Veterans in Franchising November 2023

november 2023

cover story

Former Marine Sergeant Finds

Success at Office Pride

latest news in

veteran franchising Franchising MAGAZINE USA 73

Leadership.

Teamwork.

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

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conte nts

ve ter ans supplement 78

Snapshot 92 Gotcha Covered: U.S. Air Force Veteran and Wife Open Gotcha Covered of Roseville

Franchisor in Depth 82 Waters Edge Wineries: Redefining Wine Industry Through Unique Global Partnerships

Franchisee in Action

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On the Cover 78 Office Pride: Former Marine Sergeant Finds Success at Office Pride

What’s New 76 Franchising News Latest News from Veterans in Franchising

Have Your Say

80 Dog Training Elite: Names Former Senior Executive, Current Franchisee as CEO 84 Merry Maids: A Bronze Star Veteran’s Path From The Army to Entrepreneurship

Focus 86 Filta Enviromental: Military Service Prepares Filta Owners for Franchise Success

90 Dog Training Elite: Supports Veterans in Obtaining and Training Service Dogs

Q&A 88 Vast Coworking Group: Jason Anderson

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Window Hero expands into Pennsylvania with a new location in Warminster Window Hero, a HomeFront Brands franchise specializing in a wide range of exterior cleaning services, announced today it is opening the first location in Pennsylvania.

Orr and Gabriel had expressed interest in entrepreneurship and franchising for years and were ready to turn dreams into reality when they came across the opportunity with Window Hero.

“I have had an interest in franchising for some time now, and Window Hero really caught our attention. After we visited the Homefront Brands facility, we were sold,” Orr said. “Throughout my career, I have learned the importance of systems and models, which gives me even more appreciation for Window Hero.”

After spending six years as a union railroader, Orr built experience as a realtor alongside Gabriel, a Marine Corps veteran. Having grown up in the Philadelphia area, Orr and Gabriel expressed an urgent need for reliable home service contractors.

“As a realtor, I see the growing demand for exterior cleaning in the

residential space,” Gabriel said. “We want Window Hero to be the go-to solution for exterior cleaning in the Philadelphia area, and I’m confident our combined skillset and work ethic will help get us there.”

Married with three kids, Gabriel wants to create a scalable business he can pass down to his children that holds value in the community. The business duo said their ultimate goal is to create a family legacy through Window Hero, as well as making a positive impact in the area.

“I hope to inspire the people around me to adopt my entrepreneurial spirit and find a self-motivated attitude and mentality,” Orr said. “Ultimately helping the next person that can contribute to the community.”

For more information about Window Hero Warminster, please visit https://windowhero.com/locations/warminster/.

United Defense Tactical Announces Founding Franchisees towards its goal of national expansion. Wes Fox, founder and Chief Instructor, opened the first United Defense Tactical in Costa Mesa, California, when he realized there was a lack of dynamic self-defense training centers on the market.

“My goal has always been to help keep as many people safe as possible,” said Wes Fox.

United Defense Tactical, the first-of-itskind firearms and self-defense training center, announces the brand’s official “Founding Franchisees.”

These franchisees – most of whom have been members of United Defense Tactical – are entering the California markets, helping United Defense Tactical move 76 Franchising MAGAZINE USA

Elyas and Stephanie Peshtaz are one of United Defense Tactical’s first franchisees, with their Los Angeles County training center opening this winter. After a random physical attack on the way to Stephanie’s birthday celebration, the couple decided to sign up for self-defense courses and found United Defense Tactical.

“This incident opened our eyes to the harsh reality that we were not prepared for this to happen,” said Elyas. “We decided it

was time to learn about self-defense, and we fell in love with the entire curriculum and business model of United Defense Tactical.

Paul Davis has been a member of United Defense Tactical for two years and is opening his center in Long Beach, California. As he has progressed through the curriculum, he has seen the demand for dynamic training and creating more responsible firearms owners.

Ray Bowers is another founding franchisee, bringing his United Defense Tactical to Murrieta, California. Ray was introduced to Wes through his flooring business, and after learning about the business model, decided to open his own United Defense Tactical. https://uniteddefensetactical.com/ franchise

Steve White Celebrates 10 Years of Remarkable Leadership at PuroClean they have led PuroClean to unprecedented heights. Under his leadership, the franchise has doubled its locations, tripled average unit sales, and quadrupled profitability and system-wide sales. Most importantly, franchise owners have consistently rated PuroClean among the top 50 franchises for satisfaction in the annual Franchise Satisfaction Survey by Franchise Business Review.

PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, is thrilled to mark a decade of excellence with its President and Chief Operating Officer, Steve White.

September 2023 brings a significant milestone as Steve White, a US Army Veteran and a passionate advocate for franchising, celebrates his 10th anniversary with the company.

White’s journey at PuroClean has been nothing short of transformative. With his process-driven mindset and the incomparable support team around him,

Mark W. Davis, CEO and Chairman of PuroClean, commended White, saying, “Steve White has been an incredible asset, mentor, and friend to everyone within the PuroClean family. The work that he has accomplished in his tenure has been nothing short of extraordinary.”

White’s leadership style, characterized by trust and collaboration, has earned him the respect and admiration of both the support team and franchisees. He has instilled a family atmosphere within the PuroClean culture, making it a place where people are excited to be a part of something noteworthy.

Reflecting on his journey, White said, “I am tremendously humble and proud of the work that I have done here at PuroClean.

The amazing people that I have met these past ten years are nothing short of incredible, and I am excited to be a part of an exceptional growing brand like PuroClean.”

As PuroClean continues to expand its reach, Steve White remains a driving force behind its success, guiding the brand toward its mission of providing reliable and high-quality restoration services to communities across North America. His decade-long dedication to PuroClean is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the franchise and its people.

Frank Torre, Vice Chairman of PuroClean, summed it up well, saying, “We are all so grateful for Steve and the work that he has done for the PuroClean family.”

With White’s leadership, PuroClean looks forward to a future filled with continued growth and success, serving even more homeowners and businesses in need of restoration and remediation services.

Tint World® Announces New Ownership for Charlotte-Matthews Location Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, announces a new ownership team at its CharlotteMatthews location, continuing the National Automotive Styling Centers™ franchise’s ongoing success in the region.

With new owners Zach Cohen and Zach Nussbaum, Tint World Charlotte-Matthews provides comprehensive automotive service and products for drivers in Charlotte and the surrounding area, including the industry’s leading window tint solutions, automotive paint protection film, wheels and tires, audio and video, safety and security technology, custom lighting, detailing and more.

“We’re excited about enhancing Tint

World’s presence in this area and building on the company’s record of success in North Carolina,” Cohen said. “With Tint World’s world-class franchise systems and support, we can focus on delivering unbeatable products and services that meet the needs of every automobile owner and automotive enthusiast in our community.”

Tint World Charlotte-Matthews, located at 9129 Monroe Road, Suite 100, CharlotteMatthews, North Carolina 28270, serves the Matthews, Rock Hill, Harrisburg, Concord, Pineville, Monroe, Indian Trail, and Weddington areas. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (704) 941-3058 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/nc/ charlotte-matthews-084/.

“Zach Cohen and Zach Nussbaum have shown how franchisees can quickly leverage Tint World’s franchise system to see immediate results and unlock further opportunities,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Their passion and commitment make them a great fit for the Tint World family, and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow with them.”

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cover story: Office Pride

Former Marine Sergeant Finds

Success at Office Pride

When Nate Alderette left his nearly 10-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps last year, the transition into civilian life was jarring.

considered the go-to guy to get things

As a sergeant, he was used to being in

but wasn’t fulfilling. It wasn’t until he

charge, people knew him, he mentored younger Marines and was often

done. But when his service ended, he found a new career that gave him the

satisfaction of purpose was hard to find.

He contemplated rejoining, but took a job in Albuquerque, N.M. that paid decent received an email promotion from a

veteran’s employment agency, that had

thought of Office Pride as an option. The idea of running his own business was intriguing. Within a few months, he became the owner of Office Pride of Albuquerque.

Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services is consistently listed among the nation’s best franchises for military veterans on two prestigious lists, published

by Entrepreneur magazine and Franchise Business Review.

About 10% of Office Pride franchisees and corporate headquarters team members are veterans.

Veterans are highly sought-after franchisees. Office Pride offers a 25% discount off the franchise fee to those who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. armed forces. Office Pride also is a five-star participant in the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program, a strategic initiative designed to offer incentives and support to veterans who are interested in franchise ownership.

Alderette says that while he never had anyone in his family serve in the military, he knew he wanted to serve his country.

“I just really wanted to serve the country,”

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he says. “I remember very specifically,

they called over the intercom, ‘The Marie for recruiter is here. If you would like to

see him, come down to the office.’ I kind

of stopped there in the office for a second

and right at that moment, I just didn’t go to

class. I went to see the recruiter and figured out I am capable of doing this.

Following high school, Alderette found his home in the Marines, starting as a private as part of the Air Wing in the avionics

division. He also worked as a calibration technician in Japan and in a managerial

role at a base in Yuma, Arizona. But after a few years, he decided it was time to pursue a career outside of the military.

He soon learned civilian life was

significantly different than what he had

during his military career. He applied to

numerous jobs, but nothing was a match, and he was becoming frustrated. At one point he wanted to go back.

“I was losing my mind,” he says. And then

he received a notification about starting his own business as an Office Pride franchisee from an employment agency that works on recruiting veterans. He made the call but

missed his initial appointment because of a confusion in time zone differences.

The opportunity Office Pride presented

was enticing. He could be his own boss,

have his own employees, be in charge of

his business’ future and it was affordable.

“What I found attractive is that, as much

effort as I put into it, is how much it’s going to grow,” he says.

Within a few months, he was operating his new location in Albuquerque and trying

to line up new clients. Starting a business from the ground up took hard work, he

says. But it wasn’t anything that he was

unprepared to do. Several months into it and having a few clients under his belt

he sees his hard work paying off with the

great team that he’s developed, he says. “If

you put in the hard work and keep hustling, it works.”

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FRANCHISEE IN ACTION: Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Elite Names Former Senior Executive, Current Franchisee as CEO

Betsy Feaster will leverage the leadership experience she gained in the Air Force and at Exxon to propel the brand forward in her new role.

Following a long career ranging from the Air Force to senior leadership at ExxonMobil and multi-unit franchise ownership, Betsy Feaster has recently been named as the new CEO of Dog Training Elite.

Making the leap from franchise owner to CEO may have been unexpected for Feaster, but given her long history of leadership and passion for dog training, it’s a move that made sense for everyone.

The dog training franchise is known for supporting owners in creating strong relationships and providing reliable training for their pets. They have over 300 locations across the nation and provide a variety of training methods that are customizable to each client and their pet.

An Unexpected Career Turn After six years living and working abroad, Feaster came home to the U.S. and shortly after became a franchisee with Dog 80 Franchising MAGAZINE USA

Dog Training Elite feels “ passionate about dogs and ensures the trainers hired by the brand share this passion. They strive to become a positive force within the local community, and as service dogs become more visible in public spaces and in our communities.

We had so much fun. “ We really enjoyed meeting

”

the prior leadership staff; we got along well with everyone, and we really understood the business.

franchisees,” she said. “The same issues

”

Training Elite, opening her first location in Louisiana. After just one year, she bought more territories in the greater Philadelphia area, quickly increasing the number of her territories to 16 in total.

While Feaster was initially attracted to Dog Training Elite because of her love for animals and passion for dog training, she has remained loyal to the brand because of her all around positive experience with the people she works with.

“We had so much fun. We really enjoyed meeting the prior leadership staff; we got along well with everyone, and we really understood the business,” said Feaster.

“About a year after we bought our first territory, things were going well, and we decided to buy territories in the greater Philadelphia area.”

When the former CEO chose to sell their ownership, Feaster, as a member of the board, was involved in seeking new leadership. Despite her background, she did not consider taking on the role until her team put her name forward. Her teammates were convinced by Feaster’s experience and general business acumen and suggested she step into the CEO role herself.

While Feaster felt loyal to Dog Training Elite, she never imagined herself as CEO of any business. However, this leadership role with Dog Training Elite felt different and more tempting.

that they have, I have. I can understand

where they’re coming from and balance “This company changed my life,” she said.

“I went from being incredibly stressed at Exxon to doing something I love every day.

The folks here make me happy, and I’m much happier here both as a franchisee and a member of the leadership team.”

the needs of local owners with the needs of

Passion Behind the Brand

with the smallest number of owners. This

Feaster is not the only person who is seeing how special the brand is. This year, the franchise received a great deal of recognition, being ranked No. 521 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list, No. 226 on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 ranking, No. 12 on their Fastest Growing Franchises list, and number one on their Best of the Best, Dog Training list.

Dog Training Elite feels passionate about dogs and ensures the trainers hired by the brand share this passion. They strive to become a positive force within the local community, and as service dogs become more visible in public spaces and in our communities, service dog training programs offered by Dog Training Elite have also become more popular and provide an excellent source of income for Dog Training Elite owners.

An Inside Perspective As a Dog Training Elite franchisee, Feaster brings valuable experience and an insider perspective to the role.

“I think having a franchise owner in this position is helpful for engagement with the

the overarching business. The engagement is healthy, and feedback has already been positive.”

Her goal is ambitious but attainable: to

become the largest dog training franchise goal is only made possible by the strength

of the business model and the franchisees’ genuine passion for the brand.

Looking to the Future Dog Training Elite is looking to continue its growth, with a focus on territories in

California. The state has a high demand for reliable dog training, having experienced a high number of lawsuits surrounding

poorly trained dogs. There is room for over 140 territories, making the state an ideal opportunity for expansion.

Franchisees with Dog Training Elite can operate a minimum of three units, as the

brand has found that people tend to be most successful with this model, and can select from an owner-operator or semi-absentee business model.

Feaster looks forward to continued growth

for the brand and the opportunity to partner with passionate local owners to provide

reliable dog training that is sure to serve the community well.

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franchisor in depth: Waters Edge Wineries

Waters Edge Wineries Redefining Wine Industry Through Unique Global Partnerships with Winemakers in Lesser-Known Regions Innovative Micro-Winery Franchise System Launches New Program to Introduce Wines from Emerging Markets in U.S. Locations, Beginning with Armenian Wines Waters Edge Wineries, an innovative micro-winery system dedicated to bringing the cultural experience of wine to communities across the United States, has launched a new initiative to introduce its guests to wines from emerging global markets, showcasing the diversity of the global wine landscape and uncovering undiscovered treasures for wine enthusiasts.

To officially kick-off the effort, a team from Waters Edge Wineries, including both corporate leaders and franchise owners, has begun a series of trips to underrepresented wine regions around the world to meet with local winemakers, 82 Franchising MAGAZINE USA

beginning with a recent visit to Armenia to experience the ancient wine region’s viticulture and winemaking firsthand.

Through an alliance with several Armenian winemakers, Waters Edge Wineries is now serving four exclusive Armenian wines in nearly all of its locations.

“There are so many untapped wine regions across the globe, and we are excited to explore those areas and bring new selections to our guests across the U.S., said Ken Lineberger, president and founder of Waters Edge Wineries. “Through an innovative approach to partnerships with small, relatively unknown international winemakers, we are now able to provide our franchise owners a truly incredible point of distinction in their local communities.”

During Waters Edge Wineries’ recent Armenia visit, members of the brand’s home office team - including Director of Training Art DeCaro, Director of Operations Mark Mitzenmacher, Cellar Master Waters Edge Winery Long Beach Collin Mitzenmacher– were joined by franchise owners Roger Whitenhill of Waters Edge Winery Long Beach and Michelle and Brian Dean of Waters Edge Winery & Bistro Broken Arrow for the unique opportunity to meet with local winemakers, explore vineyards nestled amid breathtaking landscapes, and delve into the winemaking process from vine to bottle. Throughout the week-long journey, Waters Edge Wineries met with winemakers from Voskevaz Winery, Van Ardi Winery, Hin Areni, WineWorks, Zulal Vineyards and NOA Winery, in addition to new wineries in the region.

This immersive experience allowed the Waters Edge Wineries team to gain a profound appreciation for the artistry and dedication involved in producing the wines it will now be serving to guests across the United States.

Waters Edge Wineries has rolled out four Armenian wines across its locations– Areni, Areni/Sireni blend, Areni Reserve and Voskehat. Areni, an ancient grape variety more than 6,000 years old with vines over 120 years old, is Armenia’s signature grape. This light to mediumbodied red wine, reminiscent of Pinot Noir with slightly elevated alcohol, boasts bright tannins and aromas of cherry, currants, cranberry, black pepper and black tea.

Sireni offers expressive notes of red and black cherries, pomegranates and a robust structure supported by firm tannins. Sireni wines are deeply colored, full-bodied and rich in flavors. Voskehat, known as the “golden berry” and Armenia’s queen of grapes, is an indigenous variety boasting vines that have endured for more than 250 years. This wine, akin to Chardonnay, offers a dry profile that can be crafted into either a light and fresh or a buttery and complex expression. Its key aromas include pear, melon and floral notes.

“Meeting with local Armenian winemakers was an eye-opening experience for us,” said Collin Mitzenmacher, cellar master at Waters Edge Winery LB. “Interacting with the winemakers and realizing the love they infuse into their wines gave me a deeper connection and understanding of the wine itself. I am excited to share the story behind these wines with our guests, who are already responding incredibly well to the program.”

Armenian wines hold an allure beyond their exceptional taste, stemming from the country’s captivating history. According to biblical accounts, the summit of Mount Ararat in Armenia, where Noah’s ark is believed to have landed after the biblical flood, is considered the origin of humanity’s rebirth. Upon descending from the mountain, Noah is said to have planted the first grapes, birthing vineyards and the art of winemaking in the new world.

Although Armenia’s winemaking history waned during the Soviet era, replaced

by brandy production, a resurgence is underway three decades later, driven by local winemakers whom Waters Edge Wineries encountered during the weeklong journey. This profound connection to winemaking tradition bestows Armenian wines with a distinctive edge, and Waters Edge Wineries takes pride in contributing to the pioneering and celebration of this unparalleled heritage.

Waters Edge Wineries’ role in pioneering this new yet ancient wine region extends beyond simply acquiring and selling these exceptional wines. As a national, award-winning winery franchise, Waters Edge Wineries offers an extraordinary opportunity for passionate entrepreneurs to embark on similar immersive journeys, exploring new cultures, uncovering new wines, and deepening their passion for the art of winemaking. This unique aspect of Waters Edge Wineries’ franchise model not

only enriches the knowledge and expertise of its owners but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the wines presented to its guests.

“Waters Edge Wineries is thrilled to contribute to the promotion of Armenian wines and showcase the distinct characteristics that set them apart in the world of viticulture,” said Lineberger. “By bringing Armenian wines to the United States, we are poised to recategorize how people think about wine. We have big plans to continue this program with upcoming trips to other countries and can’t wait to share more with our owners and their guests.”

Stay up-to-date on new wine offerings and other news from Waters Edge Wineries at WatersEdgeWineries.com, follow on Instagram at @wew_hq or on Facebook.

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franchisee in action: Merry Maids

A Bronze Star Veteran’s Path From the Army to Entrepreneurship after the devastating September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on U.S. soil. The American government was deeply invested in its mission to counteract the Taliban’s regime.

The strategy not only focused on a military defeat of the Taliban but also aimed to reconstruct the fundamental institutions of Afghanistan with the help of the U.S. military, like Mike’s unit.

The Military Journey

Few accolades speak to valor and outstanding service like the Bronze Star Medal, a distinction awarded to those serving in the United States military who have achieved a heroic or meritorious achievement or service.

It’s this very honor that Mike Blomker, a U.S. Army veteran, returned home with after serving in Afghanistan. His journey, from the rigorous landscapes of the Middle East to spearheading a bustling franchise in Albuquerque, is an extraordinary tale of dedication, resilience, and leadership.

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“Everyone on my team earned a Bronze Star Medal when we were in Afghanistan.

We were constantly doing various security operations, partnering with NATO units,” Mike recalls. As leader of an Embedded Training Team (ETT) assigned to work with the Afghan Army, Mike held a pivotal role in overseeing a 10-man team. Their mission was to train and run operations with the Afghans, building a bond amidst demanding circumstances, like building checkpoints around Kabul or conducting security operations in remote areas where there was suspicious activity.

Mike was deployed in 2005, just four years

Mike’s path to military service was paved early on. Through an ROTC scholarship, he delved into Sociology at St. John’s University in Minnesota. Post-graduation, his commitment to the Army took him to Fort Carson, Colorado. Here, as a second lieutenant, he was commissioned in the medical service corps, leading a medical platoon in an armored battalion, which essentially ran logistics in field medical units. Subsequent roles saw him stationed at Fort Gordon, Georgia, and finally, Afghanistan, where he led and also mentored an Afghan battalion commander.

“Over the years, thanks to the Army, I really honed my leadership skills,” Mike reflects. “When I first became a platoon leader at Fort Carson, I was just 21 years old — but I recall that my second in command, the platoon sergeant, was my father’s age, and I was essentially his boss.

I had to lead 30 people, and I had never been in charge of anything in my life! I gave orders, they had to follow them, but I had to earn their respect. Even though there’s a rank structure that has to be followed, you still have to earn respect to be an effective leader.”

From the Field to Franchising Mike’s military journey was interspersed with his foray into the world of business.

After his initial active duty, he moved to Albuquerque, joining his father’s Merry Maids franchises. By 1989, he had purchased his dad’s locations in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, but in 2005, as he was nearing his reserve retirement, duty called again. This time, that 12-month deployment to Afghanistan.

Mike’s transition from the battlefield to business wasn’t without its challenges.

Yet, it was during these testing times that his wife of 23 years, Paige, stood as a pillar of strength. She took the reins of their franchises during his deployment. “I can’t imagine how I would have managed without Paige. She kept the business running, ensuring everything was in place when I returned.”

Both Mike and Paige have a profound appreciation for the franchise model. “It’s structured, systematic,” Mike observes.

“It’s similar to the Army. You follow a proven model, and you see results. That’s what we love about franchising, and it’s been successful for us.”

Mike believes it was his early leadership experiences in the military that paved the

way for his success in franchise ownership.

“There’s a huge correlation between the military and being a franchise owner. The leadership skills, teamwork, the drive — all these elements that were ingrained in me during my time in the Army, I find myself applying them every day in the business,” Mike says. He recalls, “It’s like being the quarterback on a football team. Whether leading troops or running a business, you’re constantly in the huddle, making decisions. People look to you, and you have to deliver.”

For Mike, morale stands as a significant takeaway from his military experience. He believes that the spirit of a team, whether in a combat zone or an office, is largely dependent on leadership. “It’s essential, be it in the field or a franchise. Your team’s morale, their drive, hinge on how you lead them. At work, you have a team that shows up every morning, they need leadership, guidance, direction, they need to be motivated. The big difference is in the military, in the Army, people were required by the Uniform Code of Military Justice to show up for work every day — whereas civilians can make the decision about going to work every day. It requires a bit different approach, but not as different as you might think.”

Advice to Veterans To veterans contemplating a venture into franchising, Mike’s advice is straightforward, “Engage with current franchise owners. Understand their journey. Remember, while franchising offers the freedom of entrepreneurship,

you’re also working within an established framework. Just like the Army, you’re expected to do things a certain way.

Following a proven model can produce great outcomes — there’s a parallel there.”

Even with his notable accomplishments and accolades, Mike maintains a demeanor that is both modest and understated. His pride in his military service is palpable, yet he doesn’t seek the limelight or recognition. He recounted a poignant memory that deeply moved him: “I was in uniform, en route to Afghanistan, and enjoying what I knew would be my last comforting meal for a while, at BWI airport in Baltimore,” he reminisces. “The waitress came over and informed me that an anonymous individual had paid for my meal, expressing thanks for my service.

Numerous others also stepped forward to convey their gratitude during that time. It held immense meaning for me.”

Mike sums up his military journey with heartfelt gratitude, “I am very proud to be a veteran. It was my profound honor to serve my country — and my great honor to wear the uniform of the U.S. Army and lead troops in combat. That’s something not many people have had a chance to do.”

Merry Maids is a proud supporter of U.S. military veterans. Their veteranfocused program offers a 20% discount on franchise fees for those who served, recognizing the invaluable skills they bring. Merry Maids is also a member of the VetFran program, designed to educate franchisors and veterans about the distinct entrepreneurial skill set veterans offer.

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Focus: Filta Environmental

Military Service Prepares Filta Owners for Franchise Success from Delaware to California to Georgia

It’s a common theme that military service uniquely prepares people for franchise success, but here at Filta, where we make commercial kitchens faster, greener, safer and cleaner, we have real life success stories nationwide from Delaware to California and back to Georgia.

U.S. Army Medical Lab Tech < Delaware Owner John Maloney, who owns Filta in Delaware, served in the U.S. Army for eight years.

He was stationed in Germany as a medical services lab technician and worked throughout Europe including Dublin, France, Italy and Turkey.

He met his wife at Walter Reed National Medical Center. Sabrina was in the U.S. Navy and the two worked together, John sending samples from the theater home to the armed forces medical center in Dover, Del. for toxicology testing. Sabrina was his point of contact stateside, their paths kept crossing until they made it official, marrying in 2016.

Upon John’s discharge and after feeling restless in civilian medical settings, the Maloney’s explored franchise concepts from sub and sandwich shops to sign shops.

Filta resonated because it was a “sticky” business.

you need to figure out how to do it,” John explained. “We do the same thing here at Filta. I tell my tech to make sure the hospital’s fryer is dumped on Tuesday, but I don’t have to say, ‘drive there at 4 a.m. or park in the loading dock’.”

A 51% owner, Sabrina will soon wrap her 25-year Navy career and the two look forward to merging more of their leadership traits honed from years of military service for Filta’s success.

“With other franchise concepts you’re always chasing business, looking for the next client,” said Maloney. “But Filta is sticky. We’ve doubled our business in five years because of Filta’s repeat customer model.”

Some of the more recognizable clients the Maloney’s serve in Delaware include corporate campuses like Barclays, Chase and Bank of America, the University of Delaware, several hospitals and even two Chick-fil-A restaurants.

“Owning our own business offers positive work-life balance, especially with three kids. Sabrina’s gone a lot so flexibility with dentist appointments, teacher conferences and activities is a real plus. But she’s always a great sounding board and we use military analogies often to solve our problems,” John said.

“We talk about Commander’s Intent. You might hear ‘go take that hill,’ but then

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U.S. Air Force IT Specialist < California Owner Arthur Haggerty is one of Filta’s newest owners, signing on with the brand in March 2023 after more than 25 years working in security and information technology operations and 10 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he was an information

technology specialist in California, Guam and South Korea.

With a master’s degree in technology, Arthur has worked IT consulting for a variety of industries like healthcare, finance, education, entertainment, defense, and manufacturing. He’s consulted for gigantic names like Kaiser and Blue Cross Blue Shield, Netflix and Redbox, Boeing, the NFL and McDonald’s, but he walked away this spring, looking for something he could manage and own.

“I didn’t want to be at the whim of someone else…I enjoy calling the shots,” Arthur said. “I’m really strong at general consulting and customer interaction. I figured if I can discuss the intricacies of technology, I can definitely discuss fryer oil cleaning.”

Arthur’s biggest account is Yosemite National Park. Since his territory is California’s sprawling Central Valley and Yosemite is technically outside that area, Arthur shares the Yosemite account with the Northern California Filta owner, Tim Whipple. Right now, work at the park requires 25 to 28 hours a week including drive time. Arthur services 22 fryers, ranging from 50- to 100-pounds, in seven Yosemite hotels and restaurants and, when winter comes, he’ll ratchet back to 16 fryers in the Curry Village, Degnan’s Deli, The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge and Badger Pass Ski Resort.

Interestingly, the Yosemite business came to Arthur because bears were foraging after smells tempting them from waste oil bins.

With Arthur servicing Yosemite, the bears are dining elsewhere now.

U.S. Air Force C-9A Pilot < Georgia Owner Scott Clark, Filta owner in central and eastern Georgia, is also a newer owner starting in June 2021 when he made a whopping $25 in revenue. Not to be deterred, he kept at it, picked up business - including the largest dining halls on the University of Georgia campus and at Sanford Stadium, home of the 2021 and 2022 NCAA National Football Champs – and last year had $265,000+ in revenue.

He’s on track to finish 2023 around $290,000, has added technicians, and

expects to add a third van by early 2024.

Much of Scott’s business tenacity and success is a direct result of discipline developed as a U.S. Air Force pilot from 1997 to 2006.

He flew C-9A medical transport missions, moving wounded out of harm’s way during wartime. He spent time in Germany and flew Afghanistan and Iraq missions, sleeping in tents in Qatar, coming home for a few days, then turning around and doing it all over again.

“I like that there’s a system,” Scott said.

“With Filta there’s a good plan so there’s something to deviate from when things go wrong, because they will. You can’t control things like the weather or other traffic, so having a plan with flexibility really does mirror the military plan.”

His years of combat flying paled in comparison to the 9/11 terror attacks on the World Trade Center and The Pentagon, Scott says.

“That morning I was to fly a transport mission in Alaska, but the day changed very quickly. I remember being glued to the TV then getting the call that every available C-9 needed to get to D.C. Because I was crew rested and mission ready for Alaska, I was the first C-9 off the ground and the first on the ground in DC.” Scott was Lt. Col. Del Pinto’s co-pilot and, for Del Pinto, it was very important to be first.

“The controller cleared us direct from Scott A.F.B. to Andrews at any altitude we wanted. Our clearance came down from

the top and when we got to D.C. air space, F-16s flew around us. We were there for the wounded but there were none. There were only dead. We did fly one mission with a few wounded out of D.C./Andrews but our C-9 was the only one…everybody else flew home empty.”

“Of all the things I did in the service, 9/11 stands out,” Scott said. “It’s gratifying to me that I had some small part to play.”

Filta makes commercial kitchens faster, cleaner, safer and greener by microfiltering existing cooking oil, providing bin-free waste oil collection, deep cleaning fryers, and recycling waste oil.

Filta offers a $5,000 franchise fee discount to veterans and, in addition to the above persons featured, is proud to have the following other veterans in our franchise system (alphabetically): • Chris Clarke [Bismarck, N.D. owner: U.S. Army (National Guard and Reserve) 19992011]; • David A. Davis [Memphis, Tenn. owner: U.S. Army 1973-75; Member: Wounded Warrior, Paralyzed Veterans, DAV]; • Ben Gofton [Filta senior business development representative: U.S. Army 1986-88]; • James Hamilton [Filta corporate operations manager: U.S. Marine Corps 1997-99]; • John Lopez [Atlanta owner: U.S. Army 1982-87]; • Keith Rivers [Southern Maryland/ Northern Virginia owner: Col. (R) U.S. Army 1990-2019; 7 combat tours including Desert Storm and Desert Shield]; and • James Williamson [greater East Texas owner: U.S. Army 1988-92 including Desert Storm].

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Q&A: Jason Anderson | Vast Coworking Group

during this time that I bought and flipped my first house which got me into real estate.

In 2007, I started my own real estate company. Despite the Great Recession, by 2011 I had close to 200 agents. I thought I was going to be the next Keller Williams or RE/MAX. What I didn’t understand at the time was how these bigger real estate companies grew. After digging deeper, I discovered that all the major competitors were franchises and, in fact, franchising dominated the real estate industry.

This was my first introduction to franchising, and it immediately intrigued me. After doing my own research and due diligence, I began franchising my real estate company.

with Jason Anderson of high school. I had plans to double retire in 35-40 years; 20 years in the military and then 15-20 years working in government or as a contractor.

I was an engineer, and my first duty station was RAF Mildenhall in the United Kingdom; I landed there in April 2001. Just a few months later, the planes hit the Twin Towers on 9/11. I was deployed less than a week later.

I joined the Air Force in the summer of

2000 at the age of 17, just a few months out 88 Franchising MAGAZINE USA

What appealed to you about franchising? What makes franchising a great option for veterans?

What was your career after the military?

I believe I was always meant to be in franchising. My Myers-Briggs personality type is ENTP or “The Rational Inventor,” the top career of which is franchisor.

Franchising allows my unique personality traits and strengths to shine, and I love the utility of the franchise model and how it successfully helps businesses scale and grow.

While I was in the military, I had my first run with entrepreneurship and started a business installing car stereos on base.

Once I left the military, I moved to Dallas and started a credit card processing company at the beginning of the PINbased debit and electronic gift card era.

I eventually sold that business, but it was

Franchising is proven to be a great option for veterans with one in seven franchises

That experience changed my life and my plans, and I decided to leave the military and was honorably discharged in 2005.

Can you tell us about your military background and career in the U.S. Air Force?

I eventually sold the company, and it was around this time that someone from United Franchise Group (UFG) messaged me on LinkedIn about working for a company called Transworld Business Advisors. Transworld is the world leader in the marketing and sales of businesses, mergers and acquisitions, and franchises.

After meeting with UFG’s CEO, Ray Titus, I became Transworld’s regional vice president for the Southwest and my passion for franchise sales and development only grew.

Particularly working with United Franchise Group, I’ve had the opportunity to combine my experience in both franchising and real estate within our coworking division and develop the largest coworking franchise company in the world.

We have several veteran franchise owners in both brands, including Ryan Gagne in Marlborough, MA (Marines); Jim Garrett in San Antonio, TX (Navy); and Terry Wallace in Bethlehem, PA (Marines). And we know that coworking can be a great solution for veteran-owned businesses, which is why we offer free office space for new veteran members during the month of November.

What makes coworking a good franchise opportunity?

being owned by a military vet. We work well with structure and following proven systems and procedures, and we often possess discipline and other transferable skills that are required to operate a successful business.

When you invest in a franchise, you’re investing in a well-developed operation.

Franchising takes the guesswork out of starting a business because it has been formulated for success (if you follow the steps). And, because franchises are designed to be replicable, there are extensive training systems in place that don’t require you to have industry or business ownership experience.

What led you to the coworking industry?

I started my real estate company out of a coworking space, so it was a model I was familiar with from the very beginning of my real estate career. Working in that field and having a background in marketing and tech, it was a natural progression to enter the coworking industry.

Of course coworking has been around for many years, but the pandemic pushed us into an age I call “Coworking 2.0,” where flexibility is not only the expectation, but the standard in how we work. The global demand for flexible office space is growing at an unprecedented rate, and we’re focused on meeting that demand.

What is Vast Coworking Group? Does it have veteran franchise owners?

Vast Coworking Group is the fourth largest coworking group in America and the largest privately owned coworking franchise company in the world. We founded Vast with the express intention of building a framework that would connect a variety of coworking brands, services, and amenities within the coworking industry.

Vast provides the largest privately owned affiliated franchise network of flexible, professional, and shared office space options. Our network can be compared to world’s largest hotel chains, such as Marriott which has several brands occupying different chain scales under one umbrella. These brands complement each other but have different looks, feels, styles, amenities, etc.

We currently have two shared workspace concepts – Office Evolution and Venture X – both of which are growing rapidly.

In fact, many of our franchise owners are building out their portfolios with both brands using our hub-and-spoke development model. Similar to hotel chains, our brands complement one another but cater to their own demographics. For example, Venture X locations typically occupy high-traffic urban areas and city centers, while Office Evolution locations are perfect for more suburban areas.

Not only is coworking a booming industry with unprecedented demand, but the business model also lends itself to a good work-life balance as a Monday-Friday, 9-5 business. You don’t have to deal with managing a large staff; you only need 1-2 employees to run the day-to-day. Plus, you’ll have professional clientele (mostly B2B), so you’ll be interfacing with likeminded people and avoiding a broader customer base that brings many challenges.

Additionally, the business generates strong recurring revenue and has mostly fixed expenses versus variable. In terms of investment, it is similar to many other franchise concepts that don’t offer these attributes.

What advice do you have for veterans interested in franchising?

• Utilize your military training to find something you’re interested in.

• Utilize all available military benefits and discounts.

• Follow the rules laid out by the franchise; don’t try to reinvent the wheel.

• Plan to scale, with more than one location stabilized.

• Get comfortable with the worst-case scenario, and then move forward optimistically.

To connect with Jason on LinkedIn, visit www.linkedin.com/in/ jasonandersonmba.

To learn more about Vast Coworking Group, visit www.vastcoworking.com Franchising MAGAZINE USA 89

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HAVE YOUR SAY: Dog Training Elite

Dog Training Elite Supports Veterans in Obtaining and Training Service Dogs with The Malinois Foundation The dog training franchise’s charitable arm provides free service dog training for Veterans with physical and mental support needs.

of Dog Training Elite, The Malinois Foundation has placed 50 service dogs with people in need, including 32 Veterans, and has raised $300,000 to support the continuation of the mission.

Through The Malinois Foundation and its standard service dog training programs provided by local Dog Training Elite franchisees, the system has trained over 2,000 service dogs to address handlers’ mental and physical health needs, including PTSD, Autism, Anxiety, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and mobility.

With over 240 territories across multiple states, Dog Training Elite, the dog training franchise that supports local owners in taking control of their dog training journey, has made a great impact on families across the nation.

While the franchise supports the average family in everyday training, it is also committed to supporting Veterans and their families in identifying and training a service dog to meet their needs.

“As a Veteran myself, I see incredible value in providing other servicemembers with the support they need to continue to lead a fulfilling life,” said Betsy Feaster, CEO of Dog Training Elite. “While Veterans are not the only population we 90 Franchising MAGAZINE USA

support, there is a great need for service dogs in the Veteran community, and we’re proud to play a role in addressing that.”

Though there are nearly 5 million Veterans with disabilities associated with their service, many are unable to be paired with a service dog that can support them in military retirement. A trained service dog can cost thousands of dollars, and this is just the number associated with making the pairing. In many cases, the new handler is responsible for all dog-related costs, including food and veterinary care, for the rest of the dog’s life.

A resource as powerful as a service dog, which can literally be life-saving for Veterans, should not be so out of reach.

This is where The Malinois Foundation comes into play. As the charitable arm

Dog Training Elite Empowers New Handlers to Be Involved Throughout the Entire Process Unlike other service dog organizations that assign a pre-trained dog to a given recipient, which is often a driver of the cost of a service dog, Dog Training Elite supports each person in need of a service dog throughout the entire process. The professionals provide guidance and expertise as the soon-to-be handler selects their puppy or dog based on temperament and allow the handler to be involved throughout the entire training process.

“Dog Training Elite is committed to involving the handler in all stages of the training and development process,” said Feaster. “This ensures that they feel empowered to communicate with their dog and move through the world as a true team, confidently addressing any social, emotional or physical needs that may arise.”

A resource as powerful as a can successfully communicate with their “ service dog, which can literally dog in a meaningful and effective way to be life-saving for Veterans, should not be so out of reach. This is where The Malinois Foundation comes into play.

”

Handlers and their dogs move through life as a unit, and it’s important that each party knows what to expect of the other. With both the Veteran and a trainer involved in the selection process, a dog that is both compatible with the Veteran’s personality and support needs can be carefully chosen.

Once the dog is selected, training begins, and the Veteran continues to be involved.

One of the key pillars of Dog Training Elite’s training model with the general public is to involve owners in the process so the dog knows who to look to for direction, and this value holds true in service dog training as well.

“Allowing the Veteran to be a key part of the training process helps ensure that the dog and handler know what to expect in their day-to-day from each other,” added Feaster. “It’s not just about training the dog and sending it home with the expectations that the owner and dog will both automatically know what to do. Our goal is to give the handler the knowledge of the training — the how and the why — so they

help with their identified service issue.”

What the Opportunity Means to Franchisees Many Dog Training Elite franchisees note the opportunity to support Veterans and other community members with unique medical needs in their journey to having a service dog as a key reason for their love for the brand. Whether they have a family member who has used a service dog or have retired colleagues who need service dogs, the opportunity to contribute to a cause close to their hearts draws local owners in.

Whitley Cheatham, owner of Dog Training Elite of San Antonio, is a prime example of this passion. Cheatham is a retired paramedic and leverages her ownership with Dog Training Elite to support Veterans; first responders; women survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and rape; and children with fragile medical needs with service dog training. This has been a major driver for her involvement with the brand.

“I want to continue to routinely give back.

We donated seven dogs to Uvalde school shooting victims,” said Cheatham. “We’re also training diabetic alert dogs and allergen detection dogs.”

Why We Need Service Dogs Service dogs play an incredible role in

relieving stress, anxiety and depression, as well as empowering a handler to

live a more independent life and feel

confident doing the things they love with a supportive partner by their side.

For Veterans specifically, the reality of the consequences of their service can

be especially harrowing. Around one-

fourth of Veterans develop PTSD-related symptoms like nightmares, anxiety, flashbacks and social isolation.

On average, 22 Veterans die by suicide

each day, and the negative mental health impacts associated with PTSD can be

addressed with the help of a service dog that knows how to ground their handler, prevent crowding and even support

emotional regulation with early detection and pressure therapy.

“We are proud and fortunate to say that the majority of the Veterans who have

applied for support through The Malinois

Foundation have received the support they

need,” said Feaster. “Having been matched with life-saving service dogs, they have all beaten these statistics and continue to lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.”

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SNAPSHOT: Gotcha Covered

U.S. Air Force Veteran and wife open Gotcha Covered of Roseville Steve and Terri Ferrero to lead new custom window treatments consultation business in Sacramento metropolitan area Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, welcomes Steve and Terri Ferrero to the franchise family. Steve and Terri own and operate Gotcha Covered of Roseville, the newest location in California.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, Gotcha Covered of Roseville will provide the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in the area by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

“California is a state that isn’t short on entrepreneurial opportunities,” said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered.

“Our franchise is always looking for opportunities to grow, and we believe that we’ve found two excellent owners in Steve and Terri (Ferrero). They have displayed their hard work throughout their careers, and we believe they will be great brand ambassadors for the Gotcha Covered franchise and great assets to the community.”

Steve and Terri bring a wealth of experience to the Gotcha Covered brand. A United States Air Force veteran, Steve has over three decades of product development

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experience with companies like Apple and Microsoft.

Terri, a mom and entrepreneur, is the former owner of a cherished kids’ art studio and brings an innate understanding of the significance of personalized details and creating inviting environments.

The duo was drawn to the window treatment business through their passion for home improvements. They have completed numerous projects of their own, including full kitchen and bathroom remodels and outdoor landscaping.

“It was our passion for home improvement that drove us to explore opportunities where our expertise could help others enhance their living space,” said Steve Ferrero. “It was during our search that we discovered Gotcha Covered. It didn’t take long for us to decide it was the perfect choice.”

“We love working from home and within our communities to help others realize their dreams. We love the opportunity to work with individuals and truly understand their distinct needs for their home improvement projects. The ability to craft tailor-made window coverings based on these insights resonates deeply with our passion. We love one-of-a-kind design challenges, and the thrill of assisting our clients in overcoming these challenges fuels our enthusiasm even more.”

Terri stated that she loves the freedom they have as Gotcha Covered business owners and the opportunities it brings.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity that owning a Gotcha Covered franchise brings to us and our family,” Terri Ferrero said. “We get great joy in helping others transform their homes with the products we provide, and we love the freedoms we have in setting our own goals and schedules. It is truly a win-win scenario.”

Adding 40 new franchise locations in 2022, Gotcha Covered currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Roseville, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/ roseville/.

About Gotcha Covered: Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada.

Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer endto-end consultation with the customer’s specific needs and goals in mind.

The company currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

We’re honored to serve veterans.

At SYNERGY HomeCare, we’re committed to providing veterans and their families with exceptional in-home care. And with the vast majority of our locations being contracted with the VA, we make it easy for veterans to use their VA benefits to get the quality in-home support they deserve.

VA benefits that may cover home care services include:

Reliable & flexible home care assistance

HOUSEBOUND PENSION:

Here are some of the many ways our experienced caregivers proudly serve veterans: · Companion care · Personal care / assistance with daily activities · Disability assistance · Recovery support for illness, stroke or surgery · Memory care

· Light housekeeping, errands and transportation · Medication reminders · Meal preparation · Assistance with mobility around the home · Respite care for family caregivers

Respite support for military family caregivers We understand that caregiving is a full-time job. If you’re a family caregiver to an injured, ill or wounded service member or veteran, we’re here to help. Our flexible approach to respite care can give family caregivers time to refresh and recharge, whether it’s for a few hours or a few days.

VA AID AND ATTENDANCE:

A benefit paid by the VA to eligible veterans, their spouses or surviving spouses in addition to a veteran’s basic pension.

A benefit paid by the VA to eligible veterans who get a VA pension and spend most of their time at home because of a permanent disability.

HOMEMAKER & HOME HEALTH AIDE CARE:

A benefit for eligible veterans who need personal care services and help with activities of daily living. May cover the cost of respite care services to provide relief for family caregivers. Care is provided by organizations like SYNERGY HomeCare who are part of the Community Care Network, a network of VA-approved providers.

Call us to find the home care solution that’s right for you.

877-432-2692

SYNERGYHomeCare.com/veterans Proudly independently owned and operated. © 2023 SYNERGY HomeCare. All rights reserved.

Franchising MAGAZINE USA 93

WAY REAT G A ARE S G LISTIN A-Z BUSINESS YOUR TO PROMOTE

Making an appearance every month in Franchising USA magazine. Each detailed, 4 color 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 94 Franchising MAGAZINE USA

www.franchisingmagazineusa.com

Beans & Brews Coffee House has been around since 1993, when the Laramie family opened shop next to Salt Lake City’s beloved hangout, Liberty Park.

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

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

Business Finance Depot

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

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

Contact: Kim Falk Email: kfalk@beansandbrews.com

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

Clayton Kendall

materials including uniforms, signage, branded merchandise and print collateral.

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

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

Comet Cleaners Franchise Group, LLC Become a part of the largest family-owned dry cleaning chain in the USA through our franchising opportunities. Be your own boss, feed that entrepreneurial spirit, do business that not only helps individuals but your community as a whole. Comet Cleaners and Laundry Services is here to help you help others. Our 60 years of brand history speaks

Drybar Shops Franchising Drybar is an innovative concept in the multi-billion dollar beauty industry and as the world has changed so much so fast, there has never been a better time to make your entrepreneurial dreams come true! Drybar has taken the country by storm with a refreshingly simple concept: provide amazing blowouts, in a fun and beautiful environment, at a great price. Life is too short not to do something you love!

Drybar is more than just beautiful hair in about 45 minutes. It’s the experience, the happiness and the confidence women feel after a fresh dose of Drybar!

FR A NCH I SE & SERV I CES D I RECTORY

Beans & Brews Coffee house

Clayton Kendal is the single source marketing solution for dozens of national franchises.

Contact: Dan Broudy, CEO Email: dan@claytonkendall.com Phone: 412-798-7120 (1-888-799-4757) Website: claytonkendall.com

for itself when it comes to customer loyalty and trust. We are an easy and straightforward business to learn, allowing you more time to spend focusing on profits than building business expertise.

For more information: Contact: Jack D. Godfrey Jr. Phone: 888-461-3555 Email: franchising@cometcleaners.com Website: cometfranchising.com

In addition to the strong brand and customer experience established by Drybar you will benefit from the infrastructure of being part of WellBiz Brands, Inc. A best-in-class franchise platform specializing in beauty and wellness concepts with nearly 1000 locations, WellBiz Brands, Inc has developed resources to help you every step of the way!

For more information please contact Kelli Schroeder at: Ph: 303 663 0880 E: Leads@Drybarshops.com https://www.drybarshops.com/franchising/

Franchising MAGAZINE USA 95

FR A NCH I SE & SERV I CES D I RECTORY

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 ®

filta environmental Filta’s environmental franchises have been handling the tough but essential job of fryer management and cooking oil filtration and removal (and other important related tasks) for restaurants and food establishments for over 20 years.

Our proprietary filtration system gets more life out of commercial cooking oil, saving our customers time and money, and our ability to recycle oil once it’s outlived its usefulness means protecting the environment from spills and haphazard disposal.

every week, and when you partner with us to open your Filta Environmental Kitchen Solutions franchise, you’ll enjoy the freedom of being your own boss, benefit from unmatched franchisor support, and tap into multiple revenue streams that leave the environment healthier and employees safer from the risk of painful burns and other accidents.

The best way to learn more about what it takes to invest in one of our Environmental Franchises is to contact us for more information. Filta offers a $5,000 franchise fee discount to Veterans.

Today, Filta meets the needs of over 7,000 customers

Phone 866 513 4582

Generator Supercenter

By becoming a Generator Supercenter home services franchise partner, you can benefit from our impeccable reputation, established business model, customer service network, and proven experience in the power supply industry.

Generator Supercenter is the #1 seller of Generac generators, and this allows you to enter this emerging market with instant brandname recognition that is associated with quality and reliability.

People know our brand name and trust the brand products that we offer. Generator sales are part of a growing industry that appeals to both the public and private sectors.

grease monkey Founded in 1978 and part of the FullSpeed Automotive® family of brands, Grease Monkey® has grown to more than 500 centers internationally with operations in the United States, China, Colombia, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.

The brand has flourished, thanks to a commitment to customer service, innovation, and driving strong ROI for franchisees.

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

Honest Abe Roofing Since 2007, Honest Abe Roofing has been installing, repairing, and maintaining residential and commercial roofs. Within just 5 years of franchising, HAR has expanded into over twenty locations.

Honest Abe Roofing has been awarded Entrepreneurs Top 500 Franchises of 2022, and Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 Franchises of 2023.

Founded in the small town of Terre Haute, Indiana, Kevin Newton launched his small-town business and slowly gained customers from his friendly demeanor

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• Franchise Research Institute World Class Franchise 20112015 • Franchise Research Institute #1 Rated Sign & Graphics Franchise 2014-2015 • CFA Franchisees’ Choice Designation 2004-2015 • FASTSIGNS is one of only a handful of franchises approved for $21 million in SBA financing for approved franchise candidates FASTSIGNS has over 400 markets approved for development in the US and Canada and is also seeking Master or Area Developer expansion in markets worldwide.

For more information: Phone: 1-214-346-5679 Email: mark.jameson@fastsigns.com Or visit our Website: www.fastsigns.com

For more inforamtion: Contact: Glenn Leingang Phone: 281-251-6100 Email: glenn@generatorsupercenter.com Website: generatorfranchise.com

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

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

and skilled roofing craftsmanship. Within a few years, Newton took initiative to grow his small business into something bigger, and better. Upon this new direction, his business took off, and Honest Abe Roofing began growing into a large corporate roofing franchise, with its one-of-a-kind small-town feel. Since opening, Honest Abe Roofing has never stopped growing!

Contact our VP of Franchise, Brian Kiefer, at brian@honestaberoofingfranchise.com to learn how you can become a leader in the roofing industry. https://www.honestaberoofing.com/

Image One USA is a commercial cleaning services business. The Image One franchising model was formed on the principles of transparency, training, and top-notch financial and customer service support. It is regularly recognized as a top franchise by third-party franchise and business publications, including CNBC.com, Entrepreneur. com and Franchise Business Review.

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

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

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

McMillan PLLC McMillan PLLC is an innovative law firm focusing on commercial real estate law, financial services, and business law.

Our attorneys are licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee, and serve our clients from the firm’s Charlotte and Charleston offices.

We represent tenants in commercial lease negotiations and are particularly attuned to the

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

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

Image One has commercial cleaning franchise locations covering Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Fort Myers, Nashville and Orlando. Franchise territories are available nationwide.

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

With daily practice, Kumon’s son gradually expanded his mastery of mathematical skills and by sixth grade was able to solve differential equations and integral calculus problems.

Today, at locations throughout North America, Kumon franchisees apply this method of daily practice and self-paced advancement to children’s math and reading skills.

Phone: 201-928-0444 Website: Kumonfranchise.com

specific needs of franchisees. Our founder, Shawn McMillan, began his legal career over 20 years ago and has represented small businesses to national corporations in the commercial lease space.

McMillan PLLC prides itself on providing legendary service at fair rates.

For more information contact Shawn McMillan at: Phone: (980) 585-1260 Email: Shawn@McMillanpllc.com Website: https://mcmillanpllc.com/

on technology, handling the repairs, computer service and support, and other computer services that can accompany a technologically based society seems like second nature. This means franchise owners can tend to the high demands of a reliable customer base and reap the financial benefits by taking advantage of a constantly innovative, inventive, and lucrative industry.

Contact us today to learn why NerdsToGo is one of the fastest growing computer service and technology franchises in the United States!

Next Health

Therapy, Hormone Optimization, Ozone Therapy, and Aesthetics.

Next Health is your partner for vitality, longevity, and personalized health. We believe health is not the absence of disease.

As a one-stop shop of premium wellness services and technology, Next Health gives you the tools you need to live your healthiest life. Our experienced medical team empowers you to achieve optimal vitality & longevity through our personalized, data-driven approach to health optimization. We take health to the next level.

Health is the abundance of vitality.

The Next Health journey is a medical, data-driven approach empowering you to live healthier, longer.

Conveniently offering the latest in technology and medical services in a vibrant atmosphere with white glove hospitality, Next Health Members and Guests can enjoy: NAD Therapy, IV Therapy, Cryotherapy, Infrared Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen

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Image One USA

For more information contact Vanessa Kekina at: Phone: 310-295-2075 Email: marketing@next-health.com Website: www.next-health.com

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OHM Fitness OHM Fitness is a franchise that provides a revolutionary fitness experience using wireless electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) technology integrated into a small group setting.

The EMPower Suit allows customers to complete an intense 2–3-hour workout in just 25 minutes. It is a low-impact workout that puts minimal stress on the joints, ligaments, and muscles, making it suitable for all fitness levels. OHM Fitness is the first fitness franchise to offer this wireless EMS technology in a group setting.

Remedy Spa & Salon Suites Remedy Spa & Salon Suites first opened its doors in Atlanta, Georgia in 2018. As an attempt to enter the highly profitable health and beauty industries, Remedy Spa & Salon Suites came equipped with 22 fully leased salon suites. To date, they have opened three locations through Metro-Atlanta.

Amenities and perks to leasing include: 24/7 access, private upscale studios, spacious single/double suites, private parking, valet parking and premium fixtures, finishes and appliances.

Contact: Doug Payne Phone: (480) 582-2900 Email: franchisees@ohmfitness.com Website: www.ohmfitness.com

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

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

Remedy Spa & Salon Suites already has an established market presence and substantial market penetration in Atlanta. From this successful platform, the company is looking to expand the brand in select key areas domestically.

Franchisees will obtain access to the brand, tested and proven processes and support, purchasing power and distribution

www.remedysalonsuites.com/franchise

southern steer butcher

meal packs. Every meal pack contains 5 meals with all of the required ingredients for each dish, all that’s left is to prep, serve, and enjoy.

Founded in 2013 by Greg Snyder, Southern Steer Butcher was designed to be a trusted source for customers to feel confident in their selections after each and every visit.

remedysalonsuites@gmail.com

The story all started after Greg made a visit to a similar style shop while traveling and recognized this level of butcher shop was lacking in his own hometown of Clearwater, Florida. From then on, Greg set his sights on filling this need in his community and began work on launching Southern Steer.

For those looking to be a bit more involved in the meal prep process, Southern Steer also offers prep classes. The classes are designed for each participant to fully prep and pack 10 meals, each serving a family of 4-5. Continuing to be a hit among customers, with many returning to the classes again and again to prep delicious meals for the whole family, and maybe learn a thing or two in the process.

Each location offers a wide selection of premium meats, sides, desserts, craft beers, and wine. In addition to the variety of products, the brand also offers pre-assembled

For more information about Southern Steer Butcher’s franchising options, please visit https://southernsteerfranchise.com/

SSCP Management, Inc.

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

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

The Dallas-based company is a leader in the restaurant industry with established, high-profile brands such as the 300-unit Cici’s Pizza brand, 44 Sonic Drive-In locations, 80 Applebee’s locations, the Roy’s Hawaiian fusion chain, and JMC Distribution. The management company also owns a diverse real estate portfolio with more than 100 assets that includes shopping centers, medical office buildings, industrial, and multi-family properties across the United States. SSCP Management’s real estate practice focuses

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

SSCP is looking to significantly increase their holdings as they build a larger presence in the commercial real estate world, focusing on acquiring retail and additional multifamily properties nationwide Contact: Kerry Assa, Director of Real Estate: 214-926-4873 (Kerry’s cell) or 972-644-9494 x 128 (Real Estate general box) Email: kassa@sscpmanagement.com Website: www.sscpmanagement.com

or developmental disabilities, chronic health conditions or recovering from illness or surgery.

SYNERGY HomeCare is the fastest-growing national franchisor of home care services with over 200 franchises operating in more than 450 territories across the U.S.

No matter what each person’s circumstances are, SYNERGY HomeCare steps in with effective, comforting, life-affirming care that moves people emotionally and physically forward.

The company provides a broad range of non-medical services including personal care, companion care, memory care and specialized care for individuals who are living with physical

For more information please contact Mike Steed at: 888-578-5357 mikesteed@synergyhomecare.com SYNERGYHomeCareFranchise.com

The Entrepreneur’s Source

continuously since it started franchising in 1998 and continues to lead the $1.5 billion business coaching franchise market in North America.

Established in 1984, The Entrepreneur’s Source® is North America’s leading Career Ownership Coaching™ franchise dedicated to empowering those who yearn to be self-sufficient and want to take control of their lives by finding a pathway to help them achieve their Income, Lifestyle, Wealth and Equity goals.

The Entrepreneur’s Source® has grown

The Goddard School Goddard Systems, LLC, is the manager of The Goddard School® franchise system. The Goddard School is the acknowledged leader in the premium early childcare and education market segment.

The Goddard School has been consistently named one of the top childcare franchises in the United States by Entrepreneur Magazine and one of the Top 200 franchise systems (in worldwide sales) by Franchise Times.

Children learn best through experience. For 35 years, The Goddard School has employed

United Defense Tactical Founded in 2019 and franchising since 2023, United Defense Tactical is the first-of-its-kind self-defense training center actively bringing safety and protection to communities, families, businesses, and individuals.

Wes Fox, Founder and Chief Instructor, saw the disconnect between training in a static environment and real-life scenarios, and founded United Defense Tactical as a way to bridge that gap. Members at United Defense Tactical receive a cumulative and educational training experience through an extensive curriculum while eliminating the risk and danger of training with live ammunition.

wellbiz brands inc.

WellBiz Brands, Inc. is a category leader in experience-based businesses that change lives.

With five separate franchise brands, Amazing Lash Studio®, Drybar®, Elements Massage®, Fitness Together®, and Radiant Waxing™ and more than 900 locations, we help build profitable businesses by franchising emerging, growth-oriented consumer brands that

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SYNERGY HomeCare

The Entrepreneur’s Source® network of career ownership coaches offer coaching to individuals seeking alternate career possibilities outside of the traditional job market.

For more information about The Entrepreneur’s Source, please visit entrepreneurssource.com.

academically endorsed methods to ensure that children have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life.

The Goddard School serves more than 90,000 students from six weeks to six years old in more than 600 Goddard Schools in 37 states and Washington, D.C. To learn more about The Goddard School, please visit GoddardSchool.com.

For more information about The Goddard School franchise system, visit GoddardSchoolFranchise.com.

Courses range from beginner through police or military level experience. Our Reality Based Threat Training concept is a cutting-edge approach to training individuals in real-world threat scenarios.

Using dynamic virtual reality technology, it employs immersive simulations, self-defense, mindset, de-escalation and more, to create a highly realistic training environment.

For more information contact Ken Lynch Phone: (949) 612-2711 ken@uniteddefensetactical.com https://uniteddefensetactical.com/

offer exceptional, service-based experiences through recurring revenue models.

Our vision is to establish a sustainable growth plan for each independent brand, and use our value-adding platform to extend to additional brands.

We do this work because we believe in making life better and building profitable experiencebased businesses in spaces that can’t be delivered online.

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