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Veterans in Franchising november 2021
www.franchisingusamagazine.com
Image One
Commercial Cleaning Franchise Shows Their Dedication to Veterans
latest in
veteran news
trending upward:
balancing new ideas with a solid business model in franchising Franchising USA
Leadership. Teamwork. Executing SOPs. Connecting veterans with education, resources and opportunities at vetfran.org
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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 november 2021 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
Have Your Say
44 Image One - Commercial Cleaning Franchise Shows Their Dedication to Veterans
46 New Joint Venture to Benefit Veterans with Mobility Challenges
40 Latest in Veteran News 50 Trending Upward: Balancing New Ideas with a Solid Business Model in Franchising
Veterans News 40 Dogtopia 41 Office Pride | bluefrog Plumbing + Drain 42 Tint World | Cyberbacker 43 Anago Cleaning Systems
Expert Advice 50 Trending Upward: Balancing New Ideas with a Solid Business Model in Franchising Bill McPherson | Vice President | AlphaGraphic
Profile 48 Geese Chasers
Snapshot 52 Moran Family of Brands Supports Veterans Franchising USA
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veteran news
Dogtopia Foundation Celebrates Milestone Dogtopia, the nation’s leading dog daycare, boarding and spa franchise, announced today that the Dogtopia Foundation has helped sponsor more than 100 service dogs for veterans. Since the Foundation’s inception, Dogtopia daycares have collectively achieved this milestone by raising nearly $1 million, including almost $60,000 during September this year. In addition to this milestone, several Dogtopia daycares across the country were able to celebrate additional sponsorship goals. During September, 11 new service dog sponsorships were added to support the training of loyal, caring canine companions for the heroes who served our country. “We are so proud of our Dogtopia owners, team members and pet parents for their commitment to the Dogtopia Foundation and for raising money to support our veterans in need of service dogs,” said Neil Gill, CEO and President of Dogtopia. “We know the waitlist is long, and we will continue to do all we can to support the brave men and women who served our country.”The Dogtopia Foundation enables dogs to positively change our world and providing service dogs to veterans is just one of the three key pillars of the Dogtopia Foundation that helps to achieve this mission. Since its inception in 2017, the Foundation has also supported causes centered on youth literacy programs and employment initiatives for adults with autism. “In addition to being kind and loving animals, dogs don’t pass any judgement and can really help those in need of emotional and physical assistance with the companionship they need to fulfill
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their daily life with confidence,” said Liz Meyers, Director of the
Dogtopia Foundation. By connecting dogs with the organizations
it supports, the Foundation can help returning veterans, adults with autism and children reach their full potential.
For more information about the Dogtopia Foundation and how you can help sponsor future service dogs, visit www.dogtopiafoundation.org. If you are interested in learning more about the Dogtopia franchise in general, visit www.dogtopia.com.
Office Pride Ranked in Franchise Times’ Top 400 Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services has been named to Franchise Times’ annual Top 400 ranking, the only ranking based on worldwide revenue. The list published in the October issue of Franchise Times. “We are proud to be ranked among the top franchise systems in the world,” said Todd Hopkins, Office Pride’s founder and CEO. “Office Pride has been on a solid trajectory of growth, and it’s very gratifying to see how we rank against other very successful brands.” A respected national franchise system, Office Pride is ranked on Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious Franchise 500, Top Franchises for Veterans, Top 100 Franchises for Less Than $100,000 and Top Home-Based and Mobile Franchises lists. Office Pride is a member of Franchise Business Review’s Hall of Fame and has been listed among FBR’s Top 200 Franchises to Buy for 14 years. Office
Pride also is listed among FBR’s
set of core values that ensures business
Businesses, Top Franchises for Women,
every customer receives the highest level
Culture100, Top 100 Best Recession-Proof Top Low-Cost Franchises and Best Franchises for Veterans.
Based in Palm Harbor, Fla., is one of the most respected full-service commercial
cleaning companies in the nation. Office Pride’s business was built on a strong
is conducted with integrity and that
of commercial cleaning and janitorial services.
To learn more about OfficePride, please visit OfficePride.com. For franchise opportunities, visit OfficePrideFranchise.com.
bluefrog Plumbing + Drain® to Expand in Arizona bluefrog Plumbing + Drain®, a leading provider of plumbing repair and installation, plans to award 12 franchise agreements in 2022 with two locations in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona, at the top of the list.
States, generating more than $110
As part of the network’s aggressive expansion, the company announced a conversion partnership program, offering existing plumbing businesses a 50% discount for converting that business into a bluefrog franchise. In addition, bluefrog will invest in the business by paying for the upfront rebranding and marketing costs associated with converting to a bluefrog franchise, which will then be repaid through an amended royalty schedule.
heater repair, and more.
The plumbing industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United
billion annually. Across the country,
bluefrog Plumbing + Drain has assisted customers with premium plumbing
services from drain cleaning to leak
detection, emergency mitigation, water The network’s rapid expansion plans are part of bluefrog’s larger goal to open
50 new locations in the United States over the next five years. The initial
investment for a bluefrog Plumbing + Drain franchise is approximately
$127,130 to $370,915, with a discount
for veterans. Existing businesses looking to convert to a bluefrog franchise will do so at a reduced rate.
For more information, visit www.bluefrogplumbing.com
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veteran news
Tint World® recognized as a Top 400 brand by Franchise Times
Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, has been named to the prestigious Franchise Times Top 400 list, solidifying its claim as the No. 1 auto styling center in the world. With a ranking of 363, the company saw a sales growth of 20.9% and a unit growth of 16.4%. “Making the Franchise Times Top 400 list showcases our dedication and commitment to our customers as well as our team’s willingness to go above and beyond,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World®. “Our footprint in the industry continues to grow internationally because of our determination to offer the best automotive styling experience in the world. That is one of the primary reasons we remain competitive and a leader in the automotive styling industry.” “While many businesses struggled to keep their doors open throughout the pandemic, the Tint World® team made the necessary adjustments and had the resources in place to power through and keep our stores open,” Bonfiglio said. “None of this would be possible without communication with leaders
at every level, from our support staff at headquarters to the individual franchisees. We made sure everyone had the tools to continue thriving despite the pandemic, and this placement is an acknowledgment of that.” To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com or www.TintWorldFranchise.com.
Cyberbacker Announces One-of-a-Kind Franchise Opportunity
The leading provider of world-class virtual support services for businesses anywhere in the world – is announcing its franchise opportunity. The brand is ready to help more businesses grow and succeed. This announcement comes at a time where more people are choosing to work at home or leave their job to pursue other avenues. Cyberbacker
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understands the need for convenient support at an affordable cost and is ready to bring its services nationwide.
focus on growth rather than get bogged down
Recognized as the largest and leading virtual assistance platform, Cyberbacker has acquired an impressive 1,700 clients and is now seeking franchisees that have large influence networks and leadership. to expand its national presence. To accelerate its rapid growth, the brand has a set goal of adding 24 territories by the end of 2021 with plans to add 48 new franchises in 2022, including new areas in Canada and the United Kingdom.
To continue providing premium virtual
“With the number of people working from home increasing in recent years, it’s clear that business owners around the globe can benefit from our services,” said Jason Stowe, Vice President of Franchising at Cyberbacker. “We’ve been able to help so many business owners leverage themselves with our Cyberbackers, which has allowed them to
with administrative work that should be outsourced.”
administrative support to businesses of
all sizes across the globe, Cyberbacker is
actively seeking franchisees who are business leaders with large networks and geographic influence. In addition to helping business
owners accomplish their goals, franchisees can use this opportunity to leverage
themselves and add to their portfolio.
Cyberbacker’s initial franchise fee of $30,000 and total investment under $95,000 which
includes three Cyberbackers that specialize
in sales, onboarding, and client relationships. The brand also offers a discount that takes
$5,000 off of the franchise fee for veterans. For more information about Cyberbacker’s franchise opportunity, all inquiries can contact claudiogalsim@cyberbacker.com.
ANAGO Commercial Cleaning Franchise Ranked #3 Nationally Anago Cleaning Systems announced its prestigious inclusion in Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2021 Top Home-Based & Mobile Franchise Business ranking. Anago’s consistent inclusion within Entrepreneur Magazine’s business and franchising ranking series is highly respected among new and existing entrepreneurs looking for profitable business ventures that continue to demonstrate relevance, strength, and financial viability within the landscape of ever-changing global trends and business functions. “Anago Cleaning Systems is honored to be unceasingly recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine for the trust in our brand, strength of our franchise model, and the results it offers our franchisees,” said Adam Povlitz, CEO & President of Anago Cleaning Systems. “The commercial cleaning industry continues to demonstrate its strength and staying-power even when faced with uncertain economic times. As we’ve learned through global pandemics like COVID-19 and H1N1, and economic hardships such as 2008’s Great Recession, commercial cleaning has the viability to
thrive as a reliable small business revenue source.”
and running from the start,” added Povlitz.
Because of Anago’s unique, proven franchise system and world-class corporate support, the company was able to shift and pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic, absorbing the responsibility of being an essential, frontline business tasked with keeping schools, hospitals, and many different types of businesses safe.
top franchise for veterans and offers a
“The Anago franchising system is very much a turnkey business that is ready and waiting for new unit franchisees to get up
Anago is proud to be recognized as a
discount to our service members. Anago is accredited by the IFA’s Vet Fran initiative and offers a discount to any honorably discharged Veteran. Anago Cleaning
Systems welcomes all veterans looking to open a Master or Unit Franchise. For more information on the Anago Franchising Model, visit: www.anagocleaning.com/franchising/
WE WANT YOUR VETERAN FRANCHISING STORIES Are you a Veteran with a franchising business? Want to share your story with us? Whether you run a fleet of franchises and want to get the word out to prospective Veteran franchisees, are a new franchise business owner with an inspirational story to tell, or a service provider that supports Veteran franchises – we want to hear from you.
Email editor@franchisingusa.com with your story ideas now! Franchising USA
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cover story: Image One
Commercial Cleaning Franchise Shows Their Dedication to Veterans Image One USA offers military veterans a timetested model to be their own boss in recessionresistant industry. It’s no secret in the franchise industry that veterans make for great franchise owners. In fact, one in seven franchises in the United States are owned and operated by a veteran, according to the International Franchise Association. Some franchisors go the extra mile to help military veterans on their road to business ownership as they transition from being in the line of duty to running a business as a civilian. Franchising since 2011 and with a corporate headquarters in the Chicago
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suburb of Rolling Meadows, Image One USA has had the utmost dedication in helping and supporting those who served this country. To honor service members, Image One offers a significant discount on their initial franchise fee. And, on top of that, help acclimate their veterans as they take on more responsibilities as a franchisee. It’s why they are named a top franchise for veterans by the likes of organizations such as VetFran and publications like Entrepreneur.
The ideal franchise bootcamp: Image One helps owners get moving As a commercial cleaning franchise, Image One provides all the necessary training, tools and support to help franchise owners
build their business, including teaching franchisees the latest cleaning techniques and empowering them with insights on best-in-class equipment and technology. Ongoing training is delivered both at Image One’s corporate headquarters and onsite at existing client locations to ensure that franchisees continue to grow their own businesses. “We are proud to honor those who have fought for our country and offer them an exciting and rewarding career,” said Tim Conn, president and CEO of Image One, who started commercial cleaning at the age of 14 in the 1980s. The seed planted in that entrepreneurial teenager has blossomed into a decades-long passion for helping others. Image One has been a franchise for the past decade and has supported many people across the country launching their own cleaning business.
fall. He said he looks forward to leading and mentoring his employees in the same way he did as a chosen leader while deployed in the Middle East.
From military to civilian life: The traits that make a great franchisee When it comes to operating a commercial cleaning business, there are certain traits that make someone fit to lead a unit. Image One has said that they look for candidates who make for good team leaders and who know how to complete jobs on time. Such skills are transferable from a veteran’s experience serving in the military. Becoming a franchise owner for a retired veteran provides job security and personal freedoms unlike any other sector. “We are very proud of all the men and women who have served our country, but especially the ones who join our Image One family,” said Tim Conn. “We extend our service member benefits beyond just military personnel to also include first responders, such as police officers, firefighters and EMTs.”
Andy Avila
Examples of Image One owners who have made the transition Andy Avila, who is now currently a franchise owner in the Chicago suburbs, spent over six years in the Army National Guard as an E-5 Sergeant. “When I invested in my own Image One, the opportunity and benefits they offer to veterans like me was a huge help,” said Avila. “I think the benefits Image One offers, and the continued support from Tim and the entire corporate team, speaks highly of the franchise and demonstrates their incredible appreciation of veterans.” Avila knew how to keep going and handle every stress factor. He knew he could succeed on his own and in 2018 he bought an Image One franchise. He noted that his military skills transferred over to his business strategies, where he identifies a problem, assesses the situation, and
Chris Norwood
takes an actionable plan in order to find a solution. The cost to open an Image One franchise ranges from approximately $43,000 to $91,000, which makes the startup cost among the most affordable in the franchise industry. Chris Norwood, who was an active duty Commission Officer stationed in Afghanistan and an Artillery Officer deployed in Iraq, initially struggled to readjust to civilian life when he returned to the states. After bouncing around jobs for about a decade, he found his calling in the world of franchising. “I was in charge of 40 men to protect locals against the Taliban during my time overseas,” said Norwood. “I learned a great deal of discipline. From that, I am able to apply to my employees and customers, to ensure safety and satisfaction.” Norwood officially opens the doors of his franchise in northwestern Arkansas this
Image One hopes to expand into other communities to help veterans across the country achieve their business goals and aspirations. Image One currently operates primarily in the Midwest and Southeast and is actively accepting franchise applications from military veterans around the country. Cleaning and sanitation are even more important now than ever. While Image One hopes that the severity of the pandemic is behind us, they realize that disinfecting surfaces and common areas will always be necessary. Image One appreciates the hard work and dedication their veteran franchisees put in while they’re serving clients, and these retired veterans have a significant amount of admiration for company leadership at Image One. “I’m proud that I have the opportunity to grow my own business with a respected brand like Image One,” said Avila. “It affords me the opportunity to hire other veterans.” For more information about Image One, visit http://ImageOneFranchise.com
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have your say: BraunAbility & NuVinAir Global
New joint venture to benefit Veterans with mobility challenges NuVinAir Global, which offers a suite of patented and proprietary products that safely and effectively create healthy vehicle interiors, is pleased to announce its partnership with BraunAbility, the leading manufacturer of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and wheelchair lifts around the world. Franchising USA
With a nationwide dealer network, BraunAbility caters to individuals with mobility challenges, including veterans with disabilities, by providing its participating mobility dealers with clean and sanitized vehicles treated with NuVinAir Global’s ‘Total Health’ protection, a proprietary product line that utilizes sanitization science and a patented cleaning process. “Since launching several years ago, we’ve been focused on bringing ‘clean driving’ to drivers and passengers across the country, a mission that’s been catapulted by the pandemic over the past 18 months,” said Kyle Bailey, NuVinAir Global’s CEO and
founder. “With an unprecedented urgency for ensuring all vehicles are sanitized and disinfected, joining forces with BraunAbility enables us to pay homage to our valiant veterans who may have mobility challenges — a community close to our hearts — while also empowering them with a sense of confidence that we’re putting their health at the forefront, every time they step foot inside their vehicle,” said Bailey. Reporting to Mr Bailey is new Franchise Development Officer Marty Schoenthaler. In his new role, Mr Schoenthaler is responsible for identifying growth strategies for increasing national franchise
“BraunAbility is a leading manufacturer of mobility transportation solutions, including wheelchair accessible vehicles, wheelchair lifts and seating, storage, and securement products.”
Franchise Development Officer Marty Schoenthaler
“Joining NuVinAir’s leadership team enables me to work alongside fellow passionate, entrepreneurial individuals, while growing an industry-leading innovator that’s dominating the automotive space with its patented technology and proprietary products.”
coverage, as well as enhancing and maturing growth of NuVinAir Global’s existing franchise network
a BS in business administration and an AS in computer programming from Missouri Southern State University.
“As we rapidly expand our brand, adding passionate, seasoned industry veterans to our leadership team will help take our company to the next level,” said Bailey. “We have been looking to fill this critical role for some time, but we had to be patient until we found the right individual. The caliber of our Franchisee team demanded an executive who deeply understands how to forge the right partnerships for driving success, and we know that Marty will be a tremendous asset to all of us.”
“Throughout my career and across various industries, I focused on developing organizational strategies and working with our teams to effectively deliver on those strategies,” said Mr. Schoenthaler.
With over three decades of leadership experience in various industries, Marty brings a proven track record in optimizing organizational capability, strategy development, and business transformation, as well as focusing on customer relationships. He joins NuVinAir Global from Tate Boys Tire & Service, the largest independent tire dealer in NE Oklahoma, where he served as CEO. Marty started his career at IBM Corporation where he worked for 16 years. He earned an MBA from the University of Arkansas, as well as
“Joining NuVinAir’s leadership team enables me to work alongside fellow passionate, entrepreneurial individuals, while growing an industry-leading innovator that’s dominating the automotive space with its patented technology and proprietary products.”
About NuVinAir Global Based in Dallas, NuVinAir Global offers a suite of patented and proprietary products that safely and effectively create healthy vehicle interiors. The company delivers a ‘Total Health’ product line that utilizes sanitization science and a patented cleaning process to dealerships, rentalcar companies, and other automotive businesses. NuVinAir Global’s patented ReStore and ReFresh treatments are used
to clean the interior air of the vehicle, including the HVAC system, and remove contaminants, odor, and pollutants by dispelling a dry, hygienic vapor that reaches places that sprays and wipes simply cannot. Products and programs are sold through its franchisees, who own exclusive rights to their defined territories. For more information, visit: https://www. nuvinair.com/franchisee/
About BraunAbility BraunAbility is a leading manufacturer of mobility transportation solutions, including wheelchair accessible vehicles, wheelchair lifts and seating, storage, and securement products. Founded nearly 50 years ago by Ralph Braun, an entrepreneur who spent most of his life in a wheelchair, the company has grown into a well-known and trusted name in the mobility industry, bringing independence to millions of individuals across the world. BraunAbility is a wholly owned subsidiary of Patricia Industries, a division of Investor AB. For more information, visit BraunAbility.com
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profile: Geese Chasers
Local Entrepreneur, Army Veteran Brings Geese Chasers to Northern Virginia
Professional geese management service uses trained Border Collies to safely clear Canada Geese from public and private properties. Geese, start packing your bags: Geese Chasers™, LLC, a professional geese
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management service that uses trained Border Collies to humanely drive the relocation of unwanted geese, opened recently in Northern Virginia. Geese Chasers’ method for geese elimination is safe, effective, and affordable, relying on highly trained Border Collies, herding dogs by nature, and their handlers to bother Canada Geese into permanently fleeing the premises. Fredericksburg resident and Army veteran Bill Edwards owns and operates the local business, along with his Border Collie, Anna-Liz.
Edwards began his 12-year Army career as an infantry soldier in the Alabama National Guard while attending the University of Alabama, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Human Environmental Science. He was then Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, assigned to Camp Casey Korea, and served as a Headquarters and Headquarters Battery (HHB) Executive Officer as well as a Battery (MLRS) Platoon Leader. Edwards proceeded to rise through the ranks until completing his military career
as a Captain providing strategic counsel to top leadership on the best employment of artillery, land, and air assets. He is also a combat veteran who was directly selected and assigned to the 1st Security Forces Assistance Brigade (Advisors), as directed by the Department of Defense.
“Fredericksburg resident and Army veteran Bill Edwards will own and operate the local business, along with his Border Collie, Anna-Liz.”
Edwards first learned about the opportunity to own his own Geese Chasers franchise during a program for Army members transitioning to civilian life. Geese Chasers and its unique service, established business model, and built-in support appealed to Edwards and lined up well with the skills he developed through his military experience. Edwards is excited to bring this offering to the Northern Virginia counties of Arlington, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotslyvania, and Stafford, as well as into Washington D.C. “When I first saw the Geese Chasers process in action, how quickly, effectively, and responsibly it eliminates bothersome geese, I was simply amazed and knew this was a concept I wanted to be part of,” said Edwards. “Thanks to the incredible support of the Geese Chasers team, the Northern Virginia community will soon benefit from this innovative service.” The company’s roots go back to 1998, when CEO Bob Young was playing fetch with his new Border Collie, Boomer. A golf course owner stopped him to share how Border Collies were used in the MidWest to chase geese and asked Young if he would be willing to try out the method on his course. Boomer cleared 200-300 geese that first week! From there, Young added another golf course to his client roster and the company took off from there. Young sold his first franchise in 2011 in North Jersey. Northern Virginia will be the brand’s eighth location, with expansion into Connecticut and Chicago expected later this year. “The Canada Geese population grows by 15 to 20% every year – and so does our business,” said Young. “Wherever you find geese, grass, and a body of water, you’ll find Geese Chasers working to safely and effectively clear bothersome geese to enable community members to fully enjoy their beautiful outdoor spaces. We
look forward to bringing this humane and effective service to Northern Virginia and are confident Bill will find great success as an entrepreneur.” Franchises are available throughout the country, with a 25% military discount. See additional information here.
About Geese Chasers Geese Chasers™, LLC is a professional geese management service that uses specially trained Border Collies to humanely drive away unwanted Canada Geese for clients including homeowners’
associations, property management, parks and recreational sites, commercial and corporate sites, K to 12 schools, and colleges and universities – among many other locations where Canada Geese can damage properties. Founded in 1999, the company will open its tenth location in late 2021. Geese Chasers has been featured on national media including Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Fox News, ABC News, CBS News, and NBC News. For more information visit: https://geesechasers.com
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exert advice: Bill McPherson | Vice President | AlphaGraphics
Trending Upward:
Balancing New Ideas with a Solid Business Model in Franchising
Franchising is an exciting business. There’s a brilliant, new idea born every minute. Some trendy concepts catch fire quickly, generating a lot of interest including drawing the attention of enthusiastic entrepreneurs. Like any other potential business investment, though, before investing in a
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trendy franchise idea, it’s important to do your due diligence.
How to Evaluate When you get down to the basics, evaluating a trendy new franchise is no different than investigating established franchise brands. Entrepreneurship through franchising is one of the most important financial decisions of your life, so take your time and check the new brand out thoroughly: • Attend a Discovery Day. An important step is meeting the executive team during a Discovery Day. This gives you a chance to learn about the leaders of the brand and get a feel for them personally.
Due to current circumstances, this very well might involve a virtual visit, but, in the months and years ahead, in-person visits will once again be a feasible option. • Investigate the executive team/Culture. The franchise disclosure document (FDD) is an invaluable resource when evaluating franchises. Check whether any previous litigation or bankruptcies have been disclosed. Take the time to get to know the executive team personally. What is their professional experience? Do they have a background in franchising? Have they been involved in a string of businesses in a fairly short time?
“Like any other potential business investment, though, before investing in a trendy franchise idea, it’s important to do your due diligence.”
they offer training? Is there operational support, financial, and HR processes? Is there ongoing coaching and education? Does the franchisor embrace changes to technology? Joining a brand that only offers a name and concept, but little ongoing support, will lesson your chances of success. • Do your homework on the fees. Once you join a franchise, in addition to the initial franchise fee, there will be ongoing charges to deal with. Be sure to do your homework on what to expect. This generally include royalty and ad fund fees. Find out whether the brand charges a license fee for things like proprietary software or for technology. Make sure to compare the fees to those charged by other franchisors. Do they seem excessive in comparison?
Test of Time
• Talk with franchise location owners. This can be little tricky when it comes to very new franchise brands with only a handful of locations that might not have been operating very long. Still, the experiences of existing location owners are an indicator of what you might expect. Get a feel for their satisfaction with the franchise. Do they regret the choice? Are they doing well financially? Does the corporate team support them? Does the brand provide the services and support they were promised? • What kind of support is offered? One of the main benefits of joining a franchise is the behind-the-scenes support provided by the corporate team. Do
Instead of focusing on trendy, it can be more useful to evaluate whether a franchise is trending. An exciting value proposition is one thing. Whether the brand has an established track record for fully capitalizing on the value proposition is another. The test of time helps determine whether franchisors are able to fulfil their promise over the long run. A mature franchise can often offer more stability and a higher level of support, but even younger brands benefit if they are led by corporate leaders who have long-term experience in the franchising industry. Make sure that the guiding vision and strategy for the brand looks beyond just the first 3-4 years. Is there a solid plan for growth?
Can They Pivot? Another consideration is the resilience of the franchise brand. Is the value proposition dependent on a very specific fad? Does the brand have the ability to pivot when times, tastes, or economic conditions change? Can the corporate
Bill McPherson
leadership support franchise location owners during widespread, unforeseen circumstances? The past year has certainly shown the need for franchise brands to be flexible in responding to radically changed circumstances.
Look for Value Joining a franchise brand should never be on impulse. It is a financial investment that can affect the rest of your life. Keep in mind that franchising success depends on more than a flashy idea. It requires dedicated and well-thought-out corporate support, experienced executive leadership, and a long-term strategy. Do your research, shop around and investigate many other franchise brands, carefully weigh the expenses and potential income opportunities. If the franchise brand has the solid business foundation to successfully execute on the new idea, then consider pulling the trigger. The franchising industry can offer great opportunities. Just make sure it is the right opportunity for you. Bill McPherson is vice president of franchise development at AlphaGraphics, one of the largest U.S.based networks of locally-owned and operated Business Centers, offering a complete range of print, visual communications and marketing products and solutions. For more information about AlphaGraphics services, visit www.alphagraphics.com. To learn about franchise opportunities, visit www.alphagraphicsfranchise.com.
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snapshot: Moran Family of Brands
Moran Family of Brands supports veterans
Albert Daniels - United States Navy Veteran and owner of Milex Complete Auto Care Shop
Moran Family of Brands, one of the nation’s leading automotive repair franchises, counts 14 United States veterans among its 120 total franchisees. Moran franchise owners have been enlisted in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines branches of the military, as well as the national guard. They have served the country in parts of the last seven decades and were deployed in countries from Vietnam to Iraq. Moran is a longtime active member of VetFran, an initiative that grants a $5,000 franchise fee discount, mentorship and training programs for any honorably
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discharged qualified veteran transitioning to civilian life. Experience in the military has proven to be a great fit for franchise ownership. Members of the military exhibit strong leadership and motivational skills, something that is important for business owners. Like the military, franchise ownership involves following proven systems and defined procedures. This means a veteran can enter a completely new field and be likely to succeed by following the franchisor’s proven business model and completing the training program. Although veterans make up only about 7 percent of the population, they account for 14 percent of all franchisees in the United States. In addition to helping provide franchise ownership opportunities for veterans, Moran is also actively involved in
attracting veteran employees as service technicians at its stores. The franchise has developed a recruiting process that works with local veteran affairs offices in search of workers with experience in the truck pool, heavy equipment repairs and aircraft repairs. These veterans often make excellent automotive service techs. As part of this process, Moran notifies veteran offices whenever a local shop is in need of adding a tech position at its location. Many of these veterans are younger and searching for opportunities shortly after returning from service. The program has been mutually beneficial for both Moran’s individual shops and veterans looking to begin a successful career in auto repair. For more information, visit: https://moranfamilyofbrands.com/ auto-franchise-opportunities
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