U.S. Lawns Grows Strong in 2011, Now Counts More Than 250 Franchises Nationwide
U.S. Lawns, one of America’s fastest-growing franchisors, capped its 25th anniversary year in 2011 with growth exceeding a record 250 franchises in its commercial landscape-management network.
With 24 new franchises added last year, the company continued double-digit expansion in operations highlighted by an impressive 58 percent increase in the total number of franchises since 2006, the company announced today.
“U.S. Lawns’ family of franchisees continues to grow, bringing quality commercial landscape management services to businesses and property owners now in all 48 contiguous states,” said Ken Hutcheson, U.S. Lawns president. “Our professionals — from San Diego and Bismark, N.D., to Hartford, Conn., and Miami — have the knowledge and the resources to handle just about anything nature throws at us.”
The company recently announced major expansion plans into the Midwest and West, including California, offering exclusive franchise territories to new and existing operators ready to step up to U.S. Lawns’ sophisticated franchise system. One component of the expansion is a special no-money-down offer for conversions.
The newest group of U.S. Lawns franchisees recently completed training at the company’s Home Office in Orlando. The sessions consisted of classroom and field training in all areas of commercial landscape management. As well, U.S. Lawns assigned Regional Franchise Advisors (RFA) to each owner-operator. An RFA works closely with each franchisee during startup and provides ongoing, one-on-one training in business planning. Read More…
Investing in small versus big franchise brands
There are three fundamental differences for potential franchisees investing in new, lesser-known franchise brands compared to larger household names which serve essentially the same market.
In this regard, comparing a new lawn mowing franchise to an established restaurant franchise is pointless, but comparing new versus established restaurant brands (for example) will highlight the importance of these three key differences.
The first is that the entry cost will usually be lower for the new and lesser-known brands as these franchisors will be less likely to charge as much for access to their brand, intellectual property and training.
However, savings achieved in these intangible elements of the franchise offer may be partially offset by higher equipment or store fit-out costs compared to established brands, who may have greater buying power or construction efficiencies to keep overall store opening costs down.
Additionally, new brands keen to establish themselves in the market will position their franchise offer as a viable alternative to that of established operators, and may seek this differentiation based on investment price, among other things.
The second fundamental difference is that there is generally a higher level of risk in newer franchises than established brands. Newer franchises may still be developing parts of their operating systems, and often have fewer resources to allocate to franchisee training, ongoing support, marketing and quality control, all of which are key to the long-term success of the brand and its franchisees. Read More…
Commuters encouraged to leave the ‘rat race’ at one of London’s busiest stations
London commuters at Victoria Station were encouraged to escape the rat race by a massive piece of striking 3D floor art.
The artwork was created by Prokill, a national pest prevention company, as a way to highlight the lifestyle change that can be achieved through owning one of its franchised businesses.
Prokill’s Managing Director, Dean Spiers, believes that people need to understand what opportunities are available to them if they are to change the path that they are on in order to enjoy a more rewarding and healthier work life balance.
He said: “With a franchise business comes an established brand, a tried and tested business model and a comprehensive training and support package. We want hard working, committed, forward thinking people to realise that our franchise is a viable option with a strong return not just financially, but it also provides the balance and job satisfaction that you seek and deserve.” Read More…
BangBang Mongolian Grill Sounds and Smells Like Success
There’s more than yellow fin tuna and fresh vegetables sizzling on the circular grill at BangBang Mongolian Grill, where customers heap bowls with fresh, healthy ingredients, listen to the rhythmic “bang-bang” of the chefs’ spatulas and return to their tables with plates of steaming Asian cuisine – all in a matter of minutes.
What else is hot in restaurateur Steve McFadden’s start-up — a sensory mix of aromatic curries and tongue-tickling spices — in West Des Moines’ tony Jordan Creek area?
Six months shy of its two-year anniversary, BangBang Mongolian Grill has sold its first national franchises. Two restaurants are set to open in Baltimore in February, four more will follow this spring, and final agreements are in the works for another half dozen scattered around the country.
“He is a genuis, but he also puts in a lot of hard work. For everything he’s built, there were 10 things that he looked at that weren’t right.”
By appealing to the finickier tastes of Americans who still want to eat on the run, but without the fat, sodium and stomach-turning ingredients (“pink slime,” franchiser McDonald’s hamburger additive, anyone?) McFadden has built a business his new partner says is not only riding national trends for healthy fast casual dining, but defining new ones.
BangBang’s expansion is bucking industry trends. A study suggesting that 90 percent of restaurants fail has been debunked, but the failure rate after one year is still daunting: as low as 30 percent, according to a University of Central Florida study.
“I truly believe that BangBang is on the cusp,” said Bob Bernotas of Baltimore, the managing partner of the new BangBang Franchise Holdings LLC created to oversee the restaurant’s national operations. Read More…
Orlando: The king of fast food, quick serve
Tourists and college students have propelled Central Florida to the top of a list of cities expected to see heavy growth in restaurants catering to on-the-go diners.
QSR magazine recently named Orlando the top growth market for what the restaurant industry calls “quick service.” That includes traditional fast food and places where diners order at the counter of an eatery that has a fairly sophisticated atmosphere and menu.
Orlando already has the highest number of fast-food restaurants per 100,000 people, according to a report from the Daily Beast last year. And many quick-service chains are expanding, including Panera Bread, Five Guys and CiCi’s Pizza.
That Central Florida is considered a top growth market comes as no surprise to Gregg Hill, an Oviedo development-company owner who three years ago began opening Bojangles’ chicken-and-biscuit restaurants here. He now has five and plans to open three more each year.”Everywhere I turn it seems like there’s a new quick-serve or fast-food chain popping up,” Hill said. “It’s a great market.”
The area including Orlando, Daytona Beach and Melbourne has 3,627 quick-service restaurants, according to research firm NPD Group.
Not all quick-service places have done well in the economic downturn. Whataburger and Fazoli’s, for example, both left Central Florida.
But in general, so-called “fast-casual” places such as Panera and Chipotle are considered the restaurant industry’s next big thing.
Diners like the combination of fast food and casual dining. They still get convenience and a relatively low check, but along with food and an atmosphere considered a little more upscale. Bojangles’, for example, has Wi-fi and flat-screen televisions. Panera plays classical music in the background. Read More…
Cleaning Company COIT Predicts Strong Franchise Growth in 2012
COIT, a leading supplier of specialty cleaning and disaster restoration services headquartered in San Francisco, is hailing the success of its employee-based “Franchise Ownership Program” while predicting that 2012 will bring new opportunities for potential business owners. The company helped four former employees start their own businesses in 2011 and hopes to work with more potential business owners thanks to increased government and bank support for U.S. franchising.
“Our new franchise owners on California’s Central Coast, in Tucson and in Washington D.C. are all former COIT employees,” Bob Kearn, President and CEO of COIT, said. “We’re pleased to help make business ownership possible for our hard working employees, and we’re also excited to offer franchise opportunities to returning military veterans and other potential owners.”
Jon Knosp worked in Sales at COIT’s Corporate offices in the Bay Area before he relocated to Washington, D.C. with his wife and purchased his own COIT franchise last year. Carl Moore was a service technician at the company’s Phoenix corporate division before he moved to Tucson and opened his own franchise. Both are doing “exceptionally well,” according to Pat Saign, COIT’s Director of Franchise Development, and have seen a boost in both residential and commercial business over the past six months. Cesar Garcia Mayta, who gained extensive experience working for COIT Bay Area, purchased the Central California franchise with his wife, Tracy Garcia, and his brother, Carlos Garcia, another former COIT employee. Employees who enroll in the Franchise Ownership Program earn credits for each year that they work at COIT. The credits are good toward up to $50,000 of the purchase of a COIT franchise territory. Read More…
Award-winning Canadian burger bistro announces major national expansion program
Based on the success of its initial expansion program, The WORKS Gourmet Burger Bistro (www.worksburger.com) – the award-winning gourmet burger bistro, originating in Ottawa in 2001 – has announced plans to open 50 new stores across Canada. In 2011, The WORKS opened new stores in London, Kingston, Ottawa, Guelph and Oakville, with three additional sites currently under construction in Toronto, Waterloo and Peterborough. With each new location delivering strong results, The WORKS continues its aggressive expansion plan by offering opportunities to carefully selected franchise operators.
A strong brand concept
Developing a cult-like following among burger connoisseurs in Ottawa, the brand roused the interest of foodservice and hospitality veteran, Andy O’Brien, former president of Montana’s, and his two vice presidents, Bruce Miller and Sean Bell. The trio recognized the franchising viability of the brand and acquired the WORKS Gourmet Burger Bistro last year, with an eye towards taking the brand outside of its native Ottawa roots.
“Having successfully led one of the largest restaurant chains in Canada, the three of us were impressed by The WORKS Gourmet Burger Bistro concept and its tremendous success in Ottawa. We jumped at the opportunity to purchase the company,” explained Andy O’Brien, CEO of The WORKS. “Since then, the success of each new location, along with the success of our franchisees has further enhanced our assessment of The WORKS’ prospects for growth. Accordingly, we have decided to accelerate our expansion program to add more locations throughout Canada,” he added.
Franchisees make the brand
The cornerstone of their expansion success has hinged on finding the ideal franchisee fit for each neighborhood location. The franchisee selection process is rigorous, with emphasis on demonstrated passion for satisfying customers.
“What we are really looking for are highly talented franchisees to represent the brand,” O’Brien explains. “Our potential franchisees must have what we call the ‘hospitality gene’, a natural passion and aptitude for working with people – brand ambassadors that will become active members of their local community – that’s been the foundation of The WORKS brand since day one. Read More…
Sonus Franchise Reaches 100 Location Milestone, Offers Growth Opportunity For Audiology Private Practice Owners
As U.S. small business owners seek innovative ways to expand during a still unyielding economy, Sonus has announced through Michele Fusco, Senior Vice President of Medical Business Operations for Amplifon USA, the opening of over 100 Sonus Franchise Locations. The milestone is an encouraging sign for audiology private practice owners and entrepreneurs who are looking for a proven, systematic approach to running a business, and simultaneously sets the stage for rapid Sonus Franchise growth in 2012. The market opportunity related to an aging population, which includes hearing health, is palpable. According to Franchise Help – Healthcare Franchises: “It is predicted that by the year 2030, more than 36 million Americans will be 65 or older – more than in any other period in history. These Americans will need access to unprecedented levels of healthcare.”
Sonus Franchise provides the professional structure, support and resources to reduce the risk that many fear about private practice. It provides the tools to manage and expand existing private practices and it allows seasoned practice owners a great method to transition a private practice to a new audiologist owner. To date, the many Sonus Franchise owners have opened multiple locations in non-competitive territories and will continue to grow their individual “empires” with the marketing, administrative, and tools of Sonus’ proven, industry-first medical franchise model.
“I would definitely recommend owning a Sonus Franchise, and I think it’s a really great opportunity for any stage in a private practice owner’s career,” remarked Ryan Hummel, Sonus Franchise owner. “The Sonus support system allows you to really focus on your patients.” Read More…
SP Home Run Inc. Evaluates 13 Computer Franchises for PC Repair Businesses
Buying a computer franchise is one of the most important long-term decisions an IT business owner can consider. Not all franchise opportunities are created equally, so one must therefore do thorough homework before making the right decision. SP Home Run Inc. has done some of the homework for IT professionals with a guide called 13 Computer Franchises that Start Up and Support Computer Repair, IT Consulting, and Managed Service Provider Businesses. SP Home Run Inc. offers this quick reference guide free on its website at http://www.sphomerun.com/13-computer-franchises
The guide provides detailed information on IT franchise opportunities, including:
* Basic computer franchise profiles with website URLs, contact information, and information as to how long each franchise operator has been in business
* Available geographic territories, as well as information on how regional territory rights are assigned and managed
* Franchise terms, required working capital, and estimated start-up expenses
* Formal education and certification requirements, training programs, and ongoing support
* Hiring requirements, start-up timelines, and location requirements
* Details of where revenue comes from for each computer franchise
* How much you will pay in franchise fees and royalty fees Read More…
Add a sparkle to your career
After leaving his role as Contract Manager for a scaffolding company in 2008, Cliff Barlow went on to start his own marketing and development business, but it wasn’t long before he was ready to take on another challenge.
While searching the internet for cleaning and car valeting business opportunities, Cliff came across award-winning domestic and commercial cleaning franchise Well Polished.
“As I have a background in sales I knew that I would be suited to a business like Well Polished,” explains Cliff. “For me the most appealing thing about Well Polished was its reputation and the brand recognition it provided. I was also very impressed with what existing Well Polished franchise owners had to say about the business and Managing Director Sandra Venables.”
To prepare for the launch of his Wigan-based business, Cliff attended a comprehensive four-day training course, which covered all aspects of the management franchise from marketing and recruitment to price strategies and cleaning standards.
“I regularly call or visit clients to check that they are happy with our service,” says Cliff. “In this sort of business reputation is everything, as a lot of business is obtained through word of mouth from satisfied clients. So when I recruit cleaners, I make sure that I get the right people for the job and ensure they meet the Well Polished cleaning standards.”
Since launching his Well Polished franchise in January 2011, Cliff has enjoyed being part of a franchise network and has taken a proactive approach to marketing his franchise by attending a local business networking group, distributing flyers and developing new marketing strategies. Read More…
First hand franchise experience
Prior to joining FDS Southern in 2005, I spent 15 years as Recruitment and Franchise Manager for a well-known franchise brand in the food-manufacturing sector, where I successfully developed the concept into a network of franchise owners across the UK and Ireland.
During this time I gained valuable ‘coal face’ experience of all aspects of franchising including recruitment, marketing, and the management of a large network, as well as being involved with the merger of the original business to a German parent company, which has subsidiaries throughout Europe.
Managing and running a highly successful franchise opportunity, combined with my prestigious consultancy work over the past six years, has given me a unique insight into the creation of professional franchise documentation and the successful marketing and development of a brand. I take great pride in not only working with potential franchisors in the initial development period but also offering a guidance service during the development phase through to the maturity of a fully developed franchise network.
Once all the necessary professional franchise documentation – such as a detailed Franchise Prospectus, Franchise Information Memorandum, associated legal documents and an Operations Manual – has been produced we are then ready to market the franchise opportunity through various media channels.
The practical experience gained by successfully managing a franchise network has been utilised with many of our existing clients. Read More…
Experience franchising first hand
One of the most useful checks when researching a franchise opportunity is to talk to a company’s existing franchise owners, as they will be a font of invaluable first-hand, non-corporate opinions of what it is like to run the franchise.
By talking to them, you will be able to receive realistic insights into how many hours you will need to put in to make the business succeed, how long you can reasonably expect to wait before breaking even, how much operational and working capital will be needed to run the business, what sort of challenges you may encounter, how good the training and support is, how the franchisor relates to individual franchise owners once they have signed up – and much more in the way of operational realities.
Many franchisors now make a point of insisting that prospective franchise owners speak to their existing operators before making a decision – and indeed to spend time with them in the field.
When you do speak to franchise owners, always remember that although they are franchise owners, it does not mean that you take everything they say as gospel when making your decision.
Those you talk to may not be typical franchise owners; they may have started in a better location or at a better time of year, such as Christmas; they may have had pilot concessions no longer available or the advantage of a superior market situation when market conditions may have been better.
It could be that the franchisor was able to allocate greater support resources during the first phase of establishing its franchise network, thereby giving those early franchise owners better prospects for success, which cannot be replicated in a larger operation where resources are more stretched. Read More…
101 Mobility Opens Franchise in Cincinnati & Dayton New Company Fills Niche for Empowering the Elderly & Disabled in Ohio
Life-long resident Ed Goschinski is the owner/operator of 101 Mobility’s new Ohio Franchise serving Cincinnati, Dayton and surrounding areas. Goschinski brings over two decades of management and sales experience from the retail industry to the organization. He is a life-long resident of the Cincinnati and Dayton areas and actively involved in the communities he will serve.
When asked why he chose the 101 Mobility brand, Goschinski said, “At the end of every day, I want to feel like I am helping people and the community. The 101 brand gives me the opportunity to offer a “one-stop-shop” approach to accessibility solutions. Clients can come to us for all their needs; from ramps to stair lifts to barrier-free baths and more.”
The new franchise will focus on helping clients age-in-place by installing ramps, stair lifts, patient lifts, vertical lifts, barrier-free baths and by doing full scale home modifications. “We want to offer everyone solutions for staying in their homes today and into the future. Whether someone has limited mobility on a short-term or long-term basis, staying at home can be one of the most important things they want to do. We believe that aging-in-place offers people choices. We want to be part of offering choices and solutions,” says Goschinski. 101 Mobility is also a leading provider of auto lifts offering such well-known brands as Bruno and Harmar. These lifts help clients with wheelchairs, power chairs and scooters have total mobility outside the home.
101 Mobility is also a leader in providing services to our United States Veterans. Goschinski feels a significant connection to the Veteran community and to working with the United States Veteran’s Administration. He said “I am honored to be the son of a Veteran and to offer my expertise and support to other Veterans.” He will also work closely with non-profits and all organizations supporting the community with chronic diseases such as Arthritis, MD, MS, ALS, etc. Goschinski concluded by saying “That is the rewarding part. I can help people live fuller lives by staying at home and increasing their quality of life.” Read More…
What to Consider Before Buying a Franchise: Home Instead Senior Care Network and Small Business Administration Issue Tips – Growing Senior Care Needs Make Home Care a Smart Option for 2012
Tyson Murphy knew it was time to make his move. The 36-year-old former mortgage broker from Las Cruces, N.M., embarked on a career change, moved his family to Texas and opened a Home Instead Senior Care® office in August 2011 in the midst of a lackluster economy.
Murphy is part of a national trend: A projected 21 million Americans will change jobs in 2012, according to Harris Interactive and Cornerstone OnDemand. Like many other Americans, Murphy knew he had to be proactive because a lagging economy had changed the outlook of his career in the mortgage industry.
“There obviously has been a downturn in the mortgage industry,’’ he said, “although it wasn’t as bad in Las Cruces as it has been in other parts of the nation. There is a lot of uncertainty in the mortgage industry because of regulation and the economy. Home Instead was a great franchise opportunity. I didn’t want to look five years down the line and say, ‘I wish I had done that.’”
Murphy, who was born in Midland, Texas, had calculated that the rewards would outweigh the risks before he jumped into a completely new career with a franchise start-up in Temple, Texas, 130 miles from Dallas-Fort Worth. His father had worked for the Home Instead Senior Care franchise in Las Cruces. “I could see that for my father, it was personally rewarding,’’ Murphy said. “And senior care is a very viable industry. It is one of the few that are growing in this economy.’’
The International Franchising Association has projected a 1.9 percent increase in franchise establishments in 2012 and lists the Home Instead Senior Care network as one of its 12 premium franchise systems under $50,000.
Tim Connelly, director of North America Franchise Development for Home Instead, Inc., said that new franchise owners who are making career shifts – such as Murphy – bring many valuable skills to the home care franchising field, including fresh perspectives, eagerness to succeed, great organizational skills and the ability to get people to work together. “First of all, it’s clear that compassion and kindness shine through with people such as Tyson. He’s exactly what this profession is looking for – someone with a passion for seniors and a ‘people-person’ who has an outstanding skill set developed from a career in which he previously had excelled.” Read More…
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Julie on January 30, 2012
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Food Franchises Are Attracting Hispanic Entrepreneurs
BuscaTuFranquicia.com is pleased to report that registrations from Hispanic entrepreneurs who are looking to open a food franchise have increased compared to 2010 figures. Furthermore, food franchises all across the United States have seen growth during 2011. This is particularly true for fast food outlets wherein the target market are young and energetic people who live with hectic schedules that do not allow them to prepare their own meals on both weekdays and weekends.
Despite the ever changing economy, more and more Hispanic franchisees have been encouraged to venture into this kind of business because of the fact that no matter what the current economic conditions are, people will eat out and will continually welcome fast food variations into their everyday breakfast, lunch and dinner meals. Investment in a Hispanic-owned franchise makes good business sense. And several quick-serve franchisors, such as Subway, Arby’s and Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen, understand why they should continue to promote minority business ownership and include Hispanic franchise owners in their corporate portfolio.
According to Jose Torres, Principal with BuscaTuFranquicia.com, “Large numbers of Hispanic franchisees are gearing towards the franchise food industry.” Family oriented US Hispanics are finding it wise to invest in food franchises. This is because the system allows them to conduct their business with solid backing and support, and it has been proven to produce profits in the food industry. Read More…
Coverall Health-Based Cleaning System® at Franchise Expo South in Miami Beach
Coverall was a featured exhibitor at this weekend’s Franchise Expo South, the premier franchise expo serving the Southeastern U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. The Expo, held this year at the Miami Beach Convention Center on January 20-22, was an opportunity for potential business owners to talk with hundreds of franchising companies and learn about franchise ownership.
“The key for potential franchisees is to match their skills and interests to a franchise that they can afford – and a brand that they believe in. Commercial cleaning services continue to offer a solid market for business growth,” said Kevin Derella, EVP at Coverall.
Coverall, a member of the International Franchise Association since 1988, continues to earn top rankings as “Best for Vets,” “Top Franchises for Hispanics,” “Top Franchises for Minorities,” “Top Military Friendly Franchises” among many other honors. Read More…
Home Care Assistance Develops a Cutting-Edge Approach to Reducing Avoidable Hospital Readmissions
As America continues to grapple with exploding health care costs, Congress and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid have placed a renewed emphasis on eliminating avoidable hospital readmissions. These readmissions are typically caused by insufficient post-hospitalization care, failure to adhere to medication or therapy regimens and lack of support and supervision for recently discharged patients. According to the Medicare Payment Advisory Committee, almost one in five Medicare patients will be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge. These hospital readmissions cost over $15 billion dollars per year and are a source of tremendous anxiety for patients and their families.
Home Care Assistance, North America’s leading provider of in-home care, is proud to announce a nationwide partnership with leading medical institutions to reduce avoidable hospital readmissions by providing patients and their families with the resources and education they need to effectively plan for discharge and post-hospitalization recovery.
“The hospitalization and discharge experience can be harrowing for families who are suddenly thrust into caregiving roles they aren’t fully prepared for,” said Lily Sarafan, President of Home Care Assistance. “Our Hospital to Home Care program arms families with the resources they need to make an informed decision and effectively plan for their loved ones’ rehabilitation at home. We have also developed a proprietary training model that teaches our caregivers to promote the lifestyle behaviors that facilitate a safe recovery at home.”
As a trusted partner of leading medical facilities and an advocate for aging adults, Home Care Assistance is in a unique position to combat avoidable hospital readmissions. Combining years of home care case studies with leading medical research, Home Care Assistance has developed an impactful suite of educational resources for hospitalized patients. The suite is anchored by From Hospital to Home Care, a comprehensive book on the hospital discharge and recovery process written by co-founders Dr. Kathy Johnson, Dr. James Johnson and Lily Sarafan. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and resources associated with each step in the transition from hospital to the home, explains the discharge process from an inpatient hospital stay, outlines common issues associated with specific medical conditions, discusses the unique needs of recently hospitalized patients and emphasizes the importance of home care in patient outcomes and quality of life. Read More…
Panda Dry Cleaners, LLC Announces Grand Opening of Their First Tide Dry Cleaners(R) Location
Panda Dry Cleaners LLC (PDC), in collaboration with Procter & Gamble (P&G), is bringing industry-leading innovation and breakthrough cleaning technology to its customers with the Grand Opening of its first Tide Dry Cleaners(R) store, at 10140 Eastern Avenue in Henderson, Nevada. The franchise location is the first of five Tide Dry Cleaners the company plans to open in 2012 as part of their partnership with P&G.
“We are very excited to bring our customers in Henderson a new experience in dry cleaning, providing excellent personalized customer service, a superior cleaning performance that delivers outstanding clothing appearance with numerous consumer benefits,” said Mark Tarzian, Chief Operating Officer, Panda Dry Cleaning LLC. “As part of opening our store here in Henderson we’re excited to be part of the community through hiring locally and giving back where we can.”
Tide Dry Cleaners customers can enjoy many unique features, including the convenience of drive-through concierge services, and access to 24-hour lockers and drop boxes. Through its partnership with GreenEarth(R), and utilization of other Tide(R) and Procter & Gamble fabric care cleaning solutions for wet and dry cleaning, Tide Dry Cleaners offers amazing cleaning for a wide range of garments and textiles.
Tide Dry Cleaners cleaning benefits include Tide ColorGuard(TM), to keep color in clothes; Tide SpotLift(TM), providing deep down fiber clean stain removal; Tide FreshScent(TM), for a crisp, clean scent in dry cleaned clothes; Tide Restore(TM) for Colors to bring vibrancy back to faded colors; and Tide Restore(TM) for Whites to help whites stay bright. Read More…
Just a Fast Food Joint?
“It makes you feel good to know that you can help support the community,” said Mike Ricks, franchise operator of Chick-fil-A in Aliso Viejo.
“We distributed 8,500 sandwiches to the community before we opened — all free,” Ricks said.
Soon after the restaurant’s Sept. 1, 2011 opening, Chick-fil-A began supporting Aliso Viejo schools. During a Teacher Appreciation Day in September, teachers were invited to come to the restaurant for a free meal.
As part of a third grade reading event, 750 Aliso Viejo third graders received a coupon for a free kids meal. At the Canyon Vista Elementary Jog-A-Thon, Chick-fil-A provided food for the volunteers and handed out coupons for free meals.
At local events, Chick-fil-A’s black and white cow can be seen wearing a shirt with a slogan that promotes chicken.
The restaurant donated candy to the Aliso Viejo Community Association’s Fall Harvest in Grand Park while its cow greeted families. At Founder’s Day, food and drinks were available at a booth with the red and white Chick-fil-A sign.
As a Gold Sponsor for the AYSO Glory Days Cup, the restaurant distributed 450 sandwiches to the players in the tournament.
Chick-fil-A also holds Spirit Nights, in which customers can bring in flyers so that 20 percent of their purchase is donated to the participating school or organization. Read More…
FranChoice franchise consultant helps potential business owners find right match
Anna Wilds is in the business of getting people in business for themselves.
Wilds is a certified and award-winning FranChoice franchise consultant, and her job is to talk with people interested in buying a franchise to see whether it’s a good step for them.
When most people think of franchises they think drive-thru restaurants, but Wilds said that’s just one small category.
“The biggest challenge is destroying preconceived notions,” she said.
Wilds’ consulting services are paid by the franchise company, so talking to her is free to potential clients. It’s in franchisors’ best interest to deal with potential franchisees who are well-vetted and knowledgeable about what they’re getting into, Wilds explained.
“The franchisor only succeeds if the franchisee succeeds,” she said. “You’ve got to do your homework, and I just help with that.”
When Wilds first meets with potential franchisees, she asks a long list of questions to find out what kind of person they are, why they are interested in a franchise and what they think owning a business entails.
Getting into business for yourself isn’t for everyone, she said.
Some people she talks with get hung up on what product or service they’re selling, and not on what selling it will be like. While it’s important to believe in the quality of your work and enjoy what you do, a franchisee’s first love has to be for business itself.
“They don’t have to be passionate about the literal product. They have to be passionate about being a business owner,” she said. Read More…
Fast-casual diner chain is hungry for expansion
After 22 years of slow growth, a chain of ‘50s-style themed restaurants has developed an appetite for expansion. The Massachusetts-based 5 & Diner is seeking a local franchisee to open a store in the Greater Hartford region in 2012 and establish a foothold in the market.
The fast-casual chain, which started in 1989 as a one-concept eatery in Arizona,has 12 locations in five states, down from 15 units in 2007.
The 5 & Diner restaurant chain features jukeboxes with music from the by-gone era, soda fountains, hula hoop contests and hostesses in poodle skirts who serve hamburgers, sandwiches, fries, flavored sodas and shakes.
“The authenticity and unique nature of the business means that competition in Hartford is nearly nonexistent, allowing for plenty of room to grow,” said CEO Bob Watson.
Typical development costs range from $450,000 to $750,000 and the average unit sales volume is more than $1.1 million.
Each 5 & Diner location runs about 2,800 to 3,000 square feet, employs between 25 5andDiner-IMG_6927_WEBand 30 people and takes about seven months to open a store, according to Tim Sheehan, vice president and CFO.
The company plans to open at least five units in Connecticut over the next few years, said Watson.
“We look for potential owners who have a passion for the ‘50’s and ‘60’s, old car culture, owning their own diner or all of the above and then some,” said Watson. Read More…
Dunkin’ Donuts Franchisee Plans New Locations
Dunkin’ Donuts has signed a multi-unit store development agreement with existing franchisee, Savoureux Corp., for 12 new restaurants in North Omaha, Neb. and Sioux City, Iowa, with the first restaurant planned to open in 2013.
Savoureux Corp. is led by NFL greats and former University of Nebraska football players Kris Brown and Zach Wiegert, who have teamed up with Jeff Woodbury, a principal of Woodbury Corp., and David Scott, CEO of Tetrad Corp., an Omaha-based real estate and investment firm. In April 2011, Savoureux Corp. committed to develop five Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in North Kansas City.
“We are excited to expand Dunkin’ Donuts presence in Omaha and Sioux City and play an important role in the daily lives of people who live, work and visit here,” said Brown. “We have a passion and loyalty for the brand and look forward to the opening of our restaurants in the years to come.”
Franchise opportunities are still available in Ottumwa, Iowa. To drive its expansion efforts, Dunkin’ Donuts has aligned its strategy to support the growth opportunities and consumer needs of individual markets. As a result, the company continues to expand with single and multi-unit opportunities with no minimum unit requirements.
“Dunkin’ Donuts is excited to expand into Omaha and Sioux City,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of franchising and market planning, Dunkin’ Brands Inc. “Our secret to success is our passionate franchisees who provide a high-level of customer service to our guests every day. We believe Kris, Zach, Jeff and David will cultivate lasting customer relationships and become an integral part of the community.” Read More…
Couple grow fresh business with organic franchise
Ahead of the 2010 election when cutbacks were promised by all parties, Hayley Dwyer knew that her work providing administration support to the public sector would dry up.
“It would have left me with no income and nothing to do, so my husband Andy and I started looking into buying a business,” says 37-year-old Hayley.
After a friend mentioned franchise business Riverford Organic, she found out more and decided it was the perfect opportunity.
Riverford Organic franchisees deliver fresh, organic produce to local people by the most direct route possible
The company was founded by Guy Watson, who began the box scheme at Wash Farm in Devon in 1993. Since then, deliveries have grown from just 20 local households to more than 60,000 across the UK.
Hayley says: “The fact that it was a proven business already was a pull factor.
“On top of that, the Guildford territory, very close to where we live, was being sold and we decided to invest.”
While it’s possible to buy a Riverford franchise for £9,000, the couple had to find a lot more to buy out the existing owner, who had grown the territory to a £1million turnover in six years. Read More…
Businessman gets Home Safe with first franchise in C.B.
There is a lightness in Ron Swan’s step as he strolls through the Home Safe Living showroom in Dartmouth.
He has just returned from a business trip to Cape Breton, where he sealed the deal on the company’s first franchise.
The family-owned business provides guidance, medical equipment and accessible home renovations for seniors and persons with disabilities, helping them live comfortably and safely in their homes and communities.
“The company is founded on finding solutions,” Swan said in an interview Friday. “We’re not just about selling products but listening to our customers and providing thoughtful solutions.”
A quick glance around the expansive 6,300-square-foot showroom reveals wheelchairs, walkers, chair lifts, elevators and accessible bathroom and kitchen fixtures that all come with a hefty price tag.
But Swan said the company is dedicated to coming up with tailor-made affordable solutions that meet the needs of individuals or the community.
“We go into a home or building and assess the specific needs to come up with the most cost-effective solution.”
Home Safe Living works with occupational therapists, nurses and doctors to provide prescription medical products and practical home renovations to help the elderly or disabled live independently. Read More…
Becoming a Part of the Amazing FaceLuXe Family!
Ever since we spoke about this particular company last week, the letters have not stopped coming in about the incredible luxury that’s being offered to ‘everyone’ by FaceLuXe and its ‘parent’ company, MassageLuXe. In fact, ever since we talked about the “virtual tour” located on their website, most of us – including me – have not been able to forget about it. Just to receive a taste of the amazing elegance and myriad of services they provide, from facials to waxing to massage; not to mention the products that are available to use in our own homes, like the incredible line of skin care products, Repechage – has left us with only one question. WHY isn’t there a FaceLuXe or MassageLuXe in our town?
Well, that can change, everyone. Soon we will not have to get in our cars and attempt to take off work for a week to drive somewhere in order to partake of this oasis of serenity in our stressed-out world. Nor will we have to convince our families to up and move in order for us to get a job with FaceLuXe to work at a company that actually cares about their employees. And why is that? Because FaceLuXe and MassageLuXe are becoming the most sought after franchise opportunity for 2012 – and the year has only just begun
This brain-child of Todd Beckman, a man who had the drive and passion to bring his idea of relaxation and luxury for one and all to the masses, now owns one of the fastest-growing franchise companies in the marketplace. From providing much-needed services to clients through national franchise area developers and single unit franchises, this company is driven by a membership revenue model that assures a significantly higher level of consistency to other spa revenues and profit on a year-round basis.
Researching this relatively new membership revenue model was truly interesting. As you already know, massage is a service that not only improves health, but also promotes relaxation and overall well-being for the consumer. Read More…
