FRANCHISING USA JANUARY 2020

Franchising usa $5.95 www.franchisingusamagazine.com

The magazine for franchisees

VOL 08, ISSUE 2, JAN 2020

Shelf Genie: Making it Easy

how to manage

Customer Satisfaction LATEST NEWS

special feature

retail franchsing

FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM THE BANKS

3 Things the Best Brands Are Doing to Target Conversions

TOP LAWYERS’ ADVICE

®

Generations in business Families succeed together.

Since its founding, the Subway® brand has valued family. The past 54 years would not have been possible without help from our world-class Franchise Owners, Business Development teams and their families from around the world. See how far the Subway® family can lead you. Your new opportunity is available now.

Thank you to all the families within the Subway® team, including the Daltons, the Grewals and the Hammonds.

Franchising USA

800.888.4848 subway.com/franchise FranchiseNAmerica@subway.com Subway® is a registered trademark of Subway IP LLC ©2019 Subway IP LLC

Franchising usa The magazine for franchisees

FRANCHISING USA VOLUME 8, ISSUE 2, 2020 president: Colin Bradbury. colin@cgbpublishing.com

Comments

f r o m t he p u bl i s he r & e d i t or

Publisher: Vikki Bradbury. vikki@cgbpublishing.com

advertising: advertising@cgbpublishing.com

Editorial Department: managing editor: Diana Cikes editor@cgbpublishing.com

Editorial team: Gina Gill Rob Swystun

Production: usaproduction@cgbpublishing.com

DESIGN: Jejak Graphics. jejak@bigpond.com

COVER IMAGE: shelfgenie

CGB PUBLISHING Canadian Office: Sidney B.C Canada U.S. Office: 800 5th Ave, #101 Seattle, WA 98104-3102 Sales: 847 607 8407 Editorial: 778 426 2446 www.franchisingusamagazine.com Proud member of the IFA:

Happy New Year! Welcome to the January issue of Franchising USA. The turn of a new year is a time of reflection and forecasting for the franchise industry and overall, the outlook for 2020 is looking mighty bright. Demographics of the Millennial Generation, Baby Boomers and Seniors are working in favor of boosting the franchising industry, while trends in residential services and health and wellness appear to be providing an added boost in certain sectors.

So if you’re one of the growing numbers of budding entrepreneurs hoping to make this “the year” you finally take the plunge into business ownership, it’s time to move and take advantage of the opportunities dawning along with the break of this promising New Year.

On the Cover this issue is ShelfGenie, a home improvement brand that’s on the hunt for the next wave of new franchise partners. The brand has introduced an owneroperator model to its franchise offering, designed to make starting a new ShelfGenie franchise simple to establish, affordable to run and a great fit for smaller markets.

Turn to page 10 to learn how this franchise is Making it Easy for the Right Franchise Partners to Build a Thriving Business.

Our Special Feature this month is on Retail Franchising, an industry that’s expanded and adapted to changing trends and demands over the last decade. Although there are some rather peculiar and fickle buying habits found in the retail world, the franchising industry has figured out how to follow spending trends and work directly within it to garner success. Our Industry Experts offer some insight into this ever-changing industry, with Yan Krupnik on how Successful Retail Fulfillment Requires Proactive Insights and Planning, and Rick Bisio breaking down the pros and cons of the industry to find that the Retail Franchising is Still Going Strong.

We hope you enjoy our first issue of 2020, and we look forward to bringing you fresh insights, the latest in industry news, and expert advice throughout this new year.

Happy reading!

SUPPLIER FORUM International Franchise Association 1501 K Street, N.W., Suite 350 Washington, D.C. 20005 Phone: (202) 628-8000 Fax: (202) 628-0812 www.franchise.org

“Last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a new beginning.” ~ T.S. Eliot

The 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 is sold subject to the terms and conditions that it shall not be copied in whole or part, resold, hired out, without the express permission of the publisher.

Franchising USA

a nchsing usa usa f ra nchising

Page 3

contents

january 2020

On the Cover 12 Cover Story – ShelfGenie: Making it Easy 16 How to Manage Customer Satisfaction

10

27 Special Retail Franchising Feature 22 3 Things the Best Brands Are Doing to Target Conversions

In Every Issue 6 Franchising News

Announcements from the Industry

27 Retail Franchising Feature

14

45 Veterans Supplement

News and Information for Veterans in Franchising

58 A-Z Franchise and Services Directory

Expert Advice 16 How to Manage Customer Satisfaction

16

David VanAmburg, Managing Director, American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI)

18 California’s Landmark Employment Bill Imposes “ABC” Test

Robert A. Lauer, Maral M. Kilejian, Iris Gibson, and Jamee Munster; Attorneys; Haynes and Boone

22 3 Things the Best Brands Are Doing to Target Conversions

Heather Ripley, CEO, Ripley PR

24 3 Tips to Set Up a Successful Franchisee-led Regional Meeting Tina Bacon-DeFrece, Ph.D., President, CEO and Co-Founder of

18 Franchising USA

Big Frog Franchise Group

42 The Tech of Franchise Owners

George Knauf, Senior Franchise Business Advisor, FranChoice

Spotlight On Service

24

14 The Interface Financial Group

RETAIL FRANCHING FEATURE On the Cover 38 Retail Franchising is Still Going Strong

27

36 Successful Retail Fulfillment Requires Proactive Insights

and Planning

In Every Issue 28 Feature News 36 Feature Article Expert Advice

36

34 Successful Retail Fulfillment Requires Proactive Insights

and Planning Yan Krupnik, Director of Business Development, Retalon

38 Retail Franchising is Still Going Strong

Rick Bisio, Franchise Coach, FranChoice

38

42 Franchising USA

f ra nchising usa

what’s new!

JINYA Ramen Bar Continues Nationwide Growth with Franchise Agreements in Nevada

JINYA Ramen Bar announced new franchise signings in Henderson, Nevada and Athens and Buford, Georgia. While each location of the ramen restaurant is opening in a new city, they join thriving nearby locations near the Las Vegas strip, and Atlanta, Sandy Springs and Alpharetta, Georgia, respectively.

JINYA, a California-based franchise concept known for its broth that simmers for 10 hours, giving each bowl of ramen a savory, sweet, umami flavor, is now expanding in all areas, as the concept has proven successful in a variety of geographic and commercial locations.

The Henderson location will be situated at 107040 S. Eastern Ave. While the Athens location has a lease signed right next to the University of Georgia at 351 E. Broad St.

and the Buford location can be found at The Exchange at Gwinnett. All locations are expected to open in the first half of 2020.

The ramen-centric menus will feature hand-made ramen noodles, 13 signature bowls, five kinds of broth and 25-plus toppings. Favorites include Spicy Chicken Ramen, Tonkotsu Black and Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen. Locals will want to work their way through the menu including tasteful tapas (including the famed JINYA Bun) to enjoy on the side. JINYA Ramen Bar is built to elevate the guest’s experience and standard for authentic ramen. Guests will be met with a warm and inviting atmosphere that is fused with traditional Japanese culture and modern sensibilities. The new locations will exhibit a sleek and contemporary design

complete with wood paneled dining rooms and outdoor patios that provide a spacious amount of seating.

For more information on the franchise opportunity, go to jinya-ramenbar.com/franchise

Delta Restoration Services Appoints Chip Baranowski as Vice President of Franchise Development Delta Restoration Services®, a nationally recognized and awardwinning franchise brand that provides restoration services to commercial and residential properties recently announced that it has hired Chip Baranowski as the vice president of franchise development. In his new role, Baranowski will oversee all aspects of new franchise growth and development.

Baranowski has an extensive background in franchising and business development, bringing 30 years of experience to the fastgrowing property restoration franchise.

Most recently, he served as vice president of franchise development at Homewatch CareGivers, a leading home care franchise with more than 200 locations across 34 states and eight countries. During

Franchising USA

his time at Homewatch CareGivers, Baranowski expanded the sales team, increased network revenues and continued the mission of driving franchise growth through two private equity buyouts. Prior to Homewatch CareGivers, he worked in the auto franchise industry at Honest-1 Auto Care, where he grew the brand from 19 units to over 50 in less than five years.

The appointment comes at a time when the brand has been seeing significant growth.

In the past month alone, franchise locations have opened in Lincoln, Neb. and Jackson, Mich., further expanding the network’s footprint and geographic coverage.

Denver, across 15 states.

Currently, Delta Restoration Services has operations in more than 40 markets, including its corporately run territory in

For more information about the Delta Restoration Services, visit deltarestoration.com

Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Titus Center Announces 2020 Franchise Bootcamps

Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Titus Center for Franchising announced today its 2020 franchise bootcamps lineup aimed at helping emerging and mature franchise concepts ignite growth.

The Titus Center will host the MarkOps Franchise Bootcamp at Palm Beach Atlantic University Jan. 28-29, 2020. Marketing and operations practitioners will have the chance to network with and learn from leaders in the field, who will share their expertise in building, guiding, and improving franchise networks domestically and internationally.

Additionally, the Titus Center will host its second annual Selling Franchises Bootcamp at the Miami Beach Convention Center Feb. 18-19, 2020. The Selling Franchises Bootcamp will feature experienced franchise development professionals sharing best practices in franchise sales, including how they generate qualified leads, track and develop relationships with those leads, and ultimately sell franchises worldwide. During the event, attendees will prepare their own Franchise Sales Action Plan.

Each bootcamp will offer Certified Franchise Executive candidates 300 credits, and sponsorship opportunities are also available.

“Our bootcamps are intensive, two-day events focused on teaching the latest strategies to help marketing, operations, and franchise sales professionals improve their results and drive growth within their organizations,” said Dr. John P. Hayes, Director of the Titus Center for Franchising. “The Titus Center is committed to engaging, educating, and inspiring current and future franchise leaders, so we’re thrilled to offer these unique bootcamps to franchise executives from both emerging and mature brands.”

For more information on the MarkOps Franchise Bootcamp, visit www.pba.edu/coe/titus-center/markops-franchisebootcamp/index.html.

For more information on the Selling Franchises Bootcamp, visit www.pba.edu/coe/titus-center/franchise-bootcamp/ index.html.

SLATER’S 50/50 ANNOUNCES EXPANSION INTO COLORADO The Bacon & Burger Restaurant’s First Colorado Outpost Will Be Located Within The HUB Mixed-Use Building Slater’s 50/50 has announced it will soon be introducing its over-the-top, ‘slaterized’ menu of burgers and more to Denver, Colorado.

The restaurant will make its debut at 3600 Blake Street in the RiNo Arts District, located within The HUB mixed-use space.

Construction is slated to begin in the new year, with doors projected to open in late spring 2020. The Denver expansion will be led by local franchisee and Slater’s 50/50 area development partner, Charles Murray.

“Once we decided on bringing Slater’s 50/50 to Colorado, we knew RiNo would be the ideal neighborhood for our debut,” said Murray. “RiNo is arguably the hottest neighborhood in Denver right now, and there are tons of exciting developments planned in the area. Our goal is to introduce the Slater’s 50/50 brand to Colorado starting in RiNo, with the ultimate vision to grow and add more restaurants over the next few years, and eventually branching out into other parts of the state.”

The upcoming RiNo restaurant will feature an indoor dining room for 136 guests, plus an outdoor patio facing Blake Street that will seat up to 24 guests. An island bar will be the center point of the restaurant’s interior, and will feature more than 50 craft beer taps and an extensive menu of signature cocktails.

Slater’s 50/50 operates 11 restaurants in California, Nevada, Texas, and Hawaii, and has multiple restaurants being built and in development across the country.

For more information on Slater’s 50/50, please visit www. slaters5050.com

Franchising USA

f ra nchising usa

Page 7

f ra nchising usa

what’s new!

Pieology Expanding into China; Expects to Double in Size by 2025

Franworth Strengthens Leadership Team to Fuel Aggressive Portfolio Growth

California-based pizza innovator Pieology announced a major strategic alliance into China today with Shanghaibased TZG Partners. Along with other franchisees in Mexico and Spain, the company expects to more than double in size in the next five years.

“When looking at the opportunity and market size of China, finding the right partner that has a shared vision for how we can ‘Serve Creativity’ and create local relevance in a meaningful way was of critical importance to us,” says Gregg Imamoto, Pieology’s Chief Executive Officer. “We’re very confident in TZG Partners and the team they’ve built to strategically grow our brand longterm.”

Pieology Founder and Chairman Carl Chang said, “We’re thrilled to see that what started as a family idea in Fullerton, California, to bring great food and community together, will now become a global destination for great fast casual pizza.”

TZG Partners is a global firm, led by a group of Stanford University alumni, that builds and invests in high-growth China-related businesses. Under an exclusive, long-term Master Franchise Agreement, Pieology will leverage TZG’s Partners’ robust experience in developing and growing successful restaurant retail brands while rapidly expanding and building Pieology’s innovative fast casual pizza in China.

The expansion news comes as Pieology continues to experience domestic growth, from both a corporate and franchise perspective, with additional new locations planned across the country, while also being open to new, multi-unit prospective franchisees in key strategic markets.

For more information, visit www.pieology.com

Franchising USA

Leading Franchise-Focused Growth Equity Firm Names New Company President, Chief Financial Officer, CEO of The Lash Lounge, Vice President of Marketing and Vice President of Franchise Development Franworth®, a franchise-focused growth equity firm, recently announced that it has expanded its corporate leadership team to support and accelerate the growth of its portfolio of franchise brands.

As part of these efforts, the company has promoted Dave Keil, operating partner and chief operating officer, to company president, and named industry veteran David Taccolini as chief financial officer. Additionally, Franworth has named a new vice president of franchise development and vice president of marketing, as well as appointed a new CEO to spearhead the expansion of its partner brand, The Lash Lounge.

This expansion in leadership is following the launch of two exciting new partnerships for Franworth. Last month, the company announced that New Orleans Saints quarterback and multi-unit franchisee Drew Brees joined as a partner and member of its Executive Board. Additionally, the brand recently shared news of its joint-venture with prestige hair color brand, Madison Reed, to deploy its Color Bar retail expansion efforts nationwide.

Franworth’s new and recently promoted executive team members include: Dave Keil, President | David Taccolini, Chief Financial Officer | Steve Lajiness, Vice President of Franchise Development | Megan Conway, Vice President of Marketing | Meg Roberts, Chief Executive Officer and President of The Lash Lounge For more information on Franworth visit franworth.com

The Dolly Llama Joins Forces with DCV Franchise Group to Franchise Nationwide The Dolly Llama, the popular waffle concept that currently dominates the Los Angeles dessert-scene with its own unique take on Hong Kong’s iconic Bubble Waffle, recently signed with DCV Franchise Group as its franchising partner to expand the unique and exciting brand to major media markets across the country.

“Having proven ourselves by dominating the ice cream & waffle scene in one of the most competitive markets in the country, Los Angeles, we are thrilled to be working with DCV to continue to grow and expand the concept into other major U.S. markets,” said Eric Shomof, CoFounder.

The brand has distinctively engineered a business for a modern market and established three different franchising models to accommodate a range of store footprints. This versatility is an especially attractive detail to operators looking to franchise multiple units in more than one format to cater to different audiences.

“We see the brand’s potential for servicing everyday guests through brick-and-mortar business while also being a vendor at events. The range of franchise models opens that door for operators wanting to expand their reach in the marketplace,” says Larry Schwartz, Partner at DCV Franchise Group. “This additional revenue stream option sets The Dolly Llama apart from other dessert franchises out there.”

For more information about franchising with The Dolly Llama visit www.thedollyllamala.com/franchise

InXpress Named to MountainWest Capital Network’s Annual Utah 100 List of State’s Fastest-Growing Companies InXpress, a global business-to-business franchise company in the shipping and logistics industry, with a network of over 350 franchisees providing SMEs with unrivaled time and cost-saving solutions through consultative services and innovative software, has been ranked number 94 by MountainWest Capital Network’s (MWCN) 2019 Utah 100. This annual list is comprised of the state’s fastest-growing companies.

MWCN’s exclusive awards program brings together investors, entrepreneurs and professional service providers while recognizing Utah’s 100 fastest-growing companies and the economic and business impact they bring to the state. In addition

to recognizing the Utah 100 list, MWCN recognizes the 15-top revenue-growth companies, as well as the Emerging Elite—the state’s top startups just breaking into the scene.

Dustin Hansen, CEO of InXpress Americas, commented, “InXpress celebrated its 20th Anniversary in June, and it’s a huge testament to the strength of the business model and our team, that after two decades in business, we continue to grow at the speed we do. We’re excited to have this recognized by MWCN.” Utah 100 honorees were chosen based on both their percentage and dollar revenue increase between 2014 and 2018. MWCN’s award event, now marking a quarter

century of recognizing the top companies in the state, honored award recipients at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City.

Visit us.inxpress.com to find out more.

Franchising USA

f ra nchising usa

Page 9

cov er sto ry

ShelfGenie

ShelfGenie:

Making it Easy for the Right Franchise Partners to Build a Thriving Business Andy Pittman was running his own appliance store with 13 employees in Raleigh, North Carolina, when he found an article about ShelfGenie in a national business magazine.

He was so taken by the product that, within a month, he purchased the rights to the Raleigh franchise territory. After a few years, he had expanded to six territories across the state and earned the system’s highest volume group designation multiple times.

That rapid success is par for the course for ShelfGenie. The company, now based in Atlanta, was started in 2000 when Andrew Kerwin, then a college dropout, installed custom glide-in, glide-out shelving in cabinets for his parents and neighbors.

When he saw their excitement and their fanatic use of his shelving product, he realized he had something special, and the business took off.

The company made it onto Inc. Magazine’s annual list of the 500 fastest-growing companies in 2009 and stayed there for three straight years, despite the national recession. In 2010, Inc. Magazine recognized ShelfGenie as the third-fastest growing franchise in the country. By 2017, Entrepreneur magazine had named the

Franchising USA

Andy Pittman

company to its Franchise 500 list for the seventh consecutive year.

Pittman’s rapid growth and success with ShelfGenie continued, and in 2018 he was named the company’s CEO. Now, with new market expansion on the horizon, the home improvement brand is on the hunt for the next wave of new franchise partners.

“We’re looking for people that can recruit, manage and train people,” says Pittman.

“You don’t necessarily have to have any previous experience with carpentry or home improvement. Our in-depth training program, held at the company’s Home Office in Atlanta, teaches new franchise partners everything they need to know about our products, systems and best practices. So, we really look for people that are comfortable with recruiting, training,

“We really look for people that are comfortable with recruiting, training, managing, and ultimately building a team. If you can do that, your chances of success with ShelfGenie are very good.” Andy Pittman

managing, and ultimately building a team.

If you can do that, your chances of success with ShelfGenie are very good.”

And now, ShelfGenie has introduced an owner-operator model to its franchise offering, meant to make starting a new ShelfGenie franchise simple to establish, affordable to run and a great fit for smaller markets.

Franchising USA

cov er sto ry

Page 11

cov er sto ry

ShelfGenie

The opportunity for growth at ShelfGenie can really be attributed to affordability and longevity.

The U.S. economy is in the midst of one of the longest-running expansions in modern national history. There’s been a gradual, and now steady, recovery in the homebuying market, which has powered the growth of the rest of the economy. As more and more Americans realize their dreams of home-ownership, the U.S. as a whole has seen high levels of consumer confidence.

And though the housing market has softened somewhat, which is more of an inevitability than anything else, it leads to an important fact. The tremendous turnover in the U.S. housing stock over the last decade has created virtually unlimited opportunities for home-improvement franchises, as Americans will seek to remain in their current home, choosing to remodel instead of selling.

And ShelfGenie’s products and solutions lend itself to those looking to remodel.

ShelfGenie can transform the storage and convenience factor of key areas of the home for an average price of $3,500 — a much lower cost than the $20,000 to $40,000 to completely replace kitchen cabinets.

Beyond affordability, there’s a huge untapped market for kitchen renovation

Franchising USA

that ShelfGenie’s franchisees can key into.

Home improvement spending set a new high in 2017, reaching $424 billion, according to a recent study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard, which attributed the upward trend to a steady increase in home prices and an aging population.

That same Harvard report also revealed that households of those 55 and older account for half of all current home improvement spending.

In addition, nearly three million homeowners, of which more than 72 percent were at least 55 years old, said they were taking on one or more projects that would improve accessibility.

Kitchen renovations are among the most popular home remodeling projects, according to the research department of the National Association of Realtors, and among those that bring the highest financial return in resale on every dollar spent by the homeowner. It’s no wonder the kitchen is always the heart of the home!

It’s the perfect formula for success: A large market to tap into, and one that’s ready and willing to spend. Through March of 2019, according to a Harvard estimate, Americans spent more than $340 billion on value-adding home improvements.

Combine that with a demographic that

requires accessibility in their home, and there will be a lot of money spent on the organization and accessibility products ShelfGenie offers via customized shelving solutions.

ShelfGenie weathered the recession and came out stronger, thanks in large part to its robust franchising model. Franchise partners have low startup costs, product manufacturing and warehousing is done at ShelfGenie’s plant in Alabama, and the Brand’s Support Center handles many administrative tasks such as appointment scheduling and client followup. An investment is also being made in ShelfGenie’s manufacturing capabilities to allow for more customized solutions for different types of spaces, including commercial businesses.

ShelfGenie has franchises in more than 160 territories in the U.S. and Canada, and there’s still room for expansion. The economics and demographics favor success and ShelfGenie’s support makes it easy for the right franchise partners to build a thriving business that is both simple and scalable.

As Pittman likes to say, a little wooden box changed his life.

Maybe the next life it can change is yours. www.shelfgenie.com

WORK SMART

NOT

HARD!

IFG 50/50 - A Different Franchise Approach!

NO

Staff Premises Long hours Paper Inventory

WE BUY INVOICES TO ACCELERATE OUR CLIENTS’ CASHFLOW! WE DO NOT LEND MONEY!

GET A FREE eBOOK www.Interfacefinancial.com/franchise

AS A FRANCHISEE: s 7ORK IN A MATURE lNANCIAL SERVICE ARENA s 7ORK FROM A HOME BASED ENVIRONMENT s "E PART OF A YEAR OLD INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION s 9OUR GROWTH COMES FROM HELPING YOUR CLIENTS GROW s #ONDUCT BUSINESS ON YOUR OWN TIMETABLE s 7ORK ANYWHERE NO TERRITORY s 6IRTUALLY NO PAPERWORK FRANCHISOR HANDLES ALL DAY TO DAY PAPERWORK s .O COLD CALLING TELEMARKETING ADVERTISING OR DIRECT MAIL s 3TART WITH A MODEST WORKING CAPITAL AND GROW AT YOUR OWN SPEED

For more information contact David Banfield, President E: ifg@interfacefinancial.com

spot l igh t o n serv ice

I FG 50 / 50

Work Smart Not Hard!

“The IFG 50/50 franchise is no different in that as the business grows, more capital is required – the ‘work smart’ difference, however, is that the franchise includes a capital leverage element whereby the franchisor provides capital leverage to each and every franchisee on a no-cost basis.”

the corporate world into self-employment

There are 3-key ‘work smart’ aspects of the IFG 50/50 franchise - a franchise environment, life/work balance and working with other people’s money.

experience of working 50 – 60 hours a

Franchise environment

This statement ‘work smart not hard’ has been at the core of our franchise approach for many years, however we are still asked on a regular basis exactly how we interpret the ‘work smart’ aspect.

smart’ approach. Everybody understands

We believe that there are three main categories that contribute to this ‘work

Group definitely does not have to think of a

Franchising USA

the ‘work hard’ element and many

potential franchisees transitioning from and entrepreneurship have first-hand

week for somebody else, and they have

now come to the conclusion that it’s time

to put in that same effort and commitment

into their own business. While we endorse the ‘work hard’ aspect, we believe that,

combined with working smart, a successful franchisee with The Interface Financial 50 to 60-hour work week.

The IFG 50/50 franchise has been crafted as a professional white-collar franchise, and the IFG brand has been in the financial service marketplace for over 45 years. The franchise environment means that for potential franchisees the initial work and research has all been done and proven. More and more individuals turn to franchising as a vehicle to transition

“Entrepreneurs who wish to ‘work smart’ and not hard should always explore a franchising model as it is the starting point for working smart, and then they should explore various franchise opportunities that give them additional work smart features.”

into owning their own business because acquiring a franchise invariably means that systems, market research, financial modelling, legalities and red-tape have all been dealt with many, many times and turned into a replicable formula for new entrepreneurs. In any business, getting started and getting the business up and running is often the biggest challenge.

Franchising eliminates a large portion of that challenge because a franchise comes ‘pre-packaged’ and usually ready to open and operate.

The IFG 50/50 franchise fits those criteria and is a leader in the alternative finance market for expanding businesses. Interface franchisees provide a valuable cash flow acceleration service for their clients through an innovative invoice discounting program.

Life/work balance People gravitate to franchising for many reasons, not the least of which to achieve a more equitable life/work balance.

As previously mentioned, many senior executives moving from the corporate world have left positions where they were working 50 hours a week, and often engaging in extensive travel away from

their family. The IFG 50/50 franchise has been created with a ‘work smart’ element – that means that the franchisor is handling the bulk of the routine elements involved in day-to-day transactions. With extensive technology backup, franchisees can enjoy a virtually paperless franchise and concentrate their time and skills in creating people relationships. This ‘work smart’ approach means that many IFG 50/50 franchisees will be engaged in their franchise for considerably less than 50, or even 40 hours a week. A life/work balance is all about ‘being the boss’ and creating your own timetable, and The Interface Financial Group has been careful to ensure that this is an integral part of their franchise model.

Other people’s money This element is definitely part of the ‘work smart’ approach and is firmly incorporated in the IFG 50/50 franchise. In almost every franchise model the franchisee will require, over and above the franchise fee and start-up expenses, working capital to run the business on a day-to-day basis.

That working capital usually comes from savings or investments that are liquidated or, in some cases, it is borrowed money.

Invariably as a business expands in the early years additional working capital is required and, again, this is quite often borrowed money that is used for growth support.

The IFG 50/50 franchise is no different in that as the business grows, more capital is required – the ‘work smart’ difference, however, is that the franchise includes a capital leverage element whereby the franchisor provides capital leverage to each and every franchisee on a no-cost basis.

This is not a loan from the franchisor and, as such, there is no cost or obligation on the part of the franchisee to the franchisor.

This leverage capital, together with the franchisee’s own capital contribution, enables income to be generated using other people’s money (the franchisor’s), thus creating an exponential growth opportunity.

Entrepreneurs who wish to ‘work smart’ and not hard should always explore a franchising model as it is the starting point for working smart, and then they should explore various franchise opportunities that give them additional work smart features. www.interfacefinancial.com/franchise

Franchising USA

spot l igh t o n serv ice

Page 15

ex per t advice

David VanAmburg | Managing Director | American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI)

How to Manage

Customer Satisfaction

David VanAmburg

Franchising USA

When you walk into a McDonalds and order a Big Mac, chances are you’re expecting the burger to taste a certain way no matter which McDonalds you’re in. What you might not expect is just how much effort goes into meeting this expectation.

Franchise organizations are in a unique and often frustrating position when it comes to customer satisfaction. Customers expect a certain product and experience every time they interact with your brand.

They don’t know—or care—who owns each location.

It’s in franchise owners’ best interest to keep customer satisfaction a priority.

Across all industries, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) has found that higher customer satisfaction leads to higher profits.

But how do you achieve, maintain, and improve satisfaction? These frequently asked questions provide some clarity.

“It’s in franchise owners’ best interest to keep customer satisfaction a priority. Across all industries, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) has found that higher customer satisfaction leads to higher profits.”

For example, Domino’s franchise agreement specifies which signs the store needs to display and which vendors they must use. Franchisees are not permitted to deviate from these rules, which help standardize the customer experience across locations. The result is customers know what to expect each time they place an order.

This national level of control varies by franchise. For example, Chick-fil-A controls everything down to the waffle fry, which must look and taste identical at all locations. Maybe they’re onto something since they’ve earned the top spot for restaurant satisfaction in the ACSI four years running.

Who is responsible for managing customer satisfaction?

Both the franchisor and the franchisee.

Franchisees need to ensure their location delivers a positive experience to customers, but guidance on how to do so—and how to replicate that experience across the broader franchise system—comes from HQ. Corporate should be setting standards for signage, quality of products, and store design to create a consistent brand perception. Franchisees are responsible for employee training, the in-store experience, and upholding these guidelines. Because franchisees are customer-facing, the burden is heavier for them.

Does consistency between franchises contribute to customer satisfaction?

Absolutely! That’s one reason why the franchise business model requires franchisees to buy into a high level of control and adhere to certain brand standards.

Could a brand’s reputation be impacted by low satisfaction at an individual location?

In most cases it’s unlikely for the reputation of one location to impact the entire brand. That’s because not enough customers directly experience the issue for it to affect overall sentiment. The aggregate positive experiences generated across the franchise system outweigh the blowback from any isolated incident at one location.

However, as we saw when multiple Chipotle locations served pork that made customers sick, if the issue is more widespread, so is the impact to customer satisfaction. And if satisfaction overall suffers, so too could brand reputation and profits. Stocks of companies with high ACSI scores tend to perform better financially than companies with low scores. Similarly, decreases in customer satisfaction affect the willingness of households to buy.

quality, in-store cleanliness, staff courtesy, order accuracy, and other elements of the customer experience. They essentially create the blueprint for franchisees on how to uphold the brand’s reputation and customer satisfaction. It’s up to franchisees to enforce these standards and ensure customers in Philadelphia have the same type of experience as customers in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

It’s also important for franchisees to understand what customers value most.

One way to determine what resonates with customers is to conduct regular, detailed customer surveys. Through 25 years of measuring customer satisfaction the ACSI has found certain measures—specifically, product quality and efficient service—are more important to satisfying customers than price. In these scenarios, franchisees won’t gain any sustainable points by dropping price or trying to undercut the competition. But, they may see customer sentiment rise by establishing and enforcing protocols that ensure customers receive timely responses.

Ultimately, ensuring customer happiness is up to everyone—the franchisor, franchisees, and even employees. To maintain the high standards set by corporate, franchisees should communicate these expectations to their employees and guide them on how to create positive experiences that will keep customers satisfied and coming back for more.

What should franchisees do to ensure regular and uniform satisfaction?

David VanAmburg is the managing director of the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) where he has spent over 20 years researching customer satisfaction and helping companies improve their customer experience.

David has lectured at the University of Michigan and venues abroad, addressing the relationships among satisfaction, quality, customer service, loyalty, and shareholder value.

Franchisors establish criteria for product

theacsi.org

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 17

ex per t advice

Robert A. Lauer, Maral M. Kilejian, Iris Gibson and Jamee Munster | Attorneys | Haynes and Boone

California’s Landmark Employment Bill Imposes

“ABC” Test

On September 18, 2019, California Governor Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 5 (AB5), a landmark employment bill imposing the “ABC” test on California businesses and workers to determine whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor.

Franchising USA

AB5 will retroactively reclassify some

California workers as employees. Those newly classified employees will then be

When does AB5 become effective?

back pay claims for misclassification.

AB5 takes effect on January 1, 2020 and will apply retroactively. Starting July 1, 2020, any individual who is an employee under the ABC test must be covered by workers’ compensation insurance.

Sometimes referred to as the “Uber law,”

What does AB5 do?

subject to California’s labor laws and

regulations along with local municipal

ordinances and rules resulting in potential

discussion around AB5 has focused primarily on the impacts on the gig

economy, but the law extends to companies not directly associated with the gig economy, including franchisors.

AB5 imposes the “ABC” test set forth in Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v.

Superior Court of Los Angeles, 416 P.3d 1 (Cal. 2018) on California businesses and workers in evaluating whether a worker is

Robert A. Lauer

Maral M. Kilejian

, Iris Gibson

“Sometimes referred to as the “Uber law,” discussion around AB5 has focused primarily on the impacts on the gig economy, but the law extends to companies not directly associated with the gig economy, including franchisors.”

an employee or an independent contractor for purposes of labor protections under California law, including the California’s Labor Code, Unemployment Insurance Code, Wage Orders, and Workers’ Compensation Code.

The ABC test provides that a worker is presumed to be an employee of an alleged employer unless the worker is performing work free from control of the hiring entity, that the work is “outside the usual course of the hiring entity’s business,” and the person is customarily engaged in independent trade. Dynamex addressed simply whether workers were appropriately

classified as employees for purposes of California’s wage and hour laws.

How does AB5 impact franchisors with California units?

The impact of AB5 on franchisors as it relates to the franchisee’s employees is not clear and will be heavily litigated.

AB5 excepts certain workers and situations but not franchisors. If applied to franchisors, AB5 could potentially subject franchisors to misclassification damages claims by franchisees and franchisee employees.

Jamee Munster

Some argue that the ABC test is the appropriate standard for determining employer status and joint employment under California labor law, even without a misclassification claim. The ABC test has not yet been applied to determine whether a franchisor is vicariously liable for the actions of its franchisee. Rather, in Patterson v. Domino’s Pizza, Inc., 60 333 P.3d 723 (Cal. 2014), the California Supreme Court applied the “means and manner” control test to determine whether a franchisor possessed the right to control the relevant day-to-day activities of the franchisee’s employees. In Patterson, the court determined that a franchisor’s right to impose operating standards on its franchisees is not the type of control that subjects a franchisor to vicarious liability.

Therefore, a franchisor was not a joint employer subject to vicarious liability for the alleged wrongdoing of its franchisee’s employee.

After Dynamex in 2018, some have urged courts to expand the ABC test beyond misclassification claims to reshape the law of joint employment and vicarious liability.

At least one pending case threatens to expand Dynamex in the franchise context.

In Vazquez v. Jan-Pro Franchising Int’l, Inc., 923 F.3d 575 (9th Cir. 2019) (opinion withdrawn), a formerly published Ninth Circuit decision, the court essentially held that franchise relationships are subject to the ABC test. The Ninth Circuit granted a petition for panel rehearing and the May

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 19

ex per t advice

Robert A. Lauer, Maral M. Kilejian, Iris Gibson and Jamee Munster | Attorneys | Haynes and Boone

2019 opinion has been withdrawn pending a final decision.

Such expansion efforts, however, will not necessarily change the law of joint employment and vicarious liability in the franchise context as set forth in Patterson. Fresh off the press is the Ninth Circuit’s recent opinion in Salazar v.

McDonald’s Corp., ___ F.3d ___, 2019 WL 4782760 (9th Cir. Oct. 1, 2019). In Salazar, the court considered whether Dynamex should be applied broadly to the franchising model for the purposes of determining joint liability for alleged wage and hour violations committed by a franchisee. The court refused to apply the ABC test because no party argued that the individuals at issue were independent contractors. Instead, the opinion focused on whether the franchisee’s employees were also the franchisor’s employees and the court applied the Patterson “means and manner” test. Because the franchisor’s “exercise of control over the means

Franchising USA

“With a short timeline for implementation, franchise groups continue to lobby the California legislature for a common-sense exemption for the franchising industry and lawsuits will test the bounds of AB5 in the franchising context.”

and manner of work performed at its franchises [was] geared specifically toward quality control and maintenance of brand standards,” the court determined that the franchisor could not be classified as an employer of its franchisees’ workers under the common law definition.

What does the future hold?

Unfortunately, AB5 leaves franchisors with more questions than answers. With a short timeline for implementation, franchise groups continue to lobby the California legislature for a common-sense exemption for the franchising industry and lawsuits will test the bounds of AB5 in the franchising context.

Robert A. Lauer, Maral M. Kilejian, Iris Gibson, and Jamee Munster are Attorneys at Haynes and Boone.

Rob Lauer is a franchise lawyer who deals with domestic and international franchise matters; Maral Kilejian focuses her practice in the areas of franchise and distribution law, corporate law, trademark law, and advertising, sweepstakes and promotions; Iris Gibson focuses her practice on writing and on effectively telling her clients’ stories; Jamee Munster’s focus lies in areas of franchise and distribution law. www.haynesboone.com

Page 21

FRANCHISE THE

FLAVOR OF NEW Y RK

What Nathan’s did to hot dogs, we’re doing again to New York’s finest, fastest and most fast-casual casual cuisine.

• Fresh Angus Burgers • Premium Heroes

• 103 years of global brand power & consumer loyalty • High profits, low cost

• Hand-Breaded Chicken & Onion Rings

• Best-in-class training & ongoing support

• The World’s Best Hot Dogs & Fresh Crinkle Cut French Fries

f i n d o u t m o r e t o d ay

RELISH THE PERKS OF BEING FAMOUS

• Flexible, adaptable restaurant designs

email us

visit our site

This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for information purposes only. Currently, the following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Within the U.S.A., we offer franchises solely by means of our Franchise Disclosure Document. There are also countries outside the U.S.A. that have laws governing the offer and sale of franchises. If you are a resident of one of these states or countries, we will not offer you a franchise until we have complied with pre-sale registration and disclosure requirements that apply in your jurisdiction.

ex per t advice

3

Heather Ripley | CEO | Ripley PR

Heather Ripley

Franchise development is hard work. If your brand isn’t consistently driving leads to your funnel, you’re already in trouble.

Franchising USA

Things the Best Brands Are Doing to Target Conversions But implementing the right strategy is even more important when targeting potential leads for conversions and add-ons. While the conversion model doesn’t make sense for every franchisor, conversions and addons can be an important source of leads for categories like home service and B2B franchise networks.

Many of the strategies for getting start-up franchise leads into your funnel work for conversion leads, but from my experience on the franchise development team at Clockwork Home Services, I can tell you that conversions and add-ons require some extra work. When you’re marketing to existing businesses, you need to appeal to the reasons they started a business in the first place. They’ve poured countless hours and plenty of sweat equity into building their brand, and that brand is likely tied directly to them and their reputation, and sometimes their family name.

kind of time and money spent, your team needs to generate the best leads possible.

Here are three strategies the best conversion franchises are doing to generate conversion and add-on leads while reducing their cost per franchise sale.

1

Outbound and Inbound Marketing

You’ve probably taken control of the message you send to prospects, but have you taken control of the message they find on their own? Don’t fool yourself — your lead-generation funnel starts long before you send your first mailer or make your first phone call. Many of your prospects die on the vine without you ever knowing their names.

Buying a franchise is a huge commitment of time and money for anyone, but recognizing the next-level importance of that same decision for a conversion or addon is key to adding them to your franchise family instead of your competitors.

Why? Because your prospects are researching you on their own long before they even talk to your franchise development team. According to RetailDive, 87% of people search online before making purchases of any kind.

And according to DemandGen, 47% of B2B buyers viewed three to five pieces of content before speaking with a company rep.

It’s also a huge investment for you. The average cost per sale for a franchise is $7,558, and cost per lead is $109, with each sales cycle lasting 12-20 weeks. With that

What are your prospects finding there? A spot-on earned and owned media strategy (marketing content and public relations) strategy will ensure that their research

“If you’re in the business of franchise conversions and add-ons, your marketing strategy can make the difference between cherry-picking the best businesses in your sector and settling for second-best.”

anticipate concerns attendees might have.

But most of all, make them glad they took time out of their busy schedules to visit you.

Recipe for Success makes them want to learn more.

Couple online marketing with a direct outreach campaign like direct mail.

Contrary to popular belief, direct mail isn’t dead. In fact, it’s working now better than ever since your prospects are probably inundated with digital marketing. Buy lists of independently owned businesses in your sector and send them meaningful, impactful direct mail.

2

Pick Up the Phone

Online content and direct mail aren’t enough on their own. They have to be part of a more robust strategy that includes a human touch. That means your franchise development team needs to reach out proactively to every lead in a way that builds trust, and the best way to get results is on the phone.

A conversion or add-on lead in particular needs that human connection. They need to feel valued as an established business owner. They need to ask questions of a knowledgeable person within your

company. They need so much more than a blog post or a mailer.

Calls have to be part of your development strategy and business metrics. The very best franchise systems know how many calls each franchise development team member needs to make to get a confirmation for Discovery Day attendance. Find that metric for your team and encourage them to meet and exceed it.

3

Get Discovery Day Right

Once you get a prospect to Discovery Day, you have to make it count for every prospect, but especially for conversions or add-ons. When an owner/operator has to take time away from their business to attend Discovery Day, it represents a huge commitment of time and effort. And if they think your Discovery Day isn’t worth it, other prospects will hear about it.

Let Discovery Day be a chance for prospects to develop trust in you. Showcase your leadership and support systems.

Develop robust, professional materials that

If you’re in the business of franchise conversions and add-ons, your marketing strategy can make the difference between cherry-picking the best businesses in your sector and settling for second-best. It takes careful planning, precise messaging and diligent follow-through. You can tackle it in-house, but a public relations agency with plenty of experience in the franchise sector can help you hone the message even further.

Conversion and add-on leads aren’t going to automatically beat a path to your door, but nurturing a relationship with them through proactive marketing and PR can help them find their way.

Heather Ripley is CEO of Ripley PR, a global public relations agency specializing in B2B and franchising.

Orange Orchard, a division of Ripley PR, champions franchisors that cater to environmentally-conscious consumers.

For additional information, visit www.ripleypr.com or www.orangeorchardpr.com.

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 23

ex per t advice

Tina Bacon-DeFrece, Ph. | President, CEO and Co-Founder| Big Frog Franchise Group

3 Tips to Set Up a Successful

Franchisee-led Regional Meeting

In the franchise system, it is common practice for franchisors and franchisees to come together, celebrate the year, and strategize for the road ahead in a national conference setting.

But franchise networks can enhance their communities by creating periodic meetings at the franchisee regional level. Oftentimes formal meetings are only led and directed by the franchisor, but the power of franchisee organized and managed

Franchising USA

meetings can have a tremendous impact on your brand. Smaller meetings not only allow people within your franchise network to get better acquainted, but promote the sharing of ideas between one another to align on best practices, grow bottom lines, and enhance the system as a whole.

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & MoreÂŽ has always been a franchise concept focused on supporting its network. To move this mission forward, we began hosting regional meetings to benefit all of our 90 plus locations nationwide. As a supplement to our national conference, franchisees are able to give and take best practices from their counterparts and apply them to their own territory. The result was fantastic - we saw an 18 percent increase in system-wide

gross revenue in the first half of 2019.

We’re continuing to host these meetings, and look forward to the ongoing positive impact it will have on our brand.

Franchisors should consider programming regional meetings throughout the year to build comradery and further contribute to the success of the franchise network. Here a few things to keep in mind when doing so.

A small crowd creates an engaging setting While national conferences usually involve the entire franchise network in a large space, each regional meeting is a small gathering of franchisees within a territory along with two to three members of the

regional meeting can cover 6 to 8 topics at once, with each subject receiving 30 minutes to an hour of discussion time.

With distinct topics and timelines for

each discussion, we are able to ensure

every topic is covered in a thorough and productive manner.

Regional meetings are truly an exciting

way to get people together and talk about

the pressing issues that will help build their business. Part social, part educational,

these events are a great way to build your franchise community and let the leaders of your business share best practices to

help everyone succeed. By making your

meeting a grassroots system with intimate corporate team. Hosting these smaller gatherings is not only more cost effective but also allows for everyone in the room the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion.

In an environment that is more intimate, entrepreneurs can begin forming critical relationships with experienced franchisees and listen to candid feedback on their experiences.

Additionally, setting up a meeting with a select handful of the franchises allows franchisors to check in with each franchise owner. Operating in 26 states and nearing 100 locations, regional meetings allow us as franchisors to have discussions with each franchisee, learning more about each one’s accomplishments, challenges, and areas of opportunity. At Big Frog, we view every franchise agreement we make as a promise that the franchise owner has made a sound investment. Smaller meetings are a great way to continue our discussions and make good on that initial promise.

Create a platform for voices to be heard National conferences provide a great platform for your leadership to give an annual announcement, share awards, and inform the whole franchise network on national news and observations. Regional meetings however are a time for groups to dive deep into a variety of business topics, letting franchisees and store managers lead the discussion.

To enhance the value of our meetings,

Big Frog opened up regional meetings to store managers. As the boots on the ground of each Big Frog location, we felt it was important to have our managers come share their experience and to obtain more knowledge on a wide range of topics.

Through this, we have not only seen franchise owners increase their abilities in local marketing and maintaining a supply chain, but have also seen store managers boost their skills in merchandising, team building, and business planning.

When planning a regional meeting, reach out to a couple of successful franchisees and managers in your network beforehand and ask them if they would feel comfortable speaking on a variety of subjects. Feel free to help these individuals in creating and leading the conversation, but let their expertise shine through. A franchisee or store manager holding the attention of their group can give invaluable advice to anyone looking to learn something new and improve their own business.

and engaging discussions, you can build a valuable experience that helps everyone – from franchisors to franchisees – reach a new level of success.

Tina Bacon-DeFrece, Ph.D. is the President, CEO and Co-Founder of Big Frog Franchise Group, and is responsible for strategic planning and tactical development for all aspects of the Big Frog Brand. Prior to her foray into franchising, Tina, as a Ph.D. Chemical Engineer, was a research director for a multimillion dollar scientific instrument company. Her responsibilities were to not only develop a full line of optical sensors, but to determine the profitability and marketability of the technologies. bigfrogfranchise.com

Value people’s time Regional meetings are a great time to learn and connect quickly. They can be filled with both social and educational activities, but only needs to be a day long. Pack your meeting with activities you and your team will love, but understand that this is a small part of growing your franchise network.

To put this principle into practice, our team creates a distinct itinerary of our regional meetings before they start. A day-long

Tina Bacon-DeFrece, Ph.D.

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 25

Franchise Opportunities Available.

Partner With A PROVEN Brand.

OWN YOUR TUFFY TODAY! Helping our franchisees to operate successfully and meet the challenges of today’s marketplace is the top priority for the Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Centers Franchise and Operations Team. We provide our franchisees with a proven operating system, and as a result, our franchisees have played a key role in the ongoing success of Tuffy.

Our value proposition includes (but is not limited to) the following: • Over 45 Years in Business.

• State of the Art Management, Sales & Technical Training.

• Comprehensive Marketing & Advertising Programs.

• National Vendor Partnerships.

• National & Local Support.

• Powerful Brand Proposition.

• Strong Business Model.

• On-going Research & Development.

AUTOMOTIVE EXPERIENCE NOT REQUIRED! Tuffy is looking for customer focused, ethical business owners. Our franchisees come from many different walks of life. A background in auto repair is not needed to run a successful Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center, but can be helpful.

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION:

800-228-8339 www.TuffyFranchising.com

FranchisingFeature retail franchising

ja nu a ry 202 0

RETAIL FRANCHISING IS STILL GOING STRONG special

retail

franchising

feature

SUCCESSFUL RETAIL FULFILLMENT REQUIRES PROACTIVE INSIGHTS AND PLANNING

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

what’s new!

Cannabis One and ONE Cannabis Unite, Primed to Transform the Future of Cannabis unmatched. Connecting these exceptional performers will usher in a wave of gamechanging initiatives for the industry as a whole,” said Jeff Mascio, CEO of Cannabis One. Together, the Colorado-based companies will be focused on expanding its franchise footprint worldwide, which includes agreements signed for 15 dispensary franchises across five states and multiple corporate dispensaries in the United States.

Cannabis One Holdings Inc. (CSE: CBIS) (“Cannabis One” or “CBIS”) and ONE Cannabis Group (“ONE”) announced today that they have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement to combine businesses.

“As two Colorado born and bred companies, we’re comprised of industry

pioneers who have honed best practices across nearly all areas of cannabis over the past decade. Together, Cannabis One and ONE Cannabis will lead the industry into a truly successful Cannabis 2.0 with our winning combination. Our products and services deliver a level of consistency and quality to cannabis consumers that’s

“Franchising is the most agile and proven way to scale in the cannabis industry,” said Mike Weinberger, COO of ONE Cannabis, which began its franchise program in 2018. “Cannabis One shares our vision of inspiring confidence in cannabis for all, and we look forward to working together to elevate our brands across North America and beyond.”

For more information, visit ocginc.com.

7Rewards® Loyalty Program Crosses 25 Million Member Mark Since expanding its 7Rewards loyalty program two years ago, 7-Eleven, Inc. has seen membership in the app-based platform almost triple (278 percent) from 9 million to 25 million members. This explosive membership growth has translated to increased store visits and a larger, more loyal customer base for the world’s largest convenience retailer.

In 2019, 7-Eleven was awarded several awards for its loyalty program: Convenience Store News’ Technology Leader of the Year Award, Loyalty360 Technology and Trends Platinum Award, The International Business ‘Gold Stevie’ Award for Integrated Mobile Experience, and more. Each of these notable award competitions recognize brands that are building stronger and deeper loyalty with their customers in a proactive, meaningful and measurable way.

“While winning awards is certainly an honor, the real measure of success is how 7Rewards benefits our customers and franchisees every day,” said Joe DePinto, 7-Eleven President and CEO. “7Rewards members visit our stores more often and spend more

Franchising USA

when they shop. That means increased store traffic for franchisees and our corporate stores – an added eight customers per store each day.”

Find out more online at www.7-Eleven.com.

Regis Corporation (NYSE: RGS), a leader in the haircare industry, whose primary business is franchising, owning, and operating technology enabled hair salons, announced today they have entered into an agreement for the sale and conversion of an additional 133 company-owned salons located in the state of Pennsylvania and surrounding areas to the Alline Salon Group, formerly known as Super C Group.

The salons being acquired are currently branded as Holiday Hair®, Famous Hair®, Best Cuts®, CityLooks®, Style America® and BoRics Hair Care®. One hundred and five of the salons will be under the Holiday Hair® banner and the balance will be converted to the Regis Cost Cutters® brand.

The transition and conversion began early December and will continue into early 2020.

partnership now covers Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania and three brands: Supercuts, Cost Cutters and Holiday Hair.

The Alline Salon Group has created an excellent culture and built a team of proven leaders. We are optimistic about our future together,” commented Eric Bakken, Executive Vice President, President Franchise of Regis Corporation.

commented, “Growing with competent multi-unit operators, like the Alline Salon Group, strengthens our franchise portfolio and further accelerates our strategy to convert to a capital-light, technology enabled franchise business.” Mr. Sawyer added, “Regis has a pipeline of 970 salons to be transitioned to franchisees in various

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with the Alline Salon Group. Our

Hugh Sawyer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Regis Corporation

www.regiscorp.com

stages of negotiation.”

skinBe Med Spa Partners with Lasky Architect PA Scott Lasky, CEO, ncarb, aia, has nearly forty years of experience in architectural design and construction. Lasky Architect PA has been the architectural lead in projects of varying nature, size and geographical location.

skinBe Med Spa announced today that it has partnered with Lasky Architect PA, an international firm that provides a full range of architectural, interior design, engineering and project management services.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with experts to continue to expand our footprint while adding value to our franchisees and protecting the skinBe brand by streamlining processes. I am confident that Scott Lasky and his team have what it takes to help us build the skinBe empire. It’s simple; talent wins games but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” said Beth Donaldson, Founder + CEO.

“We at Lasky Architect PA are excited to have been chosen for an exclusive relationship with skinBe Med Spa to provide architectural, engineering and interior design services for this fast growing franchise organization. Working with Beth Donaldson CEO, has been a pleasure and as they expand nationally, each future franchisee will experience the professionalism she exudes. The space design for skinBe Med Spa clearly hits the perfect tone for their mission, services and vision. We at Lasky Architect PA, thank skinBe Med Spa for this opportunity and are excited to be a part of this revolution,” said Scott Lasky CEO, ncarb, aia “We are proud of the team we are building and the partnerships we have created. It takes the powerful mindset of a collective for empires to be built,” said Dee Davis, skinBe COO.

Franchising USA

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Regis® Announces Agreement to Franchise the Holiday Hair Brand and Sell an Additional 133 Company-Owned Salons to the Alline Salon Group

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

what’s new!

BoConcept Capped Off 2019 with Four Major Industry Awards

The Global Design Leaders’ GLASS Campaign Provided a Unique and Holistic Aesthetic Experience and Ignited High Levels of Customer Engagement created a unique consumer experience that highlighted the elegant and streamlined design of LG OLED Glass TVs, along with the contemporary look and feel of BoConcept’s luxury furniture.

“Since its inception, BoConcept has been committed to elevating interior spaces so they can look their absolute best and truly make an impression,” said Steen Knigge, Director of U.S. Marketing for BoConcept. “The BoConcept team worked tirelessly on the GLASS campaign, which speaks to the modern consumer who is looking to unite form and function through the harmonious partnership of technology and design.”

Danish-founded retail furniture franchise BoConcept is capping off a major year of growth that saw the global brand receive four major industry awards in 2019.

The awards recognized LG Electronics and BoConcept’s

BoConcept was originally founded in Denmark in 1952 and began franchising in Paris in 1993. Today, BoConcept boasts a franchise footprint of more than 300 locations in 65 countries. The brand continues to expand the business and aims to reach 600 stores globally.

integrated BoConcept furniture designs with “Picture on Glass” LG

“Trends come and go,” said Knigge. “But BoConcept proves that disruptive innovation, not to mention a commitment to providing high-quality customer service, will never go out of style.”

global home entertainment technology leader LG Electronics and

For more information please visit www.boconcept.com

collaborative GLASS campaign, an in-store partnership that

OLED TVs. The GLASS campaign was done in partnership with

Adam Cannon Promoted to Vice President of Brand Management at G6 Hospitality G6 Hospitality LLC, the parent company of Motel 6 and Studio 6 brands in the United States and Canada, announced Adam Cannon has been promoted to the newly created position of Vice President, Brand Management.

He will report directly to Rob Palleschi, Chief Executive Officer.

In his new role, Cannon will focus on the

development of a new Brand Management business unit. He will be responsible for outlining brand objectives, establishing reporting and performance goals, and

ensuring alignment across the enterprise.

Franchising USA

Cannon previously served as Vice President of Operations for the Studio 6 extended stay product. He and his team were instrumental in the development and implementation of critical needs for the enterprise, collaborating across departments within G6 Hospitality in both the owned and franchise environments.

Before that, he spent 16 years at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, in roles ranging across both regional and brand operations.

Cannon served as Vice President, Operations on four of Wyndham’s economy brands throughout his tenure. www.g6hospitality.com

CAROLINA HEMP COMPANY SET TO OPEN FIVE NEW FRANCHISES IN Q1 2020

Carolina Hemp Company has just closed deals to open up franchises in North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia Carolina Hemp Company is proud to announce that they are opening franchises in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Knoxville, Tennessee, Atlanta, Georgia, Wilmington, North Carolina, and Wake Forest, North Carolina.

Carolina Hemp Company is a whole distributor of high-quality goods, based in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. The company’s mission is to bring balance through hemp -- throughout the entire United States.

The company currently sells premium CBD oil (for both humans and pets), hemp flowers, pain creams, CBD coffees and teas, edibles (gummies and other food products), apparel, vape accessories, educational materials, and beverages.

“We are thrilled to see so much interest from franchisees so quickly,” says Founder, Brian Bulman. “I believe this proves that our message resonates with people looking to get into the hemp space. The passion and intensity of our newest franchise partners is very refreshing.”

The company plans on opening over 200 stores by 2023, with a lot of interest already coming from Texas and the Southeast part of the United States.

“Our expansion into multiple states is a natural progression for Carolina Hemp Company,” says Chief of Positivity, Greg George.

“Becoming the next GNC of the CBD/Hemp retail business requires rapid expansion into multiple states.”

To learn more about becoming a Carolina Hemp Company franchisee, please visit the Carolina Hemp Company’s website at www.carolinahempcompany.com

Woof Gang Bakery Unleashes First Ohio Store in Cleveland with a Grand Opening Celebration and Free Dog Treats for a Year Woof Gang Bakery, the leader in specialty pet retail and grooming with 130 locations across the U.S., celebrated the opening of the company’s first Ohio store in December with a grand opening event.

The new Woof Gang Bakery location is a locally-owned franchise, offering professional pet grooming and a wide selection of healthy pet foods, gourmet baked treats, toys, accessories and pet supplies.

The store is located at 20075 Chagrin Blvd., in the Shaker Heights Van Aken District.

Throughout the grand opening event, customers could enter to win “pawsome” raffle prizes including free pet food for a year, free dog treats for a year, stylish collar and leash sets, a gift basket filled with dog toys and more pet pampering products.

Ohio natives Natalee and Joe Gilk are the franchise owners of the new Woof Gang Bakery store. With Joe’s 26 years of experience in the pet industry and an qualified retail team, the Gilks bring expertise and commitment to the well-being of their furry clientele.

“Because we adore animals and know that pets are a part of our families, it’s our goal to provide our customers with personalized service, meet their individual needs and provide them with the best products and grooming services to keep their pets healthy and happy,” said Natalee Gilk.

To learn more, visit woofgangbakery.com

Franchising USA

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Page 31

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Featu re

b y G i n a G i l l Fr a n c h i s i n g U S A

retail Franchising Feature

Over the last decade the retail industry has expanded and changed to the many demands of the public. Years ago, shoppers had a tendency to be drawn to name brands, and logos that represented importance and wealth. Now, customers are looking for style, convenience and frugality.

The franchising world has been consistently flexible with the mainy styles and requests of their retail shoppers. Once known for huge branding and marketing, retail franchises now explore the many different styles and budgets of customers, as well as trends both in fashion, design, desires and spending habits.

People want quantity over quality in some aspects, but are willing to pay for big ticket items: a pair of rain resistant boots, or a solid thermal winter coat, a vacuum with a long life, or a high end laptop and case.

While they are also satisfied with a bag of t-shirts that get the job done, just the same as any high-end brand tee. Shoppers are more likely to fill their cart at a dollar store with everyday items than pay for a well known brand of toothpicks or handsoap, for example.

There are very peculiar and fickle buying habits exhibited in the retail world as there are so many styles and considerations to adhere to, but the franchise industry has figured out how to follow spending trends and work directly within it to garner success.

The retail franchise covers a lot of lines of products. Though there is a tendency to think of clothing when considering retail, it can expand to other types of franchises: health and beauty products, furniture and home accessories, even groceries stores are a form of retail, to name a few. The

Franchising USA

“Though there is a tendency to think of clothing when considering retail, it can expand to other types of franchises: health and beauty products, furniture and home accessories, even groceries stores are a form of retail, to name a few.”

“People want quantity over quality in some aspects, but are willing to pay for big ticket items: a pair of rain resistant boots, or a solid thermal winter coat, a vacuum with a long life, or a high end laptop and case.”

Grocery Stores

definition of retail sales is essentially just the sale of goods to the public.

However, over time, retail has expanded well beyond simple goods. It’s not just about what people need, but rather what they want.

With the introduction of the internet, the retail market has opened its doors to accessing more buyers and even more products. Some products are exclusive to online shopping, while some sales are only available on websites. Most importantly, online sales have increased access and in turn, more profit. Online retail sales rose to 10% in 2019, compared to less than 2% in the first quarter of 2003 (source: https:// qz.com/1677747/americans-are-spendingway-less-time-shopping).

While online shopping is up, visiting stores for retail needs has decreased. Customers

are more likely to visit stores that provide more than one type of good. Rather than

hit up a clothing store, that only provides

such, they rather visit stores with all their needs met: food, appliances and clothing

all under one roof. Nowadays, consumers needs in retail are based on convenience rather than specifics.

When it comes to retail, the new desires

and trends of the consumer determine the success of a franchise. Therefore, when considering an investment, it’s worth

taking a look into what exactly a franchise is offering and if the franchise has

responded well to previous variables that consumers had demanded.

What once was considered a food market, is now so much more. Chains have reacted to the desires for one-stop-shop. Aisles that used to be filled with canned goods, boxes of cereal and pasta sauce are now filled with health and beauty products, children’s toys and even clothing lines. Grocery store franchises have responded to the needs of its customers and extended sales revenue beyond food. Increasing profit by addressing other retail desires, the grocery store is a good investment.

When reviewing the grocery store options, a good understanding of the direct competition is necessary but also a list of the many services offered helps determine the rate of success. Pick up services are popular, so customers can avoid going into the store to pick up groceries. While online shopping for clothing and other products are an option in some stores - all options broaden the breadth of consumers

Franchising USA

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Page 33

fe at ure : r e tail fr anchising

Featu re

b y G i n a G i l l Fr a n c h i s i n g U S A

tomers are “With climate change on the rise, cus print. People are more conscious of their carbon foot ad of constantly willing to look for used goods inste indirectly to global buying new products and attributing warming.”

and could lead to more profit. However, more services could create more work and expectations, which might not create the work-life balance a franchisee is seeking.

Clothing Stores The average person spends $161 on clothing a month, meaning there is some buying power behind clothing retail franchises. During the recession, a lot of clothing stores failed to keep up with the demand, while others survived the drought and managed to not only provide trends, but also budget-friendly options to survive the demands of the economy. Since then, clothing stores without large price tags, but stylish options have become more popular.

People care less about logos, and more about affordability.

When looking at franchises specializing in clothing, it’s wise to consider all genders and children’s options as well.

Since shoppers enjoy shopping in one location, the more products offered within a franchise the better. Being able to get everything for the whole family in one

Franchising USA

place is appealing to customers, and gains more profit in the long run. It’s important to have women’s clothing as they spend closer to $150-$400 monthly and spend approximately 76% more than men on clothing.

Again, does the store provide good online services and how do the online sales impact a franchisee directly? Some franchises offer the option to have clothing shipped directly from a store location for online purchase, to which the franchisee benefits from the profit.

Consignment and Second-hand Stores With climate change on the rise, customers are more conscious of their carbon footprint. People are willing to look for used goods instead of constantly buying new products and attributing indirectly to global warming.

Though what might seem like a smaller scale operation, secondhand good sales reached over $1 billion in the US by

August 2019 (source: https://www.statista. com/statistics/879217/us-retail-usedmerchandise-store-sales-on-a-monthlybasis/). Franchises have recognized the profit and business opportunity in second hand goods with great scale stores providing the many needs of climate conscious and frugal shoppers. What was once monopolized by charities and small business owners, is now a growing business opportunity. The benefit of a franchise is the operations, marketing and branding. A secondhand goods franchise has templates for success to gain profit from lower ticket price items and a reputation that customers recognize.

Overall the retail franchise offers many opportunities, those passionate in fashion have many clothing options to consider from high end to second hand goods that appeal to many different customers. To run a successful retail business and adhere to the variety of desires from the public, a franchise can guide investors in the direction that the consumers want and will keep up with the ever changing trends.

Look out for our next special feature:

FRANCHISES IN YOUR PRICE RANGE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: After receiving an English Degree, followed by a Journalism Diploma, Gina Gill became a freelance journalist in 2008. She has worked as a reporter and in communications, focusing on social media. She currently works as a community information officer with Epilepsy Society, while pursuing her writing career at the same time.

Page 35

The public and policymakers need to understand 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

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

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.

b

a

x

Our Franchise

@OurFranchise

@OurFranchise

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!

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

Franchising USA

fe at ure : r e tail fr anchising

Expert Advice: Yan Krupnik | Director of Business Development | Retalon

Successful Retail Fulfil Requires Proactive Insig and Planning increase in order volume at any time.

Here’s everything you need to know about retail fulfillment.

Are your ‘convenient’ fulfillment options causing more issues than they solve?

Today’s consumers value efficiency and convenience. Options like in-store pickup, office delivery, local store shipping and more are extremely valuable to offer your customers.

Yan Krupnik

Retail fulfillment is exceptionally important for many franchises, but not everyone can keep up.

Here are some tips to get it right.

As a franchise retailer, you understand the importance – and the struggle – of keeping up with an ever-increasing volume of orders. It can be challenging and expensive to meet these demands if you’re unprepared.

That’s why it’s critical to have a solid “last-mile retailing” plan in place. Slow or disorganized fulfillment can lead to costly consequences and damage your relationship with customers, especially during particularly busy sales seasons.

Late deliveries, running out of inventory, and orders with missing products can be detrimental to your brand’s reputation.

You must be ready to handle a swift

Franchising USA

Flexible fulfillment options translates to satisfied customers and a competitive edge.

However, according to a recent Gartner report, retailers who go above and beyond with these options often end up spreading themselves thin. As Gartner VP Analyst Robert Hetu says, retailers often end up negating their revenue gains by spending excessively on options like same-day delivery, free shipping and free returns.

While the value of these fulfillment options a consumer is obvious, these systems and practices must be must be carefully monitored and managed to make it worth it for the retailer.

Take BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store), for example. With BOPIS, consumers can avoid shipping fees and pick up their product on their own time.

Additionally, customers often end up making in-store impulse buys when they pick up their online orders. By displaying small items and sales/deals near the pickup register or customer service desk, you may be able to trigger more purchases.

However, if brick-and-mortar retailers aren’t keeping an eye on in-store stock as they fulfill online orders, they might run

out of inventory and lose out on regular sales. If you typically fulfill your online orders from a warehouse, you might miscalculate or underestimate the amount of stock to allocate to your store shelves.

If you fulfill online orders from your store inventory, your warehouse may end up overstocked, which ties up valuable cash and space.

Before you invest in and implement any type of “convenient” fulfillment option, you must ensure that your e-commerce, store and DC systems are fully aligned.

It’s important to prioritize offers that work best for your business, considering both convenience and fulfillment speed.

Be proactive about order fulfillment by utilizing the right technology Predictive analytics has become a popular buzzword in the retail world, and for good reason. This technology helps retailers understand how much inventory they need to purchase and where it needs to be allocated (warehouses, store locations, etc.) for optimal order fulfillment, long before those orders are even placed.

These predictive systems also provide better visibility into future orders, consumer behavior and demand. They allow your business to proactively account for a multitude of factors – seasonality, geo-demographic diversity, competition, promotions, consumer demand, current and future inventory levels, etc. – which is impossible to do efficiently in a manual way.

Finally, AI-based retail solutions can help retailers handle returns seamlessly and

llment ghts

cost-effectively. For instance, a predictive analytics platform can recommend where to restock returned items so that they go to the store most likely to sell the product again.

No matter where you are in your business sales cycle, you should always be working on your franchise system’s fulfillment plan to prepare for an increased volume of orders. Without a plan or the right tools in place, you’ll be left scrambling to keep customers satisfied.

Yan Krupnik is the Director of Business Development at Retalon. Founded in

2002, Retalon is an award-winning provider of advanced retail predictive analytics & AI solutions for supply chain, planning, merchandising, inventory management, pricing optimization, with a transformational approach to the retail industry. From inception, Retalon solutions were built on one unified platform powered by advanced mathematics & AI resulting in higher accuracy and the ability to optimize unique and complex retail processes. www.retalon.com

Franchising USA

fe at ure : r e tail fr anchising

Page 37

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Expert Advice: Rick Bisio | Franchise Coach | FranChoice

Retail Franchisin Still Going Stro

During the holiday season many people frequent retail franchises and drive business to those locations.

It might involve purchasing holiday decorations at the nearby Ace Hardware, shopping for gifts at your local Pet Supplies Plus or getting together with

Franchising USA

friends to try that new Popeyes Chicken Sandwich that everyone is talking about.

Many of these establishments have significant brand recognition, and their familiarity with its customers can mean big business during the holiday season.

Of course, not all retail franchises benefit from increased sales during the holidays.

Regardless, for those who are considering purchasing a retail franchise, there are several important things to know about the

benefits, challenges and overall outlook about these types of businesses.

What is a Retail Franchise?

Retail franchises operate from a storefront location and sell products and services directly to its consumers. They can

encompass a wide variety of industries, including food, clothing, health and

personal care, just to name a few. They can also be well-known brands with hundreds

ng is ong

“Retail franchising, like all other businesses, has its own set of pros and cons. Despite any economic downturns or competition from online retailers, it will always occupy a large slice of the American consumer landscape.” it is important to work with the franchisor to identify territories that will be able to support the business in that specific area.

In order to grow the business, owners will need to open additional units. Each of these locations will have its own radius of attraction around it. In some cases, this growth can be planned in advance and owners will sign a multi-unit development agreement. This contract contains language that includes the number of units that a franchisee will open and a specific time frame to have them operating.

Non-retail businesses tend to be more service-driven and can be operated from a home, office or warehouse. They generally have larger exclusive territories and don’t require multiple locations in order to grow.

Their business growth is more organic building up its customer base over time.

Is a Retail Franchise Right for You? Owning a retail franchise is not for everyone, and careful consideration should be given before investing in one. There are some unique aspects of owning a retail franchise that can be challenging to some people, but not a major concern to others.

It depends on the individual’s comfort level and what they want to get out of the ownership experience. or thousands of locations across the

country, which is part of their value.

Location, Location Location.

One of the first and most important

decisions revolves around location. Retail

businesses typically attract customers from a several-mile radius, and their success if often determined by high visibility, easy access and strong, consistent in-store

traffic. When considering retail franchises,

First, most retail franchise have extended hours. Since business is dependent on customers coming through the door, those franchises need to be open not only during the day but also when people are most available to come and shop. That often means hours in the evenings and on weekends. Running a retail business is not a 9-to-5 operation, and people should be prepared for that.

To cover these long hours, a franchise owner will need to be comfortable hiring, training and managing a large staff. It

Rick Bisio

“Owning a retail franchise is not for everyone, and careful consideration should be given before investing in one.”

can be a challenge to find and retain good employees, especially when the workers can be younger and some positions are only part-time. Turnover is inevitable and the experience of having to fire someone is unpleasant. Human resources is a big part of owning a retail franchise, and that only increases if there are plans to add multiple locations.

Although operating longer hours and managing a large staff is part of owning a retail business, franchisees don’t need to be there from open to close and make every personnel decision. Many retail franchises can be manager-run, in which the owner can hire a manager to oversee the day-today operations. That situation is often not

Franchising USA

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Page 39

fe at ure : r e tai l fr anchising

Expert Advice: Rick Bisio | Franchise Coach | FranChoice

“There are some unique aspects of owning a retail franchise that can be challenging to some people, but not a major concern to others. It depends on the individual’s comfort level and what they want to get out of the ownership experience.” the case with non-retail businesses.

Having a manager-run model is a distinct advantage in owning a store-front operation and it helps greatly when a franchisee wants to scale their business by adding multiple locations. The owner doesn’t have to actively run each location and can focus on growing their business.

In some cases, people can keep their fulltime job while starting off in franchise ownership, which allows them to maintain some income while initially building their business.

In some cases, retail franchises also come with a degree of brand awareness. If someone buys a SuperCuts franchise, they are benefitting from the customer’s knowledge and comfort from the brand, giving them edge over a local mom-andpop barber shop.

The only problem with that, however, is that this advantage comes at a premium for retail franchisees. They have a higher amount of fixed costs, with inventory, employees, insurance and the lease and maintenance of a physical storefront location. People should anticipate this added cost and be able to build an accurate P&L to project when their revenues will be able to meet and exceed their expenses.

As a franchise coach, I hear from a number of people who are concerned how a potential recession in the future may impact a retail franchise. My response is that retail businesses and franchises don’t necessarily change based on the economy.

The key factor is what industry the franchise is in. If someone owns a retail franchise that provides low-cost haircuts, it will probably be fairly recession-proof.

But if it is a retail franchise that does

Franchising USA

high-end framing and the economy goes down, then the number of customers may decrease as well.

Retail franchising, like all other businesses, has its own set of pros and cons. Despite any economic downturns or competition from online retailers, it will always occupy a large slice of the American consumer landscape. People who are interested in a retail franchise will just need to think about these factors and determine if it is the right fit for them.

Rick Bisio is a leading franchise coach with FranChoice, the creator of the FDD Exchange and the Franchise Glossary and the co-host of Rick Bisio’s Franchise Focus. Since becoming a franchise coach in 2002, Bisio has assisted thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide explore the dream of business ownership. www.afranchisecoach.com/the-coach

NOBODY GETS TO THE TOP BY ACCIDENT! We advise many of the top franchise owners in the world. You can get acces to the very same resources that build their empires at no cost!

Contact George Knauf to Start Building Your Empire TODAY! www.MyPerfectFranchise.com

ex per t advice

George Knauf | Senior Franchise Business Advisor | FranChoice

The Tech of Franchise Owner When I started in franchising, faxes and beepers were all the rage. Franchise brands opened regional offices just to be able to properly communicate with, train and support their franchisees.

Having a computer based spreadsheet that

Franchising USA

could be shared with corporate before we knew of AOL, Google or a myriad of other services was a really big deal at the time.

Oh how far we have come!

The tech space moves so fast that watching for new services and tools is important as there may be solutions that solve problems or make you more efficient and could lead to greater success. But you are busy running your business and may not have a lot of time to search them out, so networking with your fellow franchisees and business owners outside of your brand may help speed that process.

First let me point out that generally the

support teams of franchise brands are often the first line of defense when it comes to

staying on top of the best technology. They will watch for what makes sense globally in their organizations and may bring new tech forward from time to time. But keep in mind that for new roll outs they need to think about how it will impact the

entire organization, not just you. While

a particular service or hardware may be

what you need, it may not be a fit for every

franchisee and for that reason they may not make it part of their system.

“The tech space moves so fast that watching for new services and tools is important as there may be solutions that solve problems or make you more efficient and could lead to greater success.” updates via text and voicemail.

That would never have happened in my early years of franchising. Well maybe the island part, but not the working part.

Twenty years ago I would have gotten on a plane hoping that everything would be in one piece when I got back. I would have pretended to be separated from my business but it would have always been in the back of my mind. Now when I travel I can be available for anything that needs immediate attention.

That connectivity is one of the most essential tech tools available to business owners. Cell plans now go International, including data hotspots that work in hundreds of countries.

rs The support team may also see issues in terms of roll out time, bandwidth required or cost. If you are picking a service or hardware just for your business I would suggest running it past your franchisor support team in case they have already evaluated it and could have perspectives that could save you money, time and frustration.

As I write this I am sitting in a beach side café on an island in the Caribbean having coffee and looking at the ocean. I have a franchise consulting call here soon and am receiving multiple candidate investigation

Through those data hotspots while travelling or cell at home, you can access communication services like WhatsApp, Skype and Zoom. Video or voice conferencing can be a powerful tool when working from a distance. For many franchise owners now that means they can better manage their teams as they spread out their empire over multiple cities or states. Their team members almost always have their cell phones within easy reach and the days of $3,000 a month long distance phone bills are long gone.

Communication services now enable you to be almost anywhere, almost any time and communicate almost as well as in person.

But how do you watch over what is happening in your operations without being there?

“The Internet of things”, all of those connected devices, is how…

From your cellphone you can tap into devices like video cameras, thermostats and locks on doors to name just a few.

You can make some or all of those devices available to your managers to run their stores better. You can also give your corporate office team access or control.

Now everything in even the most remote store is at your fingertips.

George Knauf

There are now services that, via installed cameras and other tech, will monitor your stores 24/7. They can identify when particular tasks are not being completed and will call to coach your staff on what needs to be addressed. They also can help with ordering to make sure you always have the products you need in stock as fast as possible.

Marketing tech is another critical category and can be tailored to your needs.

Social media offers great tools to build relationships and market to customers.

In some cases, older tools like text may even be an outstanding customer communication tool.

Find simple and effective tools that help you communicate with your team and customers, not those that tie up your time and money.

All of these tools have made franchise empire building more approachable than we could have imagined 20 years ago.

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

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. Contact the Franchising USA Expert, George’s Hotline: 703-424-2980. www.MyPerfectFranchise.com

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 43

Franchising USA

Page 45

Veterans in Franchising january 2020

www.franchisingusamagazine.com

4 reasons why

veterans excel in the it space from the base to business finding franchise opportunity on military bases when you bring an

An Army state of mind to your business Franchising USA

Leadership.

Teamwork.

Executing SOPs. Connecting veterans with education, resources and opportunities at vetfran.org

Franchising USA

Page 47

V e t e r a n s i n F r a n c h i s i n g S u ppl e m e n t january 2020 Our Veterans in Franchising special supplement has become a regular feature of Franchising USA. To share your story in the next issue, please contact Vikki Bradbury, Publisher Phone: 778 426 2446 Email: vikki@cgbpublishing.com

Contents On the Cover

Franchisee In Action

4 Reasons Why Veterans Excel in the IT Space

56 Tim Beauchamp, 9 Round

48 From the Base to Business

Veteran Expert Advice

50 Finding Franchise Opportunity on Military Bases 52 When You Bring an Army State of Mind

to Your Business

Veterans Profile

48 From the Base to Business Chuck Connell, Marine Corps Veteran, Co-owner of

You’ve Got Maids of Hilton Head

54 4 Reasons Why Veterans Excel in the IT Space Lisa Montanio, Senior Franchise Development Manager,

CMIT Solutions (CMIT)

50 George Hart - Dunkin’ Brands 52 Cory Graves, Restoration 1

Franchising USA

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

expert advice: Chuck Connell | Marine Corps Veteran | Co-owner of You’ve Got Maids of Hilton Head

From the Base to Business “Veterans have to understand how to translate military skills and duties into layman’s terms, know which programs to seek out and heed advice from other veterans who hold civilian positions they desire.”

Chuck Connell

There is often an adjustment period when returning to civilian life following a military career.

You’re acclimating yourself to a different pace of life, reconnecting with family and loved ones and trying to find structure in an unstructured world.

One of the biggest challenges during this time, though, is often the transition from the military to civilian workforce.

After working in the military for several years, many veterans struggle to find a “regular” job, especially if they had little to no experience in the civilian workforce

Franchising USA

prior to serving. This is because veterans have to understand how to translate military skills and duties into layman’s terms, know which programs to seek out and heed advice from other veterans who hold civilian positions they desire. In the article below, we will talk through the initial challenges of transitioning from the military to the civilian workforce, the opportunities veterans should look into and the best advice for those reacclimating themselves to civilian life.

INITIAL CHALLENGES One of the first and most recognizable challenges one may face when returning to the civilian workforce – or civilian life in general – is the lack of structure.

In the military, there are strict rules that you are expected to follow, and everyone follows those rules, no questions asked.

Punctuality is a top priority, so if you are early, you are on time; if you are on time, you are late; and being late is unacceptable.

That said, the lack of urgency in the civilian workforce and the lax approach to structure can be frustrating and confusing for many veterans.

Additionally, there are stark differences in terms of workplace communication that can lead to misunderstandings. In

the military, the mission comes first, meaning interpersonal communication and emotional awareness tends to fall to the wayside. Similarly, military communication tends to focus on clarity and precision, whereas civilian communication focuses on relationship building and trust. Many veterans have to relearn practices that will help them effectively communicate with their coworkers and avoid coming off as blunt or harsh. This skill may take a great deal of patience, but it can garner lasting relationships that will prove beneficial in the long run.

TOP PROGRAMS AND OPPORTUNITIES Another initial challenge that many veterans face following a career in the military is the feeling of not knowing where to start. Thankfully, there are several free resources available to veterans that can help them with the transition, including the Veterans Employment Center, the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, to name a few.

Another opportunity that many veterans are exploring is franchise ownership.

According to the U.S. Small Business

“Many veterans often struggle to redefine themselves following a military career, but finding a new job is not about redefinition. Rather, it is about understanding how you fit into this new role and lifestyle and finding a career that fulfills your personal and professional goals.”

Administration, nearly 25 percent of veterans are interested in business ownership. The benefit to investing in a franchise concept is that there is already a set of systems and processes in place that makes it easier to enter into a market.

Additionally, many franchise concepts offer a variety of support programs for veterans.

You’ve Got Maids specifically offers a discount on the initial franchise fee for honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Moreover, the residential cleaning company has been named to Franchise Business Review’s Top Franchises for Veterans List. This inclusion was based on the satisfaction of You’ve Got Maids’ military veteran franchise owners regarding critical areas of the franchise system, including training and support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations and financial opportunities. That said, finding a franchise concept that takes the time to recognize and seek out veteran franchise owners shows that they’re invested in the success of military veterans.

BEST ADVICE When applying for jobs in the civilian workforce, it is essential that you do not assume anyone understands the military jargon you use. Avoid using acronyms on a resume and only use military jargon that you know the average civilian is familiar with. Additionally, if you have skills that are not readily transferrable, submit a cover letter with your resume. You may feel as though you are over-explaining, but it can

help an employer better understand your experiences.

Overall, know that there will be challenges you can’t anticipate, especially when it comes to civilian employment.

Additionally, seek opportunities that you are truly interested in pursuing.

Many veterans often struggle to redefine themselves following a military career, but finding a new job is not about redefinition.

Rather, it is about understanding how you fit into this new role and lifestyle and finding a career that fulfills your personal

and professional goals.

Chuck Connell is the co-owner of You’ve Got Maids in Hilton Head, South Carolina alongside Mike Burt.

Prior to opening his You’ve Got Maids business, Chuck spent 32 years in the aviation industry, 25 of which were spent working for a Fortune 500 company.

Chuck also served in the United States Marine Corps from 1978 to 1982, where he spent a majority of his time working as an ejection seat mechanic in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Franchising USA

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

Page 49

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

profile: Dunkin’ Brands

Finding Franchise Opportunity On Military Bases Following Military Appreciation Month, it is important to continue keeping our troops and veterans top of mind by aiming to understand their unique experiences.

According to George J. Hart, Army Veteran and multi-unit Dunkin’ franchisee, he found his military training and experiences taught him everything he needed to know about business. However, that realization did not come until his transition back to civilian life, which proved to be tricky as he navigated the routine of daily life and finding a career path.

After serving 25 years in the U.S. Army as a Paratrooper and Reconnaissance Helicopter Pilot, starting over in a new career seemed daunting to George but proper preparation was vital in order to integrate back into civilian society. When he retired in 2004, George followed a comfortable path staying connected to the military by working as a consultant for the Department of Defense for 10 years, specializing in a military familiarization course for Department of Defense civilians and contracting education for new government contracting officers. “While fulfilled through my duties, I was ready for the next great challenge – pursuing the entrepreneurial itch I carried with me my whole life” said Hart. In 2015, he brought to life his dream that he had aspired to for

Franchising USA

quite some time, opening a Dunkin’ on a military base at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado.

“Throughout my many years of service, I desperately missed a decent cup of coffee and, as a New Jersey native, Dunkin’ was the only brand that could hit the spot.

Unfortunately, Dunkin’ was hard to come by in the military so, I was determined to change that for our troops once I retired.

In fact, I vowed to open a Dunkin’ across

every military base in the country!”

Currently, George owns 11 military base

Dunkin’s, including four combo locations

housing Dunkin’ and sister brand BaskinRobbins under one roof, across U.S.

military bases in Colorado, Wyoming and Kentucky. The future is bright while he

plans to open restaurants on military bases in Texas, Ohio, Utah, Colorado, Arizona

and Kansas, including six locations slated to open within the next year.

“About 50% of my workforce is made up of veterans or active duty family members. Not only is it helpful to the veteran and military community, but it is also helpful to a veteran business owner to surround themselves with a dedicated workforce who shares their experience and vision.”

- George J. Hart “What fuels my ambitions is the support system I found through my franchise network and the support system that remained as I kept close to my military network. As a veteran and a business owner, I can share what kept me going, allowing me to find my passion and aiding my transition to civilian life.”

Veterans Benefit Franchise Systems…

Franchises heavily encourage veteran recruitment. In fact, according the Franchise Business Review’s 2014 Progress Report, 49% of franchisors surveyed indicated that they had successfully recruited at least one veteran/spouse of a veteran as a new franchisee in the past 12 months.

We see a large push behind veteran recruitment due to the fact that veterans tend to be highly skilled and well-trained leaders who bring a tactical perspective to their teams. They also possess operational skills with people, security, planning, logistics and communication. George suggests that, together, these skillsets shape the type of leader who thrives in a franchise system, where they are backed by a brand name.

…& Vice Versa

Finding The Right Fit

Simultaneously, franchising seems to check a lot of boxes for veterans to put their disciplines to work. Through franchising, veterans are provided with the flexibility to be business owners while connected to an established brand with a proven system.

George found that the guess-work and risk of starting a business from the ground up, was taken out of the equation, so he could hit the ground running.

When it comes to franchising, it is most important to find the right company that is a cultural fit. Take a look at George’s story.

Growing up in New Jersey, Dunkin’ was a household name and he knew the brand very well. Beyond that, he had a passion for owning his own business, paired with a brand he believed in and a vision to bring that brand to a place he knew and loved.

According to George, veterans should research the franchise systems that offer veteran incentives in order to get their business up and running. Some franchise networks may even provide special franchisee training programs for veterans.

Paying It Forward Veteran employers are likely to pay it forward, typically hiring veterans just like them. As a matter of fact, 14% of franchisees surveyed in the Franchise Business Review study showed that veteran franchise owners are nearly a third (30%) more likely to hire other veterans, or at least be more aware of a person’s veteran status.

“As for me, about 50% of my workforce is made up of veterans or active duty family members,” said Hart. “Not only is it helpful to the veteran and military community, but it is also helpful to a veteran business owner to surround themselves with a dedicated workforce who shares their experience and vision.”

George J. Hart, Army Veteran and Dunkin’ Brands multi-unit franchisee, entered franchising after 25 years of service as a Paratrooper and Reconnaissance Helicopter Pilot for the U.S. Army. In less than five years, George has grown his franchise network to 11 Dunkin’s, including four combo restaurants with Baskin-Robbins, across military bases in the Western United States. www.dunkinfranchising.com/franchisee/ en.html

Franchising USA

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

Page 51

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

profile: Restoration 1

When You Bring An

Army State of Mind to Your Business

I was never the kid that desired to settle on one particular career when I grew up. I was interested in a million things including the arts, various trades, the military, academia and law enforcement.

After obtaining my undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology I worked as a parole officer and then a HVAC technician. After a few years I decided to fulfill a familial and patriotic obligation by enlisting in the United States Army as an Intelligence Analyst in 1997. While it was never my intention to make a career of the military, when 9/11 happened, I knew there was no bigger calling for service and there was no way I could forfeit my duty to my Country and fellow Soldiers.

After over 20 years of service in the military, I finally decided it was time to try something new. I was ready to pursue the other things I was interested in from so long ago. Achieving the American Dream was always really important to me – I believed I could succeed going the entrepreneurial route. My hope was to find a career that allowed me to utilize my personal strengths, contribute to society and help those in my community.

That’s when I began looking at the opportunities within franchising. I was

Franchising USA

connected to a franchise coach and he’s the one who told me about Restoration 1. The brand appealed to me for two reasons: I get to be hands-on and I have the opportunity to help people in their time of need. It’s the best of both worlds all while creating a business for myself. And in November of 2017, I officially opened my Restoration 1 location in Springfield, Virginia.

Why Restoration 1 And The Military Go Hand In Hand Our services are available 24/7. This might sound a little crazy, but I love the 24/7 emergency response that Restoration 1 offers. In the military, especially supporting Special Forces, we had to be available all day, every day and respond quickly. Now, I get to continue that with Restoration 1. When disaster hits, your customers expect you to be there for them no matter what.

Teamwork is crucial. Working together is a critical component in the military. Your team is your family, and if one person doesn’t do their job, that can affect the entire team. That same mindset translates to Restoration 1. You need a team of people who are committed to the cause even when it’s 2 o’clock in the morning.

Install the same core principles in everyone. In the military, we’re all fighting for the same cause and the same freedoms.

When everyone is on the same page, then it allows you to work better as a team. I’ve taken this experience and applied similar

core principles to my Restoration 1 team.

One of my main ideals revolves around customer service. I expect my guys to give exceptional customer service with every single job. When you do that, everything else pretty much takes care of itself.

We have to think outside the box. Problem solving is one of my favorite things. Not every job will be simple nor will you always have all the tools you need to get things done. When that happened in the Army, we could never just quit. We had to figure out a plan. The same goes for Restoration 1. I push my team to figure out how they are going to get a difficult job done and when they can’t we problem solve together.

Hiring Veterans is Important Being a veteran myself, I truly understand the value that other veterans can bring to a business. I also understand how difficult it is for a number of veterans to transition to civilian life after serving in the military for so long. That’s why I look to hire veterans at Restoration 1 of Springfield. For the past two years, I’ve received the Gold Award for the HIRE Vets Medallion Program by the Department of Labor for recruiting, employing and retaining veterans for my small business. This is something I am committed to and will continue to provide employment opportunities within Restoration 1 to veterans for years to come.

Written by Cory Graves, Owner, Restoration 1 of Springfield

www.restoration1.com

Franchising USA

V e t er ans in Fr anchising Page 53

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

expert advice: Lisa Montanio | Senior Franchise Development Manager | CMIT Solutions (CMIT)

4 Reasons Why Veterans Excel in the IT Space in the world. This allows them to easily adapt to new technologies and gives them a heightened awareness of tech trends.

Currently, 15 percent of CMIT Solutions’ franchisees are veterans and all of these skillsets have allowed them to run successful veteran-owned businesses.

Here are four reasons why veterans continue to excel in the tech and IT space:

1

Work Ethic

Lisa Montanio

Successful franchises run on structured systems with procedures that help strive for operational excellence. It is no surprise franchising is a perfect match for veterans – as members of the military, they are used to following a plan of action and responding quickly.

Those characteristics are important when running a franchise business in the IT industry because data breaches can happen unexpectedly requiring a swift reaction.

Another skill veterans bring to the table that many do not initially think about is an understanding of technology. While serving, they spend much of their time with some of the most advanced technology

Franchising USA

With their many years of training and service, veterans have learned to develop a strong work ethic. You can count on them to take charge of the task at hand and deliver results.

Beyond being precise and trustworthy technological advisors for their clients, they are always thinking a few steps ahead.

Many times, they will try to catch and solve a problem before it even happens by spending the time embedding themselves in their clients’ businesses and paying attention to what is going on in the field of IT. Even in the moments where they are not able to prevent a problem before it happens, they are quick to respond in a crisis. Their military training has prepared them to be ready for anything at any time, but also not rushing to react without thinking about the dilemma at hand. When it comes to helping a client dealing with, for example, a data breach, they know to take a moment and ask themselves: what’s going on?, what’s wrong? and what can I do to help?

2

Servant Leadership

Leadership is an important aspect of the training veterans go through. They learn how to delegate while also taking orders from others. This is key when working in the IT field because they are responsible for running their own business, but are simultaneously receiving requests from their clients.

At CMIT, the focus has always been on the philosophy of servant leadership by placing the clients first. Everything about the business of IT comes back to the client – you are there to help make sure their business operations do not get interrupted and their confidential data is being protected.

3

Being Decisive/Quick Thinkers

Veterans have learned to not crack under pressure. While in the military, they have to do their jobs under the most stressful environments and be able to think on their feet. It is an important characteristic to have as an IT professional and as a business owner. Even under the most stressful situations or those days where the work seems to keep piling on, veterans have the ability to remain level-headed.

Having this skill is key when clients are in a crisis and are facing a major IT issue like being hacked or their data being compromised. In moments such as

these, they need to be able to make quick

decisions with the facts at hand. By having the ability to remain calm in high pressure

situations, it gives them a clear head to ease the clients worries while also coming up with a solution to the problem.

4

Collaboration A crucial component of being in

the military is learning how to work with others. In the many years veterans spend

in service, they tend to work alongside the same team members. When it comes to

the IT space and being a business owner, teamwork may look a little different,

however, at the core the goals are the same.

For example, with CMIT franchisees, the teamwork happens between them and the client. In order to establish a relationship with their clients, they have to dedicate the time to listen, learn and understand them. To be able to help clients with IT issues, they need to work with clients to understand their businesses and listen to their concerns to ensure they feel supported.

Lisa Montanio is the senior franchise development manager of CMIT Solutions (CMIT), a leading provider of information technology (IT) professional services and products to small and midmarket businesses. cmitfranchise.com

Franchising USA

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

Page 55

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

franchisee in action: Tim Beauchamp | 9Round Franchisee

From Military Veteran to 9Round Franchisee:

Embracing the Freedoms I Fought For When one door closes another one opens, and in 2017, I found myself in one of these unique situations.

After serving 10 years as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, with the majority of

my career in the Deployable Specialized Forces, I learned that my lifelong

aspiration of becoming a career Coastie

wasn’t going to happen. The deployments and time spent away from my growing family weren’t conducive to the life I imagined for us.

The time was right for me to separate

from the military… And it wasn’t long

before I realized I could pursue a career

in something else I was passionate about: 9Round.

The obsession begins...

My wife introduced me to 9Round about three years prior to my military separation.

I was deployed in South America when she told me about this new workout she insisted I had to try next time I was home.

I’ll admit, I was skeptical. I was used to a military grade workout regimen, which included a ton of high-intensity interval training, and situational workouts designed to push you to your breaking point. So, while I was willing to give it a shot to make my wife happy, I wasn’t totally convinced that this 30-minute kickboxing workout would be the right fit for me.

It only took one session for me to fall in love with 9Round. Everything about it was my dream workout – the convenience of not having to schedule classes in advance, the high-intensity rounds, the trainers who pushed me to my personal limits. I became a member even while I was still

serving, getting in as many rounds as possible during my stints at home between deployments.

Turning the hobby into a career Fast forward to 2017, and I’m in this unique albeit scary position where I have the opportunity to pursue whatever path I want for the next phase of my career.

I took a serious look at what I could offer to the workforce as a veteran, recognizing that I possessed a unique skill set combining structure and discipline with years of leadership experience. I excel when I have a system to follow, not only as a member of that system, but as a leader within it.

Because of these key assets, I realized that franchise ownership was right up my alley. Fortunately for me, the 9Round brand that I’d come to love as a patron was a franchise. And better yet, the brand offered financial incentives for me to join the network at a discounted rate due to my veteran status.

Franchising USA

And suddenly, the door to becoming a small business owner opened, and I haven’t looked back since.

How 9Round fulfilled all my veteran passions

“I took a serious look at what i could offer to the workforce as a veteran, recognizing that i possessed a unique skill set combining structure and discipline with years of leadership experience. I excel when i have a system to follow, not only as a member of that system, but as a leader within it.”

Today, I am the proud owner of two 9Round locations: one in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and one in Burlington, Massachusetts. 9Round ownership gives me everything I could ask for in a career, in ways that tie closely back to my Coast Guard experience…

I work hands-on with people, pushing them to their limits. One of my favorite parts of being in the Coast Guard was training other service men and women, and now I get to satisfy this passion by training my 9Round members. There’s nothing that gives me more joy than cheering a member on, whether it’s to their first full pushup or to their 100th workout.

I spend every day doing something I’m passionate about. Passion is something you cannot teach. It takes a special breed of person to selflessly serve others; your heart has to be in it, and mine certainly is. Both when I was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard and now as a 9Round franchisee, I’ve found myself waking up excited to make an impact on the lives of others, whether from overseas or from the floor of my studio.

I belong to something bigger than myself. The comradery in the military is unlike any other bond, but 9Round has given me something pretty close. There is a team-like closeness among my studios’ trainers and staff, and our members become our family over time. On a grander scale, I’m a valuable link in an important chain of 9Round franchisees representing nearly 800 locations worldwide - an elite group I’m honored to contribute to.

We live in a country where we get what we give, and we are blessed that we may give in ways that we choose of our own accord.

These were the freedoms I fought for as a member of the Armed Forces, and now I’m fortunate enough to reap those benefits while living my own American dream as a 9Round franchise owner.

Written by Tim Beauchamp, Franchise Owner, 9Round

www.9round.com

Franchising USA

V e t er ans in Fr anchising

Page 57

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

Assisted Living Locators Assisted Living Locators provides the vital function to seniors and their families of identifying their ideal alternative living solutions and other related services – all at no cost to them.

Our proprietary evaluation system results in free residential referrals that enable our clients to make the best possible decisions for their loved ones. Our elder care advisors are trained to find solutions that meet our clients’ needs and to personally accompany them on guided tours of facilities that match their individual preferences.

Ours is a truly turn-key program that puts our owners on the path to success through a proven executive business model with high profit margins, low overhead, minimum employees,

Business Finance Depot

If you’re aware of the unsurpassed value of the assisted living market, if you’ve always dreamed about the freedom and independence that business ownership could bring you, and if you’ve been waiting for the perfect, local, affordable opportunity to carve out your piece of the industry, Assisted Living Locators may be just the match you’ve been seeking.

For more information please contact Mary Ann Russo or Tom Ingle at: Phone: 800-267-7816 Email: franchise@assistedlivinglocators.com Website: http://www.assistedlivinglocators.com/

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

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.

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

Website: www.businessfinancedepot.com Email: paul@businessfinancedepot.com Phone: (800) 788-3884 Contact: Paul Bosley

caring transitions

with the hassles or laws that involve elderly medical care, though you might want to invest in knowing the companies that do supply such services in your area. Many times our services are needed in order to fulfill the lifestyle changes recommended by healthcare professionals, so putting your leads into contact with upstanding medical professionals can create a favorable impression that causes them to return to you for help with non-medical side of their changing circumstances.

Caring Transitions is a solution-oriented company, and we accomplish this by bringing three services under one roof that are normally all accomplished by separate companies. The three services we combine to provide unique solutions for our customers are: • Senior Relocation • Estate Sales • Downsizing & Decluttering One final thing – we are NOT a medical service company. As a franchisee, you will not be dealing

Clayton Kendall Clayton Kendall provides comprehensive branded merchandise programs for franchise communities nationwide, resulting in greater brand exposure, cost-savings, streamlined operations and brand compliance.

Franchising USA

repeat referrals, and residual income. Even more importantly, many of the industry’s most desired areas of the country remain available for new development.

Phone: 1-800-647-0766 Email: CaringTransitionsFranchising@gmail.com Website: https://caringtransitionsfranchise.com

We provide marketing collateral, signage, POP displays, printed materials, promotional products and apparel. Our services include graphic design, merchandising, sourcing, warehousing and fulfillment, kitting and proprietary technology with advanced management reports. All programs are scalable and can be customized to the unique needs of your community. Customer service is our forte.

With a customized online store as the organizing principle, our websites give users the ability to purchase their advertising and marketing tools in one easy to use program.

Contact: Dan Broudy CFE, Chief Executive Officer Phone:412-798-7120 Email: dan@claytonkendall.com Website: www.claytonkendall.com

Everything Hemp Store (EHS Franchise LLC)

foods including hemp seeds and hemp seed oil, dietary and health supplements.

Everything Hemp Store is a consultative marketplace for naturally sourced health, beauty and nutritional products. Our product suite consists of a variety of industrial hemp-derived products such as hemp textiles, floral derivatives, lotions, pain creams, salves, hemp extract tinctures containing Canabidiol (CBD), nutritional

Everything Hemp Store is truly your One Stop Hemp Shop™ focused on delivering top quality products to our consumers with full trace-ability from farm to family.

Contact: Gary Norris Phone: 888-334-4367 Ext. 21 9 Email: EHSFranchise@gmail.com Web: www.EverythingHempStore.com

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 • Franchise Research Institute World Class Franchise 2011-2015 ®

FranFund, Inc. A top IFA supplier and recognized as a top franchise funding supplier by Entrepreneur, FranFund, Inc. designs smart all-inone funding plans that grow with your franchise business.

Whether you are considering leaving your current job to start a new venture or if you are looking to expand your existing operation – we are here to help. Based on your specific financial picture, we will work with you to design a funding plan that will set your business up for long-term success.

We provide a free funding consultation and make sure you understand all of our program and service costs before you commit to anything.

Our most popular funding programs are SBA loans and 401(k) business financing, which allows you to use qualified retirement savings tax-free and penalty-free. We also offer

Fresh Coat The average Fresh Coat on average earns 41.22% gross profit and $507,883.18 in revenue!* (*See Item 19 of our April 1, 2018 Franchise Disclosure Document for details. Based on data reported by franchisees that were open and operating full-time for at least 1 year for the period ending December 31, 2017 and that reported Gross Revenues and income statements. A new franchise owner’s results may differ.

Our owners continually testify about the amazing amount of help they receive from our company. From coaching and onboarding, to marketing and operational support, we guide you every step of the way.

Marketing Support & Operation Support – At Fresh Coat, our franchisees are constantly surrounded by support from both

Funtopia Funtopia business philosophy capitalizes on a growing trend towards healthier, active lifestyles.

More than just a place for kids to play, Funtopia is an adventure park where family and friends come to entertain and challenge themselves.

Our mix of sports and fun, coupled with an amazing brand experience, has enabled our locations to enjoy the benefits of customer loyalty.

The concept was created out of desire to provide a new type of entertainment that would be an alternative to today’s prevalence of physically-

Home Technology Handyman As you know by now, the Home Automation industry is growing at record rates. All around the world, people are beginning view Connected Home products as an essential component of their lifestyle. They’re looking to integrate technology into their homes to make their lives easier, safer and more convenient.

There’s no doubt that this industry will continue to grow. In effect, the need for connected home professionals to install and integrate this technology will grow right along with it.

If owning your own Smart Home Franchise through Home Technology Handyman has piqued your interest, there’s never been a better time to see what we’re all about!

What exactly does a Home Technology Handyman do?

• 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

conventional loans and other non-traditional solutions including unsecured loans, securities-backed loans, equipment leasing, and refinancing programs.

By utilizing our franchise-specific pre-approval tool and cultivating an extensive network of lenders who are comfortable with the franchise model, FranFund’s loan approval rate is 99%.

We believe delivering an exceptional customer experience is just as important as providing high-quality products and services and are proud of our high level of customer satisfaction.

Contact: Tim Seiber, CFE Phone: 817-730-4500 Email: info@franfund.com Website: www.franfund.com

our Marketing Department and our Operations Team. We have national and local marketing initiatives and resources to drive customers to your place of business, and experts to guide and coach you for as long as you own your Fresh Coat franchise.

Fresh Coat is committed to leading the painting industry by driving platinum level customer service delivered by a team of professionals and painting experts. To do this, our franchisees only hire the most skilled and experienced painters, allowing their franchise businesses to offer 6 unique services. Your painters provide positive experiences from the initial quote to final touch-ups.

Phone: (513) 605-4877 Email: freshcoatpaintersfranchise@gmail.com Website: www.freshcoatfranchise.com

passive screen display entertainment. Believing that being active, both mentally and physically is the essence of healthy lifestyle, we decided to make it as fun as possible. Our culture, our customers, and the Funtopia brand experience is the “icing on the cake” to a solid business model that allows you to grow your income and reach long-term wealth goals.

Contact: Yasen Nikolov Phone: 1.833.386.8674 Email: yassen@adventurefacilities.com Website: funtopiaworld.com/franchise

We’re a home service provider, just like a plumber or electrician. Our technicians are the trusted resource for sales, service and installation of home technology products to customers of all income brackets.

From basic service calls to turn-key projects, Home Technology Handyman can handle it all. Our most popular services include: • Connected Home Devices & Systems • Home Networking • Audio/Video Systems • Home Theater • Surveillance Cameras • TV Mounting • Remote Control Systems • Basic Lighting Control • Security Systems We want you to Take Control of Your Future!

Contact Jack Beeckman at: Ph: 888-303-4191 Email: franchise@hometechnologyone.com Website: hometechnologyhandyman.com/franchise

Franchising USA

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

Page 59

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

International Franchise Professionals Group The International Franchise Professionals Group (also known as IFPG) is a membership based organization that has over 700 members. Our members consist of Franchisors, Franchisor Brokers, Lenders, and other Franchise Professionals that help potential candidates in the process of buying a franchise.

The IFPG is a strictly membership based organization that does not participate in any referral fees from our franchisor members or our brokers, thereby allowing all of our members to work freely together.

Our long-term success is predicated on retaining our members and providing all the tools needed to help you sell more franchises, and close more deals.

Hundreds of nationally recognized franchise companies have chosen the IFPG and its members to represent their brand; hundreds of experienced franchise consultants and brokers have chosen the

If you’re a franchisor, franchisor broker, or another profession that serves the franchising industry call us today at (888) 977-IFPG to learn about membership opportunities.

Lifted

Lifted’s inventory exemplifies the brand’s serious commitment to quality products; but not without playful elements such as, the Lifted Candy Bar, where customers can choose from an array of CBD-infused sweets, treats and edibles. Lifted has an educational shopping experience where the sales team does not follow like a shadow, they lead as a guide. The aesthetics of the brand further lend themselves to the name with a sleek, modern FFE package and colors that are fresh and crisp. In every way, Lifted is truly an elevated experience.

Lifted, An Elevated Experience is a Hemp/CBD shopping experience. Stepping into the retail environment at Lifted, it only takes a few seconds to realize why the consumer’s needs are so readily met, as this is not the typical Hemp/CBD shopping experience.

The space is laid out in such a way that the flow lends itself to making the most of the square footage - which is modest, by some retail standards and yet, is comfortable and inviting; creating ease and efficiency for hemp/CBD consumers of every experience level. This design also reinforces Lifted’s respect for the consumer’s time, as well as their own.

Little Caesars As the largest carryout-only pizza chain in the world, Little Caesars is doing something right. Little Caesars is an international brand and household name. It’s come a long way since starting as a single store in metro Detroit in 1959.

The Little Caesars brand and distinction of being named “Best Value in America”* for the last ten years is proof of its commitment to satisfying customers by providing one of America’s favorite meals at an affordable cost.

Today, Little Caesars is looking for franchisees to bring HOT-N-READY® pizza to a wide range of communities

MONKEE’S FRANCHISING Monkee’s Franchising, LLC is a franchisor of upscale ladies’ boutiques specializing in shoes, clothing and accessories.

Headquartered in Winston-Salem, NC, Monkee’s was founded in 1995 and has become one of the most successful organizations of independently owned boutiques in the Southeast. Our boutiques can now be found in Alabama, Florida, Kentucky,

Moran Family of Brands Moran Family of Brands is one of the nation’s leading franchisors of general automotive repair, transmission repair and automotive accessory centers.

Based in Midlothian, Illinois, Moran Family of Brands provides specialty products and services in virtually every aspect of the automotive aftermarket through four individual brands and a total of more than 120 franchise locations nationwide including:

Franchising USA

IFPG to power their business. All of these individuals understand the value of being associated with IFPG.

Contact: Gary Gale Norris Phone: 336-477-3693 Email: admin1@liftedclt.com Website: www.Liftedclt.com

nationwide. The company also offers opportunities in non-traditional franchise venues, including convenience stores, college campuses and military bases. Little Caesars works closely with franchisees to develop locations with customized architectural and build-out plans. *“Highest Rated Chain-Value for the Money” based on a nationwide survey of quick service restaurant consumers conducted by Sandelman & Associates, 2007-2015.

Phone: 800-553-5776 Email: USdevelopment@LCEcorp.com Website: www.LittleCaesars.com

North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia and we are excited as our growth continues nationally.

Monkee’s is recognized throughout this region as a leader in providing the finest fashions from the world’s top designers.

Contact: Troy Taylor Phone: 336-529-5200 Email: troy@shopmonkees.com Website: www.ownamonkees.com

Mr. Transmission, “The Professionals”; Alta Mere “The Automotive Outfitters”; Milex Complete Auto Care centers and SmartView Window Solutions.

For more information on Moran Family of Brands visit www.moranfamilyofbrands.com.

Contact: Ben Reist Phone: 800-377-9247 Fax: 708-389-9882 Email: breist@moranindustries.com Website: www.moranfamilyofbrands.com

Nathan’s Famous, Inc. NEW YORK IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA, which is why - after over 100 years as one of New York’s most famous restaurant brands - anyone can walk into a Nathan’s Famous Restaurant anywhere in the world and experience the best of the New York Casual Food scene.

Universally regarded as the “Flavor of New York”, Nathan’s Famous’ menu focuses on four food pillars: World-Famous Hot Dogs & Fries; Premium Subs, including Angus Ribeye New York Cheesesteaks by Pat LaFrieda; Best-in-class, cooked-to-order burger with our proprietary Best Burger Pledge™, and Hand-Breaded Chicken and Onion Rings.

Our restaurant system includes over 250 restaurants

Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services is one of the most respected full-service commercial cleaning franchise companies in the nation. Office Pride’s business was built on a strong set of core values that ensures business is conducted with integrity and that every customer receives the highest level of commercial cleaning and janitorial services.

Our Values Make Us Different.® Office Pride was founded in 1992 by Todd Hopkins, who created the concept as an independent research project while working on his MBA at Butler University. He asked leaders of large cleaning companies what they would

OELO LIGHTING SOLUTIONS Oelo provides color-changing commercial LED lighting solutions for franchises and businesses.

Practically invisible by day, the lighting is installed in a weather-resistant channel that blends in with the building’s fascia, while the lights’ color and movement can be controlled by the Oelo color app.

The lights can double as seasonal lighting,

pet wants Pet Wants creates fresh and all-natural pet food and delivers it to our customers on a monthly, subscription basis...that ensures the food is fresh for the pets and that you generate consistent and ongoing revenue streams.

As a franchise owner, you will need to share this love of pets and their well-being. But no experience is needed. No matter if you start in your home, a small office or store, we teach you everything you need to know about operating and growing a successful pet food business.

worldwide, with adaptable, locally sourced menus and prototypes. Nathan’s Famous branded products are currently distributed globally, including packaged hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, onion rings and more. Our world-famous hot dogs are served in a multitude of outlets, including movie theatres, bowling centers, cruise ships, and casinos. And with more than 28 billion views worldwide of our cult-favorite Hot Dog Eating contest last Fourth of July, Nathan’s Famous’ claim to the cuisine and culture of New York isn’t just authentic, it’s proprietary.

Contact: James Walker Phone: 516-338-8500 Email: jwalker@nathansfamous.com Website: www.nathansfamous.com

do differently, and he repeatedly heard how they would deliver “total customer satisfaction.” Using his research, HopkinsRichHelm@OfficePride.com started Office Pride, an industry leader whose spotless reputation earns rave reviews from franchisees, clients and competitors.

Today, Office Pride has 137 franchises around the nation and is listed in Franchise Business Review’s Hall of Fame for its exceptional franchisee satisfaction ratings and is ranked among Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500. Office Pride provides a wide range of commercial cleaning services, including carpet cleaning, floor stripping and waxing, to offices and commercial facilities.

Contact: Rich Helm, Director of Franchise Development Phone: 727.754.5990 Website: www.OfficePride.com; OfficePrideFranchise.com

eliminating the yearly hassle and annual cost of hanging holiday lighting.

With Oelo, franchisees can give their building a green St. Patrick’s day glow, create breast cancer awareness with a pink storefront or add custom movement to attract attention to your franchise.

Contact: Devin Rodarmel Phone: 970-212-3670 Email: devinr@oelo.com Website: oelo.com

You just need a passion for pets, the drive for success and the ability to follow our proven operating system.

In return, you will be rewarded with the great benefits of being a business owner. Bottom line, this is a fulfilling, financially rewarding and enjoyable “people and pets” business.

Contact: Beth Boecker Phone: 513-331-3647 Email: bbboecker@strategicfranchising.com Website: www.petwantsfranchise.com

pool scouts

• Recurring revenue business

Backed by multi brand franchisor, Buzz Franchise Brands – winner of Inc. 500, Pool Scouts helps franchisees hit the ground running.

A Pool Scouts franchise is a business opportunity that can be run from virtually any home or office. We are talking to motivated people to operate Pool Scouts businesses across the United States. Individual territories or area development opportunities are available. Pool Scouts…Perfect Pools, Scouts Honor!

Pool Scouts is the franchise opportunity poised to make a splash in the industry.

Here are some compelling attributes: • Fragmented market in a $3 Billion industry • Fast growing franchise opportunity • Low franchise fee and fast start up

Phone: 1-844-407-2688 Email: franchising@poolscouts.com Website: poolscoutsfranchise.com

Franchising USA

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

Page 61

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

PropertyGuys.com INC. PropertyGuys.com has created a marketing system that is transparent and includes a community of real estate professionals who are empowered through technology – providing the customer with a true endto-end experience.

We have reconstructed how real estate is bought and sold. We’re NOT real estate agents or brokers, we’re something very different, something we believe is much better.

We provide sellers with all the tools required to successfully and confidently sell their property on

Re-Bath In an industry of independent home remodeling contractors, Re-Bath stands out as a unified, trusted national brand. Re-Bath is known for providing expert, affordable and effortless bathroom remodeling solutions that transform homeowners’ bathrooms in days, not weeks. We offer a spirit of innovation and an alternative to cover-up or overpriced remodeling.

We handle both the design and the installation – it’s a branded, one-stop customer experience that the industry sorely needs. We are the go-to resource for bathroom remodeling in the markets our franchisees currently serve, and our national reputation strengthens as we continue to connect the dots across the country.

scooter’s coffee

Ultimately, we help buyers and sellers avoid the high cost of commission by connecting directly.

We have experience two decades of franchise success and along the way, have been honored with many awards and acclamations. Franchisees benefit from the knowledge and skill of our award-winning franchise system.

Contact: Franchising Team Phone: 844-333-7017 Email: opportunities@propertyguys.com Website: www.propertyguys.com

Of course, it helps to have the trust of renowned companies like Home Depot. Re-Bath is the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling franchise with presence in more than 150 cities and 43 states.

The ideal candidate for Re-Bath should have sales, marketing, and/or management experience and be extremely results oriented. Construction knowledge is not required. You must have a minimum of $100,000 in liquid capital, and be ready to make a full-time commitment.

Contact: Samantha Wilson Phone: 866-721-7761 Email: swilson@sfdpros.com Website: www.rebathfranchise.com

Founded in 1998, Scooter’s Coffee roasts the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In two decades of business, Scooter’s Coffee’s success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company core values.

employees is: “Amazing People, Amazing Drinks...

Amazingly Fast!”™ It reflects a commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers. Scooter’s Coffee is quickly approaching 200 locations in 16 states and has 135 franchise commitments to build new stores.

Franchise opportunities are available.

A partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation to source shade-grown coffee to protect the rainforests reaffirms its commitment to contribute to a “chain of good”. The company’s Brand Promise, recited to franchisees, customers and

Phone: (402) 934-7284 Website: https://franchising.scooterscoffee.com Email: Kelly.crummer@scooterscoffee.com Contact: Kelly Crummer- Franchise Development Manager

StretchLab

revolutionizing the stretching industry through its approach to help clients of all ages, fitness levels, genders and sizes achieve deeper stretches that allow them to reach individual wellness goals.

Headquartered in Irvine, CA, StretchLab is backed

by Xponential Fitness, a curator of popular boutique fitness brands.

Founded in 2015, StretchLab is the first boutique health and wellness franchise that offers one-on-one assisted stretching services in a fun, energetic and communal environment.

It is designed to increase mobility and flexibility, helping to reduce pain, decrease muscle aches, improve posture, reduce recovery time and enhance quality of life.

Guided by highly-trained Flexologists™ in a one-on-one or group atmosphere, StretchLab is

SUBWAY® When you own a Subway® sandwich shop, you’re part of the world’s largest Quick Serve Restaurant chain and one of its most recognized brands, and you’ll get the support and experience that comes with it.

Be part of a winning brand that keeps customers coming back for delicious meals made just the way they want. Subway® is the undisputed leader in fast, wholesome food.

Our sandwiches are made to order right in front of the customer, precisely the way they want - using

Franchising USA

their own at a fixed rate, not a percentage of the value of the home.

Contact: Martin Balcaitis Phone: (949) 326-9765 Email: martin@stretchlab.com Website: https://stretchlab.com

freshly baked breads, select sauces and a variety of delicious toppings. When you join the Subway® family, you’ll get world-class support before you even make your first sandwich and well beyond.

Our franchise support system features: training, product development, advertising, purchasing cooperative, field support and much more.

Contact: Ralph Piselli, North American Franchise Sales Manager Phone: 203 877 4281 Email: Franchise@subway.com Website: www.subway.com

The Growth Coach The Growth Coach® is an industry-leading business coaching franchise, established in over 150 markets in the United States and abroad.

Since our founding in 1992, our coaches have helped thousands of small business owners achieve their personal

The Interface Financial Group – IFG 50/50 The Interface Financial Group – IFG 50/50 is an affordable home-based franchise that provides short-term working capital to small and medium-sized businesses by purchasing current, quality invoices at a discount, thus accelerating the client’s cash flow and growth.

All transactions are syndicated 50/50 with the franchisee and the franchisor, and that means less working capital required to fund transaction: IFG does the bulk of the due diligence and the ‘paperwork’ for the transactions, and IFG 50/50 franchisees will concentrate their efforts on building the referral relationships – they do the ‘people work’.

Key advantages of being an IFG 50/50 franchisee include: • No staff to hire, fire, or manage

The Seasons Art Class The Seasons Art Class is an adult art class franchise providing art classes one day per week. This is a great opportunity, low investment, no inventory, not need to rent a location. Great for part-time or as an added revenue stream. Our business has been in operation since 2009 and is the original provider of these inspired courses.

and professional goals. With 28 million businesses in the United States, the demand for business coaching has grown to a tremendous $11 billion industry.

P: (877) 498-3626 E: GrowthCoachFranchiseOpps@gmail.com

• No storefront to own, lease, or maintain • No Inventory or stock to purchase • No extensive travel because IFG franchisees do business locally • Business-to-Business, professional environment with regular business hours of operation • Flexibility to relocate for part of the year or permanently and continue doing business Our franchisees are excellent communicators, relationship builders with decision-making and problem-solving skills, and much more sales & marketing oriented. IFG has been in the ‘invoice discounting’ business since 1972, and employs its franchise network in the US, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, the UK, Ireland, Australia, Mexico and South Africa. www.interfacefinancial.com

The system has proven so successful that it has been expanded throughout Europe, North America and Australasia with many, very happy Franchisees and countless students.

With well over 125 successful franchises already in operation right throughout the UK (and growing), we’re now offering the opportunity for you to be part of this successful group and run your own business in your area.

There have been many imitators in that time but none have managed to match the comprehensive process and systems that we formulated and continue to improve on year after year.

Using our proven business systems, you have the potential to earn a full-time wage for part-time hours!

For more information contact Mike Curry email: theseasonsartclass@yahoo.co.uk

TopFire Media

Our integrated approach combines our public relations and franchise SEO service prowess and is designed to generate brand awareness, drive consumer engagement, and build credibility for your company.

TopFire Media is an integrated digital marketing and public relations agency, specializing in the franchise industry.

Our clients benefit from our years of experience in franchise SEO service, public relations, media relations, content writing and management, social media marketing, and web design. We work to bring all of these elements together to achieve a common goal – our clients’ success.

TruBlue Total House Care There are thousands of Senior Care companies taking care of the person, but NO ONE is taking care of their homes. Sadly, Seniors are forced to leave their beloved home and memories too soon because the home becomes too hard to maintain. Regrettably, they end up in nursing homes and retirement facilities. All of that has changed and created a business opportunity of a lifetime.

TruBlue is the ONLY national provider that specializes in Total House Care for Seniors, so they can stay in their homes longer… “age in place” with confidence, comfort, safety and independence.

We provide complete and on-going house care, both inside and outside the home: • Repairs • Cleaning

R

W: https://growthcoachfranchise.com

Phone: (708) 249-1090 Fax: (708) 957-2395 Website: www.topfiremedia.com Email: info@topfiremedia.com Contact: Matthew Jonas

• Yard work • Special projects (such as wheelchair access, safety audits, and fall prevention, to name a few) • Home Watch TruBlue Total House Care services busy families, as well. They’re constantly running from school activity to sporting event most evenings and weekends. While they have disposable income, they have little free time or desire to handle the endless chores around the house. They gladly turn to TruBlue for complete and affordable house care, inside and out, where we act as their Total House Care Manager and provide them with a convenient and hassle-free lifestyle.

Phone: 866-498-3218 Website: www.trubluefranchise.com

Franchising USA

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

Page 63

fr anchise & serv ices di r ecto ry

Tuffy Tire and Auto In 1970, the first Tuffy Muffler shop opened in Detroit, Michigan. To keep up with changing times, we’ve changed and evolved too, from just a Muffler shop to an auto service center. Our service line up currently includes brakes, shocks, struts, springs, alignment, front-end, oil change, mufflers, tires, air conditioning, batteries, starting and charging, flush and fill, and C.V. joints. We take care of all your auto repair needs.

our franchisees have played a key role in the success of Tuffy. Tuffy, is looking for customer focused, ethical business owners.

With over 45 years in business, franchisees are provided a value proposition that includes a state-of-the-art management, sales and Technical Training, comprehensive marketing and advertising programs, national vendor partnerships, national and local support, a powerful brand proposition, a strong business model and on-going research and development.

Helping our franchisees to operate successfully and meet the challenges of today’s marketplace is the top priority for the Tuffy® Tire & Auto Service Centers. We provide our franchisees with a proven operating system, and as a result,

Contact: Travis Mulligan Phone: 800-228-8339 Email: Travis@tuffy.com Website: Tuffyfranchising.com

Veterans Business Services

campaigns, news press releases, and online franchising e-magazine articles, VBS gets the message to qualified Veterans who are invested in starting a franchise.

Veterans Business Services provides the most advantageous franchise acquisition terms for Veterans and provides innovative entrepreneurial training for qualified Veterans seeking grants under the VA Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Veterans Business Services (“VBS”) specializes in entrepreneurial opportunities for Veterans and has an extensive reach into the Veterans community and can generate significant interest from qualified Veterans who wish to start a franchise or small business.

VBS offers multiple marketing methods that have proven effective with helping franchise organizations with their expansion plans. Utilizing custom email marketing

Window World Window World®, headquartered in North Wilkesboro, N.C., is America’s largest replacement window and exterior remodeling company, with more than 200 locally owned offices nationwide.

Founded in 1995, the company sells and installs windows, siding, doors and other exterior products, with over 16 million windows sold to date. Window World is an ENERGY STAR® partner and its windows, vinyl siding and Therma-Tru doors have all earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.

In 2018, it was ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Window and Patio Door Retailers” by J.D. Power.

Through its charitable foundation, Window World Cares®, the Window World family provides funding for St. Jude Children’s

VBS supports service disabled Veterans who are enrolled in the self-employment track within the Veterans Administration and provides outreach efforts to transitioning military through TAP and ACAP programs. As a graduate business of the Entrepreneurial Bootcamp for Veterans (“EBV”), we also assist other graduates of EBV and provide coaching support through mentoring programs. VBS is where Veterans turn to make their franchise dreams a reality.

Contact: James Mingey Phone: 202-349-0860 Email: info@veteransbusinessservices.us Website: www.veteransbusinessservices.us

Research Hospital®, which honored the foundation with its Organizational Support Award in 2017. Since its inception in 2008, the foundation has raised over $9 million for St. Jude.

Window World also supports the Veterans Airlift Command, a nonprofit organization that facilitates free air transportation to wounded veterans and their families. Window World has flown over 100 missions and surpassed $1 million in flights and in-kind donations since it began its partnership with the VAC in 2008.

For more information, visit WindowWorld.com or call 1-800 NEXTWINDOW. Contact: Zach Luffman, Director of Franchising Phone: (336) 667-2100 Email: franchising@windowworld.com Website: www.windowworldfranchise.com

A-Z LISTINGS ARE A GREAT WAY TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS Making an appearance every month in Franchising USA magazine.

Each A-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

Excellent 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: vikki@cgbpublishing.com

www.franchisingusamagazine.com Franchising USA

Page 65

(/(0 (00)$ !$/!./ #,* (/(0 (00)$ !$/!./ #,* ,. !))

,. !))

0, )$!.+ *,.$ !",10 0, )$!.+ *,.$ !",10 $2#(0(+& %.!+#'(/$ $2#(0(+& %.!+#'(/$ ,--,.01+(0($/ ,--,.01+(0($/

Hey, Franchisors Are you seeking growth and market relevance?

Turn-Key Solution Would you like to offer new franchisees a turn-key solution that provides them with peace-of-mind while providing you with a monetizable construction process?

New Product Line Are you wanting to introduce something new into your core-competency, but you’re not sure how to do it without confusing your customers?

Improved Growth Is your franchise growing but you feel there are areas of operations that could, if improved, make that growth even greater?

Brand Refresh Has your franchise held its own in the marketplace, but you know you that the time is rapidly approaching when a brand refreshment or complete FF&E overhaul is needed?

Regain Momentum Has your system-expansion plateaued and you need assistance with getting steam back into your engines?

336.477.3693 norrisventures.com Franchising USA

Norris Ventures creates customized scaling VSEHQETW ERH SÇşIVW guided assistance for franchises in seasons of growth.