'Once-in-lifetime opportunity' for rail improvement
MPs, councillors and transport campaigners have united in calling for improved rail services in the Bristol area.
A meeting held to discuss the future of public transport heard the city had been presented with a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to see better train services introduced.
Campaigners discussed how they should approach lobbying the Government for improvements, including a half-hourly Bristol Metro service to be included as part of the new Great Western franchise.
Four companies are currently in the running to take over the franchise currently operated by First, which covers the main line between London and Bristol as well as local services.
Final details and specifications of the new franchise, which will be drafted by the Department for Transport in the coming weeks, will shape railway provision for the region for the next 15 years.
The aim of the meeting, organised by the Transport for the Greater Bristol Alliance (TFGB), was to create a consensus on what should be included in the franchise brief.
Last night’s event at the Council House was attended by members of some of the leading transport organisations and pressure groups, along with rail industry representatives and government officials.
The meeting was told that urgent action needed to be taken to free up Bristol’s road network, which is occupied by the slowest moving traffic outside of London.
The panel of speakers included transport commentator Christian Wolmar, TFGB spokesman Bernard Kennedy and Liberal Democrat transport spokesman in the House of Lords, Lord Bradshaw. Read More…
Budget Blinds Introduces BB Commercial Solutions
Recognizing the opportunity to provide window coverings to the $1 billion commercial market, Budget Blinds, the nation‘s largest window coverings franchise, has announced the launch of BB Commercial Solutions (BBCS). With over 800 franchises in North America, Budget Blinds has a vendor alliance program and national footprint that is unmatched. These distinct competitive advantages will be incorporated into BBCS operations, placing it in prime position to dominate the fragmented commercial window coverings industry.
Whereas Budget Blinds primarily services homeowners, BBCS will cater to the specific needs of businesses and institutions such as restaurants, hotels, retail stores, hospitals, schools and more. BBCS will provide quality commercial window treatments using adapted solutions so every niche commercial need is met.
“Because BBCS is backed by the market expertise and brand recognition of Budget Blinds, we immediately become the largest commercial window coverings provider in the country,” said John Campbell, Vice President of Vendor Alliance at BBCS. “This has allowed us to develop exclusive programs with top industry manufacturers such as Hunter Douglas, Levolor and Bali. The end result is our ability to give clients the widest product selection at competitive prices.” Read More…
Chicago Wine and Art Studio Opens Another Franchise, This Time in La Grange, IL
Bottle & Bottega, a premier corporate and social event business that creates fun and unique artistic experiences paired with wine, announced the sale of another franchise location, this time in the La Grange, IL market, a suburb just outside Chicago, the company’s headquarters and home to its flagship studio. The new owners, Paul and Meg LeFaivre, call La Grange home and will launch their business on June 11, 2012.
“Interest in Bottle & Bottega franchise territories has been very strong since our launch, especially in our home state of Illinois, and we couldn’t be more pleased and encouraged to welcome our newest franchise less than 6 months from the launch of our franchise program,” says Nancy Bigley, the company’s CEO and Co-owner. Furthermore, says Bigley, “Our industry is booming and Bottle & Bottega continues to see year over year growth, thus we are encouraged and confident in this continued pattern for 2012.”
Pairing wine with multiple forms of hands-on art instruction from local artists, Bottle & Bottega offers an alternative to a typical night out with friends. The fun, fresh and inspiring concept is available to individuals at daily public events as well as private and corporate art parties—hosting bridal parties, birthday celebrations, team-building or conference activities, date nights or gatherings of friends.
Launched in 2009, Bottle & Bottega is the artistic stroke of genius of Stephanie King-Myers. Partnering with franchise executive Nancy Bigley in 2010, the two exceptionally creative and driven women left their successful corporate careers to pursue their passions and devote their vision, talent, and energy to a collaborative business of their own. “Nancy and I, after rewarding careers in corporate, found our true passion in owning our own business and creating unique and lasting experiences for our guests. By franchising, we want to give others the same opportunity to be their own boss and enjoy highly gratifying work while building their financial future,” says King-Myers.
Bottle & Bottega provides an opportunity for entrepreneurial-minded, fun-loving, savvy professionals to operate a year-round business that serves adults and organizations, with multiple revenue streams ranging from public and private parties to retail and more, provided in studio and off-site at residential and commercial venues. Franchisees also benefit from low start-up costs as well as proven systems and processes with an emphasis on e-marketing, a fast business launch and a highly experienced and committed franchise support team. With more than 18 years of franchise operations experience with such brands as Baskin-Robbins, Mr. Electric, and American Leak Detection, managing nearly 1,000 units, Nancy has built best-in-class franchise systems and support that drive guest satisfaction and business profitability. Bottle and Bottega is a member of IFA (International Franchising Association) and fully embraces the IFA code of ethics in serving and supporting our franchisees. Read More…
James Caan says franchising should be encouraged
Entrepreneur James Caan has become one of the most recognisable names in the business world, having gained success with his executive recruitment companies, a stint on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, as author of a series of popular business start-up guides and the James Caan’s Business Secrets App for Apple and Android smartphones.
“I’m delighted because the App has done a lot better than I had expected,” he smiles. “It has been downloaded 160,000 times and has given me an opportunity to give back to the business community. It helps entrepreneurs to evaluate the business, how to accelerate growth, find talent and use ecommerce to strengthen and enhance their business.”
This recognition is backed by a successful career spanning almost 30 years, from which he has acquired an enviable knowledge of how to successfully run businesses and how franchising provides the key to business growth.
James demonstrated this to great effect with executive recruitment company Humana International, which he founded in 1993. He subsequently franchised the business so that by the time he sold it six years later, it had 147 offices spanning 30 countries.
“Franchising is one of the most effective ways to develop a business,” explains James. “By using a tried and tested method, it gives privately-owned businesses a great way of distribution and business expansion, by being able to pool resources and capabilities and remain competitive.
“The overall principle of franchising is the art of replication. This requires a reasonable amount of investment in creating a well thought through framework, which enables a potential franchise owner to replicate a franchisor’s success.”
Back the right people
“Franchising is a win-win philosophy – the franchise owner can clearly win with their earnings and it is a win for the franchisor as means of development if their franchise owners are successful,” continues James. Read More…
Choosing the right consultant for your franchise
Franchising a business is a complicated process that needs to be done in the right way by using the services of a reputable, experienced and British Franchise Association-accredited consultant.
With any consultant, you will be investing in their expertise, knowledge and time. It is a false economy to go with the natural inclination of selecting the cheapest option available. The more economical options for franchise consultancy will quite often result in less time dedicated to developing a comprehensive franchise system. Short cuts taken during this process could lead to big problems in the future.
Each business is different and so are each business owners’ goals, so an individual approach is needed to franchise a business. The ‘off the shelf’ approach adopted by some unregulated advisors to franchise development simply doesn’t work.
The legal agreement is a vital element of setting up the franchise. Reputable consultants will only use the services of solicitors who are experienced in drawing up these contracts. As each franchise is different the legal agreement should be tailored to the franchise.
Simply downloading a Franchise Agreement template from the internet will not give your business, brand and network of franchise owners sufficient protection. Beware that some consultants offer little more than a legal agreement template as part of their low cost package, which is often out of date and unenforceable when required. Read More…
Dickey's Is Heading To Jackson
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit will be adding a new location in Jackson. Franchise owner Richard Wolcott has signed a lease and is excited to begin construction. “Amador County has a true need for a fast and friendly restaurant the serves great food and that is open regular hours every day of the week,” said new franchise owner Richard Wolcott. “There has been excitement as we spread the word that we are bringing a Dickey’s to town. Everyone is chomping at the bit to eat at our location and also to take home.”
For the past 25 years Wolcott worked for financial services company, George Ballard Company. He eventually bought the company and served at president for the last 15 years. Prior to the George Ballard Company, Wolcott worked in numerous food service businesses along with in the construction industry.
“My wife and I have been searching for a business where we can deliver a great product and service, while being an active and important part of the community,” said Wolcott. “We see Dickey’s as being our avenue to fulfill this dream.”
The new location is located at 12240 Industry Blvd., Suite 74. The store phone number is 209-223-2748. Read More…
The Gardener Expands Yard Maintenance into Alberta with New Calgary Franchise
The Gardener has extended its yard maintenance services into the province of Alberta for the first time with the addition of its new Calgary location. The Gardener is pleased to add Calgary owner Kevin Linstead to the team.
Opening a franchise location in a new province is certainly a momentous occasion for the team at The Gardener. With a location in Calgary South the company is eager to share its award winning customer service with the Calgary population.
As a long standing resident of Calgary, owner Kevin Linstead is excited to take part in the local economy. With extensive experience in the landscape maintenance industry, Kevin is looking forward to sharing his natural lawn care methods with other Calgary residents, one property at a time.
Kevin chose to purchase a franchise from The Gardener for a number of reasons. The work/life balance that The Gardener offers its owners is exceptional, allowing for an individual to work within their local community, enjoy a short commute and be their own boss.
The financial benefits are indeed also exceptional. Owners like Kevin are eager to capitalize on the fast growing $80 billion home services industry with the support and brand name of an industry leader like The Gardener, who have been providing quality lawn maintenance services to satisfied clients for over 25 years. In fact it is that level of support that really appeals to owners. A franchise owner has the complete support from head office support staff whenever they need it. The Gardener’s head office support staff act as office staff for each individual franchise, cutting down on staffing needs and administration time at the local level. Read More…
Discover how banks can support your franchise plans
The first step in selecting the right franchise for you is to eliminate all the brands with investment levels outside your budget and those that will not generate the income you require from the business. Be aware that there is no standardisation across the franchise media regarding advertised investment levels, which can be confusing and, in some cases, confusing for potential investors.
What you really want to know is the likely total investment costs including all equipment costs and working capital needed to operate the business. Unfortunately this information is not always immediately transparent.
Experts in banks that specialise in franchising are able to provide impartial guidance about franchise opportunities. If your own bank doesn’t have a franchise department then speak to a bank that does. Your bank manager will require a business plan to set up an account and consider financial support for your business. Any lender will want you to demonstrate that you understand your chosen market and that you will be able to meet the financial commitment you are taking on. Most banks will be able to provide a business plan template detailing the information that should be included in the document. Some franchisors will support you in developing an effective business plan.
The business plan should be punchy and a common mistake is to make it too detailed. Having said this it needs to contain sufficient information for the bank manager to make a decision. Ensure that it grabs the bank manager’s interest. Presentation of the plan is important to create a positive impression and you should practise delivery of your plan beforehand so that you come across professionally. Expect your plan to be challenged and you should be able to confidently answer questions about the operational and financial aspects about it. Read More…
Franchising will take Manhattan
This year, the International Franchise Expo (IFE) moves to a new home in New York City and promises to be bigger than ever, drawing in a huge audience of movers and shakers in the worldwide franchise industry, and those looking to be part of it.
From June 15 to 17, franchises will be able to exhibit their concepts to thousands of prospective investors and franchise owners. People looking to do business locally in New York, nationally and internationally will all be at the exhibition, and this year, the IFE is doing something different, opening the show to any company without restriction.
This year, franchisors have the opportunity to apply for Trade Show Exemption status, allowing them to do business at the exhibition.
This fee-based exemption, provided by the NY State Attorney General, has never been done before and it opens up the exhibition doors to a whole new group of franchised businesses.
The exemption means franchisors can exhibit at the IFE without formal registration with the state of New York and promote their opportunity on the exhibition floor during trade show hours. However, actual sales agreements must take place after the company has registered. Read More…
Merry Maids to Host National Hiring Week: Company to Hire Approximately 1,000 New Positions Nationwide
Memphis-based Merry Maids, the world’s largest home cleaning franchise, announced intentions today to hire approximately 1,000 new full and part-time positions to support its 70 company-owned locations and 400 franchised operations throughout the United States.
To support the company’s hiring plans, Merry Maids is hosting a National Hiring Week May 21 — 25 and asks for all interested and qualified candidates to apply online at jobs.merrymaids.com. Local Merry Maids managers have committed to follow up with all of the most qualified applicants within 24 hours for telephone interviews.
The company is seeking motivated and energetic applicants to apply for open teammate positions, with primary job responsibilities to professionally clean customer homes using the Merry Maids unique cleaning procedures and products. The positions offer competitive wages plus mileage reimbursement options.
The industry-leading company has established hiring goals based on its business plans and performance expectations.
“Merry Maids is always seeking trusted, reliable people who are properly screened, insured and bonded to deliver a thorough, customized and professional home cleaning that exceeds the needs of our customers,” said Chip Fullerton, director of branch operations for Merry Maids. “We are excited to host our first National Hiring Week to help support the powerful growth the Merry Maids team is experiencing.” Read More…
RetroFitness Celebrates Past Years' Success and Focuses on Bright Future at Fourth Annual National Conference
In early-May, more than 150 RetroFitness franchise owners, vendor partners, and company corporate executives joined together at The Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, N.J. to celebrate the growth and success of the national fitness company’s franchise system.
With an emphasis on providing value to consumers at the current $19.99 a month memberships, the two-day event kicked off with a vendor trade show where RetroFitness franchise owners experienced firsthand new product and equipment innovations available to them to gain a more competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Eric Casaburi, founder and CEO of RetroFitness, held an hour-long corporate meeting and shared the company’s vision for 2012 and strength of the brand as a whole.
“It will be a strong year for our company. We are adding incredible value to our gyms without increasing price. By demanding high-quality gyms and increasing the experience of our member’s workouts, we will stand out against the competition,” Casaburi said. “The conference was a high-energy event that produced new ideas on what we need to do to remain a leading fitness concept. The takeaways were unbelievable and we look forward to another impressive year of growth for RetroFitness.” Read More…
Blue Chip Pet Care has Attractive News for Pet Lovers and Entrepreneurs through Pet Sitting, Dog Walking and Much More
Blue Chip Pet Care is pleased to announce a new business opportunity for those who love pets and have dreamed of owning their own business. The Blue Chip Pet Care Franchise is an in-home based pet service company with a high return on investment. The Blue Chip Pet Care model was developed in Nashville, TN. The original company was known as Lucky Dog Nashville by local Nashvillians and those who travel to Nashville. Company founder and C.E.O. Hunter Reed developed a business model in 2009 to provide in home pet services such as dog walking, pet sitting, pet shuttle, in home product deliveries and more.
Blue Chip Pet Care is currently offering franchise opportunities in select markets across the country. Hunter says “when I developed the business I envisioned a highly professional full service pet company that provides a total turn key service to the customer. Our services are focused around the three core principles that I believe any pet owner and pet would appreciate. Reliability, exceptional customer service and a high standard of professionalism.” The name Blue Chip Pet Care was chosen becuase of the pet industries ‘recession proof’ reputation. Chris Conner owner of Franchise Marketing Systems says “the pet franchise industry is big…and getting bigger. Not only is the Pet Franchise business a lucrative one, but people also enjoy the idea of spending their time working with pets, things they love and something they are truly passionate about.” Read More…
Take the fast lane to success
The 5DAY opportunity
If you are looking for a lucrative, well-founded management opportunity in an ever-replenishing market, 5DAY is the franchise for you.
5DAY has devised a unique driving course enabling people with no previous experience to pass their driving theory and practical tests within five consecutive days of their tuition.
As a 5DAY franchise owner you will manage a team of DSA-qualified Driving Instructors and market your 5DAY franchise in your exclusive area. You don’t have to be a Driving Instructor yourself, just have excellent management skills.
Now established in Norwich, Manchester, Peterborough and North London, 5DAY is targeting Birmingham and Glasgow as areas of priority development. However, the opportunity to own and operate this fantastic franchise still exists through other areas in the UK.
Benefits of the 5DAY franchise:
Positive cash flow
All 5DAY courses are paid for, in full, in advance so you don’t have to worry about chasing late payments and can enjoy a positive cash flow.
Quick return on investment
Based on the success of the existing 5DAY training centres, 5DAY franchise owners will be able to recoup their initial investment fee within a minimum of 18 months and be in profit by year two of trading.
Simple, proven marketing strategy
Franchise owners will benefit from the tried and tested 5DAY marketing strategy. By following this proven system you can avoid costly mistakes.
Up and running quickly
With the assistance of the 5DAY franchise team, your training centre can be operational in just eight weeks. Allowing you to get your business going quickly and growing fast.
Comprehensive training and support
Franchise owners will benefit from a full support package supplied by the 5DAY management team who have vast experience in this exciting industry.
Huge market potential
Current annual demand for combined theory and practical driving tests in the UK has now reached a staggering 3.2 million! This is your opportunity to grab a share of this lucrative market.
9-5 business
5DAY training centres operate 9-5, so you can achieve a healthy work/life balance.
Unique opportunity
Many driving schools claim to offer an intensive training course but 5DAY is one of the few UK driving schools to deliver a thorough practical and theory driving course over five consecutive days. Read More…
Sunbelt Business Broker Ken Demske Completes Sale Of Franchise Business
Milwaukee Office of Sunbelt Midwest, the place to go to buy or sell a business, is pleased to announce the sale of a franchise lawn care business. Ken Demske, a senior business broker with scores of successful mid-range business transactions facilitated the franchise sale. The franchise business went on the market in September of 2011 and received multiple offers before the sale was complete on May 4, 2012. The transaction closed without bank or seller financing.
Ken has closed many businesses in diverse industries such as manufacturing, service, distribution, retail and franchises. “Franchise opportunities offer high success rates and are often attractive to buyers for the support and stability a franchise business model offers.” said Ken. “When purchasing a franchise the buyer receives ongoing support from the franchisor. Typically this includes marketing, training, management support and immediate brand recognition.” Ken’s many network contacts in Banking, Accounting, Consulting and Legal arenas helps him successfully assist buyers and sellers in accomplishing their goals. Ken has worked in multiple sales capacities all the way up to International Sales Manager of a Fortune 200 company. With a career spanning over 30 years, Ken brings real life experience and is annually recognized as a top producer for the Milwaukee office of Sunbelt Midwest. Read More…
Maui Wowi Hawaiian Selects Their Newest Franchisee to Serve the Austin, Texas Area
Maui Wowi Hawaiian has selected their newest franchisee to bring more of the all-natural smoothie and Hawaiian coffee brand to the Austin, Texas area. Franchisee Tony Mai is on track to begin building a business that will serve quality products in a laidback Hawaiian atmosphere.
“I love the concept and products that Maui Wowi brings to the table. The brand and the logo stand out and are different from any other smoothie place out there,” said Mai. “I have been looking for a business that I can enjoy, have fun and put smiles on every customer’s face every time they walk in the store; Maui Wowi is that business!”
Mai originally lived in Louisiana and has extensive food and beverage experience, owning a convenience store, a Chinese restaurant, as well as a pizza business. All were highly successful but after Hurricane Katrina virtually destroyed the community, he decided it was time for a fresh start and moved to Texas in 2010 with his wife and two sons. “It’s a great place to start over again and Austin is a great place to raise a family,” said Mai.
Mai plans to start his new journey as a franchise owner by establishing a Maui Wowi kiosk in a highly visible and fun environment, such as the University of Texas. He will be involved in every facet of the business, exhibiting a hands on approach to ensure that every aspect of day to day operations will run smoothly and that he is serving only the highest quality products to his customers. Read More…
Home care franchise pledges 500 jobs in the West Midlands
A home care franchise has pledged to create 500 jobs in the West Midlands this year due to increasing demand for its services.
Home Instead Senior Care, which provides helpers for the elderly to live independently in their own homes, already employs 326 staff in seven offices across the region, and most of the new jobs will be for carers.
Staff will report to bases in Cannock, Edgbaston, Solihull, Stratford-upon-Avon, Stourbridge, Sutton Coldfield and Wolverhampton, part of a national network of 115 offices employing more than 3,500 people.
Philip Maundrill, who took over the Warwickshire franchise as managing director a year ago, said he was pleased with his company’s growth rate.
“The expansion of the business bears testament to the service our team provides,” he said. Read More…
Posted Under:
Senior Care
This post was written by
Julie on May 17, 2012
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When It Comes to Restroom Hygiene, Enviro-Master 'Shines'
While most people go through life avoiding the ‘dirty work,’ Enviro-Master is taking on the often avoided task of restroom sanitization. This one-of-a-kind concept has positioned itself at the forefront of the multi-billion dollar restroom hygiene industry, offering would-be entrepreneurs a recession-proof franchise opportunity, while enhancing the image of hygiene customers and even increasing their revenues.
With 11 franchises currently open and operating in seven states, Enviro-Master is looking to have a total of 100 U.S. franchises within the next 48 months.
With a client list that reads like a “Who’s Who” of blue chip companies — including Pepsi, Exxon, Firestone, BP, Chick-fil-A, Pizza Hut and Chili’s, among others — Enviro-Master is introducing a new era of restroom hygiene with its services and products. Delivering hygiene and sani-scrub services which kill disease-carrying bacteria, germs and odors on contact, Enviro-Master protects its clients’ brand and polishes their images from the inside out.
“In all businesses, restroom cleanliness is a reflection upon the quality and professionalism of the business,” said Enviro-Master CEO Pat Swisher, who previously founded Swisher Hygiene and is often credited with ‘inventing’ the restroom hygiene industry. “And this is where Enviro-Master shines. By making our clients’ restrooms a positive reflection on their business, we improve their image and can even increase their revenues.” Read More…
Dickey's Barbecue Creates Smokin' Pit Master Program
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is kicking up its heels while celebrating the newly expanded training university and development of their Barbecue Pit Master Program.”Training is the backbone of our growing franchise,” said Roland Dickey, Jr. president of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “Solid training is essential to guarantee our franchise will be successful year after year and we take that education program very seriously.”
Barbecue U is Dickey’s “barbecue boot camp.” It’s a development program that infuses owners and employees with the Dickey family secrets to running a successful restaurant. The training focuses on food preparation, business systems and the personality behind the brand. Every Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurant is required to have at least three Barbecue U certified staff members.
Over 250 barbecue fanatics graduate the program every year and that number is climbing due to the explosive growth of the franchise. The company recently expanded its class size due to overwhelming growth at its corporate headquarters in Dallas.
“Our family has spent the last 70 years perfecting the art of great barbecue and we have standards to maintain the authenticity of our barbecue,” said Dickey said. “Our customers expect perfection and we deliver.”
The quick-serve barbecue restaurant also offers continuing education through on-line certification courses and a newly rolled out master’s barbecue program. The Pit Master program extends training through a master’s level education in barbecue which takes Dickey’s development and training program to the next level. Read More…
BRAVADA to Begin Implementing Its Franchise Program After Receiving USPTO Approval for World of Leggings(TM) Trademark
BRAVADA International Ltd. ( www.WorldofLeggings.com ) BRAV +12.20% announced today that it intends to begin implementing its franchise program for its World of Leggings retail stores after receiving approval by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for a registered trademark for World of Leggings(TM). USPTO approval of the World of Leggings trademark is a critical step in launching a nationwide franchise opportunity for its World of Leggings retail stores. BRAVADA is planning to launch its World of Leggings franchise program in late 2012 allowing for accelerated growth of its World of Leggings retail store footprint.
To date, BRAVADA has received a number of inquiries into purchasing a World of Leggings franchise and anticipates robust demand given the profitability of its first two World of Leggings retail stores and the unique business model and product offering of its World of Leggings retail stores. Completing the trademark process with the USPTO was the final step in moving forward with developing a franchise program for its World of Leggings brand. Read More…
Restaurant Franchise Owners Find Opportunity Over Greens and Corn Pudding
In the summer of 2011, Brent and Malinda Willits reached a franchise agreement with VooDoo BBQ & Grill to open five VooDoo locations in Austin, Texas, a town that already has a freewheeling, anything-goes spirit — not unlike VooDoo’s home city of New Orleans – and a place where people treasure and argue about barbecue. One reason why VooDoo’s a success in south Louisiana is the relative absence of barbecue competitors. We wondered why the Willitses wanted to bring a touch of VooDoo into an already barbecue-rich market, and why a couple with a background working in casinos – and in Brent’s case, piloting boats on the Mississippi River – would want to try their hand at running barbecue restaurants as a family business. Brent, 52, and Malinda, 42, will be opening their first Austin location in May, with Brent’s 32-year-old daughter Angela installed as manager.
Q. What’s your background?
Brent Willits: I’m from Iowa originally, and I grew up on the Mississippi River, so it was natural for me to end up working on riverboats, big river towboats. I dropped out of high school at 17 to go work as a deckhand on a tug, and I gradually worked my way up to pilot. I worked on the river for about 15 years. I got into the riverboat casino business in 1991, when they started putting casinos on riverboats. That’s how I met Malinda; she was working at a casino in Joliet, Illinois.
Malinda Willits: I was born and raised in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Brent and I met at Harrah’s Joliet Casino, where he was director of marine operations and I was working in marketing. Then I became a craps dealer and later table and slot games supervisor. I left casinos in 2002 because we have an autistic child, and I’ve been a stay-at-home mom since then. Read More…
What’s the Secret to a Successful Franchise? “Love What You Do!”
As the weeks pass and we delve further into the amazing companies, MassageLuXe and FaceLuXe, more and more people are asking questions about this incredible career opportunity. From people who wish to find the ‘LuXe’ experience that’s closest to them to entrepreneurs who wish to begin their own franchise to others who are out there looking for a career they will love in a fantastic business that truly cares about their employees – the ‘LuXe’ name is being spoken about absolutely everywhere.To catch you up, MassageLuXe was truly built on the fact that everyone on this planet should be afforded a ‘taste of the good life.’ Relaxation, as we all know, is the key to our well-being, health, not to mention our attitude, and no matter what size your pocketbook or billfold might be, MassageLuXe was created on the fact that everyone can enjoy this type of serenity. Because of this theory and a proven marketing concept – MassageLuXe and FaceLuXe have become the fastest growing luxury massage franchise in the country.
MassageLuXe has six hundred franchises in various stages of development right at this moment, and when they speak about the type of franchiser that best suits the ‘LuXe’ name, they always speak about those enthusiastic professionals that absolutely exude the positive attitude that MassageLuXe consistently shows. They want people to act as brand ambassadors for their organization, and the MassageLuXe franchisers we are speaking with today are all that and more.
Steve and Margo Allison are a couple who displayed that willingness to strive for the extraordinary and refuse to take ‘so-so’ when it came to their profession. And because of this, O’Fallon, Missouri is complete with more than one MassageLuXe franchise that is truly unique. Happy and educated employees, a professional atmosphere, and therapies that provide each and every one of us – old and young – with the relaxation that is truly missing in the world today…this company has it all.Seeing as that we have been speaking about Todd Beckman (the creator and owner of the ‘LuXe’ brand), and all he has accomplished with his incredible companies, we are now going to turn the spotlight on franchise owners who are a part of Mr. Beckman’s team. The Allison’s franchise is one of nine MassageLuXe locations in St. Louis. The Allison’s are a true team, and their offerings of massages, facials, and other therapies are the ‘best of the best’ when it comes to taking that ‘moment in time’ for yourself to improve your overall health. Read More…
Home Instead Senior Care Debuts Free Online Alzheimer's Training Program for Family Caregivers
Home Instead Senior Care today announces the launch of a groundbreaking online Alzheimer’s training program — Alzheimer’s CARE. The program is free for families and others caring for loved ones with the disease. Experts estimate that some 5.2 million people 65 and older currently have Alzheimer’s and the total number of cases among all age groups is expected to surge 50 percent in the next 20 years.
The Home Instead first-of-its-kind family training program addresses current and future health needs by offering family members a fresh approach to providing Alzheimer’s care — one that encourages mental engagement to help relatives remain safely at home and in familiar surroundings as long as possible.
“Since launching the Alzheimer’s CARE training to our franchise network, we’ve received many requests from the families of clients to make this training available to all to improve the quality of daily interactions for both the caregivers and their loved ones,” said Jeff Huber, president and Chief Operating Officer, Home Instead. “Some 80 percent of home Alzheimer’s care is provided by family members. This new program, based on input from renowned aging and dementia experts, offers them a much-needed resource for coping with challenges presented by the disease while maintaining their loved one’s dignity and helping them live more fulfilling lives.”
Each year, an estimated 15 million Americans provide 17.4 billion hours of unpaid care to their loved ones with Alzheimer’s.
Through five interactive classes, family members learn how to immerse themselves in the mindsets of their loved ones to help manage behavioral symptoms frequently associated with the disease, such as belligerence and anger. Additional videos, downloadable PDFs, self-care tips, quizzes and other resources are also available.
“Alzheimer’s clients have diminished short-term memory and generally live in the past,” says aging expert and author David Troxel. “When you try to force them to live in the present, they can become confused, uncooperative and difficult. The Alzheimer’s CARE program offers caregivers techniques and tools to help their loved ones live contentedly within their memories.” Read More…
Posted Under:
Senior Care
This post was written by
Julie on May 15, 2012
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The Dwyer Group®’s Seven Brands Named 2012 Military Friendly Franchises by G.I. Jobs Magazine
The Dwyer Group today announced that all seven of its brands were ranked in the top 10 percent of all franchises nationwide and named a 2012 Military Friendly Franchise® by G.I. Jobs Magazine.
The Dwyer Group is a group of service-based companies known for its depth of support services, respected management team, commitment to the company’s Code of Values®, and the success of its franchises. The company’s brands: Aire Serv®, Glass Doctor®, Mr. Appliance®, Mr. Electric®, Mr. Rooter®, Rainbow International®, and The Grounds Guys®; honor military veterans all year round by offering service members 25% off the initial franchise fee, allowing veterans to use their training and operational skills in a new civilian career.
“The Military Friendly Franchises® list was created three years ago out of demand from military veterans, many of whom want to start or own their own business but are unclear where to begin,” said Sean Collins, director for G.I. Jobs. “Being selected as a Military Friendly Franchise places The Dwyer Group in this elite group, and is testimony to The Dwyer Group’s world class programs and policies that support military veterans interested franchise opportunities.”
Don Dwyer, founder of The Dwyer Group, started the VetFran program at the end of the first Gulf War in 1991. Through the International Franchise Association (IFA), over 400 franchisors have joined in offering financial incentives to veterans through VetFran. The Dwyer Group has awarded more than $1.3 million in financial discounts to 254 VetFran franchisees within its brands, including 17 new franchisees in 2012 to date. Read More…
A taste of heaven
A couple who recently moved to town co-own a carpet cleaning business they’re introducing to the Albert Lea area.
David, who owns Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning with his wife Tammy, said they just moved from Nashua, Iowa, where they had been learning about the company. They’re franchise operators, and the corporate headquarters of the company is in Idaho. While they don’t have any other employees yet, that is a goal.
“We’d like to have four vans,” Meadows said.Meadows’ wife met a state owner while working as a massage therapist, and then they went through the training needed to start the franchise. The business offers carpet cleaning and promises it to be dry within an hour.
“We don’t soak down to the padding like others do, which can leave moisture there,” Meadows said.
Other capabilities include cleaning of upholstery, wood floors, tile and grout, fabric protection and minor carpet repair. Meadows said their mobile van can go to residential or commercial customers, and they clean cars, motor homes and boats as well. There are also special rates for nonprofits and churches.
The completion time on projects depends on the square footage of the project and the quality of the carpet. Meadows said he’s been busy working nights for businesses and other organizations that need to be open during the day. Read More…
Sam Bakhtiar Offers New Boot Camp Marketing Opportunities Outside The Classroom
As Congress debates over extending low interest rates on student loans, one can’t help but feel that Americans are being horribly duped. “College degrees offer no guarantee of financial security these days,” says Sam Bakhtiar, owner of the Fitness Concepts franchise and boot camp marketing expert.
Sam values all the years he spent in school, achieving his B.S. in Premed and Nutrition, as well as his Doctorate of Chiropractics, but he says the most valuable learning experiences took place outside of school. “A piece of paper won’t gain you access to wealth and happiness in life,” he adds. “You need to spend time cultivating your intellectual, social, financial and personal capital for true prosperity.”
Sam defines these concepts further by explaining: “Intellectual capital is what you know – like what you’ve learned in school that you can speak comfortably about. You can invest in this area by taking certification courses, participating in boot camp marketing webinars, going to conferences, and taking business classes.” Formal education is a good start, he says, but there is much more to learning than college alone.
“Social capital involves who you know. You’ve heard it before – that nothing beats networking – and that is certainly true in the world of boot camp marketing. You should look to meet people who are better than you and earning more money than you because it will help you learn more and strive to be better. Keep ties open by making quick calls, sending out emails, and attending mastermind events as often as possible.” Read More…
