help businesses meet cyclical and short-term working capital needs.

While SBA loan products are the same, all lenders are not. Enterprise has Preferred Lender status with the SBA, meaning your SBA loan decision times are likely to be substantially reduced.

Other Creative Financing Options

Enterprise can assist with other innovative financing solutions. Included in these are loan funds which are short-term notes with terms that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of a business. Loan funds are often available with rates that are a fraction of what the market would charge.

Another option is SWAP financing. SWAPs are highly customizable and are commonly third-party interest rate contracts that provide a longer-term fixed rate than most lending institutions typically offer.

Franchise businesses often have financing needs that don’t fit neatly into traditional loan products. Fortunately, there are many creative and nontraditional financing options of which business owners may take advantage.

Growing franchise businesses need practical financial solutions and expert guidance, not just basic banking services. Having access to solutions tailored to your needs and a dedicated advocate within the bank could be the difference between failure and long-term success.

G dk L aunches nor T h a M erican expansion :

O pE ning 12 n EW RESTau R an TS du R ing 2023

“ We have big plans for the USA and Canada. We are extremely happy to announce our growth plans to open 12 new restaurants in 2023, with a greater GDK vision of over 500 sites in the next 10 years.”

Following the launch of its first US site at American Dream Mall in New Jersey in 2021 and Astoria in Queens New York, opening in February 2023, GDK has revealed that it will open a restaurant every month this year.

Three new sites are expected to launch in Q1, which include Midtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, as well as Sugar Land in Houston Texas.

Following in the next months will be GDK outlets in Westfield New Jersey, Frisco Texas, Brighton Beach Brooklyn, Houston Heights Houston, Boston Massachusetts, Surrey Vancouver BC and Mississauga ON. In addition, two more sites are expected to open doors this year, as more details on their location will be disclosed

German Doner Kebab (GDK) has announced that it will open 12 new restaurants in north America in 2023, as it builds the fast-casual brand of the future.

the brand opened its first Us site at American Dream Mall in new Jersey in 2021 and will continue to expand in strategic locations including Astoria in Queens new York, Midtown Manhattan Brooklyn, as well as sugar Land in Houston in the first quarter of 2023.

nigel Belton, MD for north America, said: “The North American market is a significant opportunity for GDK. In just a few short years we have opened more than 120 locations in the UK, and we are excited to replicate that growth here in the US and Canada, opening 500 locations throughout the next decade.”

German Doner Kebab has announced its ambitious growth plans for the USA, as it gets set to open 12 new locations in 2023.

This expansion move will also grow GDK’s footprint in Canada, where it has restaurants in Toronto, Ottawa and Surrey.

Now GDK has a development pipeline of 65 units throughout North America, with plans to have over 500 sites in the next ten years.

Mark Treptow, GDK Franchise Director for North America, is supporting this growth, bringing valuable experience working with highly profiled brands such as Five Guys Burgers, The Halal Guys, Freshii, and Rise Biscuits & Chicken.

GDK is revolutionising the kebab across the globe, bringing a fresh, high-quality taste sensation that has made it the go-to place to enjoy a kebab.

Freshly prepared in front of customers in an open kitchen, the game-changing kebabs combine premium, lean, succulent meats and fresh local vegetables, served in handmade toasted bread with unique signature sauces.

Based in Glasgow, Scotland, the brand has grown at a great pace in the UK, Sweden and the Middle East and is now rapidly expanding

in the USA and Canada and across other key locations in Europe, with over 140 restaurants worldwide.

The brand has also recently signed up some major franchise partners to support its global expansion plans. Atul Pathak, formerly McDonald’s biggest UK franchise partner, sold his portfolio and joined up with GDK in 2022. Maristo Hospitality, one of the fastest-growing hospitality groups in the Middle East region has also acquired the GDK master franchise for the UAE.

Nigel Belton, MD for North America, said: “We have big plans for the USA and Canada. We are extremely happy to announce our growth plans to open 12 new restaurants in 2023, with a greater GDK vision of over 500 sites in the next 10 years.”

“American Dream Mall in New Jersey has been an anchor location for us in the USA. It has provided us with a launchpad to develop new exciting locations like Astoria in Queens, Midtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Sugarland Houston, as we continue to expand in key states across North America.”

He added: “The next 12 months will prove to be a landmark in our story. We aim to expand our footprint and bring the unique GDK experience to more consumers in the USA and Canada, as we build the fast-casual brand of the future.”

aBoUt german Doner kebab

German Doner Kebab (GDK) is the global #1 in doner kebabs and one of the fastest-growing fast-casual brands thanks to its premium, quality-focused and innovative approach to traditional kebabs. More than that, GDK has become a true lifestyle brand that is deeply entrenched in local music, fashion, and sports, forging partnerships with top talent in these areas.

From its inception in Berlin in 1989, the brand has spent decades perfecting its products and recipes, creating its own unique blend of spices, innovative signature sauces, and distinctive ‘Doner Kebab’ waffle bread. Our gourmet kebabs are made using only the best, premium quality ingredients, sourced from the best suppliers around the world – from our lean, succulent meats and our handmade bread to the freshest locally produced vegetables that are delivered and prepared daily.

Based in Glasgow, scotland, GDK has grown quickly to over 140 restaurants across the UK, continental europe, and the Middle east, and is continuing to expand rapidly in these regions as well as in north America.

For more information please visit: https://www. germandonerkebab.com

g erman Doner Kebab is owned by hero Brands. t he group also includes island Poké, the UK’s leading Poké operator; choppaluna, the fast, fresh, food-to-go salad brand; partnered with the sidemen – g lobal Youtube collective - to launch mega food brand siDE s and XiX Vodka, a premium drink which went viral; Dirty Bones, the nYc-inspired food and cocktail concept and a growing portfolio of innovative fashion, health and media brands including King apparel a premium streetwear brand.

Franchise o ppor T uniT ies:

nAvig Ating c h A ll E ng E s A nd Embr Acing bE n E fits

starting a franchise can be an exciting, rewarding and potentially lucrative venture, which, like with any business or important “life-changing decision”, brings certain challenges.

One of the first challenges when starting a franchise is finding the right one to invest in!. There are thousands of franchises available, and choosing the right one can be an overwhelming task. Factors to consider include the initial investment cost, ongoing royalties, training and support, the franchisor’s reputation, and market demand for the product or service being offered. Researching potential franchises thoroughly and seeking advice from experienced franchisees can help with this initial decision.

So, investing in a franchise might be one of the best ways to become an entrepreneur, but it’s important to approach the decision with a clear understanding of what it entails.

here are some key pieces of advice for potential franchisees:

1. Do Your Research: Before committing to a franchise, do your research. Learn about the industry, the franchise system, and the franchisor. Make sure you understand the franchise agreement and all the associated fees and costs.

2. Understand Your Financials: Make sure you have a clear understanding of your financial situation and the costs associated with starting a franchise. Consider your personal financial situation and determine how much you can comfortably invest in your business.

3. Leverage the Support System: One of the key benefits of franchising is the builtin support system. Take advantage of the training, ongoing support, and community of other franchisees. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

4. Follow the System: The success of a franchise system is built on consistency.

Follow the franchisor’s system and guidelines carefully. This can help ensure your success and the success of the franchise system.

5. Build Relationships: Building strong relationships with your customers, employees, and other franchisees can be critical to your success. Treat your customers well, hire and train good employees, and work collaboratively with other franchisees in the system.

6. Be patient and keep a Positive Attitude: Finally, it’s important to maintain a positive attitude. Starting a business can be challenging, but if you approach it with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, you can overcome any obstacles that arise.

what are the benefits of the franchise business model?

While starting a franchise can certainly come with its share of challenges, it’s also important to note the potential benefits that can come from this type of business model. Here are some of the key advantages of starting a franchise:

1. Established Brand and Business Model: One of the biggest benefits of starting a franchise is that you can leverage an established brand and business model. This can provide you with a built-in customer base and a proven method for operating your business.

2. Training and Support: Many franchisors provide training and support to their franchisees, which can be extremely helpful for those who are new to running a business. This training can cover everything from marketing and sales to operations and financial management.

3. Reduced Risk: Compared to starting a business from scratch, starting a franchise can be less risky. Because the brand and business model have already been established, there is less uncertainty about whether the business will be successful.

4. Access to Financing: Some franchisors offer financing options to help franchisees cover the initial investment and ongoing costs. Additionally, because franchises are often seen as lower risk, lenders may

be more willing to provide financing to franchisees.

5. Economies of Scale: Franchisees can often benefit from economies of scale, which can help reduce costs and increase profitability. For example, purchasing supplies and inventory in bulk can result in lower prices, which can be passed on to customers.

6. Flexibility: Franchise ownership can provide a degree of flexibility that may not be available with other types of businesses. Depending on the franchise, you may be able to work from home or set your own hours, which can be especially appealing for those who value work-life balance.

what about the “emotional” aspects of becoming a franchisee?

Certainly! To those challenges and benefits of becoming a franchisee described above, we could add those of emotional nature. In terms of challenges, we can talk about “fears” and “anxieties” which are often the ones that paralyze us and do not let us make decisions that can lead us to achieve our dreams. What are those common fears? The normal fears of failing, of starting a new business for ourselves, going through the learning curve, fear of not achieving what is expected, among others, but it’s important to know that many franchisees have reported that this venture changed their life for the good and brought to them the following positive aspects:

1. Sense of Accomplishment: Starting a new business, even with the support of a franchise system, can be a significant achievement. For many franchisees, the sense of accomplishment that comes with building a successful business from the ground up is highly rewarding.

2. Built-In Support System: Franchisees benefit from a built-in support system from their franchisor and other franchisees in the system. This support can come in the form of training, ongoing assistance, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs.

3. Opportunity for Growth: Franchising provides an opportunity for franchisees to grow and expand their business. With the

support of the franchisor, franchisees can open multiple locations and continue to build their brand and customer base.

4. Sense of Purpose: Owning a franchise can give franchisees a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By providing products or services that meet the needs of their customers, franchisees can feel like they are making a positive impact in their community.

5. Flexibility and Control: Franchise ownership can offer a degree of flexibility and control that may not be available with other types of businesses. Franchisees can often set their own hours, choose their own employees, and make business decisions that align with their personal and professional goals.

6. Financial Rewards: Finally, franchise ownership can be financially rewarding. While there is always some risk involved in starting a new business, the established brand and business model of a franchise can help increase the chances of success.

In conclusion, while there may be some financial and emotional challenges that come with starting a franchise, it’s important to remember that there are many positive aspects of this business model as well. Franchisees can experience a sense of accomplishment, benefit from a built-in support system, have opportunities for growth, feel a sense of purpose, enjoy flexibility and control, and potentially earn significant financial rewards. With the right mindset and support, franchise ownership can be a highly rewarding and fulfilling experience!

psychologist / CEO of Camp unbeatables franchise

she possesses a Masters degree in Marriage and Family t herapy and she is also certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Life Coach, Wellness and nutrition e xpert and Meditation instructor.

Gabriela brings her vast experience and knowledge working with children and families into her camps, a program that combines Life skills training for children with sports and fun activities.

aBoUt gaby casanas

way Back B ur G ers A nnounc E s r E cordbr EA king s A l E s in 2022

“We are pleased to announce 2022 as a record-breaking year for the Wayback Burgers brand,” stated Patrick Conlin, President of Wayback Burgers. “Our franchisees and team members have continued to excel in making Wayback Burgers the family-friendly destination with superior guest service and delicious, high-quality food. We thank our incredible team members and guests for their continued support and generous contributions. We are confident Wayback Burgers is well positioned for even greater success and strong sales in 2023.”

Nationally, Wayback Burgers awarded 25 new franchise agreements representing 32 locations nationwide. To further enhance operations and guest service, the franchise tested selfordering kiosks in select restaurants. The brand also oversaw 17 remodels, signed 12 leases and opened 10 new locations, expanding its brand footprint to Utah, Arizona, Louisiana and Missouri. Internationally, the brand awarded two master franchise agreements – in the Dominican Republic and Canada – and 5 franchises, in addition to opening 13 restaurants, including its first restaurant in Japan.

Restaurant Franchise Credits Record-Breaking Statistic to Footprint Expansion and Brand Innovation

Wayback Burgers, America’s favorite hometown burger joint and one of the nation’s fastestgrowing burger franchises, today announced 2022 as a record-breaking sales year.

The brand saw a systemwide sales growth of 11.1%, along with a comparable store sales increase of 7.2% in 2022. Sales were bolstered by expansion of the franchise’s footprint, customerexperience enhancements, and overarching brand innovation with popular limited-time only (LTO) menu items like the Oktoberfest Burger, Big Way Burger, fried pickles and S’mores Milkshake.

In addition to sales and expansion, Wayback Burgers continued philanthropic efforts benefitting Boys & Girls Clubs of America, whose mission is to enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Since the national partnership’s 2018 inception, Wayback Burgers has raised over $825,000 for the non-profit organization through a variety of national fundraising events and initiatives. Additionally, Wayback Burgers awarded the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County with a $10,000 prize for winning the annual Boys & Girls Clubs of America Shake Recipe Contest. The winning recipe, the Old-Fashioned Donut Milkshake, was later available as a summer limited time offer nationwide.

In 2023, Wayback Burgers plans to open 15 to 20 restaurants nationwide and roll out exciting new LTO menu items. For more information on Wayback Burgers, please visit WaybackBurgers. com, or visit our social pages on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. For more information about the Wayback Burgers franchise opportunity, visit WaybackBurgers.com/Franchising/.

MARCH 2023

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Expert Advice

t hresholD Bran Ds Closes Out Excellent Year; Home Services Industry Set to Thrive in 2023

t hreshold Brands, the multi-brand franchisor behind fastgrowing home service brands MaidPro, Men in Kilts, Patio Patrol, Pestmaster, UsA insulation, Plumbing Paramedics, Heating + Air Paramedics, sir Grout, and Granite Garage Floors, is establishing itself as a massive player in the burgeoning home services market.

Following a record-breaking year for the home services industry in 2022, t hreshold Brands is now well-positioned to continue its impressive momentum in 2023 and beyond.

“ t his past year has been an exciting time for the t hreshold Brands family,” said r on Bender, chief growth officer. “ t he home services industry is thriving, and the award-winning t hreshold Brands portfolio offers franchisees a clear and proven pathway to success in the space, with the ultimate goal of making their entrepreneurial dreams come true.”

in 2022, t hreshold Brands signed 121 new franchise units across its system, including 33 new Usa insulation locations, 16 new sir g rout locations and 15 new Men in Kilts locations. Existing franchise owners acquired 35 new territories in their original brand or another t hreshold Brand. in addition to franchise growth, the multi-brand company added another brand to its portfolio with g ranite g arage Floors, a franchise company that provides garage floor coatings for residential and commercial customers.

t hreshold Brands has also built out its financial support for franchisees in 2022, offering in-house financing so new owners can invest more in marketing, connecting with financing partners, offering conversion programs and more.

Looking ahead, Bender says t hreshold Brands is ready to keep the momentum strong in 2023, with the goal of building more awareness for the brands under the t hreshold Brands portfolio and continuing to help the right candidates realize their dream of business ownership in a lucrative industry.

t he now m assage Announces Patti Rother As Vice President of Franchise Development To Fuel The Brand’s Next Phase of Growth

t he n OW Massage, a fast-growing franchise disrupting the spa industry with high-quality, affordable massage services in an inspired setting, announced today the appointment of Patti Rother as Vice President of Franchise Development. Rother joins the team with more than 15 years of franchise experience across retail and consumer industries.

Prior to joining t he n OW, r other served as President of Frios g ourmet Pops where she led the company through an extensive rebrand and built support systems to set up existing and future franchisees for success. she has led franchise development and operations for brands like s centhound, Blink Fitness, g arbanzo, n oodles & company, and more. r other is actively involved in the international Franchise a ssociation, serving on the Women’s Franchise committee, the Pride council and as co-chair of the Women’s Franchise n etwork task force.

in 2022, t he n OW opened 17 new boutiques, growing by 74% and bringing the total number of open and operating locations to 40. Looking ahead, the brand hopes to have 100 locations open and operating by 2025, proving that the future is bright for the $18 billion a year massage industry.

“Part of what makes t he n OW special is our incredible group of passionate Franchise Owners,” said g ara Post, co-Founder and chief creative Officer. “We are excited to bring our oasis for relaxation to more cities across the country.”

to learn more about franchising with t he n OW, please visit t he n OWMassage.com/Own-A-Boutique

D1 t raining Announces Largest Deal in Brand History: 12-Units Across Multiple States

D1 training, a leading fitness concept utilizing the five core tenets of athletic-based training to help people of all ages, from youth athletes to fitness-minded adults, achieve their sport and fitness goals – has announced the signing of its largest deal in brand history.

t he fast-growth fitness franchise kicks off 2023 with a 12-unit agreement that will bring new facilities to major metropolitan markets including Minneapolis, tampa, Dallas-Fort Worth, Long island, etc. over the next five years.

t his new agreement kickstarts the brand’s aggressive development goals to award over 100 territories in 2023, bringing D1’s total number of units in development to over 250. t his comes off the heels of a record-breaking 2022, with nearly 90 territories awarded and 23 openings.

Behind the 12-unit agreement are franchisees Jonn s chumacher and shayne Moberg. a s business partners, the duo brings an impressive background in finance and accounting, corporate management, consulting, and building businesses. after

discovering the D1 franchise opportunity from consultant, Liz Leonard of Fran choice broker network, they knew they found something special. With their vast business experience, the two have come together to build a world-class-team to support this venture under Elysium sports and training LLc

For more information on D1 training and franchise opportunities, please visit www.d1franchise.com, call 615-465-0385 or email julie.bauer@d1training.com

zi P s cleaners OPENS NEW LOCATION IN AUSTIN

Zi Ps Cleaners has opened a new location here at 3421 West William Cannon Drive, suite 141, in a space previously occupied by Brodie Lane Dental.

t he new location, operated by multi-unit franchisee Jason Frick, offers the full ZiPs garment care menu – dry cleaning of any item for $3.99, plus pressed laundry, Wash n Fold laundry, alterations and cleaning of comforters and other household items – and provides the same in by 9, out by 5 guarantee for dry cleaning for which ZiPs has become famous nationwide.

t he 1,732-square-foot “drop store” will have an on-site tailor and counter staff who will receive and return items to

customers. items dropped off for dry cleaning or laundering will be processed at a nearby fully equipped ZiPs location.

t he hub-and-spoke arrangement represents an expansion strategy that ZiPs is implementing throughout the country. it allows franchisees to add locations within their existing markets without the larger space or equipment requirements of a full-service plant, while also enabling

them to leverage the equipment and staff they’ve already installed at existing sites. at the same time, the model allows others interested in entering the garment care business to do so with lower upfront and ongoing operating costs.

For more information, contact Director of Business Development Abhi Parikh at aparikh@321zips.com or (717) 495-7995.

B o Dy20 Celebrates 200 Signed Franchise Agreements, and Announces $30 Million Franchise Fund Partnership with Benetrends

BODY20, the category-leading electro-Muscle stimulation (eMs) fitness franchise, announced today it has surpassed 200 signed franchise agreements, which will propel the brand’s growth into 2023 and beyond.

to support its existing and new owners during this period of unprecedented growth, BODY20 is partnering with Benetrends, a trailblazing pioneer for franchise funding solutions, to provide owners with $30 million in proprietary

funding strategies that maximize opportunities and minimize risk.

Benetrends will set up BODY20 franchisees with the support they need to start a successful business, including Benetrends’ comprehensive suite of service solutions and small business funding options.

Franchisees are able to select the funding plan that best fits their specific needs, whether that is a retirement plan or a conventional business loan. Benetrends determined that BODY20 was the ideal choice to become the first designated franchisor to participate in their new funding program, as both companies are passionate about helping small businesses succeed, and believe this partnership to be an avenue for immense growth.

“Benetrends is excited to now provide designated franchisors and their franchisees access to the critical funding needed to expand their current operations or purchase their first franchise,” said r occo Fiorentino, President & cEO of Benetrends, inc. “We’re pleased to award BODY20 $30 million, as they look to meet their future development needs following their recordsetting growth in 2022.”

For more information about BODY20 and to learn about franchising opportunities, visit: https://body20.com/franchise.

Franchise Play B ook, recently announced the launch of its new mobile franchise platform

t he company plans to launch its first franchise brand this April, which will be a home cleaning and restoration franchise. But that is just the beginning, the company plans to grow its portfolio to 10 brands by 2030.

t he company is founded by franchising veteran and entrepreneur Dan claps, cFE. Prior to starting the company, claps spent close to a decade as an accomplished franchise consultant, franchise lead generation expert and co-host of “ t he Franchise Founders Podcast.”

to fuel the company’s growth, Franchise Playbook has hired a roster of franchise experts with five decades of franchising and related experience including Zach n olte (chief Operating Officer), christian Betancourt (chief Marketing Officer) and steve Miller (Franchise Development Director). coupled with industry leading partners, the company is building franchise systems based on operational excellence, technology forward platforms and turnkey solutions based on decades of experience in the industry.

“Franchisees are the true MVPs and we have built a platform where they can thrive and build legacy businesses within a supported ecosystem. We have assembled a team of the brightest minds in franchising to support the success of our franchisees and franchise brands,” said Dan claps, cFE.

Visit franchiseplaybook.com for more information

c aP tain D’s Sails into 2023 with Full Slate of New Restaurants Under Construction

developing restaurant footprints that are well-suited to the increasingly competitive real estate market, and we now have an effective mix of small, medium and no dining room options to provide our franchisees with flexibility and substantial cost savings,” said Brad r eed, chief Development Officer of c aptain D’s.

“Our brand’s forward-thinking real estate strategy, paired with our seafood niche in the fast casual space, has positioned c aptain D’s for accelerated development in 2023.”

Captain D’s has an impressive slate of new locations and development agreements underway in the first half of 2023. t he nation’s leading fast casual seafood restaurant currently has seven restaurants slated to debut early this year and has signed a development agreement with a new franchisee in Cleveland, Ohio.

t he brand’s growth is propelled by market-

smart real estate prototypes, including highly efficient double drive-thrus, smaller footprints and cost-effective conversion opportunities. t hese flexible options are attracting both new and existing multiunit and multi-concept franchisees who are growing with c aptain D’s throughout the s outh, Midwest and Mid-atlantic states.

“c aptain D’s spent the last several years

n ew restaurants already under construction for the coming months include new and existing markets in alabama, g eorgia, tennessee and texas. Future locations will feature c aptain D’s popular Express, 22- and 44-seat designs and a double drive-thru, which boasts shortened wait times and increased efficiency. c aptain D’s is also continuing to successfully convert vacant restaurant properties, with four completed last year and three cost-effective conversions currently underway in g eorgia markets.

For more information about franchise opportunities, visit www.captaindsfranchising.com

Restaurant Group Brings s treet- s i D e aU ntie anne’s and c innaB on locations to Northern Sacramento

Focus Brands, the parent company of Auntie Anne’s®, Carvel®, Cinnabon®, Jamba®, McAlister’s Deli®, Moe’s s outhwest Grill®, and s chlotzsky’s®, recently opened the company’s first-ever s acramento area street-side dual-brand Auntie Anne’s + Cinnabon location.

trifecta, the restaurant group responsible for this achievement, recently signed a 3-unit deal with Focus Brands to open two auntie anne’s + cinnabon dual-brand locations and one cinnabon location in n orthern c alifornia.

BR ieF:

• The first dual-brand streetside location opened in December 2022 at 10065 Bruceville r oad in n orthern s acramento. t he next location will open at 7775 stockton Blvd in Q2 of this year.

• Alongside the dual-brand locations, trifecta will bring cinnabon to 8023 Orchard Loop in Q2 of this year.

• Trifecta would like to grow their portfolio with Focus Brands with the goal of owning and operating 50 units in the next 5 years.

o r estaurant operator group that owns nine full-service restaurants

• Focus Brands is focused on bringing its specialty brands to more and more streetside locations, especially in dual brand formats.

Quote: “ t he group was looking to expand our portfolio and found we aligned with Focus Brand’s products. With the massive support from the corporate team and the growth possibilities with dual-branding concepts, opening s acramento’s first

streetside auntie anne’s + cinnabon will support the growth and success of our portfolio,” said Ben s eabury.

Findin G a Franchise To MaTch your Bud G e T

local outlet and speaking to the manager may help franchise-seekers get in touch with the outlet’s franchisor. Franchise handbooks can be found online or at libraries. Entrepreneurs who prefer meeting company representatives in person can attend franchising expos and conventions to meet franchisors seeking new members. Some prospects may need a bit more direct assistance. For them, enlisting the services of a franchise broker may be the best option.

www.afranchisecoach.com

entrepreneurism is on the rise. With the COViD-19 pandemic pushing many to work remotely, people are finding they prefer working outside of an office environment. some companies are downsizing, while others are insisting their staff come back to the office now that building occupation restrictions have been lifted.

The result is more and more people are deciding to take the leap and open their own business, and one of the best ways to do so for a beginner is opening a franchise. However, as a franchise coach, I advise those looking to become franchisees to do their homework before signing. A big part of that research is finding a franchise that fits their price range.

There are several factors that determine the cost of a franchise and the net worth of a potential franchisee. A franchise may look like a great business idea, and might be one, but more than one interested buyer has taken a look at the initial expenses of opening a given franchise and come down with a case of sticker shock. Various factors go into a franchise’s initial business costs, such as buying or constructing a new building, getting supplies and equipment, and paying rent on a property. Prospects should make sure to check Item 7 on a company’s franchise disclosure document

(FDD) to find out the total estimated initial investment. If that item has an investment range, it’s best to presume the cost will be at the higher end.

The starting cost is only part of the expenses to consider. Before the purchase is made, franchisees should consider the operational cash flow requirement. This is the amount of money a franchise location needs until it starts to turn a profit. Most franchises need time to build up their customer base and business activity, so it’s important to have the money to tide them over and pay for recurring expenses, like employee wages, license renewals, restocking supplies and/or merchandise. In addition to business costs, potential franchisees should also factor in their own needs and expenses. How much money the owner will make is a big part of why that person invests in a franchise. If the franchise isn’t going to pay for the owner’s expenses, then it’s not going to suffice. Finally, financing options are important. Since most people don’t have franchise startup funds in their back pocket, many need some form of financing. Fortunately, the same financing sources that were available prior to the COVID-19 pandemic are still available. A franchisee should investigate what financing options are available, including asking franchisors if they offer financing assistance. Knowing where to look for franchise opportunities is also important. Visiting a

Having genuine enthusiasm and interest in the products and/or services a franchise provides is an important ingredient in helping determine the best choice. An industry may have several different kinds of franchises in them with differing initial investment amounts. For example, the cleaning industry encompasses different types of residential cleaning, commercial cleaning, and exterior and interior cleaning. A residential window washing franchise is likely to be cheaper than a commercial full-building cleaning service, so there’s a good chance of finding a franchise to fit a given budget in any industry.

As circumstances change, so can the costs and popularity of businesses. For example, with the COVID-19 pandemic, many dine-in restaurants have had a very hard time staying in business. Meanwhile, quick-service restaurants (QSRs) that have take-out or drive-thru service have not only survived, but some have grown. This means franchises that were once highly profitable now may take longer to start turning a profit, while others may experience a boom that sees remarkable growth. Franchise prospects should consider market trends to have a good idea of which franchises have the best chance of making back their starting costs and covering their regular expenses.

There are franchises to fit many different budgets in many different industries. The smart entrepreneur should carefully consider their financial means and needs, as well as the potential income and costs of each franchise they look at, both the starting costs and ongoing ones. Weighing the options and making an informed choice will help pair the right franchisor with the right franchisee.

rick Bisio is one of the country’s most respected franchise coaches and author of the Amazon best seller, The Educated Franchise – 3rd Edition. Since becoming A Franchise Coach in 2002, Bisio has assisted thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide helping them explore the dream of business ownership.

using market research, here are some various types of franchises and their average initial costs:

• Up to $24,999 – Cruise/vacation planners, fitness training, commercial interior cleaning.

• $25,000 - $49,999 – College planning and application advisor, grill cleaning, estate liquidator, home inspection.

• $50,000 - $74,999 – Window covering, disinfection service, pet sitting/dog walking, wood refinishing, senior relocation service, carpet/upholstery cleaning, lawn care.

• $75,000 - $99,999 – restaurant staffing agency, certified lab testing, swimming instruction, building screen service.

• $100,000 - $249,999 – Home medical care, boutique fitness studio, body waxing service.

husbAnd-And-Wife te A m ins Pire better: HoW StACEY AND M Aur ICE Pug H BECAME t ro PICAl

S M oot HIE C AFE MVP S

stacey and Maurice Pugh are proud tropical smoothie Cafe owners in Charlotte, nC. Having been married for 33 years with two adult children, and both leading successful careers in their respective industries, the couple’s dive into franchising was unexpected.

So, how did they get to where they are today?

Prior to joining Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Stacey held top-level roles in project management within the science and technology industries. Meanwhile, her husband, Maurice, worked for large-scale databases. The husband-and-wife duo’s previous work experience in their fields gave them a well-rounded perspective on business operations from all fronts, but

they still were looking for ways to be more involved in their community.

It wasn’t until the height of the pandemic in 2020 when the Pugh’s really took notice of Tropical Smoothie Cafe. As businesses everywhere began shutting down, the Tropical Smoothie Cafe location near their house seemed inexplicably busier than ever. Day in and day out, the Pugh’s saw that the drive-thru always had a line, and it was one of the only places that wasn’t at risk of closing its doors permanently.

With this in mind, Stacey and Maurice saw an opportunity they could pursue as a family. The Pugh’s knew they wanted to seek out a business venture that both them and their two children would have a hand in, so they began the research process. After brainstorming, writing lists, and crafting vision boards, each family member had Tropical Smoothie Cafe as one of their top contenders in the franchise space.

The Pugh family connected with the Tropical Smoothie Cafe support center, and within months they had plans to develop their own location.

“Those early stages of getting our location up-and-running were filled with so much support from the Tropical Smoothie Cafe team, and that’s when we knew we made the right choice,” said Stacey. “The whole process was so seamless, from real estate selection to construction, to opening our doors and even being honored with the official title of the brand’s 1,100th location.”

The Pugh family’s location opened up in Charlotte in the summer of 2022, with a grand opening fit for all ages –featuring a ribbon cutting, face painting, commemorative t-shirts and an on-site DJ. The family also utilized their grand opening day to officially kick off their community giveback efforts, with a check donated to a local chapter of No Kid Hungry, an organization committed to reducing childhood hunger and a national partner of Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

In the eight months since opening their Charlotte location, the Pugh family has kept their promise to improve their community in every way they can—

• They provided lunch for women in transition at the Women’s Resource Center in the Greensboro area.

• They ignited a Health Initiative, providing free yoga classes with certified instructors every Saturday.

• Their location partnered with the Salvation Army for the Magical Toy Drive Telethon, paying out-of-pocket to provide toys for children in need.

• They have also gifted coupons for 95 smoothies to a local elementary school

for holiday stocking stuffers, and have donated gift cards and merchandise to the Charlotte Chapter of Jack & Jill of America all in support of children in the community.

• They’re actively donating coupons to gift free smoothies to over 70 young women who are participating in career coaching programs, just next door to their Charlotte cafe.

“We are a very tight, close-knit family,” said Stacey. “Part of that closeness means we want to be the family that people in our

community can go to when they’re in need. We care very deeply about the success of young people in the Charlotte community, and opening a Tropical Smoothie Cafe location has allowed us to contribute to their development. It’s truly been a priceless gift in our lives.”

The Pugh family’s Tropical Smoothie Cafe location has now become such a pillar in the Charlotte community, and the family attributes this fully to their tight-knit relationship and commitment to serving the community.

“ Those early stages of getting our location upand-running were filled with so much support from the Tropical Smoothie Cafe team, and that’s when we knew we made the right choice.”

“ We are a very tight, close-knit family, part of that closeness means we want to be the family that people in our community can go to when they’re in need.”

h ow To i nvesT in a Franchise on a Bud G e T

investing in a franchise can be a great way to start your own business and, in some cases, how to start a business on a budget.

If you’re looking for a franchise in your price range, here are some tips to help you find the right opportunity.

1Determine your budget

The first step in finding a franchise in your price range is to determine your budget. Consider how much money you have available for the initial investment, as well as ongoing costs such as royalty fees and marketing expenses. Be realistic about your financial situation and don’t overextend yourself.

chris conner has worked in the franchise development industry for almost 20 years and helped over 600 brands franchise their brand and develop franchise distribution channels. He founded Franchise Marketing Systems in 2009, which now includes a team of 27 franchise consultants based in and Canada and supports brands around the world to grow and scale through franchise expansion. visit www.fmsfranchise.com for more information

After all, the idea of the franchise model is that the franchisor should have figured out the most efficient way for you to open and start your new business because they’ve developed the blueprint for success, right!? Franchises offer the benefits of an established brand, proven business model, and support from the franchisor. However, the initial investment required to start a franchise can be high.

Keep in mind that there are many financing options for you to invest in a new franchise business, in most cases, you will need about 20-30% of the total investment in cash, with good credit and some assets, you can finance the rest of your new franchise investment.

2research franchise opportunities

Once you’ve determined your budget, research franchise opportunities that fit within your price range. You can use online resources such as Franchise Conduit (www.FranchiseConduit.com ) or Franchise

Courier (http://www.thefranchisecourier. com/) to search for franchises by industry or investment level. Look for franchises that offer a strong return on investment and have a track record of success.

3consider the industry and market potential for the franchises you are considering

When choosing a franchise, consider the industry and whether it is a good fit for your skills and interests. Look for industries that are growing and have a high demand for the products or services offered by the franchise. Keep in mind that some industries may require a higher initial investment than others. Here are some ideas we like that are more reasonable investments and offer great upside opportunity:

Planta Rx CBD

https://plantarxfranchise.com/

Red Carpet Rocks Franchise

https://www.redcarpetrocks.com/

Keystone Fireworks

https://keystonefireworks.com/

4look for financing options

If your budget is limited, consider financing options such as Small Business Administration (SBA) loans or franchisor financing. Many franchisors offer financing to help franchisees get started, and the SBA offers loans specifically for small businesses. You can also explore traditional financing options such as bank loans or lines of credit.

5attend franchise expos and events

Franchise expos and events are a great way to learn about different franchise opportunities and meet with franchisors. At these events, you can talk to franchisors and other franchisees to learn about the business and ask questions. You may also be able to take advantage of special deals or discounts offered at the event.

Here are shows and events that FMS Franchise will be exhibiting: https://www.fmsfranchise.com/event/

6work with a franchise consultant

Working with a franchise consultant can help you find the right franchise opportunity for your budget and goals. A consultant can provide guidance and advice throughout the process, from identifying potential franchises to negotiating the franchise agreement. They can also help you understand the costs and risks associated with franchising. Here is an option we would recommend – Strategic Franchise Brokers – www. StrategicFranchiseBrokers.com

7talk to existing franchisees

Talking to existing franchisees can give you insight into the business and help you make an informed decision. Ask franchisors for a list of current and former

franchisees and contact them to learn about their experiences. You can ask about the initial investment, ongoing costs, and the support they received from the franchisor.

In conclusion, finding a franchise in your price range requires careful research and consideration. By determining your budget, researching opportunities, considering the industry, and exploring financing options, you can find a franchise that fits your budget and your goals. Remember to work with a consultant and talk to existing franchisees to make an informed decision. With the right franchise, you can start your own business and achieve financial success…. while on a budget!

For more information on how to choose the right franchise, or how to Franchise Your Business, contact FMS Franchise: www.FMSFranchise.com

i cryo a nnounces par T nership with t h E r A p E utic mA nufActur E r, btl

iCRYO, the fast-growing recovery and wellness brand that focuses on a series of health-related recovery services that target pain management, beauty & anti-aging, athletic recovery and overall wellness, has announced its synergistic partnership with one of the world’s major medical and aesthetic equipment manufacturers, BtL industries, for a multi-year contract.

The partnership will allow iCRYO to continue to innovate and expand its

capabilities to its fast-growing number of franchises across the United States.

BTL Industries is one of the largest health and wellness manufacturers in the world when it comes to body radiofrequency and muscle contouring medical devices. The main focus of the brand’s innovation has been on non-invasive solutions to body shaping, muscle, skin tightening and other medical aesthetic treatments. Additionally, BTL has a key focus on health and wellness, with core competencies in both muscles and aesthetics, products backed by industry-leading clinical research, and a strong commitment to innovation with numerous patents and first-of-their-kind devices.

With more services being tested, iCRYO’s synergistic partnership with BTL is focused on the new non-invasive body

shaping procedure, Emsculpt NEO®, as well as other devices in the BTL product line. BTL’s patented muscle-toning technology introduced an entirely new category to the aesthetic and wellness industries. Emsculpt NEO® combines HIFEM® and radiofrequency technology to tone muscle and break down fat in a 30-minute session. A series of Emsculpt NEO® treatments provides on average 30% less fat and 25% more muscle.

“As we continue to expand across the nation, this partnership has paved the way for iCRYO to offer the most innovative technology available for our Guests.” stated Kyle Jones, Chief Innovation and Branding Officer of iCRYO.

David Chmel, CEO of BTL North America, explained that BTL’s Emsculpt NEO® has been a clear innovation leader

Recovery and Wellness Franchise to Work with Body Shaping Industry Leader to Expand Capabilities

in the non-invasive body-shaping and wellness market. “We are excited about our partnership with iCRYO and our combined commitment to health and wellness improving patients’ lives.”

“Truly a solid synergistic partnership all around.” stated Chuck Tripi – BTL Director U.S. Strategic Accounts.

Recently announcing the addition of Medical Ozone Ultraviolet Intravenous Therapy (Ozone UV IV Therapy) and NAD+ Intramuscular shots to its core services, iCRYO recognizes the importance of capitalizing on relevant trends. Each of these services are meant to complement the existing offerings, and provide a more customized and effective approach for guest needs.

Currently, their franchise model is over 200 locations awarded with a plan to build over 1,000 locations in several different countries.

aBoUt icryo

Headquartered in Houston, t X, iCRYO is setting the standard for Cryotherapy nationwide. As the leading franchise in the industry, iCRYO is an affordable, convenient and professional Cryotherapy franchise that offers Cryotherapy and a hybrid of other wellness services to the communities in which they are located. iCRYO offers a turnkey franchise system for Cryotherapy business owners. Whether it be a retail location or an addition to a gym or existing business, iCRYO has the systems and comprehensive training in place to provide safe Cryotherapy across the globe. t heir mission is to elevate the lifestyle of their team members and guests while raising the bar in the health and wellness market.

To learn more, visit www.icryo.com.

aBoUt Btl

BtL’s Worldwide Headquarters in located in Prague, Czech Republic with U. s. Headquarters in Marlborough, MA. Founded in 1993, BtL has gronw to become one of the world’s major manufacturers of medical and aesthetic equipment. With over 3,000 employees located in more than 75 countries, BtL has revolutionized non-invasive solutions for body shaping, muscle building, skin tightening & other medical aesthetic treatments, including women’s intimate health and wellness. BtL’s brands include eMsCULP t neO®, eMFACe®, eMsCULP t ®, eMseLLA®, eMFeMMe 360®, eMtOne®, e xilis ULtRA®.

To learn more, visit www.bodybybtl.com.

“ As we continue to expand across the nation, this partnership has paved the way for iCRYO to offer the most innovative technology available for our Guests.

ADvIce: Evan Hackel | Founder and CEO of Ingage Consulting, and CEO of Tortal Training

“ If you are going to invest most of your own savings in your franchise, how much do you have to invest?”

n e t Wo rk le Ad e xC h An G e: mAkin G A lo CAl i m PAC t

network e xchange (nLX), the premier flexible business networking organization, helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses by building connections locally and is part of a nationwide network. nLX encourages members to share the power of its business model with local non-profit organizations, giving them a more visible profile and a stronger platform for connecting with local businesses and seeking support.

It’s an innovative model that brings professionals together to help each other grow their businesses. NLX offers the best

features of traditional networking updated for today’s fast-moving, tech-oriented business environment. Members use its proprietary online platform to exchange leads, referrals, and commissions, and each chapter has the flexibility to develop meeting schedules as well as its own individual style and mission to provide a unique local networking experience that is powered and backed by NLX’s system and values. In addition, each chapter is limited to a single business from any industry, which maximizes the benefits by restricting competition.

Dozens of chapters comprise the NLX network, drawn by its relatively low investment cost, proprietary technology and wealth of resources from membership in the United Franchise Group™ (UFG) family of affiliated brands and consultants. Brands benefit from the resources and

expertise UFG has developed over three decades in the franchise industry and can call on each other for support and help. NLX also operates within UFG’s Starpoint Brands™, a constellation of trusted companies representing the very best in their industries.

“Of all the advantages an NLX chapter offers, I think one of the strongest is the connection it helps businesses build to their local community,” says Austin Titus, President of NLX. “Our franchise owners and their members thrive by connecting each other to local customers – that’s what business is all about.”

A critical connection can be forged by including non-profit organizations, enabling chapters to give back to their communities. NLX allows its franchise owners to offer non-profit memberships at half the standard fee, using a charity

promo code it provides. Like other chapter members, the organization gets an exclusive seat in the chapter; no other organizations from the non-profit sphere may join.

“It’s important to us that the community sees an NLX chapter working side-byside with a local non-profit organization, supporting efforts to meet local needs,” Titus says. “We think this charitable component adds great value to a chapter and makes it an even better investment for a business looking to expand its portfolio.” NLX membership has even more tangible payoffs for the non-profit member than visibility and connections. Just as forprofit businesses gain revenue from their affiliation with NLX, so do the non-profits. In addition, fellow NLX members often provide financial support and volunteer assistance.

A prime example of this is NLX’s Two Rivers chapter in Holmdel, New Jersey. Its 12 members include the RAINE Foundation, which helps children and families in crisis; its name stands for Reaching All In Need Everyday. Based in Hazlet, New Jersey, it provides food, clothing, toys, and general assistance during the holidays while operating a crisis hotline and serving families in need throughout the year.

The Two Rivers chapter is part of RAINE’s “army of volunteers,” helping to raise funds and support in several ways. For example, the chapter is sponsoring a table at RAINE’s upcoming Spring Gala, and members help on the ground at RAINE events like Thanksgiving and Christmas projects.

Two Rivers was established in 2022 by local business owner George Lechner as a complement to his company, Coastal Air Conditioning which he founded in 1996. He recently offered the non-profit seat of his NLX chapter to RAINE and paid its entire membership in full rather than providing the 50% NLX discount.

It’s just the latest of many non-profit groups Lechner has helped over the years; he has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for various local causes.

“I’ve lived in New Jersey for sixty-four years. It’s my home, and it’s important to me to help make it better,” Lechner says. “At Coastal Air Conditioning, we like to say we’re a ‘values-first company,’ and one of my personal values is to take care of my friends and neighbors and make it possible for others to do so. So the fact that NLX also cares about making an impact in a very practical way was a big factor in my choosing NLX when I was looking for a new business investment.”

Both non-profit and for-profit members get the benefit of a global brand that has been helping to grow businesses since 2018. NLX is an outgrowth of UFG, which has its origins in the founding of UFG’s Signarama franchise brand in 1986.

“We’re very proud of the growth of our chapters and the businesses that keep them moving forward, and I think our non-profit initiative is a big part of that,” Titus says. “But it’s much bigger than a business driver. Our members are very community minded and understand the importance of raising the community up so that it’s a better place for themselves, their employees and their customers to live and work. And in the end, isn’t that what business is all about?”

To learn more about membership, chapter locations and franchise opportunities with Network Lead Exchange, visit www. networkleadexchange.com.

h o W to k no W if you C An Afford A fr An C

it is a major question for anyone, regardless of the brand they’re considering investing. Buying a franchise is a major purchase and the risk of being unsuccessful is always there. However, those that are ready for the challenge have a great chance at growing their business and their bottom line.

The success of a franchisee can be determined by multiple things: work ethic, personality, and skill set to start. But obviously a critical component needed to purchase a franchise and make it successful is money. When looking at various franchise opportunities, it’s important to have the capital needed to start the business and keep it running in its infancy. I would estimate that a large majority of franchisees who fail within

the first 12 months of business were sorely undercapitalized.

So, how do you know if you can afford a franchise? As Senior Director of Franchise Development for HomeVestors, a real estate franchise company, I can say there are a few things needed to carefully consider before signing the dotted line with any brand.

First and foremost, you should review the brand’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) with a franchise attorney. This document will carefully outline all of the potential investment costs associated with your pending venture. It is important to review the entire document. The FDD contains sections about costs, fees, and other monetary considerations, including but not limited to the following:

• Item 5: Here is where you’ll learn about the initial franchise fees. These need to be paid upfront before you can begin

the process of opening your franchise location and training.

• Item 6: In addition to the initial franchise fee, franchisees are expected to pay ongoing royalties, advertising fees and other various fees. These essentially pay for the support they will receive from the franchisor throughout the life of your agreement. These also help fund any advertising campaigns the franchisor is executing to increase brand awareness and business generation.

Adam Benshoof is the Senior Director of Franchise Development with HomeVestors, the nation’s largest professional house buying franchise.

hise

“ how much will it cost me?”

• Item 7: This section provides prospective franchisees with the total investment range along with an itemized list of where the funds are allocated. Included in this range are costs associated with initial training, lodging, and travel.

• Item 19: Lastly, franchisees should see if the franchisor has an Item 19 listed in their FDD. Also known as Financial Performance Representations, this item can give a prospect an idea of sales, income, or profits being generated by franchisees in the system. Reviewing this section provides greater clarity about the overall health of the system.

As you begin connecting with various franchisors about their opportunities, you’ll likely be invited to a series of calls, including an FDD review call, where many of these details will be discussed and where you can ask questions about anything in the FDD. During this education process, you’ll also be asked about your current financial situation, so be prepared to disclose your net worth and liquidity. If you’re uncomfortable with sharing that information due to lack of funds, communicate that with the brand’s representative and they can walk you through your options.

If you’re someone who is set on starting their own business through franchising, but are concerned about the startup costs, I do have some advice for you. To start, it’s important to note that regardless of the brand, new franchisees must be prepared for the possibility of not making income at the start of their operations. All franchise prospects should prepare to have funds that cover the first three, six, or nine months of starting their business (sometimes more), in addition to the initial investment range as communicated by the franchisor in the FDD.

Franchise prospects should not just focus on the lower number when looking at the initial investment range. As someone who works for a franchisor, we always hope people can start their businesses for less than the top of the investment range, but due to various factors, that may not happen. I always say it’s good business practice to hope for the best but plan for the worst. However, it is worth mentioning that there are several different franchise types in the industry – many with affordable startup costs. With the world becoming increasingly more comfortable with working from home, there are business opportunities that can be run right from your house or home office. When you don’t have to purchase or rent an office space, it’s possible to save quite a bit of money as you’re first starting out.

Some franchises offer investors multiple ways to build their businesses – whether in a part-time or full-time capacity – based on what works best for them and their current situation. Part-time franchise opportunities often times allow you to continue working at your job or even pursue other ventures. When starting a business money is always going to be vital. However, there are boundless opportunities to join a franchise that is within your price range. Be sure to prepare yourself before you start to have conversations with different brands. Knowing how much cash you have available will make selecting the right franchise opportunity much easier for you.

a naG o cLeanin G s ys T e M s o F uTah

Commercial cleaning is in high demand and Anago’s Dave Bonnemort is a leader among the pack. His decision to purchase an Anago Cleaning Master Franchise territory was based on the type of business he was looking to purchase. He wanted a franchise in the B2B space with recurring revenue, multiple income streams, large growth opportunities, and a manageable working schedule with limited nights and weekends.

What he found was that Anago Cleaning Systems shines in these areas and he and his family have been very happy with this decision to purchase this franchise.

Bonnemort says, “Utah is a very entrepreneurial state and there is a lot of growth happening here, which creates the need for many services. As they say, ‘a rising tide lifts all boats’ and, as Utah continues to grow, it is creating many new opportunities for small business owners to better their lives while providing a muchneeded service in our local communities. We have been able to help several franchise owners both start their first business and grow it to the point where they could leave their daytime job to pursue their business full-time.”

Commercial cleaning, specifically Anago Cleaning Systems, has been consistently awarded as a “Top Recession-Resistant Franchise.” Today this is vitally important as businesses continue to struggle in an unpredictable economy and tight labor market. What Anago has proven time and again is that right now is a great time to get into the commercial cleaning space and take a chance on yourself. Anago supports and coaches franchise owners to learn the business, how to properly clean and disinfect different commercial facilities, provide five-star customer service, and find accounts to grow their business.

“Several franchise owners have left low-paying jobs at large big box stores and increased their take-home pay substantially. Many have said that for the first time, they have money each month to start saving for a rainy day, continued investment and growth in their business, among a myriad of other goals they have for themselves and their family. It’s very rewarding to see these types of results,” added Bonnemort.

One of Anago’s resounding threads through many of its Master Franchise owners is how the franchise system is designed to help small business owners achieve the American Dream by owning their own business – whether that is part or full-time.

Mr. Bonnemort is currently the Master Franchise Owner and Regional Director of Anago of Utah. In his current role, he helps franchisees build successful commercial cleaning businesses while ensuring clients receive best-in-class cleaning. Additionally, he is a trusted commercial cleaning advisor to clients large and small spanning many industries.

pickin G T he r i G h T privaT e e qui T y par T ner

the influx of private equity into the world of franchising is expected to continue in 2023 as many franchisors seek to differentiate and win in their respective segments, while also navigating through the investments needed to scale.

As the involvement of PE groups in the franchise industry increases, it can be hard for companies to identify whether or not an outside investment is the right next step for them.

For franchisors, it’s important to clearly understand the goals in partnering with private equity. Is it just a quest for capital, or is there a need for specific expertise?

Evaluation criteria allow the brand to select a relationship that will be a good fit for the brand.

At 10 Point Capital, we want to spend significant time getting to know the founder (and their management team where relevant) before any investment conversations. We seek to understand the founder’s goal for their brand and what

they would regard as a successful outcome for the brand and the investment. Other areas we like to explore are the length of the investment, what success looks like, how key decisions will be made, and who specifically will be working on the deal post-close. Simultaneously, we want them to have the opportunity to learn what it’s like to work with us and encourage founders to talk to our other portfolio companies.

values alignment

When looking to secure interest from a private equity investor, a franchisor needs to have a clear understanding of their company culture, as well as the core values that drive the brand. It’s important to understand if the private equity team will share and embrace these values.

One of the most important aspects of taking on an equity partner as a founderled concept is recognizing that you will give up a significant amount of control. This can be hard for entrepreneurs who are used to being the sole decision makers. Typically, equity investors will want a say in important decisions.

Another aspect to consider is how involved the private equity firm likes to be with their investments. Some firms make multiple investments and predominately interact with the company via periodic reporting and quarterly board meetings. Other firms, like 10 Point Capital, work with fewer companies at a time – but are closer in terms of providing expertise or guidance on operating decisions e.g., vendor selection or leadership team hiring.

Our goal with all of the companies within our portfolio is to find partners with whom we can build a long-term relationship and work to achieve new milestones together over time. For example, two of our concepts, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux and Slim Chickens are celebrating their 20th anniversary in business in 2023! For our team, it’s incredibly rewarding to be able to be a part of the brand’s journey, knowing that it has required an immense amount of trust, collaboration and appreciation of the value that both parties brought to the table along the way.

measures of success

Once a franchisor has determined if a PE

group is a fit for the brand, they must align on how they will measure progress towards goals, and ultimately the success of the investment.

Oftentimes, these measures of success will come up as part of the initial discussions between the PE firm and the franchisor. From private equity’s perspective, strong unit economics are critical to the growth outlook. Metrics such as same-store sales growth, store level margins and the payback period for investment are all indicators of how attractive an investment is to current and potential franchisees.

To achieve the goals set for our portfolio concepts, we work with key leadership at brands on accelerating the concept’s development through the implementation of what we call the “Franchise Acceleration Plan.” The three-pronged plan considers strategic planning of where the brand wants to grow and how the brand will share its story with potential franchisees, as well as what is needed to ensure operators can open locations quickly and effectively.

timing of the investment

For franchisors, pinpointing the right time in a brand’s lifecycle to bring on private equity partners can also make or break the relationship. There are several aspects of the business that we see as underdeveloped when we start looking at a franchise concept, including legal and accounting counsel, unit economics, brand differentiation and the franchisee to franchisor dynamic.

Before taking on outside capital, it is crucial that franchisors cultivate strong relationships with their franchisees. The influx of new capital into a business, along with the existing relationships PE firms may have with outside vendors, can be beneficial to streamlining and improving the customer experience for a franchise business. However, this transitional period may appear daunting to existing owners within the system who are focused on providing an exceptional experience for their consumers. Franchisors who foster open and transparent dialogue with their franchise owners before, during and after

the private equity investment are better able to address challenges and anxieties as they arise.

Assuming that the unit economics mentioned above work, private equity groups are looking for brands that have a passionate customer base and are uniquely differentiated from other companies in their segments. For example, our investments in the restaurant industry typically have strong consumer tailwinds, a perspective on the role of technology and deliver clear guest value. Our most recent investment, Smalls Sliders, fits this criterion by tapping into the limited-menu trend in the QSR category and a cult-like following among key consumers such as Millennials and Gen Z.

motivation for Partnership

Finally, franchisors must ask themselves, “What am I looking to get out of a private equity investment?”

Oftentimes, the founder or management team of the franchise firmly believe in the prospects for their brand and want to be an integral part of its growth. In this case, a private equity partnership allows the franchisor to gain access to needed capital, as well as expertise and guidance from

PE partners who have experience growing multiple concepts.

10 Point Capital’s deal discipline includes a comprehensive due diligence process that ensures we are only working with a small number of the most promising emergent franchise brands. Given our small portfolio and experienced team, we are able to offer a focused, individualized approach that allows us to provide extensive time and support both to franchisors and franchisees.

In other instances, the founders are ready to retire or there is already private equity investment and a need to formulate an exit plan. The capital firm is brought in to infuse new resources into the business and, ultimately, to prepare it to be sold to new ownership.

Private equity involvement is not for every business, but creating and sticking to a criterion that works for a specific franchisor’s business can help them to choose the right fit when the opportunity arises.

If you do plan to move forward with an investment, it’s crucial to ensure that your franchise and your franchise network is on board and ready for these changes.

Morven Groves has spent over 15 years investing and advising in travel and hospitality businesses, with 10 years focused on franchising. She is passionate about growing brands, in the right markets, with the right partners.

Morven works closely with the management teams of 10 Point Capital’s portfolio companies, to help them set strategy, and execute on growth goals.

sTar T in G a Business in Face o F an u ncer Tain e cono M ic o u TLook

Franchise Opportunities such as Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill offer Unique Advantages

the restaurant industry is a competitive field that requires an innovative approach to stand out from the competition. Many people dream of opening their own restaurant, but starting a business from scratch can be challenging.

Franchise opportunities offer an excellent solution for those who want to launch their own restaurant businesses with the benefits of established proven processes, franchise support, brand name recognition, buying power and training.

Starting a franchise during a recession can be a daunting prospect for many entrepreneurs. However, franchising has proven to be a resilient business model during economic downturns. According to a report1 by the International Franchise Association, franchise businesses have a lower rate of failure than independent businesses during economic downturns.

The report attributes this to the established business practices, systems, sales and management techniques of franchises, which help them to withstand economic uncertainty.

Franchisors are also likely to provide additional support during challenging times to help their franchisees weather the storm. For those looking to start a restaurant business in a recession, franchising with an established brand like Ori’Zaba’s can provide the stability, support and proven success necessary to achieve long-term growth and profitability.

Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill has experienced significant growth since its inception in 2001. Moreover, the franchise has a mature business practice, systems, sales and management techniques, which help franchisees to succeed.

Ori’Zaba’s has become a popular destination for fresh, fast and delicious Mexican cuisine, making it an excellent investment opportunity for entrepreneurs. The franchise offers a recession-resistant

product and has seen an increase in revenue since the pandemic. In fact, the menu is budget friendly for consumers including offering varied sizes with matching prices to let the consumer decide what they want to spend which many competitors do not do.

According to a widely-cited post2 by President of Franchise Operations Keith Gerson over at FranConnect, 33 percent of franchisors anticipate a sales increase of 1 to 5 percent in 2023. Another significant portion expects a 6 to 10 percent revenue bump in 2023, with 30 percent of franchisees envisioning a successful year for their businesses. Over one-fifth believe their franchisees’ revenues will jump by 11 percent or more, and only 6 percent overall anticipate negative growth that ranges between 1 and 10 percent. These promising statistics demonstrate that franchise owners are ready to explore new opportunities and grow their businesses in the upcoming year.

why choose a Franchise opportunity?

Franchises offer several advantages over independent restaurants, including brand recognition, support from the franchisor

and economies of scale. For instance, a franchisee benefits from the franchisor’s established infrastructure, tested sales methods, management techniques, and vendor partnerships to secure optimal product quality at a cost-effective rate. Additionally, franchisees may be able to work with the SBA’s loan programs that are designed to help launch or expand new businesses.

With these resources and supplemental training, both hands-on and online, franchise owners are supported every step of the way. Ori’Zaba’s is an excellent example of a franchise that provides extensive support to its franchisees to reach their full potential. From the start, franchise owners get access to established infrastructure and tested methods for sales, management and more.

“Our goal is to position franchise owners for success while solidifying our brand, reputation and loyalty. We offer support and training every step of the way. Our restaurants have consistent stability. Our successful business strategy can lead to a great ROI for investors,” said President of Ori’Zaba’s Jennifer Howell.

Franchise owners get access to hands-on and online supplemental training and

the freedom to be their own boss. This is a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to launch their own businesses while also taking advantage of the established infrastructure already in place.

Franchising with ori’zaba’s With promising statistics demonstrating that franchise owners are ready to explore new opportunities and grow their businesses in 2023, it’s an exciting time to become a part of the Ori’Zaba’s franchise family according to their franchisees.

Franchise Business Partner May Masoli added, “Many of our franchisees have joined the Ori’Zaba’s franchise based on the support and resources provided. Our continuous hands-on coaching has been invaluable in helping launch new locations and grow the franchisees’ businesses. The quality of the brand and proven business model give them the tools for their teams to grow the businesses.”

The 22-year-old established Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill is an ideal opportunity, experiencing significant growth since its inception in 2001. The franchise is committed to providing its franchisees with everything they need to succeed. With extensive support and training, both hands-on and online,

franchise owners are supported every step of the way. The franchise’s success can be attributed to its commitment to quality, consistency and customer satisfaction, making it an excellent investment opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to break into the restaurant industry.

“Some of our franchisees look at owning an Ori’Zaba’s franchise as a good investment opportunity to add to their portfolio,” explained Howell. To learn more about franchising opportunities with Ori’Zaba’s, email franchise@zabas.com or visit https:// zabas.com/franchising.

aBoUt ori’zaba’s

Ori’Zaba’s is a fast casual Mexican restaurant chain whose mission is to feed the soul of every guest with old world Mexican flavors, made every day with care in our scratch kitchens, with the finest, freshest ingredients.

Originating in Las Vegas in 2001, Ori’Zaba’s multiple locations can now be found in nevada, texas and Michigan.

To learn more, visit https://zabas.com/franchising

1https://www.franchise.org/media-center/press-releases/newinternational-franchise-association-report-shows-inflation-is

2https://blog.franconnect.com/recession-predictions-forfranchising-in-2023

h ow Franchises c an w in in 2023

From integrating digital strategies to optimizing marketing efforts, many franchises have found ways to leverage their strengths and create efficiencies amid the challenges in recent years.

Franchisees of The UPS Store network, for instance, have been leaning into their prior experiences from their backgrounds in diverse industries to thrive in their small-business endeavors. They grew more attuned to the increasing needs of small business owners and other customers during the pandemic and have since been finding ways to enhance services to help keep small businesses in their communities running.

To help our franchise owners adapt to the fast-changing business environment, The UPS Store continued to focus on technological innovations and employ best practices in enhancing customer experience. Earning a spot in the top five for the seventh year in a row on Entrepreneur’s 2023 Franchise 500 ranking reflects these collective efforts.

Based on conversations with our franchisees, I’ve gathered four strategies they’ve been implementing to become stronger, better and more agile. Incorporate them into your business to help your franchise flourish in 2023.

Understand the importance of customer e xperience

The idea of the customer experience (CX) isn’t new by any means, but as we move into an increasingly digital world, its role is being reimagined to meet the needs of today’s customers. In many cases, CX is in the spotlight more than ever before. In fact, according to Gartner research, CX now drives over two-thirds of customer loyalty. As franchises execute their 2023 plans, delivering consistently great CX needs to

be at the top of the priority list, because it will be one of the most impactful determinants of success.

So where should you start? Delivering excellent CX begins with understanding your customer. Conduct a customer audit or customer survey to identify the challenges your customers face and their current sentiment of your CX. Be sure to consider both the broad users of your franchise brand and the hyperlocal users of your franchise location. Gaining a clear picture of your customer is one of the best ways to inform your strategy and develop actionable solutions to improve CX. At The UPS Store, we redesigned our store format to help save customers time and enhance their experience in our centers. We also typically include digital menu boards to

steve chambers, Vice President of Retail and Business Development for The UPS Store, Inc. is a leader who inspires teams to foster relationships and enhance the customer experience. An expert in franchising, Steve’s discipline, keen focus on moving the business forward and innovative mindset have influenced effective programs for retail owners, customers and corporate clients.

offer convenience and increase customer engagement.

Another tip is to listen to your employees and act upon their feedback. Your employees are often the ones on the frontline interacting with customers, which gives them a firsthand look at what works and what doesn’t for your customers. Consider asking your employees to take a survey on what customers seem to enjoy about your business, what customers complain about, and ask them for their thoughts on improving CX.

consider the efficiencies of new technology

For many businesses, investing in new technology at the right time can be a differentiator in customer service, operations and even marketing. As a franchise owner, experimenting with new technology that fits into your business model is one way to set yourself up for success. Similar to establishing a CX strategy, do a self-evaluation and customer evaluation to determine the biggest growth opportunities and challenges in your organization. Then, do some research to find the technology on the market that you can leverage to solve your operations and customer-facing challenges. When focusing on improving efficiencies, keep the customer in mind and focus on two things: one, removing friction from the buying process and two, delivering an amazing digital engagement that creates a relationship with your brand. A valuable resource could be your franchisor. Many successful franchise brands consistently have their eye on the future of innovative technology and can provide guidance on

what technology would be conducive to your business.

leverage support from your Franchise network

Small business ownership is a challenge, and franchising is no different. However, franchising offers a key benefit you should be leveraging to succeed in 2023 – the support from an established brand and franchise network.

Many franchisors offer various forms of support to franchisees. Be sure to review your Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and reach out to your franchisor to learn what forms of support they offer. Many franchisors offer help with advertising or marketing, some offer ongoing business counsel through a franchise support team, and most provide assistance in obtaining supplies. One area The UPS Store prides itself in supporting its franchisees is through ongoing training and professional development. Each of these benefits would help your business succeed in 2023.

Another area of support to leverage is your relationships with other franchisees. Some franchise brands like The UPS Store work to create a network of franchisees that can be tapped for advice in solving the challenges 2023 will throw at your business. Look for ways to connect with other local franchisees, as those relationships can be a big asset to your business.

make an impact and give Back to your community

Franchises represent a large brand, but they

should strive to be local small businesses at heart. One of the best ways to succeed in the difficult business landscape of 2023 is to recognize the importance of your community. Look to be an active member of your local community. Participate in local networking events, attend local chamber of commerce meetings and advertise locally. Also, look for ways to give back to your community that align with your business values. Franchisors may have existing relationships you can leverage to support your goals. For example, The UPS Store recently teamed up with Junior Achievement on the Start Small, Grow Big program, which collects customer donations to benefit Junior Achievement programs that prepare students with work and career readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

In addition to being the right thing to do, these actions will help your customers see your business as a part of the local community, which has become increasingly important, especially among the next generation of consumers. From a business perspective, participating in the chamber of commerce and other community events is also a great way to connect with potential customers and bring in new business. It can also be a good recruiting tool to attract local talent who understand and represent the needs of your community.

Franchising can be a challenge just like any form of business ownership, but using these strategies will put your franchise in a stronger position this year and beyond.

franchising.

Our purpose

@OurFranchise is an industry-wide campaign created to spread the word about the value of franchising and share the stories of men and women just like you, who are leading the way as franchisors, franchisees, and franchise employees. The franchise business model has been proven time and time again to work, but it’s threatened when the public and politicians don’t understand how it operates to benefit local, independent franchise establishment owners and their communities. Putting a spotlight on real leaders succeeding with the franchise model is how we’ll ensure franchising is stronger than ever before.

Follow us

Help us keep the momentum going

Since our launch in June 2016, we’ve reached 1.7 million people through outreach efforts, including events in key cities and states, where we spoke directly with business owners, employees, policymakers, and the media. Additionally, we’ve reached people across America through our website and social media channels, digital advertisements, and the promotion of We the Franchisees on Politico – but there is much more work to do. As a franchisor, franchisee, or franchise vendor, you are a leader in your community – and we need your support, now more than ever.

You benefit by joining

By joining @OurFranchise, you’ll get access to exclusive stories and resources that can help grow your franchise business, educate employees at all levels about the franchise business model, and share the economic importance of franchising with consumers. You will also have the opportunity to share your franchise success story with your peers.

Visit AtOurFranchise.org

Contact Erica Farage, Senior Director of Political Affairs and Grassroots Advocacy and Multi-Unit Franchisee Engagement

International Franchise Association

efarage@franchise.org

(202) 662-0760

Share the tools and resources offered on AtOurFranchise.org/resources Our Franchise

b a x

This is just the beginning

Make sure you stay up to date with the campaign’s latest efforts through email updates and social media. Visit our website to read and share the latest stories of franchisors and franchisees making an impact in their communities. Become a franchise advocate to help ensure Americans, now and in the future, have the opportunity to start franchise businesses. Take the lead today!

The public and policymakers need to understand

VE t E rans s UPPLEME nt

Cover Story

62 the Patch Boys: Veteran adds a Patch to his Life story

What’s New

60 Franchising news

Latest News from Veterans in Franchising

Franchisee in Action

70 Chris Aune, Phenix salon suites: From West Point to army Veteran

Franchisor In Depth

64 scoop soldiers: takes on 2023 With grand Plans after a strong Year of growth

68 Home Clean Heros: how to Master the art of recession resistance

72 Midwest shooting Range: takes Bold next steps in Evolving the shooting sports industry

Have Your Say

66 Peter Roberts Managed Mowed: Building a recession resistant service Brand

Snapshot

74 Anago Cleaning systems: anago announces the Passing of chairman and Founder Mr.David r. Polvitz

t he countdown is on for a new era in restaurant operations. shaquille O’ n ealOwned Big Chicken and Blue Origin are teaming up to feed the imaginations of the next generation of explorers for the benefit of e arth and space chicken.

“We’ve always said “g o Big’ when asked about growth plans for Big chicken. n ow, with Blue Origin, we’re going as B ig as we can by advancing the dream of running restaurants in space,” said Josh halpern, cEO of Big chicken and the architect of the company’s franchise growth strategy launched a year and a half ago, which has resulted in 200-plus planned U. s locationsBlue Origin’s nonprofit, club for the Future, will partner with Big chicken’s leadership team and founder shaquille

O’ n eal as club ambassadors to inspire and engage students. club for the Future will launch new community outreach programs at Big chicken restaurants, including inviting patrons to draw their vision of the future on Postcards to space. Blue Origin will fly the postcards on a future n ew shepard mission, stamp them “flown to space,” and return them to the creators.

“

Bosch aU to s

ervice Franchise

Announces First Opportunities in California and Texas

B osch, a leading global supplier of technology and services, has officially announced the branding of its new automotive workshop franchise known as Bosch Auto s ervice. t he Bosch Auto s ervice Franchise opportunity will now be available to existing independent workshops across California and texas, with plans to expand further into the U. s . in the future.

a s a Bosch auto s ervice Franchise, workshops will have access to:

• Custom business solutions including dedicated consultants who specialize in fixed operations and workshop financial planning

• Technical training through a Bosch cultivated Learning Management system

• Marketing resources including customer acquisition, retention programs, and analytics

• Strategic partnerships to increase value, efficiency, and business growth

• Brand Recognition with Bosch’s history of quality service and parts in the technical services industry

i ’m proud to team up with Blue Origin to help inspire the next generation,” said shaquille O’ n eal, who opened the first Big chicken location in 2018. “ t his first-of-itskind partnership is a game changer and i ’m excited to take the chicken sandwich game to a whole new level.”

“ t he Bosch auto s ervice franchise builds off of over 100 years of success and expertise sustained from the previous Bosch c ar s ervice program and the brand’s technical competence in the OE sector,” said Uli Jaschek, the cEO of the Bosch auto s ervice franchise. “Bosch is always evolving alongside our customers and, with this shift into franchising, our goal is to continue creating a business model that is rooted in technology-driven strategy and trusted experience to best support shop owners.”

to learn more about Bosch Auto s ervice franchise opportunities, visit franchise. boschautoservice.com

Big c hic K en to coll AB or Ate with BlU e o rigin on d re AM to pU r SU e r e S tAU r A nt in SpA ce

s haq U ille o ’n eal- owne D Big c hicken an D BlU e o rigin t eam U P to i ns Pire FU t U re g enerations For the Bene Fit o F e arth an D c hicken

Big o t ires Continues to Grow Footprint

Seasoned Franchisees Honored with Highest Award in the Fastsigns Network

Big O t ires, LLC, a subsidiary of t BC Corporation, plans to continue its growth strategy by opening 10 new stores in the first quarter of 2023 with locations in n orth Dakota, Washington, i owa, Arizona and tennessee. in 2022, Big O opened 11 new stores in Missouri, Arizona, texas, Colorado, n evada, California, indiana and Utah and intends to open an additional 15 to 20 in 2023.

“One reason Big O has been so successful growing is because the company gives its franchisees the ability and freedom to think independently while enjoying the advantages of being part of a bigger collaboration,” says Bruce cherry, who owns five Big O locations in n orthern c alifornia. “Big O partners with and listens to its franchisees, and provides guidance to help each of them grow, whether the goal is to expand an existing location or add more stores.”

“We are excited to continue to adapt, improve, grow and attract new franchisees,” said Brian Maciak, President & chief Operating Officer of Big O t ires. “ it’s through the entrepreneurial spirit of our franchisees that we are able to push new boundaries, expand our footprint and remain true to our commitment of being t he team You trust.”

today, Big O t ires has become an industry role model admired for its innovative approach to franchising and unmatched customer loyalty ratings with over 470 company and franchisee-owned stores.

FA stsi G ns international, i nc., the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications franchise with more than 764 locations in eight countries worldwide, recognized Jeff Parsons and Wes snyder for the highest honor in the FA stsi G ns network, t he FA stsi G ns Award.

t he Fastsigns® award is the most prestigious recognition in the franchise and is presented to the franchisees who best represent the Fastsigns® brand in their community and the network, as they provide exceptional customer service, mentorship, company culture and employee development. “ to me, one of the primary appeals of our brand, going back 20+ years, is that our products help businesses be noticed and successful. We don’t push, peddle and hard-sell clients into goods and services they don’t need and won’t help them achieve their goals of greater visibility,” said Jeff Parsons. “Fastsigns has encompassed most of my professional career and i am pleased to be partnered with a franchise that has such integrity at the core of what they do. a s a result, i feel honored to be recognized as one who represents and embodies the ethos of our brand.”

“ it is an amazing honor to receive this award. i have been a franchisee for almost 25 years, and everything i have accomplished in my life is a direct result of this network,” said Wes snyder. “ n ot only am i very grateful for what this network has provided me, but i also love to tell anyone who will listen that it is a wonderful organization to be part of and the management of the Fastsigns network is second to none.”

Mi Li Tary v e T eran adds a paTch To his Li F e s Tory wi T h a new B usiness endeavor

Lennol “Lenny” Absher began serving as an officer in the U. s. Army in 2000. After serving for over 20 years, Lenny is taking on a new adventure: business ownership. As Lenny learns the ropes of owning and operating a home repair servicing business, the Patch Boys, he applies the same aspirations and leadership skills that he developed serving in the armed forces.

While serving in the military, Lenny took on a number of roles and was stationed across the world. Beginning as a field artillery officer assigned to the First Cavalry Division in Texas, to serving in Iraq, and becoming a foreign area officer stationed in Germany and the Washington DC area, Lenny’s military experience runs the gamut.

Lenny’s last assignment was the associate dean of Middle East School 1 at the Presidio of Monterey, California. Lenny finished his military service and retired in November 2020. With a lifetime of highly valuable skills under his belt, Lenny was selected to participate in the Hiring Our Heroes Corporate Fellowship Program

“ In the military, I thrived as a project manager and enjoyed every opportunity I had to lead, so I knew that working with The Patch Boys would allow me to do exactly that.”

working with an IT service management company. He was offered a full-time job focused on leading veteran recruiting and training programs. Yet in this new role, his desire to chart his own future persisted.

“At this time in my life, I was at a crossroads. I had done government and military work and experienced corporate life,” Lenny said. “It became clear to me that I was ready to work for myself.”

Lenny began to entertain the idea of franchising and started to explore opportunities that aligned with his skills. Coming from a military background, Lenny understood the importance of delivering results and paying sharp attention to detail. When he was introduced to the opportunity with The Patch Boys, Lenny was immediately intrigued.

“I was drawn to The Patch Boys’ unique business model and the gap the brand fills in the home repair service market. In the military, I thrived as a project manager and enjoyed every opportunity I had to lead, so I knew that working with The Patch Boys

would allow me to do exactly that.”

The passion and ambition Lenny possessed from the start made him a perfect match for working with The Patch Boys. With a top-of-the-line training program to meet aspiring entrepreneurs where they are, Lenny was in good hands from the start of his business ownership journey. He welcomed the support from The Patch Boys family with open arms and enjoyed the expertise the brand provided every step of the way.

“I thought branching out on my own was going to be scary, but The Patch Boys had the answers and resources I needed to be my own boss,” Lenny said. “The expertise and network of support I have in the early stages of my business has been invaluable.”

A significant part of The Patch Boys training program is educating its franchisees on the unique nature of services it offers and the niche market the brand provides. The Patch Boys prides itself on addressing the everyday wear and tear that larger construction companies do

not tackle. No matter the size of dent, ding, or hole, the brand teaches its franchisees how to create feasible solutions for their local community.

The Patch Boys mentorship was most essential for Lenny as he navigated marketing businesses and understanding regulatory and legal matters. In addition to supporting in the training and preparation before Lenny opened his business, The Patch Boys have also worked with Lenny in the early stage of his business to accelerate growth and hiring.

A difficult part when growing a business is finding the right people to flourish with. Because of this, Lenny has worked closely with The Patch Boys team to find technicians with relevant experience. Within the hiring process, The Patch Boys also offer assistance conducting technical interviews, which is yet another added bonus for franchisees.

Even though he is still in the early stages of his business, The Patch Boys have identified Lenny as an asset to the brands growth and future success. In 2022 alone, the company added more than 120 locations to their national footprint. With this momentum, The Patch Boys is touting

10 years of consecutive same store sales growth. The brand continues to thrive in the home improvement industry, as The Patch Boys finished 2022 and celebrated the new year with over 300 locations open across the country.

In order to maintain the brand’s historic development over the last two years, The Patch Boys continue to identify the best business partners to move forward with, Lenny being one of them.

“Lenny’s leadership experience and commitment to the brand makes him the perfect addition to The Patch Boys team,” said Ted Speers, President of The Patch Boys. “Every homeowner deserves the best care and service when repairs are needed, and we know that Lenny will go above and beyond to create exceptional experiences for Loudon and Montgomery county residents.”

Lenny and The Patch Boys of Silver Spring and Ashburn have a bright future ahead. With a daily commitment to providing top-of-the-line drywall and ceiling repair to his community, Lenny is already making his presence known. Lenny understands how important it is in the early stages of business ownership to reach out to

customers and show the value he and his team provide.

With spring on the horizon and more homeowners tackling home renovation projects, Lenny is ready to meet the demand for ceiling and drywall repairs around him. Lenny is confident that from the very first consultation, he and his team will be able to secure lifelong customers due to the unmatched experience The Patch Boys provide.

“Working with such an established brand like The Patch Boys gives me a unique opportunity to provide repairs and service that are at the highest caliber,” Lenny said. “I have big dreams for my business and feel empowered by my aspirations and the support of The Patch Boys team to achieve them.”

aBoUt lenny absher

Lenny Absher wanted the next chapter of his life to include business ownership. t he Patch Boys gave him the opportunity he was looking for. With military experience and a diverse skill set at his disposal, this 47-year-old entrepreneur is ready to provide his community with top-notch home repair service.

s coop s o Ldiers Takes on 2023 w i T h Grand pL ans a FT er a sT ron G y ear o F Grow T h

the pet waste removal concept has become a key player in the “pooper scooper” market. scoop soldiers, the pet waste removal franchise that aims to help pet owners and their fourlegged friends by taking on the dirty work of pet ownership, had a great year in 2022.

Rounding the year out with 22 new signings, the brand is on track to nearly double its footprint in the coming years.

With 36 franchised territories and 12 corporate territories nationwide, 22 new franchises will serve to grow the concept even further. Thanks to its strong business model, systemwide revenues have also surged. In 2022 alone, the concept increased its customer base by 30%, driving revenue up by 30%, as well.

“2022 has been an exciting year for Scoop Soldiers, and we’re just getting started,” said Josh Cahill, CEO of Scoop Soldiers.

“If we’ve learned anything over the past

several years, it’s that people are still willing to invest in their pets and homes during times of economic uncertainty. The time has never been better to join the Scoop Soldiers system, and we are very excited about the next phase of growth.”

In recognition of its strength, Scoop Soldiers was recognized by Inc., placing 3573rd on its annual Inc. 5000 list, a compilation of the fastest-growing private companies in the nation. “As a stillemerging franchise, we are thrilled to be recognized by Inc. this year,” said Cahill. “Ranking 61st in such a competitive field as consumer services is truly remarkable and is a testament to our team, our franchisees and our clients.”

a key Driver of its growth, scoop soldiers Purposefully invested in its Franchisees last year

One of the most crucial steps Scoop Soldiers took this year was to invest in franchisees more intentionally. For a mobile business like Scoop Soldiers, it is

important that owners have appropriate vehicles and are able to maintain the equipment and inventory necessary to run operations. “Truck inventories have been down for example, and we’ve been very proactive,” said VP of Franchise Development Scott Oaks. “We were adamant about working with our local contacts and give franchisees opportunities to acquire trucks from our own fleet if they were not available locally.”

In addition to the practical supplies, Scoop Soldiers’ leadership works diligently to support its owners over the course of their entire business ownership journey. With daily billing and invoicing support, as well as a Command Center that handles all customer service calls and service inquiries, franchisees are able to focus more intently on communicating with clients, building a strong local management team and finding employees who meet the Scoop Soldiers standard. As franchise owners work less in the business and more on the business, they are able to develop a team and model that can execute the

differentiated pet waste removal services that the concept is known for.

Scoop Soldiers provides the option for franchisees to take advantage of additional support on the front end of their ownership journey by purchasing an enhanced territory. This is a market that has previously been operated by the corporate team, meaning that brand awareness and a strong customer base have already been established, and the franchisee will have an opportunity to avoid the challenges associated with entering a market for the first time.

“A critical differentiator for us is that our prospective franchisees can opt to purchase corporate-owned locations,” Cahill explained. “We are the only brand in our segment currently doing that. Our corporate locations have an existing client base, which means franchise owners will see revenue from day one.”

Startup efforts within an enhanced territory can also be catered to the unique circumstances of each franchisee and territory. Depending on the performance

of the existing location, a new franchisee may be able to waive marketing fees and divert those funds toward securing existing customers even when the business transfers to new ownership.

“If a candidate is looking to bring Scoop Soldiers to Oklahoma City, for example, we can look at how many clients are already in the territory and convert the business into a franchise for an additional charge per client, along with the typical franchise fee and the other start-up costs,” said Oaks. “If there is a significant amount of customers, we can waive traditional marketing spend and also give them the option to hire employees in the area and acquire the vehicles in the area. This is really a hybrid of a start-up and the purchase of an existing business, which is why it is called an enhanced territory.”

scoop soldiers is conscious of its larger community impact

Beyond the customer experience, Scoop Soldiers delivers value through community partnerships and a mission-driven focus, as well. Employing veterans like Brandon and Valerie Howe, the concept supports prior service members in pursuing their dreams of business ownership. “We wanted a service-based franchise that didn’t require a brick-and-mortar location. Scoop Soldiers made sense because we are dog owners and see the benefits of a service like this,” said Brandon Howe.

The concept has also partnered with Valor

Service Dogs, a non-profit organization that supports wounded veterans and first responders as they rebuild or maintain independence with the help of mobility assistance and PTSD support service dogs. With a monthly donation to the organization, Scoop Soldiers sponsors service dogs for 20–24 months of training and boarding as they prepare to go to their forever home. Once that dog has been sent to its handler, Scoop Soldiers also offers the family free pet waste removal services for life. In 2022, Scoop Soldiers graduated two service dogs to their forever homes.

the Future of the market and scoop soldiers

Scoop Soldiers has carved out its niche in the ever-growing pet-related services market. Pet owners spend billions of dollars on their furry friends each year, and the industry is expected to reach $350 billion by 2027. With this, Scoop Soldiers is continuing to push expansion, working to secure an additional 30 franchise territories in 2023 and targeting new markets such as Seattle, DC, North Carolina and Salt Lake City, Utah. “The demand for services in pet waste removal has significantly increased — people want their time back,” said Cahill. “People are putting a value on time like I’ve never seen before, and the Scoop Soldiers team is ready to reach even more customers so they can spend time with their family and friends.”

About Scoop Soldiers: Scoop Soldiers was established in 2010 to give pet parents a break from the dirty work of cleaning up after their pets. Not only does Scoop Soldiers help to keep yards clean, but it also saves clients’ time. Pet waste removal services are available at residential and pet-friendly commercial clients such as apartment complexes, pet care centers, hotels and more. Clients can opt for service packages that range from three visits per week to a one-time cleanup for a special event. Scoop Soldiers helps to eliminate odor, germs and unsightly appearances from private and commercial properties.

For more information on franchising with Scoop Soldiers, please visit https://scoopsoldiersfranchise.com/.

“ We were adamant about working with our local contacts and give franchisees opportunities to acquire trucks from our own fleet if they were not available locally.”

Bui Ldin G a r ecessionr esis Tan T s ervice Brand

even if franchise industry professionals don’t avidly keep up with the news, they’ve started to hear about, or even anticipate, the possibility of a recession and how it’s going to affect themselves, their family and their business.

Like many industries, the service industry has undergone a series of disruptive shifts since the pandemic, which permanently altered consumer behavior like never before. Now, on the brink of further economic uncertainty, service brands from plumbing and electrical companies, to property maintenance and cleaning services, are waiting with bated breath to take action if worse comes to worst and a recession takes full effect.

Dealing with the fallout from a recession is not a new experience for many businesses, and was a huge learning moment for ManageMowed. Experiencing the

recession in the mid-2000s provided our team with the ability to prepare for future hardships, and avoid a disastrous blow to our continued growth as an emerging franchise. Many of the steps we took, including evaluating expenses, focusing on existing clientele and being ready to adapt to the changes, can benefit other service brands across the board.

the managemowed e xperience

2007 marked the longest recession in American history since WWII, that wouldn’t end until June 2009. Millions of hard-working Americans lost their jobs, with the unemployment rate peaking at 10% in October 2009. While the recession left few industries untouched, the servicebrand industry suffered immensely for many reasons.

The main reason that so many servicebrands struggled in the Great Recession, was because their concepts are often

the first to go. When a family is tight on money, they’re going to be looking for every aspect of their living where they can cut down on costs – with lawnmowing and landscaping being one of first eliminated. ManageMowed lost approximately 80% of our business in the first month of the recession alone, and it quickly became apparent that we needed to do something if we were going to make it out of the recession intact.

After seeing so much of our business affected in such a short amount of time, it didn’t take us long to realize how we could combat the effects. We looked at our business model, and we realized that commercial jobs were still very much in demand throughout our markets. We made the decision to shift our business model to focus more primarily on B2B jobs rather than residential ones. Despite a recession, places like gas stations, office buildings and other businesses still need to make sure their properties were maintained

There are many different words that business executives never want to hear. Right now, there’s one dreaded word being whispered on America’s lips – recession.

and safe for consumers. Curb appeal is what makes them attractive to potential customers, and, in that sense, property maintenance is essential for them.

The decision turned out to be the best one we could have made at that time, and it ended up becoming the permanent business model that we still use system-wide today. While we still have the ability to take on residential jobs, the focus on commercial opportunities allowed us to find a more constant and reliable revenue stream. In fact, it better prepared with strategies that allowed us to weather the next economic hardship and beyond. A great example of this was the lock down during COVID-19 in 2020. So many businesses were faced with the need to adapt their business models to meet new regulations throughout the states. Because of our commercialfocused operations, which deemed our services essential, we were able to grow our business during the pandemic.

rethink the recession

There are a lot of anxieties that come with the possibility of a recession – but there are also plenty of ways that service brand franchisors can prepare themselves and their business and leverage the circumstances to their benefit.

First, franchisors should evaluate each and every operating expense they have. Just like a family will be cutting out the luxury expenses to save money, service brands need to figure out what expenses are absolute necessities to protect, and which ones can be reduced while still preserving the quality of its services.

One expense that ManageMowed has been able to do away with, and never truly needed to begin with as a service area business, was costly real estate expenses. As property maintenance experts, we work better out in the field with our clients as opposed to sitting in an office. Instead, we honed our reputation for timely and effective communication and invested in an integrated CRM platform that helps our franchise owners manage and schedule vendors for their clients.

Next, it’s important to focus on providing quality services to existing clientele rather than looking to attract new customers. Ensure that the focus remains on maintaining the quality and reputation that the brand is known for. Franchisors’ that demonstrate their loyalty to existing clients often find that the business continues to grow through referrals to family, friends and colleagues.

Finally, service brands should be open to adapting their business model to changing demand within the industry. When the first recession happened, we really had to take a step back and figure out where ManageMowed was needed by our commercial clients. Once a brand takes a hard look at its business model, it may find that the demand for its services is coming from an entirely different audience than it used to.

The most important thing a brand can do is to start looking at their business models and systems now. Don’t wait until a recession happens to identify the obstacles and challenges ahead. There is never a bad time for service brand franchisors to reassess their operations and business model. Recession or not – the franchise system will be much happier knowing that leadership is prepared to handle the worst of it, rather than being caught off guard. It’s not the easiest decision to make, and it will take enormous effort and strategic thinking to achieve. However, a franchise that is ready for the turbulence of a recession will be better able to look ahead to new opportunities and leave its competitors in the dust.

“ The most important thing a brand can do is to start looking at their business models and systems now.”

h ow To Mas T er

T he a r T o F r ecession r esis Tance

that kill viruses — has never been higher among homeowners.

With inflationary pressures rising everyday and experts predicting a looming recession, everyone is searching for that magic quality: recessionresistance. But, what makes a business resistant to economic downturns and how can franchisees and franchisors learn from those examples?

Home Clean Heroes is a fast-growing residential cleaning franchise that supports local first responders with every home that we clean. Our goal is to provide entrepreneurs the chance to own a business that is in demand even in times of economic hardship. In 2022, we awarded eight franchise territories and concluded our calendar year with sales up

a whopping 72% year-over-year. Here is how we did it.

the Power of the residential cleaning industry

When the pandemic hit, Home Clean Heroes was only a few years old. But the brand weathered the storm and remained profitable, growing throughout 2020 and 2021, while many other businesses floundered and failed. A big reason for that growth was due to the category we operate in.

We are indeed a recession-resistant franchise, but since the pandemic, we’ve become more of a necessity — people want cleaner homes, they’re working from home and don’t have the time to do it themselves. That is why the need for differentiated, professional and consistent cleaning services — especially those

In 2021 alone, revenue for the cleaning industry grew by 14%, according to Jobber. By 2025, Franchise Help estimates the sector will be worth more than $40 billion. As an essential business, the home service industry is in a unique position — cleaning services always end up being the last thing average households cut out of their finances. It’s a necessity.

Home Clean Heroes, in particular, is uniquely qualified to meet that necessity with cleaning products that are 99% effective against pathogens like COVID-19. Plus, since Home Clean Heroes uses fully eco-friendly and resource renewable products, the brand also appeals to the growing demand for green and sustainable cleaning services.

Now, as the U.S. potentially heads for another recession, it’s important to do the proper due diligence and ensure the category is one that stays protected against a challenging economy. Unlike many other

One residential cleaning brand offers insight into how to build a franchise concept that is resilient against downturns in the economy.

sectors,

the Business model

Here at Home Clean Heroes, there is a stable business model in place. The brand’s operations are designed with resilience in mind, and that has helped the company flourish despite the hardships in the world.

The residential cleaning industry in general offers recurring revenue, little to practically no inventory, the ability to set your own schedule, affordable startup costs, low competitive risk and an in-demand service that resonates in every market across the country. Home Clean Heroes, for example, grew the number of active recurring clients system-wide by 67%, which in turn increased recurring revenue per clean by 84%. All of these benefits help entrepreneurs follow their entrepreneurial dreams and sign on the dotted line with the franchise, regardless of the economy.

As a recession-resistant business, Home Clean Heroes also aims to keep up with the

ongoing challenges that franchise owners might face. For example, we have focused on internal advancements to aid with finding qualified employees and retaining them amidst a difficult labor market. The brand helps franchisees recruit talent on job posting sites, funds advertising campaigns for hiring and is also rolling out a new system with virtual health provider Teladoc that is available to frontline workers. This will provide free access to doctors 24/7 for virtual appointments. It’s for them and their dependents and is offered at zero cost to the employees.

In general, support is key when trying to help franchisees overcome economic challenges. Home Clean Heroes provides the tools, systems and processes for entrepreneurs to build a significant business, with scalable opportunities for multi-unit growth. Franchisees have access to a robust training program, a dedicated management team, a 15-person in-house marketing agency, data analytics, staffing support, graphic design and much more.

And the unit-level economics of our franchise owners speak for themselves.

Adeola Shabiyi of Tampa Bay, for example, has reported a 146% year-over-year revenue increase since his start in 2021.

a community Focus

Perhaps the secret sauce of Home Clean Heroes’ recession-resistance comes down

to a strong community focus. One of the brand’s biggest wins for the year was the launch and success of the Heroes First initiative, a philanthropic partnership the franchise brand formed with First Responders Children’s Foundation.

Since January, Home Clean Heroes and the First Responders Children’s Foundation have collected contributions to donate to the families of first responders in an effort to alleviate the pain of financial hardships for those who have suffered tragic circumstances or death in the line of duty. Home Clean Heroes is participating in a franchisee/ franchisor matching contribution — a portion of of every recurring or onetime service fee collected is donated to First Responders Children’s Foundation. Customers are also given the opportunity to contribute to Heroes First by “rounding-up” or adding a nominal donation to their service cost, which will go directly to the initiative.

Overall, the brand donated over $18,000 throughout the year through the Heroes First initiative. It’s given an important dynamic and dimension to Home Clean Heroes — a truly mission-based differentiator. It’s allowed a way for our franchisees to give back to their communities, and also gave customers — and franchisee candidates — another reason to choose us over the competition.

Perfecting a franchise model that is resistant to recession is easier said than done, but at Home Clean Heroes, we are proud of the momentum and resilience we have shown over the past few years. We have been servicing customers at an alltime high and there is ample opportunity for the franchise across the country. For other franchisees or franchisors looking to protect themselves against economic headwinds, now is the time to learn from success stories, gather best practices and pivot accordingly.

“ As a recession-resistant business, Home Clean Heroes also aims to keep up with the ongoing challenges that franchise owners might face.”

the residential cleaning industry has proven itself to be a reliable choice.

Fro M w es T p oin T To a r My v e T eran:

h ow c hris aune s uppor T s Loca L e n T repreneurs

T hrou G h his phenix sa Lon s ui T es

For Chris Aune, these skills are what shaped his life as a business owner, and his career in the military enhanced his ability to embrace the challenges that come with life-altering opportunities, and to ultimately get things done.

Chris joined Phenix Salon Suites in 2017, opening his first location in the Austin area with his wife, Claudia in 2019. Looking back on the five years since joining the franchise concept, Chris recognizes that although it could have been easy to give up at points, his time at the United States Military Academy at West Point and serving in the Army helped instill values that still ring true today.

At age sixteen when Chris was entering a new chapter of life and determining his path for higher education, he was presented with unique opportunity to enroll at West Point on a golf scholarship. Although it did not fit the ‘traditional’ college experience, Chris was drawn to doing something different and entering a program dedicated to developing the leaders of the future.

“Overall, attending West Point was an excellent experience that opened many doors for me,” said Chris. “My parents definitely had a positive influence on my decision, encouraging me that not everyone has the opportunity to attend such a distinguished school such as West Point,

Grit, perseverance, determination— these are all traits that one hopes to exemplify, and can be practiced and mastered through life experience

which definitely directed me down the path I ended up taking.”

“Lifechanging” is the way that Chris describes his time and West Point. His experience at the academy coupled with his years in active duty exposed him to challenges that he may not have faced otherwise. Upon graduation, Chris served as a Second Lieutenant in the Field Artillery for the Army, later earning his title as First Lieutenant. During the four years he served, Chris lead units of field artillery soldiers and equipment.

“During my time on active duty, I learned the importance of taking a step back, observing the situation at hand, and choosing the best path forward to success,” said Chris. “Being able to problem solve and think critically was something I continued to utilize in my life following the Army. After transitioning to civilian life, I worked in corporate America for 20 years in leadership and strategy positions at Dell, Marriott and Apple. Although I got to see a lot and had significant success, there came a point where I was ready for a

new journey to embark on.”

After the military and working in corporate America, Chris and Claudia sought out to regain control of their future for their family, and the pair were drawn to the idea of franchising. Investing in a proven business model, tapping into the corporate support, and not having to start from ground zero while still having all the appeals of being a small business owner was attractive to the Aunes.

The couple explored various industries in the franchise space such as auto repair, dry cleaning, education, and salon suites. Ultimately, the Aunes were drawn to the unique retail requirements and proven track record that Phenix Salon Suites has with its more than 340 salons both nationwide and internationally. There was one factor above the rest that sold them on Phenix—and it was the chance to provide a lifechanging opportunity to others going out on their own and starting their own entrepreneurial journey. Similarly on their own path of entrepreneurship, the Aunes felt they would be in a special position to

help those in their surrounding community through Phenix Salon Suites.

“It could have been easy to give up,” said Chris. “As we were still fresh in our journey as budding entrepreneurs, we were faced with new struggles that we had not yet experienced in our previous careers. Every day we had to find a way forward, go to work and get things done, and we were able to do that through our personal commitment to the business along with support from the Phenix team. We’ve had a great outcome with our locations and have been able to create results that we are proud of— and it made the hard work and perseverance worthwhile.”

Through their determination to work through the early and ongoing challenges that business owners face, the Aunes have been able to seek new opportunities with Phenix Salon Suites. With the success of their first location, the Aunes opened an additional Phenix Salon Suites in 2020. With the now high demand for the suites in their area, the Aunes are adding an additional 18 suites to the second Austin location, and are currently seeking a site to open a third location.

Beyond their own achievements, the Aunes are have been able to help dozens of salon professionals from the surrounding Austin area take a leap of faith and start their own business. The Aunes provided extra support to those renting salon space in the early stages of their own small business ownership journeys, and those same professionals are still practicing in the Phenix Salon Suites locations today.

“It is great to see the salon professionals busier than ever in our locations, and know that we were able to be a part of their journey as entrepreneurs in the industry,” said Chris. “They are their own boss and very happy to do what they’re doing, and I can think of many stories with the exact sentiment. We can relate to those we rent our spaces to, as we too were ready to take our future into our own hands and open a business. As we continue to grow Phenix Salon Suites in Austin, we are looking forward to the many people that we will have the opportunity to meet and support through our locations.”

M idwes T s hooT in G c en T er Takes Bo Ld n ex T sT eps in e vo Lvin G T he s hooT in G s por T s i ndus T ry

Midwest shooting Center, a Veteran-Owned Business, is pleased to announce its new venture into franchising. We believe that veterans make exceptional entrepreneurs, which is why we offer a 20% discount on our initial franchise fee to all qualified, honorably discharged Us Military veterans. We want the path to ownership to be as affordable as possible as they start their next venture.

Our story is quite unique as we are the first and only proven full-service indoor rangeretail franchise in the United States. What began in 2016 as a small e-commerce shop has grown to be 8+ open/soon-to-be-open corporate stores with over 10,000 members and 2,000 training clients with a unique brand within the industry.

Midwest Shooting Center a newly registered franchise division is eligible for operation in 41 states, the first and only full-service indoor range-retail franchise in the nation.

According to Chief Executive Officer, David Sabo, “The prospective indoor range-retailer is faced with many challenges ranging from funding to compliance to piecing together a complex business model. To this point there has not been an adequate solution for these individuals that, in many cases, are risking everything to become a business owner in our industry. The best we have provided these folks has been industry vendors that disguise themselves as industry consultants--- who have been more than

willing to give advice for a fee and with no accountability to said advice. Our franchise offering changes this by offering prospective and current indoor rangeretailers a soup to nuts business model that has been built and tested for success. We walk side-by-side with our franchisees to assist with site selection, funding, training, project management, pre-negotiated pricing---both capex and product utilizing our size and purchasing power, and post opening support that includes marketing, field operations, purchasing, compliance, and more. Our headquarters staff is robust and our corporate stores are utilized to test business model adjustments and vendors we may be seeking to implement prior to franchise system roll-out. There is enormous responsibility to our franchisees in our highly regulated franchisee/franchisor relationship. Due to the replicated success of our 8 open/soon to be open locations and the resources

we will be making available to our franchise operators; we believe this to be a gamechanger in our segment of the industry.”

Midwest Shooting Center is a modern indoor range-retailer with 8 locations open or in the process of opening in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana. The brand seeks to accommodate the full spectrum of firearms enthusiasts, but goes above and beyond to appeal to novice shooters. Typical locations have 2 bays with 20 indoor lanes, a robust rental fleet,

and retail product. Key drivers for the business model focus on membership and training departments, both of which are best-in-class and unique in the industry.

The typical Midwest Shooting Center has over 85% of its’ costs covered via these departments (both of which are recurring revenue) within the first 12 months in operation. Beyond financial gain, these high-volume departments build organic community and provide a deliberate, common-sense path for new shooters to become comfortable adopters of firearms

from both an entertainment and personal production standpoint.

“We have implemented the same level of stability in our membership and training programs in the 35 Anytime Fitness franchise locations we have built over the last decade in Ohio and Pennsylvania. It’s remarkable how the thousands of hours of business model adjustments in that space have been able to be applied in the shooting sports industry” remarks Jeff Swinford, Executive Vice President and Co-Founder. “This demonstrates a high degree of predictability in consumer behavior that transcends industries.”

“By franchising the brand it gives frustrated prospective and current indoor range operators an outlet to make their dreams materialize by breaking down and overcoming the common pitfalls that derail our would-be peers in the industry. We will continue to open corporate stores, but the reality is we exist in a large country and operate in a huge industry. We have something great that we can share with the business owners we have an affinity for and believe franchising our brand allows us and our partners to grow together” comments Chief Operating Officer Eric Kline.

If you are a prospective range operator or existing range operator seeking to learn more about Midwest Shooting Center Franchising, e-mail us at: Franchise@ MidwestShootingCenter.com

aBoUt midwest shooting center

Midwest shooting Center is owned and operated by two UsMC Veterans who entered the industry in 2016 as a small e-commerce only firearms retailer. t he first Midwest shooting Center location opened its doors in Lima, Ohio in early 2019 and has since been awarded a Five-star rating from the nssF, the highest in range excellence. Midwest shooting Center is one of the fastest-growing indoor rangeretailers in the United states with locations open or opening in Lima (Ohio), Fort Wayne (indiana), toledo (Ohio), Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania), Dayton (Ohio), indianapolis (indiana), Cincinnati (Ohio), and Cleveland (Ohio). Members receive access to all facilities.

anaG o

it is with great sadness and a profound celebration of life that Anago Cleaning systems announces the passing of its beloved Chairman and Founder, Mr. David R. Povlitz.

Mr. Povlitz started Anago in 1989 with the ambitious mission to help everyday men and women achieve financial freedom and security by becoming small business owners within the commercial cleaning industry. He developed the company values he and his employees would spend the next three decades working hard to honor.

Mr. Povlitz was a patriot who believed in serving people, communities, and his nation. In 1967, as the United States was engaged in a steadily expanding air and ground war in Southeast Asia, David joined millions of other young Americans by enlisting in the U.S. Army.

After serving as a Radio Operator for two years, he was honorably discharged, reaching the rank of Sergeant for his leadership and active-duty dedication to his military brothers and sisters. For his service to our country, he received the National Defense Service Medal and

Armed Forces Expeditionary Ribbon for serving in Korea.

Returning from war, David attended college on the GI Bill, graduated from Michigan State University in 1972 with a hotel and restaurant administration degree, and began putting his knowledge into practical application. Upon graduation, David was driven by a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed for himself, his wife, and two children.

David’s determination to succeed as an entrepreneur led him to Florida, where he launched Anago Cleaning Systems and began door-to-door soliciting to garner contracts, a time when businesses were built on an honest word and sealed with a handshake. In the early days of Anago, David vacuumed floors and scrubbed toilets as he continued to build on Anago’s seven unifying principles that begin with the belief in people, personal and professional integrity, and opportunity for advancement through small business ownership.

David took pride in naming his business Anago, derived from the Greek Latin term “anagogue,” meaning to guide or uplift. The name fit his dream perfectly, and there

was no greater goal for him than to see others apply their grit and determination to make a better life for themselves through hard work. At that point, Anago became synonymous with entrepreneurial success. A place where dreams come true for aspiring business owners.

David found his life’s professional calling in Anago and described his ultimate reward as seeing other families achieve financial success, send their children to college, or buy a new home due to their franchise earnings through the company he built. David’s belief in people and the importance of appreciation and advancement was always top of mind. He exemplified personal and professional integrity and advocated forward-thinking and outstanding support to all Anago Franchisees and clients.

In many ways, David’s ideology for Anago defines his continuing legacy, which he placed in the hands of his two children when he retired, but only when they had earned the opportunity to run the family business. This meant learning from the ground up, signing contracts, and servicing clients by vacuuming floors and scrubbing toilets, as he did over 30 years ago.

a nnounces T he passin G o F c hair M an and Founder, Mr. david r . p ov Li T z

David r . Povlitz september 3rd, 1948 – February 7th, 2023. The entire Anago family will profoundly miss him.

With direct experience of the North American, UK and Australian/ New Zealand Franchise markets we have been in the business of selling franchise systems direct to franchisees for over 35 years.

GLOBAL E xp ANSION

We can help to put your franchise system in an operational position to attract successful franchisees.

We are members of the IFA and other respected organisations.

The transition process can be daunting, but we know the trusted business and legal players who can take you through the first minefield.

Constant changes within the codes of conduct can create a massive challenge to franchise systems wanting to move outside of their established markets.

For an initial discussion, please contact globalpublishers@icloud.com

Our GLOBAL CONNECTIONS are trusted operators in their markets and will enable a smooth entry into NEW TERRITORIES.

Beans & Brews co FFeeho U se

Beans & Brews coffeehouse has been around since 1993, when the Laramie family opened shop next to s alt Lake city’s beloved hangout, Liberty Park.

t he family refined the process of high-altitude roasting™, which required special tweaks just like high-altitude baking. t hey soon got the process just right, and they built a reputation for uniquely smooth coffee in a friendly neighborhood setting. Beans & Brews—or “Beans,” as friends call us for short—is now a staple around Utah and its friends, idaho and nevada.

t he Laramie family still owns and operates our headquarters, and many baristas from our earlier days have grown into senior roles as managers, directors, and VPs. t hey carry on our best

B U siness Finance De P ot

Business Finance Depot specializes in packaging equipment leases and sBa Express Working capital loans for start-up and existing businesses.

Our main clients are franchisors seeking financing for their new franchisees and manufacturers seeking financing for their equipment purchases.

traditions and work to create new ones too. Meanwhile, around the region, locally owned franchises brew up our beloved recipes for their own neighbors. Our guests are our reason for getting up in the morning. We love greeting regulars with their favorite drinks, made just the way they like ‘em. and we dig getting to know newcomers and welcoming them to the Beans community.

come in for a cup, alone or with a friend, and make yourself at home. and let us know how we can make your day a little brighter—whether it’s adding extra whipped cream or it’s donating a gift basket to your little-league fundraiser. cheers, and stop by soon.

contact: Kim Falk

Email: kfalk@beansandbrews.com

Our company also works with sBa 7(a) lenders, alternate financing sources, crowd funding financing sources and companies that specialize in using retirement funds to capitalize a new business. Please visit our website for more information.

Website: www.businessfinancedepot.com

Email: paul@businessfinancedepot.com

Phone: (800) 788-3884

contact: Paul Bosley

c layton k en Dall

clayton Kendall provides a simple, easy to use e-store platform that connects your franchisees to our integrated front-to-back inventory management system.

Our system controls the creation, production, fulfillment, distribution and shipping of all your marketing and sales

e xec U tive h ome c are

in-home care is, simply put, everyday assistance for your loved one provided by a kind, compassionate, and well-trained person.

t his assistance can come in the form of help getting dressed, preparing meals, doing some light housework, or just relaxing and enjoying a friendly conversation.

materials including uniforms, signage, branded merchandise and print collateral. clayton Kendal is the single source marketing solution for dozens of national franchises.

contact: Dan Broudy, cEO

Email: dan@claytonkendall.com

Phone: 412-798-7120 (1-888-799-4757)

Website: claytonkendall.com

Executive home care places screened, qualified caregivers with people who need a helping hand with common tasks that many of us take for granted.

t he goal is to maintain a comfortable, safe, and happy living environment while providing for as much independence as possible.

www.executivehomecare.com

Email: jason@executivehomecare.com

fR an C hi S ing uSa

a-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business, giving you a presence within our publication and also the Franchising Usa website.

Each detailed, full colour a-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

e xcellent for branding and recognition. choose a 12 or 6 month package or simply add the a-Z directory onto your Focus, Profile or ad! to learn about the a-Z directory or any other products please contact Vikki Bradbury: advertising@cgbpublishing.com or 778-426-2446

Fastsigns®

now more than ever, businesses look to Fastsigns® for innovative ways to connect with customers in a highly competitive marketplace.

Our high standards for quality and customer service have made Fastsigns the most recognized brand in the industry, driving significantly more traffic to the web than any other sign company.

We also lead in these important areas:

#1 Ranked Sign Franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 three years in a row

• Franchise Business Review FBR50 Franchisee Satisfaction award 2006-2015

Fazoli’s

Founded in 1988 in Lexington, Ky., Fazoli’s owns and operates nearly 220 restaurants in 28 states, making it the largest premium Qsr italian chain in america. Fazoli’s prides itself on serving premium quality italian food, fast, fresh and friendly. Menu offerings include freshly prepared pasta entrees, subs, salads, pizza and desserts – along with its unlimited signature breadsticks. Fazoli’s offers dynamic build outs, digital-forward infrastructure and multiple revenue streams that provide a strong hedge against inflation. named a recession-Proof Franchise by Franchise Business review, Fazoli’s is a stable opportunity that’s stood the test of time and is backed by multi-

grease monkey

Founded in 1978 and part of the Fullspeed automotive® family of brands, grease Monkey® has grown to more than 500 centers internationally with operations in the United states, china, colombia, Mexico, and saudi arabia. t he brand has flourished, thanks to a commitment to customer service, innovation, and driving strong rOi for franchisees.

One reason grease Monkey is a great business opportunity is because nearly everyone in america drives, and more than 99% of the vehicles on U. s roads need regular oil changes. americans cumulatively drive about 3.2 trillion miles per year, and americans are keeping their

i mage o ne U sa

image One Usa is a commercial cleaning services business. t he image One franchising model was formed on the principles of transparency, training, and top-notch financial and customer service support. it is regularly recognized as a top franchise by third-party franchise and business publications, including cnBc.com, Entrepreneur. com and Franchise Business review.

image One franchisees work for themselves in a unique relationship with the franchise company. image One provides them with customer support for their business, ongoing training, along with assistance with billing, equipment and sales training. image One

• Franchise Research Institute World Class Franchise 20112015

• Franchise Research Institute #1 Rated Sign & Graphics Franchise 2014-2015

• CFA Franchisees’ Choice Designation 2004-2015

• FASTSIGNS is one of only a handful of franchises approved for $21 million in sBa financing for approved franchise candidates Fastsigns has over 400 markets approved for development in the Us and canada and is also seeking Master or area Developer expansion in markets worldwide.

For more information: Phone: 1-214-346-5679

Email: mark.jameson@fastsigns.com

Or visit our Website: www.fastsigns.com

generation owners. With less operational complexity than typical Qsr franchises, strong drive-thru sales and a defensible and differentiated concept, Fazoli’s provides a great development alternative to other quick serve restaurant options. Fazoli’s is a winner of Fast casual and steritech’s 2020 Excellence in Food safety award and ranked number seven on Fast casual’s “ top 100 Movers and shakers” list in 2022. additionally, it was named to technomic’s “ top 500 chain restaurant report” in 2022, selected as one of the “ top 50 g lobal Fast casual innovators in 2021” by Foodable, a “ top 200 Franchises in 2021” by Franchise Business review, and an Entrepreneur 2018 “Franchise 500.”

vehicles longer than ever before. according to research conducted by s &P global Mobility, the average age of light vehicles in the U. s. rose to an all-time high of 12.2 years in 2022. t his is the fifth straight year the average vehicle age in the U. s. has risen. Drivers understand that to extend the life of their vehicles, routine maintenance is a must.

Even if you don’t have automotive repair experience and are simply exploring the industry because of its stability and strong margins, you can be assured that you will be backed by a large franchise support team dedicated to your success. We provide training, marketing support, and a wide range of tools to help you find customers and serve them well!

provides necessary training, tools and support to help franchise affiliates build their business, including teaching franchisees the latest cleaning techniques and empowering them with insights on best-in-class equipment and technology. Ongoing training is delivered both at image One’s corporate headquarters and onsite at existing client locations to ensure that franchisees continue to grow their own businesses.

image One has commercial cleaning franchise locations covering chicago, cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Fort Myers, nashville and Orlando. Franchise territories are available nationwide.

For information on the franchise, visit http://imageOneUsa .com

kU mon n orth a merica i nc.

high school math teacher toru Kumon developed the Kumon Method of learning more than 60 years ago in Japan, when his son was struggling with second-grade arithmetic.

realizing that a strong foundation in the basics-addition, subtraction, multiplication and division-was essential for higher-level math, Kumon created a series of math worksheets for his son to work on after school.

With daily practice, Kumon’s son gradually expanded his mastery of mathematical skills and by sixth grade was able to solve differential equations and integral calculus problems. today, at locations throughout north america, Kumon franchisees apply this method of daily practice and self-paced advancement to children’s math and reading skills.

Phone: 201-928-0444

Website: Kumonfranchise.com

rP illusions corp. is a U. s.-based corporation that develops and franchises Museums of illusions across the world. t he company’s primary goal is to provide memorable and exciting educational opportunities while evolving its approach to creativity, art, and entertainment. Founded in 2015. in Zagreb, croatia, the Museum of illusions quickly became a global leader in the “edutainment” sector and the largest chain of private museums worldwide.

t he original concept offers an interactive, immersive, and fun experience for all age groups while teaching about science, vision, and perception through mind-bending illusions and tricks. t he Museum of illusions is thus globally recognized for its inventive way of combining entertaining and educational activities, as well as countless amazing photo opportunities for visitors to create unforgettable memories.

n er D s to g o

Build a future with the computer service industry pioneers and accomplish your business dreams with nerdstoGo! computers, handheld devices, tablets, and mobile phones are all things that only continue to grow and change the landscape of the technology industry in the 21st century. t hat is why nerdsto g o is such a lucrative concept. With businesses, homeowners, and individuals continuing to rely

Each state-of-the-art museum is designed to create a mentally stimulating journey through the human mind for all generations with fascinating exhibits including 3D holograms, astonishing art pieces, and brain-puzzling optical illusions.

at this time the Museum of illusions has locations in 37 cities, 25 countries, and 4 continents, including franchises in tourist capitals such as new York, Paris, Madrid, shanghai, and Dubai, where they are continually ranked among the top city attractions.

t he Museum of illusions team plans to continue expanding globally by providing unique educational, visual, and entertaining experiences for visitors, as well as ongoing support and guidance to franchising partners at every step of the way.

For more information about the Museum of illusions or franchising opportunities please visit www.museumofillusions.com or email at info@museumofillusions.com.

on technology, handling the repairs, computer service and support, and other computer services that can accompany a technologically based society seems like second nature. t his means franchise owners can tend to the high demands of a reliable customer base and reap the financial benefits by taking advantage of a constantly innovative, inventive, and lucrative industry. contact us today to learn why nerdsto g o is one of the fastest growing computer service and technology franchises in the United states!

ohm Fitness

OhM Fitness is a franchise that provides a revolutionary fitness experience using wireless electrical muscle stimulation (EMs) technology integrated into a small group setting. t he EMPower suit allows customers to complete an intense 2–3-hour workout in just 25 minutes. it is a low-impact workout that puts minimal stress on the joints, ligaments, and muscles, making it suitable for all fitness levels. OhM Fitness is the first fitness franchise to offer this wireless EMs technology in a group setting.

r eme Dy sPa & salon sU ites

remedy spa & s alon suites first opened its doors in atlanta, g eorgia in 2018. a s an attempt to enter the highly profitable health and beauty industries, remedy spa & s alon suites came equipped with 22 fully leased salon suites. to date, they have opened three locations through Metro-atlanta. amenities and perks to leasing include: 24/7 access, private upscale studios, spacious single/double suites, private parking, valet parking and premium fixtures, finishes and appliances. Franchisees will obtain access to the brand, tested and proven processes and support, purchasing power and distribution

t he re D c hickz

We’ve Done the heavy Lifting for You

We know the restaurant business and have done our homework. From the homestyle kitchens of nashville to t he red chickz restaurants that will be popping up everywhere, we’ve created something really special in an untapped, sizzling market.

We make it simple. Our team has worked our tails off to create a superior business model that is streamlined and simple to operate. We designed

t he technology helps individuals work their muscles more effectively than with conventional workouts, producing better results in less time. OhM Fitness is ideal for health enthusiasts looking for real results without enduring the high-intensity stress of hiit training. it is also a perfect fit for those in recovery or fitness newbies, as well as busy parents and professionals. it doesn’t produce damaging cortisol spikes associated with stress, making it ideal for everyone.

contact: Doug Payne

Phone: (480) 582-2900

Email: franchisees@ohmfitness.com

Website: www.ohmfitness.com

chains, cooperative marketing, new product research, development and roll-out, experienced training staff, and continuing training and education.

Franchising opportunities are available to entrepreneurs and investors in all industries but will be particularly appealing to health and beauty enthusiasts.

remedy spa & s alon suites already has an established market presence and substantial market penetration in atlanta. From this successful platform, the company is looking to expand the brand in select key areas domestically.

www.remedysalonsuites.com/franchise remedysalonsuites@gmail.com

this with systems and growth in mind, so you can become the next proud owner of a t he red chickz restaurant franchise with ease.

an investment in a restaurant franchise like t he red chickz is an excellent way to break into the foodservice business or expand your already existing restaurant portfolio. We seek qualified business owners who understand or appreciate the restaurant industry and are fired up about our brand.

www.theredchickz.com

ssc P m anagement, i nc.

sscP Management, inc. is an award-winning, familyowned and operated management company with a portfolio of high-profile restaurant brands and real estate holdings.

t he Dallas-based company is a leader in the restaurant industry with established, high-profile brands such as the 300-unit cici’s Pizza brand, 44 sonic Drive- in locations, 80 applebee’s locations, the roy’s hawaiian fusion chain, and JMc Distribution. t he management company also owns a diverse real estate portfolio with more than 100 assets that includes shopping centers, medical office buildings, industrial, and multi-family properties across the United states. sscP Management’s real estate practice focuses

s heenco t ravel

sheenco travel began trading in 2012 under the name shamrock Vacations. nowadays sheenco is the leading name in luxury travel to ireland and the UK and has just launched a brand new travel Franchise in the Usa . Our focus on luxury helps us to stand out as we only use 4* and 5* properties and have a special focus on the wonderful castle accommodations available throughout ireland and the UK.

But more than anything it’s the level of service we offer, from the first point of contact until after your reluctant arrival home. Our friendly and close knit team go beyond your expectations with ease. Despite the difficulties of

s lim c hickens

slim chickens, a leading fast casual franchise which features dine-in and drive-through in the better-chicken segment, opened in 2003 in Fayetteville, arkansas.

Offering high-quality food with a focus on fresh, delicious ingredients, the brand prides itself on its southern flair and commitment to hospitality, all in a fast-casual setting.

Food is cooked to order, and the differentiated menu features chicken tenders, fresh salads, sandwiches, chicken and waffles, chicken wings and unique side items, alongside 17 house-made dipping sauces.

today, there are more than 145 slim chickens locations open and 700 restaurants in development. t he brand, which recently launched a strategic multi-unit franchise growth initiative to reach 700 units in

V ETER an S ERV i CE bR and S

Veteran service Brands (VsB) is the umbrella organization for four distinct, but affiliated service brands - all of which are exclusive to military veterans.

capitalizing on our success with g -FOrcE (the first franchise brand exclusive to veterans), we are adding Mach OnE Epoxy Floors, FiELD OPs athletic Field Markings, and Paint cOrPs (like Marine “corps”) franchise systems to the VsB family of veteran-only franchises. initial investment starts as low as $20,000 for FiELD OPs (assuming possession of a suitable pickup truck) and runs as high as $150,000 depending upon which brand, size of territory, truck choice, and equipment package.

Franchise Fees are deeply discounted for the first five franchise partners of our new brands (some are already spoken for).

on portfolio purchases, individual purchases, multi-family investments and retail properties. Led by President chris Dharod, the company’s primary objective is to strengthen the communities it invests in and provide second-to-none service through all its business ventures.

sscP is looking to significantly increase their holdings as they build a larger presence in the commercial real estate world, focusing on acquiring retail and additional multifamily properties nationwide contact: Kerry a ssa, Director of real Estate: 214-926-4873 (Kerry’s cell) or 972-644-9494 x 128 (real Estate general box)

Email: kassa@sscpmanagement.com

Website: www.sscpmanagement.com

the g lobal Pandemic, g enevieve continued with the companies plans (albeit on a delayed timescale) to expand their operation in the Us and the sheenco travel Franchise was launched in June 2021. When asked about the timing of the expansion g enevieve laughingly asks “having started a business in a recession when else would you expand but in a Pandemic?!”

t hanks to a solid team and great communication with guests and team members alike, sheenco travel have come out the other side of the Pandemic relatively unscathed and the future looks bright for this progressive and innovative company.

Opportunities@sheencotravel.com www.sheencotravelfranchise.com

10 years, is targeting qualified and experienced multi-unit groups to develop in dynamic markets across the country.

t he brand prides itself on its cooked-to-order fresh food and strong devoted fanbase, also known as “ slimthusiasts.” Fans also resonate with the southern contemporary look and feel and open and inviting layout of slim chickens restaurants, which speak to the hospitality mindset that anchors the brand.

t he slim chickens franchise opportunity differentiates itself with prime markets available for multi-unit development, a passionate leadership team and world-class franchisee support system. a s slim chickens expands, it is awarding franchise opportunities to qualified, experienced and passionate multi-unit groups looking to add a dynamic segment to their portfolio.

For more information on the slim chickens franchise opportunity, visit slimchickensfranchise.com

Mach OnE and Paint cOrPs normally have a $25,000 Franchise Fee (some of the lowest in their industries), but offer the first five a steep $15,000 discount.

FiELD OPs, already a low $10,000 Fee, offers a 50% discount for the first five takers.

Veterans joining the Veteran service Brands family enjoy instant camaraderie, proven systems in high demand businesses, group discounts, and more.

VsB is actively recruiting qualified veterans across the country to join our team.

VsB is already the largest veteran-only franchise system and expects to triple its size in the next 12-18 months.

For more information, visit www.VeteranserviceBrands.com

fR

an C hi S ing uSa

a-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business, giving you a presence within our publication and also the Franchising Usa website.

Each detailed, full colour a-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

e xcellent for branding and recognition. choose a 12 or 6 month package or simply add the a-Z directory onto your Focus, Profile or ad! to learn about the a-Z directory or any other products please contact Vikki Bradbury: advertising@cgbpublishing.com or 778-426-2446