Business Services Supplement Franchising USA

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FranchisingFeature business services

f e b ru a ry 202 1

taking care of business

business services that are in demand

seven ways to position your

franchise for sale many opportunities with

business service franchises becoming your own boss in 2021 Franchising USA

fe at ure : busi T r en wo mnen diess ng i n serv fr fraanch nch ices ises isi ng

what’s new!

CAREERPLUG ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT AND NEW CEO ROLE CareerPlug announced that Jenny Leman will become the company’s second President. CareerPlug’s first President and its Founder, Clint Smith, will be taking on a new role as the company’s first CEO. The change in roles comes as CareerPlug implements a new approach to leadership within the organization based on the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) method. This new framework has allowed CareerPlug to identify opportunities to evolve its top leadership roles and solidify the core responsibilities and focus of each role.

Jenny Leman, CareerPlug President

Clint Smith, CareerPlug founder and CEO)

unique blend of franchise and software

small business owners to make the right

to CareerPlug in helping to build a people

plates. I understand the concerns of our

hires because they have so much on their

Smith founded CareerPlug in 2007. The company has partnered with more than 12,000 clients to help them make the right hires for their business.

expertise brought a valuable perspective

Before joining CareerPlug in 2017, Leman led operations for a multi-unit franchisee and later for a software company. Her

problem CareerPlug solves because

the right people with the right jobs,” said

franchisees. I know how important it is for

www.careerplug.com/

operating software for franchises.

clients, and I feel proud to contribute to

“I find myself deeply connected to the

CareerPlug’s mission of helping connect

I’ve worked for small businesses and

Leman.

NETBLAZE LAUNCHES AGENCY PARTNERSHIP and search engine optimization (SEO). NetBlaze’s agency partnerships offer businesses custom branding, website URLs and more, allowing them to upsell the platform to their clients to increase service offerings and create new revenue streams.

“We know that running an agency can be overwhelming with SEO, social media algorithms and Google rankings constantly changing, making managing client accounts very time consuming and can quickly eat away at profits,” said Steven Clayton, CEO and Founder of NetBlaze.

NetBlaze, a leading digital marketing solution for small businesses nationwide, launched an agency partnership to help businesses streamline digital marketing efforts, manage and grow their client base, and create new revenue streams by offering digital marketing services.

NetBlaze provides an SaaS solution for agencies to manage a variety of marketing efforts, including social media management, customer relations management (CRM), reputation management

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“By partnering with NetBlaze, agencies can give their customers the tools they need to conquer digital marketing and boost their revenue by outsourcing the solution to its paying customers. By following the recipe of the 80/20 rule—focusing on the most important tasks that get the best results in the least amount of time—digital marketing strategies can guarantee results and scale an agency all at once.” www.NetBlaze.com

THE UPS STORE RANKED #3 AMONG TOP FRANCHISE BRANDS The UPS Store, Inc., the world’s largest franchisor of retail shipping, postal, print and business service centers, has ranked #3 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s annual Franchise 500 list of the top franchise brands in the United States and Canada. The UPS Store brand has been in the top five since 2017 and this year’s ranking comes amid a momentous time for the brand as it experiences surging shipping volumes.

“Despite a challenging year that affected us all, I am proud that The UPS Store network continuously operated in its communities when they needed us most, created safe environments for customers, expertly handled incredible shipping volume, and was even able to unveil a new store design that was four years in the making,” said Tim Davis, president at The UPS Store, Inc. “Our franchise owners and their employees are members of the communities they serve, and I am always in awe of their dedication to those communities.”

Deemed an essential business under guidance issued by the White House and as defined within the Critical Infrastructure Sectors by the Department of Homeland Security, The UPS Store locations remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. When small businesses were forced to quickly adapt and consumers shifted more to e-commerce, many turned to The UPS Store to handle the greatly increased mailing, packing, shipping, printing and returns.

A franchisor since 1980, all The UPS Store locations are independently owned and operated, helping each franchise owner understand the needs of their customers. During the pandemic, The UPS Store helped print curbside menus for local restaurants and large signs for drive-by birthday celebrations, as well as ship more online purchases and gifts as travel decreased. www.theupsstore.com/

LYNX FRANCHISING ACQUIRED

BY MIDOCEAN PARTNERS JAN-PRO Systems International – one of the nation’s largest franchisors of commercial cleaning and disinfecting franchises – announced the brand was part of a major acquisition, as MidOcean Partners acquired LYNX Franchising – a multi-brand platform with a collection of B2B essential services, including Intelligent Office, FRSTeam, and JAN-PRO Systems International.

“We are excited about the acquisition and are eager to partner with a firm that is so dedicated to helping us take our brand even further,” said JAN-PRO Systems International President Gary Bauer. “Our industry leading model and experience, coupled with MidOcean Partners’ resources is an incredible combination, and

we are eager to see where this partnership takes our brand, especially as we continue our mission to help protect businesses, their customers and their employees from COVID-19.”

The acquisition comes at a time when JAN-PRO Systems International has set its sights on several new markets for franchise development, including Hawaii, Wisconsin, and Iowa, among others. The resources provided by MidOcean Partners will aid JAN-PRO Systems International in these expansion efforts.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses of all kinds have turned to JANPRO CLEANING & DISINFECTING as the commercial cleaning experts to keep their employees, customers, and tenants

safe during this unprecedented time. JANPRO CLEANING & DISINFECTING saw a 500% increase in upgraded special cleaning/disinfecting services since the start of the pandemic as businesses relied on their services to help employees and customers be safe from COVID-19. https://jan-pro.com/franchising/

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Featu re

S i n e a d H o r a n -We b b | Fr a n c h i s i n g U S A

Taking Care of Business Business Services That Are in Demand There is no doubt that 2020 changed how many of us do business.

While working from home and Zoom meetings have become the new work-day normal, franchises that specialize in business-to-business services have had to adapt and pivot to stay in business.

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The good news is business services franchises have been up to the challenge, introducing new products and services to help support their clients. “Necessity,” as the saying goes, “is the mother of invention.” And for B2B franchise operators that has certainly been the case— think heightened Covid-safe cleaning practices, innovative mobile apps for food catering, and teleconferences and webinars for franchising events and expos.

Digital Marketing

Businesses have always relied on other businesses to do business—and the urgency of the pandemic has only intensified that relationship. These are a few of the industries that provide essential business services that will always be in demand.

Some may have purchased build-yourown website software believing online marketing is a “set it and forget it” proposition. But the reality is, an online presence needs regular attention. Web design, search marketing and social media

As many of our regular franchising expert advice writers will tell you, an online presence is no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a necessity. A mobile responsive website, an SEO plan and at least two or three social media accounts should be standard business practice in this day and age.

However, many small business owners struggle to build and maintain their digital real estate.

“If you are contemplating becoming a business service franchise owner, now is a great time to consider your options.”

management are no longer side jobs that can be taken care of in-house by the office admin—they require detailed knowledge and a dedicated person (or team of people) to manage.

Business services franchises that include digital marketing, social media and website design offer a much-needed service and allow business operators to get on with the day-to-day of running and growing their business.

TopFire Media is an integrated digital marketing and public relations agency specializing in the franchise industry. Their clients benefit from years of experience in franchise SEO service, public relations, media relations, content writing and management, social media marketing, and web design.

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/franchisedirectory/top-fire-media

Primero Systems leverage the power of the internet to improve efficiencies and help your prospects successfully navigate their journey. Their Webtreepro franchise marketing platform offers a simple-to-use solution for franchise marketers seeking to manage their digital assets, create responsive sites and automate promotions.

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/franchisedirectory/primero-systems Nexus Online Media provides a Software as a Service (SaaS) online marketing platform that integrates website, social media, and email marketing into one platform. Clients can track specific topics about their products and services on social media.

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/franchisedirectory/nexus-online-media

Cleaning Services Businesses of all sizes have long relied on cleaning services to keep their physical spaces spick-and-span—whether they be customer-facing outlets like shops or restaurants or employee work spaces and offices. From vacuuming and window cleaning to disinfecting and polishing services, cleaning is a physically demanding and time-consuming task. So, outsourcing this responsibility is a nobrainer for most business owners.

In 2020 the need for cleaning services grew even stronger as we faced the most stringent hygiene controls we have ever experienced. In addition to regular maintenance cleaning, businesses now also require regular deep clean services using approved Covid-safe practices.

Franchises that develop a trusted relationship with business owners, ensuring their hygiene needs are up to standard and

“Business services franchises that include digital marketing, social media and website design offer a much-needed service and allow business operators to get on with the day-to-day of running and growing their business.”

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Featu re

S i n e a d H o r a n -We b b | Fr a n c h i s i n g U S A

“While the future is unpredictable, the beauty of franchise models is that they have well-oiled systems, protocols and tools in place to support their franchisees.”

Xpresso Delight is a simple business concept that simply transplants a cafe experience into the workplace.

The franchisee owns a number of fully automated gourmet espresso coffee systems and simply charges their clients a per-cup rate in a “pay for what you use” policy.

the work environment is both clean and comfortable, can reliably predict a longlasting relationship.

Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services is a full-service commercial cleaning franchise company with 137 franchises around the country. A member of Franchise Business Review’s Hall of Fame, Office Pride’s services include carpet cleaning, floor stripping and waxing, and routine janitorial services.

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/findfranchise/office-pride-commercialcleaning-services Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning offers an environmentally-friendly carpet cleaning system that uses safe, green cleaning solutions and provides fast drying times. Oxi Fresh also provides services for rugs, upholstery, hardwood floors, and tile and grout. The company was recognized as one of “America’s Best Franchises,” according to Forbes magazine.

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/franchisedirectory/oxi-fresh

Coffee delivery and catering Coffee and catering franchises are a staple of the business world. From staff celebrations and team meetings to networking events and conferences, no gathering is complete without a

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smorgasbord of tasty treats and hot beverages.

It’s true that Covid-19 has impacted businesses in terms of the ability to gather in large numbers. Many office employees are conducting business from home and large-scale conferences and networking events are now either being held online or on-hold completely. But while food and drink service companies have taken a hit, resourceful franchises have found ways to survive. Successful catering companies have developed online ordering apps and introduced contactless delivery, allowing clients to continue a somewhat businessas-usual approach to their day-to-day operations.

When the dangers of the pandemic lift, businesses will be keen to meet with clients face-to-face once again and catering franchises who have maintained their clients through these difficult times will be well placed to keep them happily caterered to for years to come.

Fresh To Order pioneered the innovative “fast-fine” restaurant niche, combining the quality fine casual dining with the operating platform and price point of fast casual. Fresh To Order’s industry recognitions include Top 100 Movers & Shakers, Hot Concept!, Top 50 Breakout Brand and Best Franchise Deals.

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/franchisedirectory/fresh-order-f2o

Directory listing: https:// franchisingusamagazine.com/franchisedirectory/xpresso-delight If you are contemplating becoming a business service franchise owner, now is a great time to consider your options, learn about how the industry has changed and adapted to Covid-19, and what franchises are doing to navigate their franchisees through turbulent times.

While the future is unpredictable, the beauty of franchise models is that they have well-oiled systems, protocols and tools in place to support their franchisees.

Rather than going it on your own as an independent small business owner, joining an established franchise network will give you the foundation from which to grow your business.

Want to learn more?

In addition to supplying a directory listing of available franchises, the Franchising USA website also offers a range of resources and expert advice that we invite you to explore. From tips on getting started in franchising to a collection of expert franchising advice articles to informative franchising videos—we are here to guide you on your journey into franchising.

Look out for our next special feature:

Franchises in Your Price Range

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Expert Advice: Andy Cagnetta | CEO | Transworld Business Advisors

Becoming your Own Boss in 2021 According to Andy Cagnetta, CEO of Transworld Business Advisors, 2021 will be the year of entrepreneurship.

Andy Cagnetta

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After an unprecedented 2020, Andy believes people are taking their future by the reins and determining the most secure and stable way to move forward. For many, they are exploring the option of becoming their own boss. This might require stepping outside of your comfort zone. In this Q&A with Andy we explore the two options

when considering this new career path: buying a business or buying a franchise.

Buying a Business Q: Andy, for those that are interested in buying a business and being their own boss, can you share some insight on whether now is an appropriate time to do so?

A: Last year may have taught you that you are ready to control your financial future by purchasing a business. Owning a business is the greatest way to build wealth and take charge of your own destiny. The biggest question I’m getting now is whether

“For us, the focus has been on technology, which is evolving faster and faster each year. Staying on top of technology and getting ahead of it helps make our franchisees and our brand more successful.” rental, event planning, and the list goes on and on.

it’s an appropriate time to make this investment. To be honest, there are plenty of reasons to be an entrepreneur, especially during a pandemic. Look at how many billionaires were made in 2009 and 2010!

Right now, we’re seeing a surge of businesses enter the marketplace that we wouldn’t normally see. This includes industries and business opportunities that are usually hard to come by. On any given day, businesses are popping up across various industries including accounting, agriculture, automotive, aviation, bookstores, catering, childcare, cleaning, construction, consulting, convenience stores, dental, dry cleaning, equipment

Business brokerages such as ours offer tools to potential buyers as they seek business opportunities. Transworld offers a free, buyer matching tool that notifies you when a new listing meets your personal business preferences. Your business profile includes key preferences such as geographic preference, business/industry preference, maximum price, down payment price, and minimum earnings. The biggest thing we encourage buyers to do is to educate themselves. Visit Tworld.com and sign up for the program to get matched with a business that fits your needs.

Buying a Franchise Q: You mentioned that there are two options for those looking to become an entrepreneur – buying a business or buying a franchise. Can you expand on that and why one might explore the franchise route?

A: Some may feel that buying into a franchise will limit their growth, but it is the complete opposite. When you buy into a franchise system, you can grow bigger and better through the established franchise system than you would be able to do on your own.

Transworld Business Advisors began its franchising journey during the 2010 recession and now we’re navigating our way, stronger than ever, through COVID19. We have found the franchising industry to be a popular avenue for people to explore as they navigate their future career path.

Like any franchise system, it is the franchise network that helps grow the company. Over the years, we have had better brokers and trusted advisors join our team. For us, the focus has been on technology, which is evolving faster and faster each year. Staying on top of technology and getting ahead of it helps make our franchisees and our brand more successful.

2020 Top Takeaways Q: Looking back at 2020, what would you say were some key takeaways that will help you, your company and your franchisees grow and prosper?

A: 2020 was a wild ride but we learned so much that will help us in the future.

Reflecting on 2020, we have compiled some key takeaways that I’d like to share with you. Each of these helped position our business better and will continue to do so as we move ahead. I encourage you to follow these too.

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Expert Advice: Andy Cagnetta | CEO | Transworld Business Advisors

A: I honestly believe that 2021 is going to be the best year to buy and sell a business.

The business sale environment today is like no other and I believe that for several reasons, but here are a few: • Cheap money. Interest rates continue to be at historic lows. Obviously on the buy side this will cost the acquirer less money in interest over time. On the sell side, the low interest rates allow borrowers to borrow more money on deals, thereby driving up prices.

• Buyers plentiful. In the 25 plus years I have been in this business I have never seen this level of buyer activity.

Unemployment has driven many to consider buying a business or franchise as an alternative to getting another job.

• People are important. The human connection is crucial in business and relationship building. Do what you can while being virtual and stay connected.

• Cash is king. Take the cash when you don’t need it because when you need it, it won’t be there. Run your business lean.

• Change happens fast. Sometimes you don’t know when and what will happen and for how long it will last.

• Sometimes surviving is winning.

Unfortunately, there were some that suffered because of COVID shutdowns but they will come back. The restaurant industry is just one example. We also saw big winners during the pandemic that were able to pivot and survive.

• Small business is the backbone of the economy. Small Businesses generate 44% of economic activity. They are the driving force behind communities across the nation.

• It pays to be nice. Be generous whether you’re an employer, employee, vendor, etc. Understand the times and how it is impacting people.

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• Use technology to our advantage & be more efficient. We’ve had technology at our fingertips but haven’t used it as best we can. While it doesn’t replace the human interaction, if used right, it can help businesses be more efficient.

Balance is key.

• We have a much better idea of what the truth is. As a nation, we will get better at seeking the truth and understanding the truth. Try to understand what you need to know as a leader.

• Be more charitable and help your community. As leaders, it’s our role to focus on community development and be more charitable. If you’re winning and surviving, help those that are losing currently.

• Be grateful and live life to the fullest!

The Future of Buying & Selling Q: Andy, you have mentioned that you think 2021 will be the year of entrepreneurship. What does the future of buying and selling look like? What should our readers expect?

• Solid valuations. Businesses values have mostly maintained or increased.

This is due to all the above reasons and a lack of perceived safe investment choices. Buying a business for yourself is still a great way to make a return on investment.

• Landlords flexible. As commercial real estate vacancies rise, the rents have been lowered in some instances and landlords are more amenable to helping lease their empty space or making sure they lock in the businesses that remain. Buyers may have the ability to obtain favorable lease terms and perhaps lower rates long into the future.

Bottom line? 2021’s business sale marketplace will be unlike any other.

Take advantage of the once in a lifetime opportunity!

Andy Cagnetta owns and operates Transworld Business Advisors, the world’s largest business brokerage and mergers and acquisitions firm with over 600 brokers in nearly 250 offices worldwide. The Transworld team handles thousands of business sales every year.

To learn more about the buying and selling process, to find a qualified advisor near you, or to learn about franchising opportunities, visit Tworld.com

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Expert Advice: Brian Bond | Strategic Business Brokers Group

Seven Ways to Position Your

Franchise for Sale ensure that potential buyers are valuing your business properly. Here are a few tips to perfectly position your franchise for sale.

Let your Franchisor Know and Understand your Franchise Agreement

Brian Bond

Creating a successful franchise operation is not an easy task. You spend years as a franchisee building up your operation to the point that it has become a profitable venture.

Now you are ready to step back from your franchise and move on to other things.

However, you don’t want to leave your franchise without selling it for the best price. Selling your franchise can be a complex process and things can go wrong if you are not prepared. There are steps you can take to make the process easier and

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Before you try to sell your franchise it is important to reach out to your franchisor and let them know you are interested in selling. Your franchisor has a vested interest in who you sell your business to and they will have basic requirements for who you can sell the franchise to. It is vitally important that you understand your franchise agreement front to back. This agreement will lay out any types of transfer fees you owe, what type of buyer is eligible to purchase your business and can even outline remodels you may need to make before you sell your business.

More importantly, your franchise agreement might give your franchisor the right of first refusal, meaning they have the right to buy the franchise back from you first before you can put it on the market for outside buyers.

Overlooking the franchise agreement is a common mistake we see many franchisees make. Understand every inch of your franchise agreement before you sell because the finer details of that agreement could dictate if you want to sell or not.

“Maintaining a high-quality franchise while you position a sale is key to getting the most for your franchise.�

Financials in Order A franchise owner serious about selling should make every effort to keep their books in order. Your records should contain accurate profit and loss statements, balance sheets and corresponding tax returns. Being up to date on basic financials is essential and will make things easier for you, the buyer and the franchisor.

Additionally, a franchise owner whose books are in order will receive an accurate valuation of the operations value and ultimately lead to a more accurate valuation of your franchise.

Maintain your Equipment Maintaining a high-quality franchise while you position a sale is key to getting the most for your franchise.

Make sure the the equipment required to operate the business are well maintained and in good working condition. Similar to books and records, keep your service receipts to show your assets have been maintained to increase your chances with potential buyers.

If something is broken, then make sure it

is fixed before you show your franchise. A buyer is not going to purchase a business that requires thousands of dollars in repairs. Remember to check your franchise agreement to see what types of repairs, maintenance or remodels are required by your franchisor.

Keep Your Customers Happy A franchise with happy customers will be sold more quickly than a franchise with unhappy customers. While you are positioning your franchise for a sale, make sure sales continue to trend positively and your customers still enjoy being a customer. Managing reviews on online platforms, Google and Yelp; while also procuring new, 5-star reviews, is important and goes a long way in solidifying the goodwill associated with your franchise.

A potential buyer can easily gauge the perception of your franchise and negative reviews are not going to be appealing.

If your franchise has negative online reviews, respond to those customers and try and remedy their concerns. This shows you take an interest in the customer experience. Improve on your customer service and encourage happy customers to leave a review online.

Find a Broker with Franchise Experience Selling a franchise is a unique experience from selling an independent business and you should keep that in mind when

“Overlooking the franchise agreement is a common mistake we see many franchisees make. Understand every inch of your franchise agreement before you sell because the finer details of that agreement could dictate if you want to sell or not.”

looking for a business broker to help you sell your franchise. Hire a business broker that specifically has experience working with franchises. A business broker with franchise experience knows the process and regulations involved in selling a franchise. They also better understand the franchisor and franchisee relationship and are better equipped to navigate that relationship in a way that keeps both parties happy.

Many brokerages will have a designated franchise division showing that helping people buy and sell franchises are a big part of their business.

Hire a business broker with franchise experience and don’t be afraid to ask for records of their sales so you can see how many deals they have successfully navigated.

Manage Expectations In my experience, many franchise owners overvalue their business which leads to some pretty hard lessons about the realities of selling. Manage your

“Many brokerages will have a designated franchise division showing that helping people buy and sell franchises are a big part of their business.”

expectations during the selling process by understanding that no valuation is the same. If you know another franchisee who sold their franchise for a certain amount, it does not automatically mean you will get the same value.

A great way to manage expectations is to speak with your business broker and review your business in detail, look at market comparisons, trends and overall profits of the business to determine an honest valuation of your business.

Working with your broker and understanding what the market is truly bearing will make it easier for you to navigate through the difficult process of selling your franchise.

Know the Next Step What is the plan after you sell? Do you need another source of income or are you planning on retiring from the proceeds?

What is the future value of the money from the sale and is that enough to get you to where you want to be? These questions are something you should know before you sell a piece of your livelihood, especially if this is your source of income.

What is your exit strategy? Are you going to take the money and start a new venture or set off into the sunset and retire?

I would recommend speaking with your financial advisor and creating a plan that maps out what you plan to do after you sell your franchise.

Selling your franchise can be a difficult process but following these steps will allow you to move forward with a better understanding of what to expect.

Brian Bond is the Principal of Strategic Business Brokers Group a brokerage firm in Scottsdale Arizona. They are experts in all franchise-related transactions.

Collectively, they have helped franchisees sell their franchises across Arizona. www.businessbrokerphoenixaz.com/

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PROFILE: Payroll Vault

Sean Manning, CEO & Owner of Payroll Vault

on Operating a Successful Business Services Franchise “Our goal at Payroll Vault is to be a partner to our customers, not just a provider. We take a very consultative approach, meeting with the client, identifying their needs, and solving problems.”

able to help others at any given moment, to support and work through whatever challenge they may be facing, or thought they may have to learn, in order to start that individual success journey and be successful with the business.

What was the driving force behind starting the company?

I owned a CPA firm, and we were doing payroll services as part of our more traditional offerings. We realized that if we wanted to grow the payroll part of what we were doing and to be a better service to our customers we had to segment it away from our current business model of the CPA firm. So, in 2008, we launched Payroll Vault as its own brand.

We saw some really great results very quickly. We had been doing payroll for 20 years with the CPA firm, but once establishing Payroll Vault as a dedicated payroll entity, we saw our client base double over two years, and we’ve been growing ever since.

What services do you provide franchisees?

Business ownership is a very interesting concept. Only about 10 percent of people in this country own a business. So when you award a franchise, you have an obligation to give them that foundation and the systems they need to operate. It’s important to us to hand off the foundations of a good business model, the business systems that also support the model, but more importantly the inspiration and leadership that they can trust. You have to be

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In 2011, the success we were getting for Payroll Vault started to get recognized, and we started getting a lot of people asking us to help them start their own payroll company and looking for tips and ideas about how to be successful, too. I realized that the best way for us to help these people would be to give them everything – the name, the brand, the systems, everything. And that’s what led us to consider franchising.

We started franchising in 2012 and now have over 60 locations and continue to grow. Just last year our brand grew by over 25%, so we’re looking forward to that continued pattern of growth and helping people be successful with the Payroll Vault model.

“Payroll is a service that demands attention, and by making our service specific to payroll, it gave us the opportunity to expand on the offerings that complement the payroll side of the industry: timeclock tools, HR tools, background checks, and more.”

What is your background?

From a young age, I was driven towards entrepreneurship. I knew in college that was my interest, and I focused on restaurant entrepreneurship in my studies.

But after graduating, it was my father, who at the time was running his own CPA firm, that suggested that I consider the accounting and CPA route. And I did.

I wanted to learn from everyone around me – from other CPAs, from my father who owned and ran the business, and from business owners in general. I spent several years with my father’s business, eventually managing three different acquisitions and then buying the firm from my father. And then, in 2008, we started Payroll Vault as its own entity, and the rest is history.

Why is there a need for your service and how are you different to your competition?

Our goal is to be the number one payroll service provider with the highest level of customer satisfaction. We’re in an industry, unfortunately, that has presented a couple

of challenges for businesses. The first is that you have big box payroll service brands that have inconsistent or difficult customer service systems and it’s hard to get a personal approach from these types of providers. And then you have an accounting industry that tries to support businesses, but payroll isn’t their core function.

we are available to support the client.

Historically, if a business had a question or a need to address, we found that they weren’t able to find someone to talk to who could answer their specific needs. So we filled that void.

Payroll is a service that demands attention, and by making our service specific to payroll, it gave us the opportunity to expand on the offerings that complement the payroll side of the industry: timeclock tools, HR tools, background checks, and more. By paying more attention to the client and consulting them on payroll, we’re able to increase our own customer service and provide a more focused service. If there is a challenge or the payroll process needs special attention,

Our goal at Payroll Vault is to be a partner to our customers, not just a provider. We take a very consultative approach, meeting with the client, identifying their needs, and solving problems that they knew were bothering them but may not have been able to recognize or where the issue was stemming from. Our whole goal is to really be a partner to the clients we serve – from our initial meeting to helping them build their business around any changes that may be related to payroll and the management of employees.

How do you look after your customers?

What is the cost involved?

Our intention is to make Payroll Vault an affordable option for anyone interested in running their own Payroll Vault business.

Our initial franchise fee is $40k, and that includes everything necessary for training, setup, and getting started. We have a good breakdown of it here: https:// www.payrollvault.com/franchise/payrollfranchise-business-cost.html To learn more call (303)-763-1829 or visit www.payrollvault.com/franchise/ starting-a-payroll-company.html

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Jill Abrahamsen | Editorial Director | International Franchise Professionals Group (IFPG)

Five Things to Know about Franchise Broker Training Franchising USA

path to successful franchise ownership.

It’s a fulfilling business with lots of perks, including a flexible schedule and the opportunity for significant income.

For people seeking career change, franchising offers a world of options. Besides finding opportunities as a franchise owner, you can also find lucrative and fulfilling work as a Franchise Broker (a.k.a.

Franchise Consultant).

Franchise Brokers are in demand and receive generous commissions from franchisors for their services. In fact, Franchise Brokers have been found as the leading source for closing deals. It makes sense. They save franchisors time and money by identifying suitable and qualified candidates.

Franchise Brokers help aspiring franchise owners determine if franchising is a good choice. They guide candidates through the process of identifying appropriate franchise brands that match the franchise seeker’s background, interests and investment level. A Franchise Broker can be pivotal in helping a candidate prevent a costly mistake. Say, for example, a candidate who is a stay-at-home mom is set on a food franchise. While food franchises may be great for some, it does have its drawbacks: long hours, brick and mortar, large staffs, high overhead. A good Franchise Broker will present the cons upfront and propose suitable alternatives.

Investing in a franchise is one of the biggest decisions a person can make.

By getting to know the candidate—and her desired lifestyle—the Franchise Consultant can guide her candidate on a

You don’t have to go back to school or rework your resume to become a Franchise Broker, but you do need the right skill set and affiliation. Folks who are good listeners, communicators and have business acumen are well suited for the role. The gold standard in the industry is to complete a training program and align with a reputable broker network.

For example, the International Franchise Professionals Group (IFPG) offers a specific CFC designation, which is attained by going through a training program. Upon completion, you are set up with a turnkey business and a playbook for success, which includes continuing education and the distinction of being a Certified Franchise Consultant. Here’s what you should know:

1

It’s immersive:

Similar to a language immersion program, a good Franchise Broker training program will help you learn quickly by letting you dive in head first. A good program will include hands-on experiences such as opportunities to network at industry events and participate in franchisor webinars. With better programs, you will learn from a number of franchise professionals, each who share different perspectives and areas of expertise.

2

You’ll have mentors:

There’s no better way to learn the tricks of the trade than from someone who has seen it all. Any good Franchise Broker training program will include mentorship from a seasoned Franchise Consultant who will take you under her wing. The beauty of franchising, and work as a Franchise Consultant, is that it’s collaborative. The industry is booming, and Consultants are happy to share their knowledge and best practices with each other.

3

It’s turnkey:

A good Franchise Broker training program will give you everything you need to start your business, including items like a customizable website, a source for leads, and a CRM system so you can hit

Jill Abrahamsen

the ground running. Most importantly, you will want to work with a large portfolio of reputable franchise brands to ensure the success of your candidates. Franchise Consultants who have good reputations constantly get referrals.

4

There’s continuing education:

The ever-changing world of franchising is constantly evolving and growing. Even after training is complete, you will want to keep learning. Align with a broker network that hosts multiple educational networking events (both in-person and virtual), and uses different forms of media for continuing education, like webinars, podcasts and email updates.

5

There’s ongoing support:

Good broker networks continue supporting their Consultants long after training ends. Look for a broker network with a dedicated support staff that is affiliated with seasoned Franchise Consultants and industry experts.

By aligning with a highly-regarded, ethical Franchise Broker network from the start, aspiring Franchise Brokers position themselves for a lucrative, rewarding career in the booming franchise industry.

Jill Abrahamsen is Editorial Director at the International Franchise Professionals Group (IFPG), a franchise broker network that helps hopeful entrepreneurs identify and invest in franchise businesses. As Editor of Franchise Consultant Magazine and FranchiseWire, Jill Abrahamsen writes and edits articles about success through franchise ownership.

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Expert Advice: Rick Bisio | Franchise Coach | FranChoice

Many Opportunities with Business Service Franchises

Business services franchises are among the largest and most diverse categories within the franchise community.

They provide a wide array of services for both businesses and consumers that can range anywhere from painting to staffing to IT support or printing services.

According to the most recent Franchise Business Economic Outlook report, there were 106,936 business service franchises in 2019, which generated $106 billion.

Business services was the third largest

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sector, accounting for 13.4 percent of all franchise establishments, trailing only retail food, products and services (20.1 percent) and personal services (15.8 percent).

Some business service franchises operate exclusively in the business-to-business space. They provide a set of services that can only be used by businesses. Express employment services, which is a billiondollar industry, is an example of that.

So are sign-making franchises, market research companies and data-processing services.

Each of these businesses help other small, medium or large businesses keep

their operations running smoothly and successfully. Some of these service franchises, such as a sign-making or printing business, work from a retail location and involve some production manufacturing. Others, like accounting, HR or sales support, may operate from a small office or home.

While many of these franchises perform services that are essential to business entities, it is important to know that a large number also serves individual customers as well. One example is a painting business.

In this case, they cater to both groups as homes and businesses need to be painted.

For franchises like Certa-Pro, much of their business is split evenly between

“As a franchise coach, I work with many people who are exploring business franchises and don’t realize that B2B can be a large component of their business as well.”

“One advantage in owning a business service franchise is being able to provide a product or service that remains in demand.”

B2B and B2C customers. Electricians and plumbers are examples of other servicebased companies that do business with both groups.

As a franchise coach, I work with many people who are exploring business franchises and they don’t realize that B2B can be a large component of their business as well. They only think of the retail storefront or person behind the counter serving customers. That may come from their own perspective of being a customer of those services. Once they understand this additional, large business segment exists, the franchise opportunity becomes even more attractive.

Like many other franchisees, owners of business service franchises do not need to have prior industry experience. A good franchisor will provide the franchisee with the proper knowledge and experience in the field they will need to be able to run the business. The franchise owner will hire and oversee employees to do the day-today work while they run and grow the business.

Business-to-business franchises work across multiple sectors. They operate in retail locations, offices, warehouses and home-based locations that are exclusively business to business. Whether someone owns a B2B or B2C franchise, one of the most important skill sets they must possess

is being comfortable in interacting with others. To grow the business, they will need to get out and build relationships with their customers.

One difference between B2B and B2C formats is that most business-to-business franchises require greater comfort with proactive relationship development.

Although there are exceptions, pure marketing-based businesses are more likely to be found on the business-to-consumer side. For B2B franchises, one needs to be comfortable building strong B2B relationships.

Some of the work that is required involves building an identity and reputation to let potential customers know about the business. It is also being willing to call people and tell them about your services, take them out to lunch and start to build relationships. When I work with future business owners, it is important to discover if the individual feels more comfortable building B2B relationships or are more at ease in a B2C environment.

As you would expect from a segment of its size and diversity, the outlook for business service franchises is very good. There is a constant need for their services among a wide range of customers and the number of franchises in the area continues to grow.

One advantage in owning a business service franchise is being able to provide a product or service that remains in demand. As a result, sales are impacted less by current economic conditions.

The need for a plumber, exterminator or office IT support does not change if

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there is a pandemic or recession. These businesses are much more stable than those in industries like restaurants, health and fitness and personal care, which suffered the most over the past year.

I recently spoken with a number of business service franchises and they all had very successful years in 2020. Like everyone else, they experienced several months in which business slowed and they were unsure of what was to come. After the situation stabilized, the second half of 2020 was very strong year for a lot of these franchises. In some cases, they were able to increase their business over the previous year.

There are many types of business service franchises that provide a wide range of products and services. If a prospective franchisee has the proper skill set, determination and comfort level of growing their business, there are many outstanding opportunities to create a successful career in this franchise space.

Rick Bisio is one of the countries most respected franchise coaches and author of the Amazon best seller, The Educated Franchise - 3rd Edition. Since becoming a franchise coach in 2002, Bisio has assisted thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide explore the dream of business ownership. www.afranchisecoach.com/the-coach

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