Withtheevolutioninfranchiseindustry,
businesseshaveexperiencedexponential growth.Businessesareproudtobeapartofa brandwhichismakingadifferencetolivesofitscustomers andtheworldwelivein.Infranchiseindustry,itis necessarytobeauthenticandtruetoyourself,because today’sconsumersaresmart,livingwithadvancementand alwayssearchingforsomethingnewandgenuineproducts orservices.
Consumerfranchisecategorizesthecustomerswhoare consistent,andcorebuyers.Thosecustomershavethe highestpossibilityofunendingtopurchasethecompany's products.Asellermightbeinterestedtoincreasethetrades fromthecommittedanduncommittedbuyers.He/shemight trytousemarketingandspendextramoneytoconvertthe uncommittedconsumersintohigher‐likelihoodcommitted buyers.Although,theinevitabilityofconversionis unidentified,itcansurmisethatonlyfewuncommitted buyerswouldtakeinterestand,ofthose,notallwould becomecommittedbuyers.
Itisrecommendedthatthevendorsshouldfocustheir effortsontheconsumerfranchise,sincecommittedbuyers haveahigherpossibilityofbuyinginthefirstplaceand havealreadyshowedtheirloyaltyandcommitment.This editionofInsightsSuccess“World'sBestFranchise OpportunitiestoOwn,2020”isaboutthefranchises whichareusinganimportantmeasureofmarketinglevers attheirdisposaltoincreasesalesprofitabilityforthe businessandprovidingexceptionalservicestochange consumersintocommittedbuyers.
ThecoverfeaturesIdealImagewhichwasfoundedasa laserhairremovalbusinesswiththegoaltohelpclients’ lookandfeeltheirbest.Sincethen,thecompanyhas
capitalizedonthefast-growingaestheticindustryand addedafullsuiteofskin,faceandbodyservicesto becomeAmerica’s#1MedSpa.Thecompanywas acquiredbyLCatterton,theleadingconsumerfocusedprivateequityfirm.Ithascontinuedtogrow itsfootprint,addingbothcorporateandfranchise units.Itnowhasover150clinicsthroughouttheUS andCanada.
ThecompanyofthemonthishavingClass101, whichisleadingwiththemissiontoprovidefamilies withexpertguidanceinthecollegesearch, admissions,andfinancialaidprocess.Itbelievesthat earlyengagementisagamechanger,especiallywith whatishappeningrightnowintheworld.Astudent’s collegeapplicationisasummaryofallfouryearsof highschool,notjustjunioryear.Class101helps studentsandfamiliesnavigatethecomplex,multiyearprocess,beginninginthe9grade.The organizationworkswithstudents1:1toconnectall thedotsandmaketheprocessenjoyableforfamilies withacomprehensivehighschoolroadmapfrom9to 12grade.
Also,whileflippingthepages,don’tforgettogo throughthearticlesandCXOswrittenbyourinhouseeditorialteamandindustryexperts respectively.
rohit.chaturvedi@insightssuccess.com
BrokerPlan brokerplan.co.uk
Class101 class101.com
FreedomBoatClub freedomboatclub.com
JohnKent ManagingDirectorTomPabin President
JohnGiglio President&CEO
Hand&Stone FranchiseCorp handandstone.com
IdealImage idealimage.com
Osmow's mrosmow.com
Sharkey'sCutsforKids
sharkeyscutsforkids.com
vomFASS vomfassusa.com
JohnTeza
Presidentand ChiefDevelopment Officer
Establishedin2004,Brokerplanisacompellingopportunityfor anyonelookingtogenerateasignificantincomefrombecoming aCommercialFinanceBroker.
Thecompany'smissionistoprovidefamilieswithexpert guidanceinthecollegesearch,admissions,andfinancialaid process.
FreedomBoatClubwasfirstfoundedin1989inSarasota,FL withthevisionandpurposeinestablishingtheboatclubmodel wassimpleandstraightforward-todeliverahassle-free recreationalboatingexperienceforitsmembers.
Hand&StoneoffersprofessionalMassage,FacialandHair Removalservicestailoredtoyourindividualneeds.
DavidProkupek CEO
SamandBenOsmow Principal&Founder/ CEOandHeadof FranchiseOperations
IdealImageisthenation’sleadingMedSpathat’sperformed millionsofskin,faceandbodyprocedures.
Osmow’scombinesMiddleeasterncuisinewithaNorth Americanpalette,afusionofbothcultures.Withaflairfor healthy,well-madefood,theOsmow’sfamilyquick-service restaurantsoffermouth-wateringmealspackedwithfresh flavours,dressedwitharangeofitssignaturesauces.
ScottSharkey CEOAtSharkey’sCutsforKids,teamknowsthatkidsandparents wantsomethingdifferentwiththeirhaircutexperience.
ElaineR.Sugimura/ KevinM.Frain CEO/COO
WineStyles winestyles.com
BryanMcGinness CEO
ZenMassage zenmassageusa.com
KeithLarson CEO
vomFASSisauniqueretail&communityeventbusiness specializinginawidearrayofartisanalproducts,includingthe world’sfinestoils,vinegars,spirits,wine,gourmetfoods,and spices.
WineStyles®TastingStation®wasbornoutoftheoriginal WineStylesconcept,whichwasfoundedin2002aftera backyardbarbequeblindtastingofwinesprovedthemost popularwerenotthemostexpensive,butsimplythebottlesthat tastedthebest.
ZenMassageFranchising,Incorporated,franchisorofZen MassageCenters,providesahighqualityprofessionalmassage inacomfortableenvironmentwithseveralAdvantagesfor Consumers.
World’s Best Franchise Opportunities to Own, 2020
Democratizing the MedSpa experience to be more safe, affordable and accessible than ever
“Ideal Image is the nation's #1 MedSpa and fastest growing consumer medical brand in the U.S. with 150+ locations.”
IdealImagewasfoundedin2001asalaserhair removalbusinesswiththegoaltohelpclientslook andfeeltheirbest.Sincethen,thecompanyhas capitalizedonthefast-growingaestheticindustryand addedafullsuiteofskin,faceandbodyservicesto becomeAmerica’s#1MedSpa.
IdealImagewasacquiredbyLCatterton,theleading consumer-focusedprivateequityfirm.Ithascontinuedto growitsfootprint,addingbothcorporateandfranchise units.Itnowhasover150clinicsthroughouttheUSand Canada.
Belowarethehighlightsoftheinterviewconducted betweenInsightsSuccessandDavidProkupek, CEO ofIdealImage:
Ideal Image is the nation's #1 MedSpa focused on
and
treatments for the skin, face and body.
WhatservicesdoesIdealImageoffer,andhowdo theymeettheneedsofyourcustomers?
AtIdealImagewegiveourclientsafullsuiteof affordable,non-surgicaltreatmentoptionsfortheirskin, faceandbody—allbackedbyourexclusiveLifetime GuaranteeProgramand100%approvalsforclientswho wantfinancing.
Wehaveabroadrangeofclientele,themajorityranging from25-to55-year-oldswhoarewell-educated,enjoy anactivelifestyleandhaveabroadrangeofhousehold incomes.Wemeettheirdiverseneeds—fromremoving unwantedhairtoreducingstubbornfattogettingamore firm,tonedbodytohavinghealthy,youthfulskin.Our fullsuiteofservicesaredeliveredbyateamofexpert MedicalProfessionalsandincludelaserhairremoval, Botox®wrinklerelaxer,CoolSculpting®fatreduction, CoolTone™muscletoningandarangeofmedicalgrade facialsandskintighteningsolutions.Weareabletogive ourclientseverythingtheyneedtolookandfeeltheir bestforyearstocome.
Describeyourcompany’stagline“Confidence ChangesEverything.”
Morethanjustatagline,itisourcorebeliefthat ConfidenceChangesEverything.Confidenceisthemost powerfulthingintheworld—andthemostbeautiful—it isbeautyfromtheinsideout.Webelieveinthiscrazy, fastpaced,competitiveworldthatpeopledeservetolook thewaytheywantandlovethewaytheyfeel.
OurmissionatIdealImageistoworkhardeverydayto passionatelydeliveronthatpromise.Ourteamofexperts gettoknoweachclientindividuallytodevelopa personalizedtreatmentplanusingthemostadvanced aesthetictechnology.Wesaythat“confidencewalks throughourdoorseverydayandwalksoutbetter, strongerandmorecourageous.”Wegetupeverydayto helpourclientssayyesto“better”andgetthenatural lookingresultstheywant.
Youhaveaninterestingbackground. HowdidyoucometobeatIdeal Image?
Ihavebeenfortunatetobepartofsomeamazing consumerbrands—whetherleading,investingor advising—andtopartnerwiththecountry’stopprivate equityfirms,creatingsomegreatoutcomes.Icameto IdealImagebecauseofarelationshipwithLCatterton whohasahistoryofbackingthebestconsumerbrandsin theworld.Theaestheticindustrywasnewtome,butI quicklyrealizedhowfastitwasgrowingandsawthe opportunitytocreateaninternationalbrand—where nonereallyexisted.Theskillswelearnedfromourother consumerandfranchiseexperiencescouldquicklybe appliedheretoaccelerategrowth.Intheend,itwasan easychoice—Ifeltthiswasgoingtobeahomerun.
Howdoyouhelpyourfranchisessucceed?
Wehaveauniquebusinessmodelthatallowsour franchiseownerstothriveinthefast-growingaesthetics industry—enjoyingaverageannualclinicsalesof $2.4M—wellabovetheindustryaverage.Ourturnkey, direct-to-consumerclientmodeldelivershundredsof newclientspermonth,allofwhomaretreatedinour advancedMedSpasbyMedicalProfessionalswhohave performed20+millionaesthetictreatments.
Tosupportourfranchiseowners,weprovide1)the highestlevelofmedicaltrainingandadvanced technologies,2)aturnkeymarketingprogramwith broad-basedmediaanddigitalcampaignstargetingcore clientsineachofourmarkets,3)anationaltelehealth platformthatprovidesfreevirtualconsultations, services,andsalessupporttothousandsofclientsper day,4)affordablepricingbecausewepassonsavingsas aresultofourscale,and5)100%approvalson financing,makingIdealImageaccessibletoeveryone interested.
David Prokupek is CEO of Ideal Image, North America's #1 MedSpa concept and a fast growing direct to consumer medical brand with 150 North America locations and 20 million treatments performed. With the support of Ideal Image's private equity owner, L Catterton, David has transformed the company into “America's Med Spa,” disrupting the cosmetic and dermatological aesthetics industry by delivering outsized growth and consumer innovation in a highly fragmented category.
Under David's leadership, Ideal Image is experiencing double-digit revenue and client growth by making its full suite of non-surgical treatments—including laser hair removal, Botox®, fat-reduction, muscle toning and other anti-aging treatments for the skin and face—more accessible and affordable than ever. With a belief that “Confidence Changes Everything” and a focus on helping consumers look and feel their best, Ideal Image performs thousands of free consultations a month and more personalized medical aesthetic treatments than any other company in the U.S.
A proven business and brand builder, David is known for partnering with leading private equity firms as CEO and investor to create highly differentiated consumer businesses. His recent track record of success includes having led the aggressive growth and brand transformations at Smashburger and Jackson Hewitt Tax Service.
David is an active investor in emerging consumer brands, and serves on the board of Victra, the largest Verizon retailer in the U.S., with more than 1,000 wireless stores, and DFC Global, a leading Canadian consumer finance company. He is active in YPO.
David earned a master's in management from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and a bachelor's in business administration from the University of Wisconsin.
Ourmissionistobuildthelargestandmostenduring brandintheaestheticsindustry.Ourvaluesaredriven firstandforemostbyourmedicalheritage,which prioritizessafetyandexpertiseaboveallelse.
Wesupportahigh-performance,results-drivenculture withafocusonconsumerandbusinessmodeldisruption thatwilldramaticallygrowourcompanyby democratizingtheaestheticindustry.Likewise,wevalue ahighlycollaborativeculturefilledwithpeoplewhoare inspiredanddrivenwithaloveforwhattheydo.Weare accountabletoeachother,ourclientsandfranchise ownersandweseeourclientsforwhothey are—individualswhosimplywanttolookandfeeltheir best.Wetakegreatprideinhelpingthem.
Whatmarketingactivitiesdoyouimplementtoreach outtoyourpotentialcustomers?
Ourmarketingstrategyisoneofourkeyadvantages.We investheavilyinsophisticatedmarketingactivitiesboth toquicklygrowournew-clientbusiness,aswellas promotelongtermloyaltywithourexistingguests.We useafullsuiteofdirect-to-consumermarketing activities,includingbroadbasedmedialikeTVand radio,andawiderangeofdigitalmarketingchannels resultinginusperformingthousandsoffree consultationsfornewclientseverymonth.Wecreatea hostofloyaltyandVIPpricingprogramstoencourage ourexistinggueststoexperienceallthatIdealImagehas tooffer.
Asamedicallydrivenorganizationweareconstantly evaluating,testingandupgradingourtechnologiesto keepourclientssafewitheffectivenewservices.Right now,wearefocusedonupgradinganumberofour digitaltechnologies.Forexample,weusetheappGo EvotoaskourassociatesCDC-approvedquestionsand tracktheirhealthwithregardtoCOVID-19risks. Additionally,wehaveexpandedourtelehealthplatform toincreaseourhoursofoperationsandevaluateour
clientsinrealtime.Whenitcomesto services,wearerollingoutanewmuscle strengtheningandtoningtechnology platformcalledCoolTonebyCoolsculptingto eachofourclinics.
Whatdoesyourroadmaplooklikeoverthenextfive years?
Firstoff,wearefocusedondisruptingthevery fragmented,aestheticsmarketandtodoso,areinvesting significantlyinourdirect-to-consumerhealthcare platform.Thisallowsustodobusinesswhereandwhen clientswant.
Second,wearerollingoutapproximately20corporate clinicsperyear,aswellasexpandingourfranchising footprintintheUnitedStatesandCanada—andsoon beyond.
Third,wejustlaunchedanewprogramforexisting MedSpasandphysicianstojointheIdealImageteamas affiliatedpartners—quicklyaddingevenmorepointsof serviceforourclients.
Lastly,we’readdingnewservicestargetedathealthy skinandfaceservices,alongwithaconsumer-friendly membershipmodel.
We’reexcitedaboutallofthesedevelopments,which willaccelerateourgrowthandfurtherextendour leadership.
Theworldlooksmuchdifferentthanitdidayear ago.Quarantininghasaffectedeveryaspectofour lives,includingunprecedentedshiftstothehigh schooleducationalexperience.Butjustasyourteenageris gettingreadyagainforhighschool,theyalsoneedtoget readyforcollege!
Choosingthenextstepineducationisnotjustabout choosingtherightcollege,butaboutlocation,finances, grades,interest,andmuchmore.Anditisveryhumanto fallintoadilemmaoverchoosing'therightschool'foryour kids.
Thecollegepreparationandadmissionprocessescanbe confusingandfrustratingforteenagersandparentsalike. That'swhereClass101comesinandmakescollege planning simple.
Class101believesthatearlyengagementisagame changer,especiallywithwhatishappeningrightnowinthe world.Whenitcomestomaximizingcollegeand scholarshipopportunities,theearlierthebetter.Astudent's collegeapplicationisasummaryofallfouryearsofhigh school,notjustjunioryear.Class101helpsstudentsand familiesnavigatethecomplex,multi-yearprocess, beginninginthe9grade.Theorganizationworkswith students1:1toconnectallthedotsandmaketheprocess enjoyableforfamilies,withacomprehensivehighschool roadmapfrom9to12grade.
ItallstartedwhenTomPabin,thePresidentofClass101, wasayouthministerinhisearlytwenties.Hewascharged withprovidingyouthclubsandactivitiestoencourage youngpeople.Itwasbychancethatamomofoneofhis
kidsrequestedhelpinfindingandgettingherteenagerinto college,whichledtomorefamiliesaskingforhelp.
“It all started in one community, with one person, helping one student find—and afford—the right college. That was me, 23 years ago, in Lexington, Kentucky, and now, we're a nationwide college planning franchise with over 100 college planners in over 40 locations in 23 states,” states Tom.
Tomfoundhiscallingincollegeplanningandsetoutto makeadifferenceinthelivesofyoungpeoplethrough Class101.Ledbythephilosophythatfaithandfamily comefirst,Tomhasdevotednearlyhalfofhislifeto helpingfamiliesacrosstheU.S.makecollegedreamsa reality.
“I believe we have been given a chance to enhance others' lives. We are here not only to help students go to college and help families save money, but to help make a difference in a young person's life. That, my friends, is worth everything to me!” says Tom.
Tom leads with purpose, integrity, and a clear vision to help people find their future, in both business and life, from Class 101's students to their franchise owners. He loves to motivate and encourage people to become the best version of themselves. “From headquarters to our franchise locations, Class 101 inspires greatness in others,” says Tom.
College planning is still a relatively young industry in terms of global commercial growth, and Class 101 is evidently a market leader. Being in business for 23 years has allowed the company to establish a loyal customer base. This past year, it has started to serve the kids of its original and very first customers.
As a small business that started in Lexington, Kentucky, Class 101 has led within its local, midwestern markets before expanding out towards the coasts. Class 101's numbers speak for themselves. It has only been franchising for 13 of the last 23 years. Within that time, it has helped over 6,500 high school students get into over 550 colleges and universities and most importantly has secured families more than $482 million in scholarships. While the national average transfer rate for colleges (pre-COVID) in the United States is around 30%, Class 101's transfer rate is 5%, which reflects how its business model helps students find the best schools, at the best price, for their best future.
Also, because it is a purpose-driven business, Class 101 has built a culture around serving others. Its mission is to empower students, serve families and inspire greatness. “Everyone under the Class 101 brand is here to make a positive difference in the lives of others and make a positive impact in their community,” Tom expresses.
Families are always in need of tips, advice, services, and expertise to help their students go to and afford college during COVID-19. Class 101's services have never been more important, as it is helping families stay on track and
“Tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” - Malcolm X
navigatethroughthereal-timechangeswithincollege admissionsandstandardizedtesting.Mostimportantly,the organizationhasbeenabletocontinuetohelpsecure financialaidandscholarshipsduringtheeconomic downturn.
Asacompany,Class101isnimbleandcanquicklyadapt itsbusinesswiththeever-evolvinglandscapeoftechnology andeducation.Whenthepandemichitandmostofthe collegeswentscamperingwiththeonlinetransition,Class 101pivotedtovirtualoperationsovernightandembraced webinars,virtualmeetingsandonlineclasses.
Class101'sdigitalplatformallowsstudentsandparentsto haveeverythinginoneplace,availableatyourfingertips. Fromcollegereportstopracticeteststoparentupdates,it's allonlineandeasytofind.Withtheimpactofthepandemic andtheshifttovirtuallearning,Class101isofferingmore servicesvirtuallythaneverbefore. “Our operations went from being almost exclusively in person to now being almost exclusively online,” saysTom.
“My advice to other entrepreneurs and educationists would be the same advice I provide to our students. Find your passion, do the work you care about, believe in yourself, and the rest will follow. Skills will come through hard work. Remember, in business as in life, the best things are meant to be shared. Find people and find a community that will support, guide, and challenge you throughout your career,” saysTom.
TheteamatClass101believesthatthecoronavirushas shiftedconsumerbehavior,andthepandemichasopened thedoortoinnovationasthefutureofvirtuallearningis beingshapedinreal-time.Withtheshifttovirtuallearning inthehighereducationmarket,itopensthedoortoaglobal marketplacefasterthaneverbefore.
Byadaptinginreal-timetochangingconsumerbehaviors, needs,andtrends,itsservicesandsolutionsperfectly positionClass101inthemarketplace. “Going into 2021, we have more opportunities to grow our franchise and expand into new territories”,concludesTom.
Class101helpsstudentswith:
Developingacollegelist
Identifying&exploringmajorsandcareers
ACT/SAT/PSATprepandscoreimprovement
GPAimprovement
Essaywriting,resumebuildingandlettersof recommendation
Campusvisits:Class101studentstypicallyvisit10 schools,applyto7andlove5
Collegeapplications&deadlines
Scholarshipapplications&deadlines,securingmerit basedoroutside,privatescholarships
CompletingFAFSA/financialaidforms
Assistingw/thecollegetransitionprocess
Allofthisiscompletedbythetimeastudentgraduates fromhighschool!
“On paper, we are comprehensive college planners, but in the day-to-day work with students, we are mentors, coaches, teachers, counselors and advisors.”
Theworldisfinallywakingupto thesingle-useplasticcrisis.
Overthelast10yearswehave createdmoreplasticthanthewholeof thelastcenturycombined.Halfofthe plasticwecreateisusedjustonce,and thenthrownaway,taking500yearsto decompose.By2050,theoceansare predictedtocontainmoreplasticthan fish.Theplasticcrisisisnowtoobig forrecyclingalonetofix.
Globalgovernments,businessesand consumersneedtocollaboratequickly tomakeimpactfulchangebeforeit’s toolate.However,changeisdifficult whenenvironmentallydamaginghabits havebecomesoentrenchedandoften appearmorefinanciallyappealing.
Technologyishelpinginthisfight. Reusablewaterbottlesarenow widespread,andappsthathelpyou locatedrinkingwaterrefillstationsare nowemerging. Atthesametime, reusablecoffeecuptechnologyis addressingthehalfatrilliondisposable coffeecupsdiscardedeveryyear.Such itemsaregainingincreasingsocial currencywithconsumers,whoare keentodisplaythemasmarkersof theirenvironmentalconscience.This revolutionisencouraging,butwhat abouttheproductsthatpeoplearen’tso willingtotalkabout?
100billionmenstrualproductsare thrownawaygloballyeveryyear. Thesearesingle-use,mostlymadeof plasticandcannotberecycled.Youcan choosenottohaveacoffee,youcannot choosenottohaveaperiod.Reusable options(e.g.menstrualcups,cloth pads)havebeenonthemarketfor decades,yettheadoptionratehasbeen slow.Theprimarybarriertoentryis thefearofhabitchange.
Sohowdowebringabouta revolution?Theansweriskeepit simple.Andtaketimetoconsider consumerpsychology.Ashumans,we abhorchange.Wearecreaturesdrawn towardsthecomfortoftheknown.By
keepinghabitchangetoaminimum, consumersaremuchmorelikelyto adoptanewidea.
ThiswasourphilosophyatDAME whenwecreatedtheworld’sfirst reusabletamponapplicator.We ensuredthedesignwasfamiliarand intuitive,sowomendidnothaveto compromiseontheirconvenient, establishedrituals. Weknewthat hygienecouldbeasignificantbarrier toentry,soweworkedwithleading micro-biologistsandmedicalengineers andusedthebestmedicalgrade,antimicrobialmaterialsonthemarket.Asa result,theconsumeronlymustrinse theapplicatorincoldwaterafteruseto keepitclean.Simplesteps,minimal habitchange.
However,itischallengingtotacklean issuethathassuchlittleawareness. Menstruationhashistoricallybeen shroudedinshame,fearanddiscretion. Itisnotatopicopenlytalkedabout. Thisisaproblemwithfemininecareas awhole:itisfrequentlydismissedand thewomentryingtoaddressitare criticallyunderfunded.In2017female foundersgot2%ofthe$85billionVC investmentpot.About8%ofpartners atthetopBritishVCfirmsarewomen. AccordingtoHarvardBusiness Review,stereotypesaboutfemale entrepreneurspersist:womenare overlycautious,shyawayfrom growth,haveinsufficientresourcesand consequentlytheirventures underperform.Yetthereisno performancedatatosupportthese stereotypes.
Howareproductsusedbywomen supposedtochangeinlinewithhuman andenvironmentalneeds,whenthey aren’tgivenappropriaterecognitionor havewomeninvolvedinallstagesof theprocess?Womenneedtobegiven moreofavoiceifwearetocreate meaningfulchange.TheworldofAIis alreadyhighlightingtheneedto diverseawayfrommale,white, Westerncodersifwearetoavoid
unconsciousbiasintherobotsof tomorrow.Amazonhadtoabandonan AIrecruitmenttoolthatwas discriminatingagainstwomen,instead favoringprospectswhomirrored Amazon’sexistingmaleengineer workforce.AtDAMEwomenhave beeninvolvedineverystageofthe journey,notasatokengesturebutas anabsolutenecessity.
However,ouroverarchingbusiness strategygoesbeyondissuesof inclusivitytoincorporateawider mission.DAMEwasfoundedonthe beliefthatbusinesscanbeusedasa forceforgood.Weusethiscorevalue toguideeverydecisionwemakeinthe business,bringinggreatclaritytoour routeforward.Bycommunicatingour genuineandauthenticcommitmentto thismission,wehopethatourmessage willquicklybepickedupbythose eagertojoinamovementforchange. Todate,wehaveseenthishappennot onlywithourconsumersandthepress, butwithemployees.Peopleare increasinglydrawntocompaniesdoing good.75%ofmillennialswouldtakea paycuttoworkatasocially responsiblecompany.
Allthisstrengthensourresolveat DAMEtocontinuetotacklecritical problemsthatarenotopenly acknowledged,thataresignificantly underfunded,andthathavehistorically beencontrolledbygiantmonopolies. Todaywearefocusingonmenstrual products,butourvisionisto revolutionizetheentirebathroom. Thesearebigmountains,buthaving strongguidingprinciplesmakesthe navigationmucheasier.”
- WordsbyCeliaPool, Co-FounderofDAME
Allformsofbusinessfinancearespecialized productswithmajorityoflenderschoosingto workonlyviaqualifiedintroducers,accredited viatheFinancialConductAuthority,andthisis becomingincreasinglyimportantinthecurrentfinancial climate.Fortunately,WhiteRoseFinanceGroup Limitedworkwithlendersthatdonotacceptdirect clientintroductions.Itisafinancialservicescompany andoneoftheUK'slongestestablishedcommercialand regulatedfinancebrokers.Establishedin2004,White RoseFinanceGrouphasgrowntobeoneofUK'slargest andmostsuccessfulFinancePractices.
Inaninterviewwith Insights Success, JohnKent, ManagingDirectorofWhiteRoseFinanceGroupLtd sharestheimportanceofcommercialbrokerswith innovativeandcost-effectivefinancialsolutions.Below arethehighlightsoftheinterview:
WhatledtotheinceptionofBrokerPlan?
TheBrokerplanNetworkandAcademywaslaunchedin 2014toaddressdemandfromabroadrangeofFinance BrokersandIntermediariesseekingsupportacrossa widerangeofbusinessneeds.
Theserequirementsareprimarilycenteredaround BrokerTraining,Compliancesupport(followingthenew FCAregimelaunchedin2013)accesstofundersand caseplacement,packaging,andprocessingsupport.
TheCompanywasreceivingsignificantnumbersof requestsforsuchsupportandinitiallydealtwiththisin anunstructuredway.Thisdemandledtothe developmentofnumerousPartnersupportprograms beinglaunchedundertheBrokerPlanbrandandthe portfolioofserviceshascontinuedtoexpandsincethen.
Describeyourcompanyanditsexclusiveservices whichaddressalltheneedsofyourcustomers.
BrokerPlanofferswhatthecompanybelievesisaunique propositionformotivatedandcommittedprofessionals tohavea'fast-track'entryintotheFinanceand ProfessionalServicessectorandestablishthemselvesas aqualifiedandcredibleadviser.
Thepropositionoffersacomprehensivepackage coveringbusinesstraining,businesslaunchpackage, practicalcasesupport,andimmediateaccessto300plus lenderswithwhomtheCompanyhasestablished intermediaryagreements.Thecompany'scustomers enteraPartnershipagreementandtheteamwork togethertodevelopsignificantearningspotentialforall parties.
Couldyouthrowsomelightoncompany'smission andvisionstatement?
Missionstatement:Toprovideopportunitiesinthe financialservicessectorformotivatedprofessionalsto joinourAcademyandbecomeasuccessfulbroker.
Vision:Tobecomethepartnerofchoiceforprofessionals seekingtobuildanewcareerinfinancialservices.
Howdoyourfranchiseservicesdifferfromtheother companies'offerings?
WhiteRoseFinanceGroupLtdisasuccessful professionalfinancebrokerageprovidingaccesstoits expertiseandintellectualpropertyinguidingand supportingnetworkpartners.Allitspropositionsprovide multiplefeeincomeratherthanasinglerevenuestream thatcanbecomevulnerable.
Thecompany'spartnersenjoyahighlevelofbusiness support,training,andongoingcontinuousprofessional development(CPD).
Describeindetailabouttheworkcultureandthe valuesthatdrivethecompany.
Brokerplanoperatesinanenvironmentregulatedbythe FinancialConductAuthority(FCA)andholdsahigh levelofauthorizationfromtheFCA.Theconceptof 'TCF'(TreatingCustomersFairly)drivesthecorevalues withinthebusiness,andthiscorevaluepermeatesevery operatingprocedurewithinthebusiness.
Whatmarketingactivitiesdoyouimplementtoreach outtoyourpotentialcustomers?
WhiteRoseFinanceGroupLtdusesavarietyof channelstostimulatebothdirectandindirectenquiries intothebusinessthisincludeson-lineadvertising, exhibitions,tradeshows,webinars,andagrowingrange ofvirtualevents.
Whatareyourcompany'sfutureaspirations?What strategiesareyouundertakingtoachievethosegoals?
BrokerPlanwillcontinuetodevelopandofferan increasingnumberoffinance-relatedrevenuegenerating opportunitiesthatmeetsthedemandsofitsPartnersina fast-changingbusinessworld.
AbouttheLeader
JohnKentistheManagingDirectoroftheBusiness,andsince2014hasbeen instrumentalandthedrivingforceindesigninganddeliveringitspartner programsundertheBrokerPlanbranding.
Johnhasdriventhegrowthofthemulti-awardwinningBrokerplanNetwork,and morerecentlyYourMortgagePlus,theregulatedproposition.
Daytodaytasksinclude:
Managingthebusinessdevelopmentand communicationsteam
Attractingandrecruitingnewnetwork partners
Identifyingandcommunicatinglead generationandnetworkingbestpractice
Providingongoingdevelopmentsupportto networkpartners
Identifyingnewchannelstopromotenetwork propositions
Promotingthenetworkpropositionsattradeshows
brokerplan.co.uk
“Adynamicandfast-growingbusiness offeringarangeofprofessional businessopportunitiesinthefinance andprofessionalservices.”
Like to boat while on vacation or a work trip? You are interested in possibly joining a boat club, but you are not sure what to ask … or perhaps how to conduct a thorough analysis of clubs in your market. Great News, Freedom Boat Club offers a variety of membership plans to fit your unique boating needs. Freedom to boat is at the very core of Freedom Boat Club!
FreedomBoatClubwasfirstfoundedin1989in Sarasota,FL,andhasgrowntobecometheoldestand largestmembers-onlyboatclubintheworld.Atthetime, theconceptwasconsideredrevolutionaryandbreakthrough.Boaterswereeithertraditionalboatownersor friendsofboatowners.Therewerenoboatclubs, fractionalboating,boatingtimeshare,orevenmanyboat rentalfacilities.Theexclusivefraternityofboatowners storedtheirvesselsatmarinas,homedocks,oratthe yachtclub.WhenFreedomBoatClublaunched,thisnew offeringpresentedanexcitingnewalternativethat openedthewaterwaystonewcomersaswellaslapsed boaters.
Astheorganizationbeganitsinitialgrowth,Freedom BoatClubwassoldtoaninvestmentgroup.Overtime,it becameevidentthatthebestleadershipforthistypeof businessmodelwouldrequireactiveengagementatthe helm.Today,over50,000boaterscallFreedomBoat Club“home,”withover240locationsin31states, Canada,andFrancewithfranchiseoperationssituated coast-to-coast,andgrowingdaily.
Today,FreedomBoatClubwelcomesandembracesa broadmixofmemberstoitsranks,fromfirst-time boatersandnewbiestoseasonedsaltsandformerboat owners,fromyoungfamiliestoactiveretired.Theboat clubisalsoactivelyengagedindevelopingnewand diversemarkets.AnyonewholovesthewaterandwaterrelatedactivitiesareembracedasamemberofFreedom BoatClub!
Thevisionandpurposeinestablishingtheboatclub modelweresimpleandstraightforward-todelivera hassle-freerecreationalboatingexperienceforits members.Thefranchisewantstocontinuetobethe largestmembers-onlyboatclubintheworldwhile maintainingthefocusonserviceandfulfillingasimple boatingexperienceeachday.Today,over50,000 FreedomBoatClubmemberstaketothewaterwayseach year–manyofwhomwouldnothavebeenboaterswere itnotfortheconceptofaboatclub.
NotonlydidFreedomBoatClubcreatetheboatclub model,butitwasalsothefirsttobuildthecompany throughfranchising.Thefranchisenetworkissetupto becollaboratinginamannerthatallowsseasoned franchisestoguidenewerfranchises.
FreedomBoatClubmarketingmixincludesamixof traditionaloutlets–television,print,radio,etc.–along withemergingchannelssuchasdigitalmarketing,social media,andinfluencermarketing.Itisalsoactivewithin thelocalcommunitiesthroughthechamberofcommerce andBNIgroups,attendinglocalevents,andsupporting charityandyouthsportsinitiatives.Customerscanfind FBCatmostboatshowsacrossthecountrywhereithas aFreedomBoatClublocationnearby.
Theboatclub'smainobjectiveistonotonlypromote FreedomBoatClubbutalsoeducatethegeneralpublic abouttheboatclubconcept.
JohnGiglio–ExecutiveDirector-Strategic InitiativesfirstjoinedFreedomBoatClubin2004 workinginavarietyofrolesacrossoperationsandsales.
In2011,heboughttheClubwithacolleagueandayear latertookoversoleownership.SincethentheClubhas significantlyexpandeditsfootprinttoover240locations todayin31states,CanadaandFrance.Mr.Giglioagreed withtheBrunswickCorporationinMayof2019tosell FreedomBoatClub.Brunswick,aleaderwithinthe marinespace,toutsaportfoliothatincludesMercury Marine,SeaRay,BostonWhaler,Bayliner,andseveral otherboatbrands.
FreedomBoatClubisanongoing,All-Americansuccess story.SinceJohnassumedthehelm,thecompanyhas doubleditsgrowthsince2012andhascontinuedto receivemultiplerecognitionsbothwithinandoutsidethe marineindustry.IthasbeennamedintheEntrepreneur's Magazine“Top500Franchisees”forthepastfiveyears; theGulfCoastBusinessReview's“Top500Companies;” andInc.Magazine's“Top5000Fastest-Growing Companies.”BoatingIndustryMagazinenamedJohnto itsrosterof“Top16MoversandShakers”in2013.Ona regionalbasis,theVeniceGondolierandSunnamed Johntoits“Top40Under40BusinessProfessionals,” whileFreedomBoatClubisamulti-yearwinnerofits “BestBoatingClub”award.Leadingboatmanufacturer
NauticGlobalGrouphasnamedFreedomBoatingClub toitsSilver,Gold,andPlatinumCircleforoutstanding salesperformance.
Asaservice-basedcompany;professionalismand courtesyareattheforefrontofFreedomBoatClub's workculture.Thecompanyisdedicatedtoproviding asafeandenjoyableboatingexperienceforits memberswhilekeepingtheteamsafethroughout theprocess.Andbecauseboatingshouldbefun –FBCcertainlyhavefun!Whenconsumers visitFBC'scorporateofficesinVenice, Floridatheywillnotfindmanysuitsorties withinitshallways.
FreedomBoatClubwantstocontinuetobe thelargestmembers-onlyboatclubinthe worldwhilemaintainingitsfocusonservice andfulfillingasimpleboatingexperience eachday.Toremainthelargestitsfocusison furtherexpansionthroughouttheUnitedStates andCanadaaswellascontinuingitsentryinto newmarketswithinEuropeandbeyond.To accomplishthis,itwillcontinuetoseekgreat franchisepartnerstoaddtotheFBCfamily.
IfinCanada,someoneislookingforarestaurantthatis bestinmodernMediterraneanCuisinewithahigh levelofcustomerservice,Osmow'sistheplace.
Onefinedayaregularcustomerwalkedintoasmall restaurantcalledPolarSubmarineinthecentreof Streetsville,Mississauga,ownedbySamOsmow,when SamhadcookedhimselfacommonMiddleEasternlunch. ThecustomerwasintriguedbythetasteandaskedSamto tryabiteofthedish.Aftertryingherequesteditashis replacementorder.ThiswasthemomentthatinspiredSam torebrandhisrestaurantandswitchfromasubshoptoa MiddleEasternandMediterraneanfast,fresheatery.
Aftershuttingdownforaweek,herenovatedtherestaurant andreopenedunderhisnewbrand,Osmow’sinJune2001. AsthecrowdinStreetsvillehadnothadalotofexposureto MiddleEasternfood,Samstartedgivingawayfreesamples athisstorefront.Innotime,peopleintheneighbourhood startedravingaboutalltheflavoursandhome-madesauces servedatOsmow’sanditbecamethehottestspotforlocal foodies.Today,Osmow’shas100locationsconveniently locatedacrossCanada.Thefranchisehasmadeittheir missiontosatisfythecravingsofeachandeveryoneofits consumersaccordingtotheirspecificneedsbyproviding themwithalargeselectionofrichandauthentic Mediterraneancuisine.Currently,thefranchiseisledby SamOsmowPrincipal&Founder&itsCEOandHeadof FranchiseOperations,BenOsmow&Bernadette OsmowChiefMarketing&HRPresident.
Osmow'scombineMiddleeasterncuisinewithaNorth Americanpalette,afusionofbothcultures.Withaflairfor healthy,well-madefood,theOsmow'sfamilyquick-service
restaurantsoffermouth-wateringmealspackedwithfresh flavours,dressedwitharangeofitssignaturesauces.
Osmow'sisaboutgoodfood,family,andgoodtimes.And thefactthatthecompanygoesallouttoservethebest shawarmasthissideoftheNorthAtlanticisevidentfrom thelinesthatstillformoutsideitsstores.Forthosewitha loveofMiddleEasternfood,itsselectionisadelight.The babaganoush(eggplantspread),hummus(chickpea spread),tzatziki(cucumberinyogurt),andtahini(sesame paste)areallmadefromfreshingredients.Theseareserved alongsidegeneroushelpingsoffreshtomatoes,olives, lettuce,andchicken,slow-cookedonarotisserieand finishedoffonthegrilltoaddjustatouchofcrispnessand asmokyflavourpeoplelove.Thereisalsovegetarian falafel(spicedgroundchickpeaballs)andsideordersof riceorfries.Andthereismorethanfinelycarvedmeat, vegetables,pitabread,andsauce.Clientsalsofeastonother delicioustraditionalmenuitemslikekofta(smallground beeflogs),taboule(atraditionalsaladofherbsandbulgur wheat),shishtaouk(marinated,skeweredchicken),kebab platters,andevenPhillysteakorchickenwraps.
Besides,thechainalsoprovidesdeliveryandpick-up optionsforitscustomers.
Osmow'sbelievesthatstaffandfranchiseeshaveallplayed aroleinthesuccess,astheyhavehelpedbuildthechain's foundation.Today,Osmow'sisknownasoneofNorth America'sfastestgrowingfastcasualrestaurantchains. Severalemployeeshavebeenconvertedtofranchiseesand severalfranchiseesownmorethanonelocationduetothe successexperienced.Thefranchisechainsupportsits franchiseesinallaspectsoftheiroperationsbyanextensive rangeofservicesprovidedbyOsmow'sInc.andits dedicatedteamofprofessionals.Itsstaffanditsfranchisees
sharecloseworkingrelationshipsandateamspirit, whichmakesitbothpossibleandpreferableto promotefromwithin.
GivingbacktotheCommunity Osmow'slovestogivebacktothecommunity,get involvedandmakeadifferencewhereitmatters. Someofitscommunityinitiativesinclude,butarenot limitedto,supportingkids,youths,peopleinneed, healthandwellness,andculture.Everythingthisteam touchesinvolvesdedicationtoitscommunitiessuch asclosingtheQueenSt.Torontolocationannuallyon December23rdtofeedthehomelessordonatingto localfoodbanks.Osmow'swasalsooneofthefirstto offerlocalmedicalstaffdiscountsontheirmealsasa wayofthankingthemfortheirselflessserviceand civicloyaltyduringtheCOVID-19shelter-in-place period.
ARapidExpansion Osmow'sisexpandingrapidly.Itwillcontinuously innovatethroughitsmenuandcustomerexperiences, whilemaintainingitsstrongCanadianrootsand givingbacktothecommunity.Alongsideitsrapid expansion,thecompanyisdelightedbyallitsnew memberswhorecentlyjoinedthecompany,bringing newexpertisethatwillhelpdriveitscontinued development.Withthepopularityofitsflavoursand healthyfood,itcomesasnosurprisethatthecompany receivedtheMississaugaandBramptonReaders' ChoiceAwardsforanumberofyearsforitsgreat MiddleEasternfood.Consideringthecurrentstateof thepost-COVIDrestaurantmarket,Osmow'sis confidentthatitssharewillcontinuegrowingthrough take-outanddeliverywhilebigger,sit-down restaurantsmaytakemoretimetorecover.Partofthe strengthofthetypicalquick-servebusinessmodel, Benbelieves,isitscomparativelysmallerfootprint andhigherprofitabilityduetoloweroverhead.With thiscomesanestimatedprojectionofathirteento fourteenpercentincreaseindeliverysalesforthe franchiseoverthecomingyear.Tosupportthese changes,itwillsoonbelaunchinganewappthat comescompletewithaloyaltyprogramaswellasan onlineorderingfunction.
Inanutshell,Osmow'senvisionsbeingthelargest MediterraneanfastcasualchaininNorthAmerica, whichwillbeknownforitsflavourfulandhealthy food,enhancedbyitssignaturesauces.
Elaine R. Sugimura CEO
In an ever-changing environment, brands must stay ahead of their consumers in knowing what they desire, how they want it delivered, and where they can purchase your product.” Inthecurrent culinary&foodieworldweliveintoday, therearedemandsthatindustries communicatetotheconsumersallthe why’s,how’sandwhere’stheycanfind uniqueproductsandensurethefreshnessof it.Today’sconsumersaremoreinformed thaneveronthequalityandsourcingofthe foodsthattheyeat.Thisfreshnew phenomenonisoftendescribedas “foodie culture,” anditschangingcustomer expectationsastowhatproductstheywant andhowmuchtheywillpay.Deliciousand asfreshastheproductcanbe,andwitha uniquestorybehindthem,vomFASSexcels incateringtotheadventuroussensibilities andhighexpectationsoffoodies.Partofthe vomFASSmagiciscarefulselectionand curationofthefinestgrowersandproducers fromtheSwissAlpstotheshoresofthe Mediterranean.
vomFASSisauniqueretail&communityeventbusiness specializinginawidearrayofartisanalproducts, includingtheworld’sfinestoils,vinegars,spirits,wine, gourmetfoods,andspices.Experientialretailiswhere thefocusisasconsumersarehungryforamore customizedinteractionwiththeproductstheybringinto theirhomeorofferasgifts.Thecompany’scustomer loyaltybasehasgrownexponentially,asoncetheytaste theamazingproducts;theyunderstandwhatqualitytruly is.Theirqualityproductsarewhatsetsthemapartandin ordertosupportthefranchisee’sandcontinuallyimprove theireducationandtrainingonallproductofferings,the franchisorcreatedandinvestedinaninternalWiki.It alsoactsasanextensiverepositoryforrecipesthatare submittedbyvomFASS’franchisees,whichmakesthe productscometolife.Bycontinuingtolearnwhatits customersarelookingfor,thecompanycanmodifytheir offeringsfromproducttotheretailenvironment.Asa team,theyarealwaysstrivingtowardsimprovingthe productstheydelivertoboththeirfranchiseesand consumerbase.
Thecombinationofexclusiveartisanalproductsand uniquein-storetastingexperiencesprovidefranchisees withtoolstocapitalizeontwokeytrends:thefoodie cultureandexperientialretail.vomFassfranchiseeslove
World’s Best Franchise Opportunities to Own, 2020
toentertainandeducatecustomersonnewproduct arrivals,enticingpairingsandhowtointegrateits extensivelineofgourmetproductsintothelivesand homesoftheircustomers.Theybecomeambassadorsof thecompanybyleveragingitsuniquevalueproposition &extensiveproductknowledgetodelivertheexperience andauthenticitythattoday’sconsumersdemand.The companyisproudtohavereceivedmanyawardsforboth theproductsitoffersaswellasitsFranchisesystem. Thistraditionofexcellenceissomethingthatembodies everythingthecompanylaystheirhandson–fromstore locationstoselectionoftheirfranchiseesandofcourse, anynewproductoffering.
Ek2,LLCownedbybothElaineR.Sugimuraand KevinM.Frainwhowerehiredasconsultantsand BoardAdvisorstousetheirstrengthsasdisruptors,and changeagentstocreatethebeststrategytomovethe businessforward.Withlimitedresources,allofthe changeshadtobeexecutedwithinthecurrentexpense structure.AsactiveCEOandCOO,theyhavebeenable
“Future growth, improved operations, delicious product offerings to the best of class locations and franchise partners will guarantee the success of vomFASS as we migrate towards major expansion in the next 5 years and more!”
toshiftthepastlossesintocurrentgains.HavingheldtheCEOtitle invariousbusinessespriortojoiningvomFASS,Elaine’sglobal communicationandmarketingskillshaveallowedtheorganization togrowinnewareasofbusiness.Herinternationalbusiness experienceandapplicablestrategiescontinuetofuelthegrowthof thecompany.KevinhasheldbothCOOandCFOtitlesinhiswork experiencesthusfar.Hehasbeeninstrumentalindrivingthe changeswithintheoverallOperations.Creatingandimplementing newprocessesandproceduralstrategieshasliftedthecompanytoa newlevelofsuccess.Thenext5-yeargrowthstrategiesarenot possiblewithoutthecriticalimprovementsbyek2,LLC.Together, ElaineandKevinhavechangedthemake-upoftheUScompany;by givingit“thecolor”itneeded. vomFASSisnowpoisedtotakeon newchallengesandwillmeetandorexceedcorporateexpectations intheyearsahead.
Theinitialchallengein1994waswhenJohannesKiderlenmadean errorinhiscalculationswhenbuyingsherryforhiswholesale customers.Herealizedthathehadonetoomanyzerosontheorder quantityheplacedwithhissupplierandwasunabletoreturnthe
alcoholoncepurchased.Thisledtotheidea ofofferingthesherryala“vomFASS”–meaning“fromthecask/barrel”.
JohannesKiderlendecidedtoofferthesherry incasks,andhewassoonrewardedbasedon hisgeniusmarketingidea.Oncethewordwas out,thebusinessbegantoriseashehad envisioned.Hecreatedanexperiential strategybeforetheworldwasreadyforthis typeofmarketing.Astheyearsprogressed,he continuedtogrowthecompanywithnew productofferingsmarketedinthesame manner–“fromthecask”.Thus,theworldof vomFASStookrootandbeganits unprecedentedgrowthpathinEurope.They continuetobethedominantplayerandthe forefatherofthetaste-before-you-buy concept.Astheworldcontinuestomoveata fastpace,vomFASSisstilltheleaderinthe marketplaceforthisconcept.Thecompany’s goalistobuildwithouteverlosingthe essenceofthebrands’originalmission createdbyJohannes.Heaptlystated,“Only thebest,always!”“Onlytheverybest ingredientsthatcanbefoundwillbeusedin themanufactureofvomFASSoils,vinegars, gourmetfoods,spiritsandspices.”
Theopportunitytointeractandcreatean experiencethatisbothdelicioustotheir palateandtheabilitytoeducatecustomers withthevomFASSstoryandhowitsspecial partnershipsandbondwithitsproducers continuestobeoneofthekeyreasonsforits success.Thisisagreatopportunitytowork withanestablishedbrandanduseyourskills toeducateandentertaincustomers.vomFASS franchiseeshaveastrongsetofbusiness skills,enjoytherecognitionofownership,and theopportunitytocontroltheirowndestinies whileprovidingsuperiorqualityproductsto theircustomers. “It’s a great time to join the vomFASS family,” saysThomasKiderlen, ownerofvomFASS.Headds,“For over 25 years the vomFASS franchise opportunity has provided the platform for highly motivated individuals to display their communication and business skills and appreciation of
Kevin M. Frain COOgourmet foods & spirits. Our franchise opportunity revolves around educating, informing, and sharing a vast array of products in an exciting environment.”
vomFASScontinuestobethedominant playerandtheforefatherofthetaste-beforeyou-buyconcept.Thecompanybelievesthat everybusinesswhethertheyareafranchisee entitymustcontinuetoreinventthemselvesto ensuresustainabilityandgrowthinsucha highlycompetitivemarketplace.Havinga nichebusinessmodel,suchasvomFASS,will continuetohaveaplaceinthemarketas consumersarealwayslookingtosupport smallbusinessesaswellasexciting experientialretailinstallations.vomFASS’s Look-Taste-Enjoyconceptdeliversaretail experiencethatistrulyuniqueinthe marketplace.
Theexplosionofthe“Wellness”consumerretail category,andlicensedprofessionalmassagein particular,iswell-documented.Peoplecravethe relaxation,andreliefofmusclepainandmentalstress. Doctorsareembracingmassageaspartofacomprehensive “wellnessjourney”whichisincreasinglybecomingapart ofhealthcareplans.ZenMassageFranchising, Incorporated,franchisorofZenMassageCenters,provides ahighqualityprofessionalmassageinacomfortable environmentwithseveralAdvantagesforConsumers.
ZenMassageofferspromisingmassagebusiness opportunitieswithasuccessful,growing systemwith locationsinsixstates.Thecompanyisledbyfranchise businessveteransfromTCBYandMcDonald’s.
Belowarethehighlightsoftheinterviewconducted betweenInsightsSuccessandZenMassageCEOKeith Larson:
Giveabriefoverviewofthecompanyanditsvision.
Weofferdifference-making,competitiveadvantagesthat bothconsumersandfranchiseesprefer.Weofferconsumers resort-qualityprofessionalmassageandskincareservices inacomfortableenvironmentateverydaylowprices–with NOcontractsormembershipfees.Andweofferfranchisees asimple,provenbusinesssystematlowercostsandfees thanourcompetitors.
Whatarethecutting-edgeproducts/servicesofferedby ZenMassage?
Honestly,wearen’tre-inventingthewheelonmassage therapyasmuchaswe’vereinventedtheretailmassage businessmodel.Consumershatemassagecontractsand membershipfeesjustliketheyhatecellphoneandcable TVcontractsandfees.We’rethefirstsystemtobe structuredto not laythosehasslesonconsumers.Andfor ourfranchisees,we’vestructuredourZenbusinesssystem tobeabletodelivertheNoContracts-NoMembership Fees-Loweverydaypricespromise.
Giveadetaileddescriptionofthe Founder/CEO/Management’scontributionoverthe companyandtheindustry.
Wearefranchisesystemveteranswhounderstandwhatit takestosucceedinthatarena.RandallScribnerwasalong time,verysuccessful,multi-locationTCBYfranchiseeand headofitsnationalfranchiseeassociation.Hewasalso
CEOofJustFreshrestaurantsandCFO/COOofSwisher International.IwasRegionalDirectorofFranchised OperationsforMcDonald’sCorporationinitsheadquarters marketofChicago,andalsospentseveralyearsin McDonald’smarketingbeforeshiftingintooperations.I wasalsoSeniorVPofoneofMcDonald’slargestad agencies.Iwasoperatingmyownadvertisingconsultancy inCharlottewhenRandallbroughtmeintoleadtheZen Massage®rebrandingandmarketingeffort.
Whatarethedistinctivefeatures/foundationsthatmake ZenMassageuniquefromitscompetitors?
NumberoneistheNoContracts–NoMembershipfees combinedwithoureverydaylowpricing.Over80%ofour newclientscometousfromcompetitorswhohatebeing “sold”andpressuredwhenalltheywantisano-hassle massageescape. Forfranchisees,thefactthatwehaveso muchexperienceinfranchisesystems,andknowthata franchisoronlysucceedsifitsfranchiseessucceeds,is vastlydifferentfrommostotherapproaches.
Describetheexperiences,achievementsorlessonslearn thathasshapedthejourneyofthecompany. I’dsaythekeythingislearningtoviewtheindustryfrom thecustomerpointofview,firstandforemost.And similarly,toviewthebusinessfromthestandpointof, “Whatdoesittakeforafranchiseetosucceed?”
WheredoesZenMassageseeitselfinthelongrunand whatareitsfuturegoals?
There’saJapanesesayingIlearnedinmyMcDonald’s days:Togofast,youmustfirstgoslow.Randallinherently knewthis,andspentseveralyearsafteracquiringthe companyfine-tuningitsoperationsandreshapingitasa franchisesystem.WhenIjoined,wetookasimilargo-slow approachtogetallofourmarketingpositionedjustright.In thelasttwoorthreeyearswe’vereachedtheplacewhere we’rereallypoisedforgrowth–andit’shappening!
