Volume 3 issue 8 June 2015

Franchising usa T he ma g a z ine for franchisees

VOL 03, ISSUE 8, june 2015

$5.95 www.franchisingusamagazine.com

Pinot’s Palette

a franchising masterpiece Franchises

Go Green to help Planet and Profits special

Sports & Fitness supplement LATEST NEWS

FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM THE BANKS

TOP LAWYERS’ ADVICE

Franchising usa T he ma g a z ine for franchisees

FRANCHISING USA VOLUME 3, ISSUE 8, JUNE 2015 president: Colin Bradbury. colin@cgbpublishing.com

Publisher: Vikki Bradbury. vikki@cgbpublishing.com

Advertising Sales: Kimberly Kutnick kimberlyk@cgbpublishing.com

Editorial Department: editor@cgbpublishing.com

Editorial team: Rob Swystun Gina Gill

Production: usaproduction@cgbpublishing.com

DESIGN: Jejak Graphics. jejak@bigpond.com

COVER IMAGE: PINOT’S PALETTE

CGB PUBLISHING Canadian Office: 676 Wain Road, Sidney B.C Canada V8L 5M5 U.S. Office: 800 5th Ave, #101 Seattle, WA 98104-3102 Sales: 847 607 8407 Editorial: 778 426 2446 www.franchisingusamagazine.com Proud member of the IFA:

SUPPLIER FORUM International Franchise Association 1501 K Street, N.W., Suite 350 Washington, D.C. 20005 Phone: (202) 628-8000 Fax: (202) 628-0812 www.franchise.org

Publisher I have often been asked what it is about Franchising that it has dominated my life for so long, and my answer is always the same, Diversity. There are so many different options for the entrepreneur and Franchising USA hopes that with the help of our experts we can point you in the right direction.

In this issue we have a great assortment of Franchise options and some great advice from our experts such as, Levi King, Why Franchisees need to know about Business Credit, Andy Roe 5 Ways to Efficiently Screen a Job Candidate, Graham Chapman with a popular topic; Franchises Go Green to Help Planet and Profits, plus much more in this June issue.

Sports and Fitness is our Feature Supplement this issue and is packed full of great options if this is the Franchise that interests you. On the Cover we have 9Round plus an interview with Co-founder of 9Round fitness centers, Shannon Hudson a Fitness franchisor

who mixes passion with inspiration.

We have British Swim Schools, Active Rx, NFP Sports all offering some great advice and we feature SoldierFit, WellBiz Brands, and Fitness on the go to name a few.

Veterans in Franchising is our main Supplement every issue and has a great motivational article by Dr. Stan Fine PHD, Five Easy Steps for Motivation, Veterans Business Services asks How does a Veteran save time investigating the financial feasibility of their franchise acquisition? and How do Veterans find out if lenders are actually interested in financing the franchise brand they selected?

We also feature on the Cover Curt Maier a Murphy Business Superbroker™ who is a Former submarine officer helping fellow Veterans transition from military to successful entrepreneurship.

Franchising USA will also be at the International Franchise Expo June 18th – 20th in New York come along and get your free subscription from booth 972.

You can register online at: www.secure.events-registration.com/ ife2015/?source=FRANUSAE Look forward to seeing you and Happy Reading!

Vikki Bradbury Publisher

The information and contents in this publication are believed by the publisher to be true, correct and accurate but no independent investigation has been undertaken. Accordingly the publisher does not represent or warrant that the information and contents are true, correct or accurate and recommends that each reader seek appropriate professional advice, guidance and direction before acting or relying on all information contained herein. Opinions expressed in the articles contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publication is sold subject to the terms and conditions that it shall not be copied in whole or part, resold, hired out, without the express permission of the publisher.

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Contents On the Cover

22 Franchises go Green to help Planet and Profits

10 Cover Story

Kyle Zagrodzky, Osteostrong

65 Sports & Fitness Supplement

56

22

Pinot’s Palette – A Franchising Masterpiece

16

JUNE 2015

In Every Issue

Franchisee In Action

06 Franchising News Announcements from the Industry

62 Nutrition Zone 90 FASTSIGNS

33 Veterans Supplement News and Information for Veterans in Franchising

58 IFA News Franchising Gives Back Annual Awards

70 Feature Article

Sports & Fitness Franchising Feature

Focus 20 Spherion 94 FranFund

70

98 A-Z Franchise and Services Directoy

Spotlight on Service 30 LivePOS

Franchisor In Depth 24 Liberty Tax

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12 When Times Get Tough, Lean on Fellow Franchisees Kyle Zagrodsky, OsteoStrong

22

Expert Advice

16 5 Ways to Efficiently Screen a Job Candidate Andy Roe, SurePayroll Inc.

28 Why franchisees need to know about Business Credit Levi King, Creditera

56 7 Tools to Motivate Sales Reps Eliot Burdett, Peak Sales Recruiting

60 Is Indoor Cycling really “The Next Big Thing�?

George Knauf, FranChoice

86 Franchising in Canada to U.S. Franchisors: The Recipe for Success Lori Karpman, Lori Karpman & Company

96 Multi-Unit Franchising: A Different Kind of Franchising Tom Dufore, Franchise Marketing Systems

Sports & Fitness Supplement

60

92 Brand: Keys to Building a More Cohesive Brand Michael Mohammed, Chronic Tacos

68 Cover Story: 9Round 70 Sports & Fitness Feature 76 NFP Sports 78 Aging Strong: The Importance of Staying Strong & Active Matt D. Essex, ActiveRx

80 Fitness on the Go 82 SoldierFit

Profile 14 Beef Jerky Outlet

92

84 Elements Massage

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what’s new!

Burger 21 to open new restaurants in Florida and Georgia this year Burger 21 has signed an additional franchise agreement with its very first franchisee, Dennis Saller, to develop the brand’s first restaurant in Melbourne, Fla., at The Avenue Viera shopping mall. The Tampa-based chain has also signed lease agreements for its Snellville and Johns Creek, Ga., locations.

“We are excited about the growth Burger 21 has experienced in both Florida and Georgia, and we are optimistic about our future development throughout the Southeast,” said Mark Johnston, the founder and president of Burger 21. “Dennis Saller’s Orlando location has already proven to be highly successful, and we’re confident that he’ll bring the same success to Melbourne. Georgia also continues to be a prime target for our brand’s development as we aim to open additional franchise locations across the state, in cities such as Cumberland and Kennesaw.”

The Melbourne location will be Saller’s second Burger 21 restaurant in the state of Florida. He opened his first one in 2013 in Orlando. On the Georgia front, existing franchisee, Corley Steward, signed a lease agreement for his second Burger 21 location in Johns Creek, located at 11250 Medlock Bridge.

Additionally, Alex Kim signed a lease agreement for his first Burger 21 restaurant in Snellville, located at 1575 Scenic Highway, Suite 400. Both restaurants are slated to open this summer.

To date, Burger 21 has opened 15 locations and it has more than 20 franchised restaurants in development across the country.

For more information visit: www.burger21.com

Paramount Fine Foods Announces Nazem Kadri as Brand Ambassador Paramount Fine Foods, a growing chain of restaurants focusing on Middle Eastern cuisine, has announced Nazem Kadri of the Toronto Maple Leafs as its brand’s ambassador.

“Paramount Fine Foods has always been my ‘go to’ restaurant on and off season,” said Kadri, praising the restaurant’s focus on healthy and fresh cuisine.

The admiration is mutual: “Nazem is a young man who demonstrates a great example for both the Arabic and Canadian communities. We are very proud of his

Franchising USA

professional accomplishments and his

charitable ones and we look forward to the growth of his career,” States Paramount CEO, Mohamad Fakih.

First launched in Mississauga in 2006,

Paramount Fine Foods champions a ‘farmto-table’ approach, offering a variety of

authentic, certified HMA Middle Eastern recipes. The business has since grown to 15 restaurant locations.

For more information visit: www.paramountfinefoods.com

Husband and wife rewarded for their work have carved their place as successful franchisees in the restaurant industry. The Freers opened the first Arizona Del Taco in Flagstaff in 1997. With robust sales and high demand, they have continued the growth of the brand, and today they operate a total of seven locations throughout the state.

Ferrel and Mary Freer, longtime franchisees of the leading Mexican QSR Del Taco, received the 2015 Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine’s Annual Most Valuable Performer (MVP) Award for Husband & Wife Team.

The industry-wide awards recognize ‘the power operators, the innovators, and the creative thinkers who have demonstrated outstanding performance in growing both their organization and their brands’. For the past 37 years, Ferrel and Mary Freer

True franchise pioneers, the Freers operate their various franchise locations like a well-oiled machine, with Ferrel focusing on the real estate/site location side of the business and Mary handling all facets of operations. Throughout all of their endeavors, they continue to take superior customer service to heart, and look forward to continued franchise growth with Del Taco in the future.

For more information visit: www.deltacofranchise.com

New Spring Menu sure to please Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom has announced the launch of its new spring menu offering, which includes new favorites for guests to customize across the nation.

Additionally, the brand has expanded its selection of Tavern Bites and Taproom Classics including the Craft Your Own Mac N’ Cheese and three brand new Craft Burger selections.

Old Chicago’s Taproom Classics will focus on a taproom twist featuring three new Craft Burgers packed with bold defining flavors. New menu items include the Whiskey Bacon Burger, Caprese Burger, Crafted Beer Burger.

Old Chicago has also developed a new line of gourmet Mac N’ Cheese with a Create-Your-Own option. Additional new menu items include: Chicken Pesto Mac

N’ Cheese, Cajun Spice Mac N’ Cheese,

off their dish with a variety of garnishes.

Craft-Your-Own Mac N’ Cheese. Guests

interested in customizing their own mouth-

The new menu is available now at Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom locations nationwide.

spices, add-in protein and veggies, then top

For more information visit: www.oldchicago.com

Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Mac N’ Cheese,

watering creation can select a sauce, stir-in

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what’s new!

Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza Hosts National Fan Fest Video Contest A pizza company is encouraging its guests to be creative and share their stories for a chance to win $5,000.

Blaze Pizza is running a competition and is inviting its guests to create original, unconventional, and authentic videos that showcase why they’re a fan of Blaze Pizza. The grand prize winner will receive $5,000, and two runners-up will each receiving free Blaze Pizza for one year.

The pizza company has announced that fans can enter online by posting a video on Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #BlazeFanFest, OR upload a video to YouTube and submit the link at www.blazepizza.com or www.facebook.com/blazepizza.

The company has asked for videos to be less than 180 seconds long, and said it will be accepting submissions until June 15. Five finalists will be selected, and then fans will vote for their favorite finalist video to determine the grand prize winner.

Complete rules can be found at: www.blazepizza.com/promos/fanfest

Proven leader in telecommunications saving clients thousands

BullsEye Telecom provides communications solutions that save franchisees time and money while improving overall efficiencies.

services, provide protection from inclement weather setbacks and security issues and lastly ensure there is no downtime for the business.

A proven national leader in the franchise industry, BullsEye Telecom is the only multi-location telecom provider offering traditional phone, Internet, digital voice and managed services to every location nationwide.

What does that mean for the multi-unit franchisee? It means multi-unit phone systems and internet made easy. It also means no juggling multiple vendors and bills. BullsEye is your single reliable provider that saves time and money by: providing cloud-based solutions, digital phone service, wireless failover and security for business continuity, unlimited calling, auto-attendant and unified

From 1 to 20,000 locations, BullsEye’s technologies allow owner/operators the ability to scale without abundant human resources, benefit from call routing

Franchising USA

communications for mobility. You can manage your telecom online and instantly redirect calls, which means no downtime, no lost calls and total security.

BullsEye saves their clients thousands, recently saving a nationwide donut and coffee chain (230 locations) over $100,000 by consolidating all information systems as well as saving an Auto Supply Chain over $200,000.

Start saving today: www.bullseyetelecom.com

Taco John’s® Adds More Experience to Leadership Team Mexican quick service restaurant chain Taco John’s® has added two new members to its leadership team – Ted Suor, Vice President for Supply Chain and Stephanie Forand, Director of Human Relations. Both are focusing their attention on helping Taco John’s® grow.

Ted Suor brings 35 years of food service purchasing experience to Taco John’s®, most recently with Front Burner Brands.

He says the opportunity to work with a growing brand and a strong leadership team led him to Taco John’s®.

John’s®, including six years with Boston’s The Gourmet Pizza. Initially, she’s focusing on updating the HR systems at Taco John’s® in anticipation of company expansion.

“We have to be strategically prepared for growth. It’s looking forward to best practices and the development of our team,” says Forand. “Along with that, we are going to identify HR tools and plans that can help franchisees be more successful, saving them time and money.”

“I bring years of knowledge and experience in logistics, futures commodities and purchasing,” says Suor.

“My top priority is to strategically develop the logistics so we can open a Taco John’s® anywhere in the country and have the distribution system in place to support it.”

Taco John’s® operates and franchises around 400 quick-service restaurants in 27 states. Privately owned, the business opened its first restaurant in 1969 in Cheyenne, WY. Taco John’s® prides itself on serving generous portions, menu items prepared fresh to order, high quality ingredients and special recipes, seasonings and sauces.

Stephanie Forand brings 12 years of human resource experience to Taco

For more information visit: www.tacojohns.com

Bar-B-Clean Fires Up National Expansion Plans

If you haven’t had your barbecue cleaned in a while, there’s a good chance that rats, mice, or other critters have lived, snacked, or left droppings inside.

Additionally, the crusted mess and grease dripping on, and under, the grates are both a fire danger and a health hazard, and also makes your food taste nasty.

But have no fear - Bar-B-Clean is coming to a neighborhood near you.

With eight locations already serving 17 territories throughout seven states, the only barbecue cleaning franchise in the country, Bar-B-Clean, recently announced an aggressive expansion initiative to add more than 30 new territories nationwide by the end of 2016.

“It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it. We want to be that somebody,” said Bar-B-Clean founder Bryan Weinstein.

“Everyone knows grills get extremely greasy and dirty, but they really hate to clean them. Until now, grill owners haven’t had many places they could turn to have their grills professionally cleaned. Bar-BClean fulfills that customer demand.”

Launched in 2011 and franchising since 2013, Bar-B-Clean offers residential and commercial customers a convenient, low-cost grill cleaning solution. Using a proprietary steam cleaning system that pumps out 310 degree steam vapor, the service includes a deep cleaning of the interior and exterior of the grill, as well as a thorough inspection of the burner and ignition systems.

For more information visit: www.bar-b-clean.com

Franchising USA

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cov er sto ry

Pinot ’s Palet te

a franchising masterpiece

after six years in business Why the demand?

While other businesses focus on art classes that allow students to indulge in a drink or two, Pinot’s Palette has decided to do away with the stuffy class atmosphere altogether and make it all about entertaining people, co-founder Charles Willis said during a recent interview from Spring, TX, where he was going to visit a franchisee.

We are wrapping up the first half of the year with some impressive growth numbers. Since Jan. 1 2015, we’ve added 27 units and 8 internationally in Canada, making Pinot’s Palette the first and only international paint and sip franchise.

Franchising USA

“We talk our customers through how to bring a blank canvas to a finished product over two or three hours. They take it home, hang it on the wall and brag to their friends. It’s very rewarding for people to discover their artistic talents,” Willis explained.

The business aims to keep all its outings light and entertaining and leave people with a sense of fun in addition to their own personal masterpiece at the end of the night. People generally go to the company’s website and see what painting events are coming up and decide what day to come and what painting they want to do. They sign up online and on the night

they come in, the Pinot’s Palette people meet them at the door, show them where to sit and the painting instructor takes them through the step-by-step process of creating a work of art. Some locations, patrons are allowed to bring their own alcohol and other locations have a bar to serve patrons.

“We took that sort of boring art class model and infused fun into it,” Willis said.

Pinot’s Palette has completely changed the paint-and-sip industry, abandoning the class structure and focusing more on the entertainment aspect of it, the co-founder said. Pretty much every other business offering paint-and-sip service is now following the Pinot’s Palette model.

The company started franchising in 2011 and currently has 130 franchisees in 33 states and is expanding into Canada. There are locations available right across the United States.

As Seen on TV Immediately after the company began, it

started seeing a large fan base develop, Willis said, and then things exploded after Pinot’s Palette’s serendipitous TV appearance.

“Pinot’s Palette has decided to do away with the stuffy class atmosphere altogether and make it all about entertaining people.”

The company received a phone call from the TV network TLC shortly after they opened and TLC wanted to shoot an episode of The Little Couple TV show at Pinot’s Palette for the titular characters’ wedding anniversary show.

That episode aired and suddenly the company was getting phone calls from people all over the world interested in franchising. But, they had to say no to all these potential franchisees because they just weren’t ready to franchise at that time.

The co-founders — Willis, along with his wife Beth Willis and their business partner Craig Ceccanti — made a conscious decision to wait and hold off on franchising because they wanted to build a strong foundation for bringing on new people and have all the necessary training programs in place.

They opened their second studio in mid2010 and once they got their training programs in place, they started advertising for those first few franchisees in Texas, getting interest in Austin and Dallas.

Eventually, the company spread outward from Texas with the plan of getting into the 10 biggest markets in the US and then using those markets as hubs to expand into the surrounding areas.

All the founders had backgrounds in project management in various fields like engineering, consulting and IT, Willis said. Beth was a clinical pharmacist doing management in the medical field.

“We came together and we decided to do something that we would want to go out and do,” Willis said.

It turns out that what the co-founders wanted to do was shared by a lot of people.

As Willis pointed out, people tend to want to do something different nowadays.

They’ve been to the sushi restaurants, they’ve been to the movies, they’ve been out to eat and out to bars their whole lives.

That kind of stuff is becoming stale and people want something different that still provides an entertaining atmosphere.

Paint and sip a different, fun business to own “We see a lot of ‘corporate refugees’ who want a business where they find joy and fulfillment.”

“We took the time to build a strong foundation for the system and are passionate about assisting our partners in their entrepreneurial journey,” Willis said.

Three years in a row Pinot’s Palette has been recognized as an FBR50 Franchisee Satisfaction Award winner by the Franchise Business Review, and the top paint and sip concept in franchisee satisfaction.

Pinot’s Palette values innovation and they encourage open and collaborative teamwork from all of our partners. This leads to a high level of satisfaction and will also ensure they can continue to meet customer demand for years to come.

Ideal Franchisees Basically, Pinot’s Palette is looking for people who are successful in their lives and who will transfer that success to their franchise and fit in with the culture of success the company is building.

Pinot’s Palette is looking for people who

are passionate about the paint-and-sip industry and who understand that getting a business off the ground is going to take some owner involvement.

The company isn’t just looking to grow in sheer numbers, Willis said. They want to be discerning with the people they choose to bring on board. Once they do have them on board, the company offers more than 200 hours of comprehensive training in Houston and on location for franchisees.

This training includes site selection, which is augmented by an in-depth market research report that provides data, making for a more informed site selection process.

Once a franchisee has chosen a spot, the Pinot’s Palette team flies out to where they are to go over the location. The franchisees receive training for every position that they would be hiring for and beyond the initial training, there is ongoing training and support like creating localized marketing plans.

One final note, Pinot’s Palette is now expanding internationally with the signing of a master license agreement for as many as eight studios in Toronto and the Niagara Region over the next six years.

For more information on this exciting Franchise: www.pinotspalette.com

Franchising USA

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ex per t advice

Andrew Kyle Zagrodzky, Cagnetta, President, CEO, Transworld OsteoStrong Business Advisors

When Times Get Tou Lean on Fellow Franc The way people communicate has been completely overhauled and revolutionized in the last two decades.

Not too long ago, people interacted one of three ways: face to face, via physical snail mail, or over the phone. Today, we can add any of these communication options when we want to reach out: instant messages, personal email, blast email, texting, live video chats, or photo sharing. With so many choices available, companies are left in the lurch when guessing the best way to communicate. The problem of reach isn’t just about marketing anymore, but has extended to franchise leaders who don’t know the best way to engage franchisees.

“Having a family of franchisees who are ready to help one another is part of what makes the franchise business model special.”

Franchising USA

Clear, open channels of communication are essential to every business’s functionality and survival, and that fact counts double for franchise businesses.

Franchises are run based on carefully chosen sales, branding, and operations models, so if signals become crossed and messages are mixed or missed, units won’t be able to keep up with the game plan. Poor communication can damage any business, but in franchising the stakes are even higher, since even one lower-performing franchise could not only lower franchisee morale, but potentially damage the entire brand’s reputation in the eyes of customers and franchisees down the road.

ugh chisees A winning communication strategy is planned, not haphazard. Communicators know their responsibilities and keep track of completed communications in a shared system visible to the corporate leadership group. Finally, a great strategy involves everyone, not just one or two people in the main office.

Choose your key communications platforms— and stick with them Trying to connect using too many platforms is not only confusing; it also wastes time, energy, and resources. Using every possible communication outlet leads to an overwhelming and scattered communication structure where people don’t know where to look for updates first. Choose a handful of communication methods that work best for your business, and then stick with them. When people know where to look for what information, information will feel more dependable and less difficult to keep track of. The mix and match of internal conference calls, video chats, and social media is up to you, but at a minimum, email blasts should share weekly brand updates and corporate leadership should regularly touch base by phone.

Track communications in real time Create a set communications schedule that outlines how often each channel should be used, then stick to the pattern and track connections in a shared database.

When someone from corporate leadership leaves a franchisee a message just to

“Make an effort to get to know other franchisees whenever the opportunity is there.” check in, record the time and date so it’s clear someone just reached out. When blast emails go out with updates, archive a copy for reference and mark the task as completed for the week. Having a clear schedule keeps communication from a variety of sources frequent and current, and it also lets leadership quickly check on whether a franchisee has been tougher to reach or may be falling through a communications gap.

Corporate leadership should stay in touch Texting, instant messaging, and social media have made phone calls feel downright formal, but when someone’s unit is too far away to visit, phone calls can become the friendliest way to reach out and check in. Having people from the entire leadership team contact franchisees by phone doesn’t have to take a lot of time, but it’s guaranteed to make every single franchisee feel like a valued part of the team. Businesses with the strongest cultures maintain them through long-term relationships, and people who work for those companies are more successful, motivated, and energized. When you actually know the leaders, you feel more connected, and you’re more open to sharing great ideas that can benefit everyone.

Create a communication structure with a helpful gobetween Every court case is important, but they can’t all be heard by the Supreme Court.

Franchisees are going to have questions that may not be immediately covered in the operational handbook, but when someone has an urgent query or just needs to reach out, they shouldn’t have to connect straight to the top of corporate leadership. Franchisees should be able to rely on regional developers who will understand their specific needs and

challenges and be there to encourage, give great advice, and build franchisee networks.

Connect franchisees with one another Franchisees in your business have a lot in common, but oftentimes franchisees don’t really know one another. When franchisees are connected, they can share struggles, get genuine encouragement from people who are dealing with the same issues, and boost one another’s achievement potential with helpful advice that they know works from firsthand experiences. When franchisees are encouraged to network with one another, they’re more likely to form strong bonds that help everyone succeed.

Kyle Zagrodzky is president of OsteoStrong, the health and wellness system that boosts bone and muscle strength in less than 10 minutes a week using scientifically proven osteogenic loading concepts. OsteoStrong introduced a new era in modern fitness and aging prevention two years ago and has since helped thousands of clients between ages eight and 92 improve strength, balance, endurance, and bone density. In 2014, the brand signed commitments with nine regional developers to launch 500 new locations across America. www.osteostrong.com

Kyle Zagrodzky

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 13

pro fi l e

B eef Jer k y O u tlet

Beef Jerky Outlet

growing strong while feeding Americans’ jerky cravings If there was any doubt about the United States’ love affair with beef jerky, there won’t be anymore.

Beef Jerky Outlet, a retail store that sells primarily beef and other kinds of jerky, has been growing by the proverbial leaps and bounds over the past two years.

Co-owner Scott Parker said while the actual name Beef Jerky Outlet has been around for about 20 years, it was just a handful of independent stores using the brand name scattered throughout the country. He and business partner Paul Lyons bought their store in about 2006 and decided they’d do much better if they started franchising the brand and they started doing that in 2010.

In the past two years, Lyons said, the company has seen its total stores open grow to 35 and it has a total of 94 stores that are either open or are in the process of opening.

While Beef Jerky Outlet has stores in Colorado, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas and Washington state, it is primarily in the east, which Lyons said happened organically.

“Every time we open a store and people

Franchising USA

come in to that store, that’s where a lot of our best potential franchisees come from” Lyons said. “People see the store, they’re interested, they follow up with us and they turn into franchisees.”

As they spread west, the business partners are expecting the same phenomenon to happen and they’ll get more leads and more franchisees.

Typically, he said, their franchisees are either somebody who has had their job situation altered by a company downsizing and they’re looking to do something different with their lives or the company will attract investors who open groups of stores. One gentleman in the Oklahoma area, for example, is getting ready to open five stores soon.

Parker said the incredible growth of the company can be attributed to its uniqueness.

“There’s nobody else out there that has this same kind of concept,” Parker said.

“We have over 200 varieties and sizes of jerky.”

Along with beef, the store also carries elk, alligator, ostrich, kangaroo and a large variety of other types of jerky.

“We’re hitting a niche market with both the hunter and outdoor types”, Parker said,

but also the craze for high protein diets.

Something else the company also has going for it is their try-before-you buy policy. Unlike many places, Beef Jerky Outlet encourages customers to try a bit of jerky before they commit to buying it.

As the business continues to grow, Parker said, the best opportunities are quickly being snatched up, so now is the time for franchisees to get on board.

To help with that, the company has a comprehensive educational process potential franchisees can go through with Beef Jerky Outlet’s sales reps who walk them through the process of getting involved in the business. Prospects are also invited out to a discovery day in Tennessee. This event includes a tour of a real operating store and a jerky manufacturing plant nearby. Potential candidates come visit and experience the business in person which is very helpful in making the decision to become a franchisee.

Regardless of whether people are curious or serious, the company’s process will help them in making an educated decision.

Anyone who is interested can visit www.beefjerkyoutlet.com or visit booth 431 at the International Franchise Expo in New York, June 18-20.

Over 1000% Growth in the last 20 months

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ex per t advice

Andy Roe, General Manager, SurePayroll Inc.

Ways to Efficiently screen a Job Candidate You have a handful of resumes on your desk.

This pales in comparison to the hundreds that sit in your inbox. Oh yes, the time has come to make a new hire.

On the surface, your goal is simple: to

hire the best person for the job. In reality, this is much more complex. Not only do

you have to sift through cover letters and resumes to pinpoint the best candidates, but you then have to conduct the interview process.

Or you could have the opposite problem and not have enough applicants.

“Once you learn how to conduct an efficient, effective job interview, it is easier to go into the hiring process with confidence.”

Franchising USA

Either way, you want to screen candidates as efficiently as possible. With too many, you don’t want to spend weeks and months trying to hire someone. With too few, you have to make sure you pick the best person available, because there may not be someone else walking through the door any time soon.

If you are a franchise owner, your outlook is even worse. The reason?

Over 575 locations in 9 countries worldwide National marketing and branding programs $21 million in SBA financing available “FASTSIGNS continues to be the perfect business model for us to reach our personal financial goals. With FASTSIGNS’ brand awareness, operational support, and training resources, we are positioned to be the predominant visual communications leader in the market.”

Mark & Shawn Glenn | FASTSIGNS of Carrollton, TX

"Being a part of this organization is like having 100 employees on my staff, each and every one them has responded to one thing or another from my end. Thank you, FASTSIGNS Corporate!"

Denise Acquaye | FASTSIGNS of Newark, NJ

“We began looking into franchises and FASTSIGNS instantly stood out from the rest. We weren’t just blown away by the business model – it was also the great resources and ongoing support they provide franchise partners.”

Milton Guerrero & Woody Poole, veterans FASTSIGNS of North Charleston, SC

www.fastsigns.com

ex per t advice

Andy Roe, General Manager, SurePayroll Inc.

“As the hiring party, you can do a few things to reduce stress, which will make for a more productive interview.” requirements in your state, can be a good idea. At a reasonable cost, you can get third party confirmation that there are no major red flags on a person that could end up hurting your business.

You have to do most (or all) of the work on your own.

Now that we have that out of the way, it is time for the good news. Once you learn how to conduct an efficient, effective job interview, it is easier to go into the hiring process with confidence.

Here are five pointers that will put you on the right track:

1

Be prepared

Before you come face-to-face with a candidate, make sure you know how you want the interview to play out. What questions will you ask? When will you field questions from the applicant? Is there anything else you want to accomplish, such as having the person complete a “test assignment?”

Once you lay out a plan it is easier to move forward in the appropriate manner.

2

Reduce stress

Due to an extreme amount of stress, most people don’t enjoy going on a job interview. As the hiring party, you can do a few things to reduce stress, which will make for a more productive interview.

• Provide applicants, in advance, with information regarding the interview.

This could include a basic itinerary and any topics you want to discuss.

Franchising USA

• Talk about your company’s dress code, as this will allow them to make a well informed decision regarding what to wear.

• Make the interview more of a professional conversation. “Rapid fire” questions are sure to make any candidate sweat.

3

Let others in on the action

This depends largely on the size of your company, but is something to consider if applicable. For example, if you are hiring a new salesperson you may want your sales manager to sit in on the interview. This improves the efficiency of the interview, while also protecting against future meet-ups with other team members.

These five pointers should help you conduct an efficient and effective interview, so that not only are you getting the right employee for your franchise, you’re doing it in the most cost-effective, time-sensitive way possible.

Andy Roe is the General Manager of SurePayroll, Inc., a Paychex Company.

SurePayroll is the trusted provider of easy online payroll services to small businesses nationwide. SurePayroll compiles data from small businesses nationwide through its Small Business Scorecard optimism survey, and exclusively reflects the trends affecting the nation’s ‘micro businesses’ — those with 1-10 employees. You can follow Andy on Twitter @AndrewSRoe. Learn More at www.surepayroll.com/product/ screening/ and http://blog.surepayroll.com

4

Be transparent

Let the candidate know what kind of environment they’re walking into, whether it’s very professional and buttoned up, or more laid back and casual. If you wind up hiring someone who quickly realizes they’re in the wrong place and quits, you’ve just wasted a tremendous amount of time and resources.

5

Run a background check

Having a professional service do an official check on someone you plan to hire, in conjunction with prevailing regulatory

Andy Roe

Page 19

A FRESH WAY TO FRANCHISE!

Add The Best Value in America* to your portfolio Multi-unit franchising opportunities available

Visit LittleCaesars.com or call 800.553.5776 *“Highest Rated Chain - Value For The Money� based on a nationwide survey of quick service restaurant consumers conducted by Sandelman & Associates, 2007-2013. 47233

Franchising USA

foucs

Sp her ion

Spherion

brings decades of experience to the table If the name Spherion sounds familiar, it may be because this staffing and recruitment firm has been around for decades.

“Spherion began franchising in 1956 and has been a leading force in the recruiting and staffing industry for nearly 70 years.

Operating through a network of more than 150 offices nationwide, Spherion is an established company with a strong presence throughout the U.S.,” said Sandy Mazur, President of Spherion’s Franchise Division, during a recent interview.

While the backgrounds of their franchisees vary dramatically, Mazur said, there are common elements they look for in people who are interested in franchising with Spherion.

Potential franchisees need to have

“As Spherion is constantly recruiting top talent, it’s also a great way for companies to easily find the talent they require to be successful.” strong business acumen, should be entrepreneurial and prepared to be handson, active owners, the franchise division president said. It’s also important for people to have a heart for the business, she added, because they must enjoy finding people jobs and helping companies find the employees they need to be successful.

Spherion also has a long legacy of giving back to the communities they serve. To continue this tradition, Spherion also has programs in place, like the Community Give Back program, to help franchisees with their local philanthropic outreach and support. Potential owners who seek to have a franchise with Spherion must be willing to carry on that legacy.

Owner Vicki Koon with her family and team receiving the 2013 Owner of the Year Award (presented in April 2014).

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Location, Location, Location The company has more than 80 franchise markets available throughout the United States, all of which are listed on Spherion. com. Most of them are brand new, untapped markets in places like New York City, Idaho, Texas, Central Illinois, North Carolina, Oregon, Indiana, Louisiana, Wyoming and Colorado.

With more and more businesses embracing the flexibility of a temporary workforce, the need for staffing agencies like Spherion will continue to grow. This is because many large companies keep a certain percentage of their workforce flexible so they can upsize and downsize as business demands fluctuate.

Owner Cindy Somers and her team outside of their local office.

Owner Jill Berg and her team donating to their local American Red Cross as part of the 2014 Community Give Back program.

“Using temporary and flexible staffing has really become a key strategy for most companies because they want to handle the normal ebbs and flows of economic cycles,” Mazur noted.

As Spherion is constantly recruiting top talent, it’s also a great way for companies to easily find the talent they require to be successful, she added.

Experience Matters What sets Spherion apart from many other recruiting and staffing agencies is its depth of experience, having been in business for seven decades and franchising since the mid-50s.

“You don’t stay in business that long unless you’re doing a lot of things distinctly different from your competitors,” Mazur said.

In that time, the company has perfected its franchising model, she said, and knows what it takes to keep franchisees happy.

And, part of what Spherion has learned about keeping franchisees happy is providing strong support.

Spherion executes monthly formal marketing campaigns to help drive local awareness and sales in addition to marketing support throughout the year for its franchisees, for example.

Along with its rich history of franchising, Spherion has a long-tenured franchisee support team. In fact, the average length of employment for the franchise support team is 18 years.

Each person on this team knows the franchisees they work with and have built long-standing relationships with them, according to Mazur. They thoroughly understand the franchising model, know

Owners Tom & Elizabeth Pentenberg donating to local charity Erin’s House For Grieving Children as part of the 2014 Community Give Back Program.

everything about the services offered and love working with the franchisees.

Each franchisee has support staff assigned to them so they’re always working with someone familiar. This is especially important when helping the new franchisees get started.

Thought Leadership Spherion also strives to be a thought leader in the staffing industry, Mazur said. To that end, it has invested a lot in research about American workers and employers, why people accept and leave jobs and what engages them when they’re in those jobs, among other workforce topics. The company also keeps up with trends in safety standards and compiles various statistics on the industry.

“We really want to be seen and known as a provider of information along with being a provider of outstanding service and people,” Mazur said.

Another area the company invests a lot in is technology. Spherion.com is completely optimized for mobile use, Mazur said, and is constantly updating its current technology and looking at new innovations that can help it become more consistently efficient.

Training Along with receiving initial opening support from Spherion so franchisees understand the process of getting their business started, they also receive training in all areas of the business. This includes learning about the tools Spherion uses plus specialty training like recruiting for the industrial and non-clinical healthcare sectors, for example.

The objective of the company’s training programs is to help the franchisees understand the support and services provided, as well as the company’s technology, tools and systems. After their initial training, franchisees have access to ongoing training regionally, at the corporate level, and anytime a new initiative or tool is introduced within the company.

A unique feature of Spherion is the License Advisory Board, which is an elected board of franchisees that represents a cross-section of the entire Spherion franchise community. The board is comprised of new and tenured representatives for new and tenured owners, and single- and multi-site owners.

“They’re my go-to body of franchisees when I have a new idea or if anything needs to be revised or modified,” Mazur noted. “They represent the voice of the community.”

Along with facilitating peer calls and providing regular business reports and marketing updates, the company also holds an annual franchise meeting and a more informal gathering once per year.

During these meetings, franchisees can get to know one another and share their experiences and best practices.

After many decades of franchising, Spherion has really perfected their franchise model.

To learn more about available franchise opportunities through Spherion, please visit www.spherion.com/franchise or contact Bill Tasillo at: billtasillo@ spherion.com or 404-964-5508.

For more information about Spherion and its services, please visit www.spherion.com.

Franchising USA

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Graham Chapman, Senior PR Catalyst, 919 Marketing

Franchises

Go Green to help planet and Profits Franchising USA

“Going green” is always a hot topic (pun intended) each year when we head into the dog days of the summer.

Global warming, emissions issues, pollution, etc. are all real global issues and many companies have committed themselves to innovation - creating new products and ideas to help protect the earth. And while it’s electric cars and solar energy that typically dominate the headlines, there are countless franchise businesses who are stepping up too.

Too few people realize it, but not all franchises are restaurants. There are dozens of service-based businesses that make use of the franchise business model and have recently implemented creative changes to do the right thing for Mother Earth. And many have discovered that these changes not only help the planet, but in many cases, help their profits.

Here are three examples of how going green has brought in more green for some environmentally conscious franchise companies: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK – The first and largest moving franchise in the United States has been working with Brooke and Les Wilson, a TWO MEN AND A TRUCK multi-unit franchisee who owns and operates seven locations from Atlanta to Baltimorewho, along with additional TWO MEN AND A TRUCK locations around the country, are testing out new green operations before they’re introduced to the entire nationwide network.

• Electronic logs and software tablets in moving trucks – managers map out the quickest, direct routes for truck drivers and the electronic logs track driver activity. By taking the most direct path, TWO MEN moving trucks reduce fuel costs and emissions into the environment.

• New more energy efficient moving trucks that have more optimized combustion, better fuel efficiency, increased power, reduced maintenance,

“Global warming, emissions issues, pollution, etc. are all real global issues and many companies have committed themselves to innovation creating new products and ideas to help protect the earth.” fewer regenerations, and less wear on the engine. Plus, they yield harmless nitrogen and water into the atmosphere to minimize dangerous emissions.

Open Works – The nation’s leading facility services and commercial cleaning franchise cleans green. The EPA’s recently imposed Clean Water Act has business owners facing fines up to $50,000 a day if dangerous chemicals contaminate storm drain areas nearby. That’s right - business owners, not the cleaning company. So, in response, all 330 OpenWorks franchisees use specific cleaning products that are safer for the environment. These franchise owners NEVER use chemicals of any kind on any outdoor maintenance projects including power washing and landscaping.

This includes power washing projects as chemicals aren’t needed to remove stains and grime if professionals use the right combination of heat and pressure.

Our Town America – The nation’s premier new mover marketing franchise has been mailing personalized welcoming packages to new movers filled with gift certificates from local businesses for more than forty years. Recently, their CEO Michael Plummer, Jr. has worked hard with his corporate team and franchisees to install system-wide changes that embrace new technology and make their print-heavy business better for local environments around the country. Here’s what they’ve implemented: • Digital scanning –the certificates customers redeem at local businesses now have a barcode that digitally tracks the success of the marketing program.

This digital process is replacing a printed reporting process that used to involve a ton of paper.

• Recycled certificates – Used certificates are collected and recycled by franchise owners around the country.

Graham Chapman

• Variable data printing – Our Town America has embraced a new printing system that cuts down on paper and ink.

• Digital invoices – Franchisees and the local businesses they serve (sponsors) can access monthly invoices and billing documents via Our Town America’s intranet to limit the amount of printed and mailed materials.

Graham Chapman is a Senior PR Catalyst for 919 Marketing, a national marketing, PR and social media agency that creates and executes hard-hitting Social Relations™ programs on behalf of emerging and established franchise companies. Chapman is a passionate, driven and energetic account executive who has helped dozens of franchise clients share national and local stories that increase franchise sales lead flow and in-store traffic for franchisees.

As a member of the 919 Marketing team, Chapman is part of a powerful collection of Emmy award winning journalists, nationally recognized marketing strategists, creative content marketing gurus and savvy digital marketing analysts who have proven experience delivering powerful, revenue generating results for emerging and established franchise brands.

Franchising USA

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fr anchiso r in depth

L iber t y Ta x

Liberty Tax Service Provides

Small Business Opport

in a Reliable Industr Franchising USA

rovides

tunities

ry

Liberty Tax Service is an award-winning tax preparation franchise, backed by solid growth and visionary leadership.

The company’s success comes from its laser-like focus on excellent customer service, ongoing training for franchisees, and low- and no-cost marketing efforts that effectively build business.

Liberty Tax has its eye on becoming the No. 1 tax franchise by keeping its focus on the future and expanding small business opportunities for franchisees. The franchise is committed to the communities in which it operates, and seeks owners who want to change people’s lives while they build their own financial future.

Liberty Tax regularly receives national recognition as an excellent small business opportunity for prospective franchisees, including rankings in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, Accounting Today’s Top 100, and WorldFranchising.com’s 50 Top Franchises for Military Veterans.

Liberty Tax got its start in Canada in 1997 The company is now headquartered in Virginia Beach, Va., and has more than 4,300 offices in the U.S. and Canada.

Liberty Tax provides tax preparation services to individuals and small business owners.

• The business is seasonal. Most of the work is done during the four months that make up tax season. Liberty Tax franchisees like the seasonality. Some own other businesses that they manage in the off-season. Others spend more time with family. Some keep their day jobs and work their tax business during the season.

• The business is affordable. Liberty Tax’s low-cost franchises make owning one Liberty Tax business easy. Expanding to multi-unit ownership is within

reach, too. Liberty Tax has an internal financing program that lends seed money to new franchisees and support to existing franchisees when they need it most.

• The business is reliable. More than 140 million individuals filed taxes last year and more than half used a tax preparer.

And, although taxes can be complex, tax franchise ownership is not with Liberty Tax. In fact, no tax experience is necessary. Liberty Tax provides the software, training and tools franchisees need to run a successful business.

Liberty Tax is a leader in tax software development and always has been. CEO John T. Hewitt designed one of the first tax interview software programs in the industry. The company continually optimizes its proprietary software for security, efficiency and ease of use. That means franchisees can focus on building their business and their bottom line.

Building business is at the heart of what Liberty Tax does Liberty Tax leverages a team that understands how population trends, traffic counts and visibility can affect a business.

The team members help new franchisees with site selection, so they can find an ideal location for their new business. They also offer valuable tips and insights on lease negotiations and review any lease before a franchisee signs the dotted line.

Franchisees are trained in low-cost marketing strategy and execution and provided the tools they need to attract customers and build their customer base.

Outsiders may poke fun at Liberty Tax’s army of Lady Liberty wavers, but that just means Lady Liberty has become a national icon, driving high-impact brand awareness. She does more than wave. She gets customers into the doors and keeps them coming back. She visits neighboring businesses, attends community events and generates business by spreading the word about Liberty’s great services. She’s also fun.

Franchising USA

fr anchiso r in depth

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fr anchiso r in depth

L iber t y Ta x

“Liberty Tax regularly receives national recognition as an excellent small business opportunity for prospective franchisees.”

Fun matters at Liberty Tax When founder and CEO John T. Hewitt created Liberty Tax, he had a goal in mind of making the tax experience a little less intense for customers. Liberty stores are inviting. They offer play spaces for children and provide snacks for customers.

As tax season nears, Liberty owners host community parties with free food and friendly advice about taxes and tax code changes. They are active in their communities, hosting fundraisers for food banks, Boys & Girls clubs, and other charitable organizations.

Liberty Tax franchisees exchange information and build their knowledge through the franchise’s training programs.

Formal and informal networks include regular conference calls with the CEO, an online discussion board, and an annual convention. John is hands-on and accessible. He personally answers emails and reaches out to franchisees, offering insight and seeking input.

John has more than 45 years of experience in the tax industry. He started at H&R Block and went on to found two top tax preparation companies. One still bears his name. He’s been recognized

by Accounting Today as one of the accounting profession’s Top 100 most influential people.

John is a visionary leader, always thinking of what’s next in the business and how Liberty can stay ahead of the curve.

In 2014, he launched SiempreTax+, the nation’s first tax preparation franchise focused on the underserved Hispanic market. More than 53 million Hispanics live in the United States, and their numbers are increasing. SiempreTax+ preparers speak Spanish and English and serve customers in whichever

Franchising USA

Liberty Tax owners Heather and Jerel Tomasello with their children

language they prefer. Along with tax preparation, SiempreTax+ provides notary services, immigration assistance and free assistance with ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) applications. With SiempreTax+, Liberty is positioned to continue its trend of dynamic growth.

Liberty balances strong growth, best business practices, social responsibility, and a fulfilling life experience for its franchisees.

Learn more about Liberty Tax franchise opportunities at: www.LibertyTaxFranchise.com.

Liberty Tax and SiempreTax+ have prime territories available for prospective franchisees. The company also has tax franchise opportunities for Area Developers (ADs). ADs are partners with Liberty Tax who own the exclusive rights to sell and service Liberty Tax franchise locations within a geographic territory. ADs can develop a territory with a moderate investment and see a return within a relatively short period of time.

When prospective franchisees say “yes” to a Liberty Tax franchise, they buy into a business culture that values hard work and having fun. The company’s Mission Statement says it all: Set the Standard; Improve Each Day; Have Some Fun!

John T. Hewitt

The future is yours at Foot Solutions.

Page 27

We are the number one retailer in comfort footwear and body aligning custom orthotic inserts. t t t t t t t t t t t t t

3FBTPOBCMF )PVST )JHI 1SPÄ•U .BSHJOT -PX -BCPS 3FRVJSFNFOUT )JHI $POTVNFS 3FUFOUJPO /PU *NQBDUFE CZ UIF &DPOPNZ /PU 4FBTPOBM 4BUJTGBDUJPO PG )FMQJOH 0UIFST " QSPWFO NPEFM XJUI HSPXUI QPUFOUJBM .PCJMF 4FSWJDFT UP IPNF CPVOE DVTUPNFST *O IPVTF .BSLFUJOH "TTJTUBODF *OUFOTJWF 5SBJOJOH 4UPSF %FTJHO -BZPVU BOE #VJME 0VU "TTJTUBODF .VMUJQMF -PDBUJPOT "WBJMBCMF

We are one of only two certified pedorthist training facilities in the United States.

For more information and to learn more about Foot Solutions, contact Gina Jones at Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Levi King, Founder & CEO, Creditera

Why Franchisees Need to Know About Business Credit

and the 4 Ways to Build For the more than 750,000 franchise owners in the United States, many of whom are small businesses, the initial goal seems simple – turn the dream of business ownership into reality. So they go for it –and buy a franchise.

Typically, these owners are in good financial standing and rely on personal funds or can secure a loan, often through traditional channels like the Small Business Administration. They may have a bit of operating capital to support the first few months after opening their doors, and they might even have some reserves.

But it usually doesn’t take long for these new entrepreneurs to realize profitability

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doesn’t immediately follow.

For most new franchisees, there is a one-to-two year gap before they’re in the black. Before long, the start-up money is gone and they’re leaning on personal credit and funds to stay afloat. In fact, recent research conducted by Creditera uncovered 62 percent of small business owners are using personal funds to support their business. Most go this route because they’re unaware it can damage their ability to grow, thrive and expand.

This is where the industry is focusing its time and effort: providing small business owners with more traditional and alternative lending options to bridge these gaps. But they’re missing a crucial step.

Even if business owners have access to hundreds of variations of business loans, does any of that matter if they’re not in a position to be approved? Or if they are approved, it’s only for high-interest loans or cash advances that can cripple their future cash flow. It’s like driving

from Point A to Point B. What good are 20 different routes to get there if a broken down car is your only method of transportation?

At the core of the issue is creditworthiness, which can make or break a small business’s quest for financing. Many business owners are unaware of business credit when they buy their first franchise, and many do significant damage before realizing it – primarily by maxing out personal credit cards and/or credit lines.

This short-term fix can lead to significant long-term damage, to business and personal credit.

Fast forward a few years. The business is finally profitable. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel and a renewed motivation to expand. However, the initial lack of awareness, understanding and proactive management of business credit will create substantial roadblocks to growth.

While personal credit plays the key role in getting financing for a franchisee’s first

“Recent research conducted by Creditera uncovered 62 percent of small business owners are using personal funds to support their business.” personal credit – at all costs. Business owners likely go into business with excellent personal credit. Do everything possible to keep it that way. If you don’t and your business fails or you are sued, you risk losing your personal savings or putting your personal assets on the line.

On average, business owners use at least 10 times more credit than consumers, which makes it nearly impossible to run or scale a business using personal credit alone.

d It location, lenders will be looking at their business’s credit profile when it comes to opening more locations. They want to see that the business itself is financially fit—not just the owner.

Traditional institutions are the typical path for franchisees to access capital, largely due to their ability to underwrite the risk of the franchisor – and with traditional financing, there is no room for bad business credit in the equation.

So how do you, as a franchisee, avoid inadvertently damaging your business credit to ensure you can access the funds you need to get your business running smoothly – and grow? Start with these four tips:

1. Separate your business and personal finances as soon as possible.

Keep your personal and business finances separate and preserve your

2. Open a business credit card and use it.

Many business owners don’t realize they can access lines of business credit almost immediately after they open their doors. A franchisee who secured $100,000 in start-up funding, for example, may be able to access $50,000 in business credit lines right away. The beauty is that: a) it keeps you from putting pressure on your personal credit; b) carrying a balance on a business credit card doesn’t show up on personal credit reports; and c) having revolving credit on a business account isn’t detrimental to your business credit score, which many business owners don’t realize. Using a business credit card will help build business credit and keep you from unknowingly abusing it.

3. Keep tabs on your business credit and make sure it’s actually yours.

It’s really common for franchisees to buy locations amongst each other.

Since business credit is built on address and business name, this increases the chances of buying a business with a poor credit history attached. If you purchase an existing franchise, make sure your credit isn’t tied to the previous owner.

Levi King

Also, monitor for confusion with other franchisees. Franchises with similar DBA names in related geographic areas frequently have their credit records crossed. Creditors could be reporting on missteps on the part of one franchisee but accidentally attributing it to your records, damaging your business credit profile without you knowing it. Multiple franchisees may also have the same vendors and creditors reporting on them, so it won’t be obvious or intuitive as to why there are negative items on a business credit report. This makes it even more important to really inspect your business credit reports.

4. Set yourself up for expansion.

Some franchisees go into ownership thinking one location will be enough.

Sometimes it is. But after being in the network and witnessing the success of others, your motivation may change. So even if you don’t have your sights set on expanding – plan on it. Build your business credit, actively manage your finances and set yourself up to get the loan you may need for a second, third or tenth location. You’ll be glad you did.

Levi King is founder and CEO of Creditera, the only site giving business owners free access to personal and business credit reports, tools to build business credit and a marketplace to access financing. King is a seasoned entrepreneur and has started successful businesses in the manufacturing, hospitality, retail financial services and franchising spaces.

For more information visit: Creditera.com

Franchising USA

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spot l ight o n serv ice

L iveP OS

LivePOS, headquartered in San Diego, CA, offers a cloud pointof-sale solution that is uniquely designed to accommodate the needs of the growing franchise industry. With over 20,000 customers to date, LivePOS is a true industry success story.

Ten years ago, Liad Biton, co-founder of LivePOS, was a retailer himself, managing a growing number of locations without an adequate POS solution. At that point, Biton’s business had grown to 70+ locations and the need for a live, real-time system was obvious. “No serious company can run a successful business with faxes and excel sheets; it’s a recipe for disaster,” Biton says.

Biton knew he had to find a solution, and fast. “We looked everywhere for a solution.

It was either too expensive, too limited in features, or just plain-old complicated, and not to mention slow. Sales would take a full 24 hours to show up on the screen. In today’s fast pace business, 24 hours is an

Franchising USA

eternity. At that point, we knew we had to build our own solution.”

business,” says Biton.

While he continued his day job as busy retailer, at night, he developed a point of sale solution that would give him what he needed. While the software was initially developed exclusively for Biton’s business, soon word began to spread and other business retailers wanted in on the action. “This was pre-iCloud, so it was revolutionary. We started getting phone calls and I thought, let’s move this into a

LivePOS as the first cloud POS solution

Two years later, Biton officially launched in the world, with the revolutionary idea

of taking a POS computer—just one—and delivering everything a business would need via a for a monthly subscription.

That was back in 2006. Over the next

decade the software has evolved into a business that serves over 20,000 customers worldwide.

For example, Store A may be required to collect shopper information while Store B does not. On-the-road retailers not able to access the Dashboard, can have customized text messages sent to them for situations that demand immediate attention: who clocked in, who took a longer break, “a gazillion and one options,” Biton points out.

Cloud control An Apple iPhone most easily explains the cloud concept. “Everything on your phone: contacts, photos and documents are saved on a hard drive somewhere in Apple’s data center,” Biton says. Should you lose the phone, the data is still there. This is the same idea, on a much grander scale, as the LivePOS system. Sales and inventory data are sent to ‘the cloud’ and can be accessed through almost any device with internet capability, including tablets and mobile phones.

The LivePOS Dashboard The LivePOS Dashboard is designed for the store operator and franchise owner.

It compiles vast amounts of your store’s sales data and sends it back out in a clear, concise format called the Dashboard.

“Imagine the complexity of an owner with 10 stores, 10,000 SKUs, each item with a different price in each store, each employee with a different commission level, different goals, different refund and exchange policies, and the list goes on.

It’s a very powerful system. Our biggest strength is that we make it simple to operate, and easy to read and understand,” Biton explains.

The Dashboard is the first thing retailers see when they log in to LivePOS’ backend website. Data, shown in numbers and colored pie charts, provides a quick recap of all aspects of the business, enabling a company to control multiple locations simultaneously. “The system can segregates access so [for example] store managers can only see their own sales, while regional managers can see higherlevel data,” says Biton.

The system also allows you to turn any feature on or off at a specific location.

The Franchise Management System A few years ago Biton identified another segment in the retail and service industry that is underserved: franchises. While many ‘off the shelf’ POS companies started to pop up everywhere, they were all catering to the small mom and pop operator, and not fulfilling the needs of the multi-location owners and franchisors.

“There are a ton of POS apps out there, they work great if you’re a small operator but try to run a 200 location franchise on them and you’ll soon realize that they fall short of what you need. This is where we come in.”

Over the past few years, LivePOS focused its development and feature release around the multi-location and franchise customers, inking deals with brand name companies such as Zagg, Polariod, Any Lab Test Now and Fast Fix, just to name a few. “Our Franchise Management system (FMS) is the focal point of our solution.

It enables franchisors to literally run their business from our solution. From creating system wide promotions to tracking sales and inventory, all the way to a drilled down report to the SKU level, see what is selling, what is not, who are the best performing stores and why, all is available within a few clicks of the mouse; it is truly amazing.”

Customization and Feature Requests When people meet the LivePOS team and the word ‘customization’ comes up, the room usually becomes very quiet. If you ever tried to get any kind of software modification for you business, you know it’s going to cost you a lot of money. “Not with LivePOS,” say Biton. “LivePOS is a customer centric business. We love building features and enriching our solution, all while never, ever charging

for features,” Biton explains. “When a company approaches us and requests a specific report or feature, we send their request to 100 of our best clients, and we ask ‘If we build it, would you use it?’ Nine out of 10 times the answer is YES, and so, we go ahead and build that feature. We then release it to ALL of our clients, free of charge. Our new customer gets what they wanted and the rest of our clients get to enjoy a new feature that will help them run their business. It’s a Win-Win situation all around.”

As LivePOS continues into 2015, the system racks on capabilities and simplifies day to day operations. “As part of our standard package, we provide 100% free customer service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays.

We never close. Same goes for training; we offer one on one training for just about anyone in the organization. There are neither limits nor restrictions; if you need training on the newest feature we just released, just give us a call.” Software upgrades are also included in the flat monthly fee, allowing owners and retailers to always stay updated with the latest and greatest features. “We see people that still can’t send receipts via email because their POS system is 100 years old… with LivePOS you get constant upgrades to your version throughout the year, all included and free of charge.”

To learn more about LivePOS and their multi-location franchise solution please visit www.LivePOS.com or contact LivePOS via email, at Info@LivePOS.com or call anytime 1-888-884-9224.

Resource Box Headquarters: San Diego Number of retailers: Over 20,000 Number of Employees: 124 Mission: Provide Powerful Simplicity Strength of Concept: Realtime, Anytime, Anywhere Overseas: Worldwide Franchising USA

spot l ight o n serv ice

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june 2015

Veterans in Franchising www.franchisingusamagazine.com

the franchise registry saving you time and money

Murphy Business Northwest

helps fellow Veterans

5 EASY STEPS

FOR MOTIVATION Franchising USA

CONSIDER YOURSELF

VETTED. As a U.S. military veteran, we know your skills have been put to the test and you’ve got what it takes to join our leadership ranks.

For a limited time only, until June 30, 2015: • Zero Franchise Fee stores available • New Franchise Assistance Program

Special military incentives make franchising with 7-Eleven that much easier. • Up to 20% off of the initial franchise fee for veterans* r 7R VQ ƂPCPEKPI RNWU QVJGT CFFGF OKNKVCT[ ƂPCPEKPI QRVKQPU r (CUV CPF GCU[ UVCTV WR r 1PIQKPI UWRRQTV HTQO 'NGXGP RTQU (KPF QWV OQTG CV Franchise.7-Eleven.com or call 1.800.782.0711

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V eterans in F ranchisin g S upplement june 2 0 1 5 Our Veterans in Franchising special supplement has become a regular feature of Franchising USA. To share your story in the next issue, please contact Vikki Bradbury, Publisher Phone: 778 426 2446 Email: vikki@cgbpublishing.com

Contents Cover Story

Profiles

36 Murphy Business Northwest

40 7-Eleven 48 AAMCO

News & Expert Advice

54 Sid’s Pizza & Grill

38 Five Easy Steps for Motivation Dr Fine, PHD

Veteran Success Stories

52 Saving you Time and Money:

The Franchise Registry Jim Mingey, Veterans Business Services

Franchisor in Depth 50 CruiseOne

42 Tommy Dunaway, Snap Fitness 44 Erbert & Gerbert’s

Veteran Spotlight 46 From U.S. Air Force Personnel to

Franchise Owner

Ronnie Christopher, U.S. Lawns

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

C over S tor y - mu r ph y business N o rthwest

helping Veterans tra

From the depths of the ocean to getting in deep with Veterans who are looking to explore their entrepreneurial options, the SuperBroker™ is comfortable in any situation.

Business and franchise broker Curt Maier with Murphy Business Northwest, Inc., specializes in helping Veterans find franchise opportunities. He’s been a business and franchise broker since 2011.

“I work with buyers to find the right small business opportunity,” Maier said during a recent interview from his office in Bellevue, WA, “either an existing business or a franchise.”

Usually, a broker will either help people find a business or a franchise opportunity,

but he is the rarity that helps people find either one, which makes him, as he put it, the SuperBroker. ™

Although located in Greater Seattle, he has clients throughout the country and around the world, Maier said.

And people need his service, the business and franchise broker said, because people don’t generally know much about opening a small business. They don’t know the pros and cons of trying to open an independent business versus opening a franchise. And that’s where he comes in, walking them through the process.

Helping His Own Maier has chosen to specifically help Veterans because he is a Veteran himself, having graduated from the Navy ROTC program at the University of Notre Dame and having served as a nuclear submarine officer on a fleet ballistic missile submarine patrolling the coast of Russia for three months at a time during height of Cold War in the early 1980’s.

While they are completely at home while serving in the military, the majority of Veterans just don’t know about the franchising opportunities available to them once they leave the military, Maier said.

Typically, they’ll need to find a job once they leave the service and if they are not interested in working for a company, they can either further their education or pursue entrepreneurial opportunities.

Curt Maier at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor

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That’s where he comes in, because he can point them in the right direction if they are interested in owning their own business, whether they are in the Puget Sound area in Washington or if they want to return home anywhere in the country. As Maier is a franchisee himself of Murphy Business, he is part of a network that includes associates around the country who can

ansition get Veterans franchise opportunities virtually anywhere they want to settle in the United States. Plus, he can help them get everything taken care of prior to them leaving the military so they are ready to start on their franchising journey as soon as they are ready to transition to civilian life.

While there are many brokers out there, Maier believes his ability to mix a small town office feel with backing from the biggest brokerage firm in North America, Murphy Business, makes him stand out from other brokers. He has that network of over 275 fellow Murphy brokers who can assist him in doing his work, finding franchisees for over 300 top franchisors across all industries in his inventory or referring small business owners who want to sell their business to these Veterans.

Unlike his competition, he has colleagues similarly licensed across North America that he can tap for help. But, he still retains that small town feel to his business because he does everything himself without assistants or subcontracting. The sales process for his listed businesses and all negotiations for his clients are done by him.

When clients come to him, they are getting a seasoned businessman who has 20 years of corporate experience who can evaluate businesses and find the right franchise or business opportunity for them in any industry and for any investment level, he stated.

The Process Typically, Veterans come to him as a referral from places such as the Armed Forces’ Transition Assistance Programs, which help people who are ready to leave the military decide what their next step is.

Once he’s working with them, Maier

Marine For Life networking luncheon in Seattle (L-R: Curt Maier, Captain Garrett (“Ace”) Nelson, United States Marine Corps, Joshua LaShaar United States Army Reserves)

does his best to understand what these Veterans are looking for and why they want to become a small business owner or franchisee. Typically, he said, they tell him they want to work toward their own goals and keep the money they earn rather than have someone else’s company benefit from their hard work.

Then, he finds out what they want from a business; what size and what type (business-to-business or business-toconsumer, etc). He ascertains what they can contribute to the business in terms of skills and experience and what they can afford or how much funding they can procure.

Once he’s gleaned the information he needs, he will present the client with typically three franchise options and ask them what they think of the concepts and what they like and don’t like about them.

He will use this feedback to refine the search and keep bringing various franchise concepts to the client until he finds something that fits perfectly.

Once they’ve chosen, he explains everything about the business to them and then introduces them to the franchise development professionals with the franchisor they’ve chosen. From there, the franchisor takes the client through the franchising process, but Maier still keeps in touch with them throughout this entire process and is their advocate.

A newly commissioned Ensign in 1979 following graduation from the University of Notre Dame

“I work with them hand-in-hand every step of the way,” he said.

What makes Veterans great franchisees is their ability to follow and execute a business plan, along with their trustworthiness, credibility, honesty, good leadership, realistic goals, ability to take direction well and openness to suggestions, Maier said. They’re also good at training employees, he added, because they understand the value of good training.

Whether on a strategic deterrent patrol off the Russian coast during one of the tensest periods in recent history or delving into the mindset of an aspiring entrepreneur, the SuperBroker™ can handle it all.

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

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V e t era ns i n Fra nchisi ng

Dr. Fine, PHD In Business

The Center is lucky to have great volunteers who are professional and knowledgeable from advertising to management to leadership and many areas in between. This article is a great addition to your how to work ‘in’ it knowledge.

Many clients come to us expressing frustration at the lack of work output from their employees. When we dig into the causes, many times it is not that they hired for the wrong technical skills but that they have not figured out how to motivate their employees to take ownership of their jobs.

Small business owners should remember that their dream is not the dream of their employees and it may be a challenge to get employees to get and remain motivated. Motivating employees is a technical skill that you will take on as your company grows.

Stan Fine is a leader in helping small businesses move through entrepreneurship smoothly. You will really like this quick read.

– Darcella Craven, Executive Director, VBRC

Five Easy St for Motivation How does management achieve motivation in the workplace in today’s society? It is a great question, because a motivational workplace is a successful one. Without motivation the end result is poor quality in the workplace.

Some issues to consider when achieving motivation in the workplace are listed below. Every workplace has different situations. Not all rules will apply for unrelated settings. The corporate office will have different factors to consider than

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a factory, or a construction site. They are all going to be a little different. The one thing that will remain the same is human nature, and how we react to different situations. Here are five common factors you can manage:

Different types of personalities This is one of the biggest issues to consider. One thing that needs to be considered is that people are all different.

We all have different personality traits and quirks. We are not always going to get along well every day, stuck in an office, kitchen, truck or factory together. It just isn’t possible. It is not the way we are made. What one person may think of as constructive criticism, another may find as being bossy. One person may think that they are being productive and the person next to them may think they are

teps

being lazy. It is just the way people think differently. Management’s job is to see that the job is completed, through the employee. To do this, they must be able to understand the differences in people and learn how to deal with these issues. They need to learn to be diplomatic in these situations and keep everyone running smoothly.

Rewards The key to motivation is reward for employees that mean something to them individually. So if motivation in the workplace is desired, then rewards for the employees are a must. They need to be motivated into doing a great job. Whether it is promotions, bonuses or just simple words of affirmation, they deserve that for a job well done.

Working environment The workplace needs to be a fun and enjoyable place. A person spends 7-10 hours on the average per day at work. If it isn’t a fun, and comfortable place to be, then workplace motivation can’t be achieved.

Dr. Stan Fine PhD.

“The key to motivation is reward for employees that mean something to them individually. So if motivation in the workplace is desired, then rewards for the employees are a must.”

Independency Employees need to be able to think on their own. No one wants to be told what to do and when and how to do it every minute of the day.

The employees need to know what the expectations are and be allowed to achieve them. They will take pride in their own idea and their own way of doing things.

There is usually more than one way to accomplish the same thing.

Room for Error So many times, in the workplace, management does not plan for errors. Then when they happen, no one knows what to do to correct them.

It is management’s job to make a plan B just in case something goes wrong. And it does! To promote motivation in the workplace takes the manager time and patience. With these simple tips, it can be achieved and a more productive workplace can be found where people can work,

socialize and laugh at the same time! It can be done.

Dr. Fine holds a PHD In Business. He held a Director of Marketing position for a $100 million division of General Dynamics for 15 years and served as a Senior Manager at Grant Thornton Accountants and Management Consultants.

Dr. Fine has published two books dedicated to helping small businesses” Business Boot Camp for Women” and How to Promote Your Business With Little or No Money” by AuthorHouse Publishing. For 40 years Fine has devoted his life to helping businesses with sales and marketing growth.

More than that, Stan is a supporter of small business and a volunteer with the Veterans Business Resource Center.

You can catch him on webinars for the center on Wednesdays and he can also be reached at: ssfine6013(@)gmail.com www.stanfine.net.

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

7-Eleven

7-Eleven continues to grow

its business and honors veterans in the process

7-Eleven, Inc. has a long history in the United States, beginning its operation in 1927. In its 88 years, 7-Eleven has evolved into one of the best-known retail brands in the world.

7-Eleven Franchise Recruiter Yolanda Crook said the company’s continued success comes in large part from its iconic products, which are an integral part of everyday American culture.

“We offer convenience to people on the go. The products that customers wanted when 7-Eleven first started were pretty simple: milk, eggs and bread. While those items are still available, 7-Eleven has greatly expanded its product offerings over

the decades. From proprietary products such as Slurpee® beverages, Big Gulp® fountain drinks and 7 Select™ privatelabel items to fresh sandwiches, fruit and World Ovens® bakery products, our stores will have something for every customer at a value price,” Crook said.

7-Eleven began franchising its stores in 1964 and there are now 4,800 Franchisees in its system. “7-Eleven operates franchises and it licenses more than 8,600 stores in the United States and Canada. Of the more than 7,700 stores the company operates and franchises in the U.S., approximately 6,400 are franchised,” Crook said. The company also has a staggering 56,000 stores in 16 countries.

Crook added, “7-Eleven is the world’s leading convenience retailer, and it’s still growing. On average, a new 7-Eleven store opens somewhere in the world every three and a half hours.”

Recently, 7-Eleven decided to honor the country’s veterans by offering a special giveaway, called Operation: Take Command and the grand prize was a 7-Eleven franchise without the franchise fee. The program was developed by

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Franchise Recruiting and Marketing Manager Dorian Cunion who nominated Crook to be the project manager. “I led the planning and implementation of Operation: Take Command by defining and facilitating the project scope, goals, timelines and deliverables to ensure excellent execution,” Crook said. “I also was responsible for interviewing candidates to determine their skill set and qualifications. It was a great experience and an honor to interview so many qualified military veterans.”

From the top ten finalists, three veterans were selected and flown to Dallas for one-on-one interviews with 7-Eleven CEO and Army veteran Joe DePinto. DePinto was so blown away by the caliber of the veterans selected, he made a decision – right there, on the spot – to award all three with their very own 7-Eleven franchise.

“These are the kind of folks we want in the 7-Eleven system,” DePinto said. “I look forward to welcoming these three new Franchisees to the 7-Eleven family.”

While the giveaway contest might be over, there are many more opportunities for the right person to join the 7-Eleven brand.

Crook explained that there are certain qualities the company looks for: “We seek candidates with leadership skills, business acumen and sound financial standing to successfully operate a 7-Eleven franchise.

7-Eleven also is committed to actively

“On average, a new 7-Eleven store opens somewhere in the world every three and a half hours.” promoting diversity in its franchise system. 7-Eleven Franchisees are the voice of the brand, protecting a legacy and conveying its vision every day to millions of consumers worldwide.”

a turnkey operation, a store that is ready to run their first day and a Field Consultant who visits the store at least once a week to provide guidance on how they can maximize their store’s sales and profits.”

The company believes, now more than ever, that 7-Eleven provides an important service to consumers. Throughout the company’s history, 7-Eleven stores have satisfied consumers’ needs for convenience, and in this fast-paced world 7-Eleven offer a much-needed service.

There are plans for more growth at 7-Eleven this year too. The company will be building new stores; converting independent convenience-type stores to 7-Eleven through the company’s Business Conversion Program; and, it also will be acquiring smaller, regional convenience store chains. “The company is driven by the constantly evolving needs of its customers, creating powerful changes that address local market needs and introducing innovation to the market that makes the brand famous.” Crook added, “We were very excited to welcome the three veterans who were given franchises as part of Operation: Take Command and we hope more people will consider joining the 7-Eleven family.”

7-Eleven differentiates itself from the competition in many ways: through its proprietary retail information system, infrastructure, daily delivery of fresh and time-sensitive products, plus its proprietary products and services, all delivered with friendly service at a value.

When people join the company as a Franchisee, Crook said they are well supported and trained. “All new 7-Eleven Franchisees complete an in-depth orientation comprised of interactive classroom sessions completed at 7-Eleven headquarters in Dallas. From there, instore training, and then ongoing support from a 7-Eleven Field Consultant gets Franchisees up and running in their own store. 7-Eleven provides Franchisees with

For more information on 7-Eleven franchise opportunities visit: franchise.7Eleven.com For more information about the Veteran’s giveaway visit: franchise.7eleven.com/franchise/veteransfranchise-program

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

Snap Fitness

Veteran Success Story: Tommy Dunaway Our franchisees come from a variety of backgrounds, but share one common trait: they have a passion for helping others. This couldn’t be more true for Major Tommy Dunaway, a Marine Corps veteran and owner of the North Arlington, TX club.

The day after graduating from high school, Tommy left for Recruit Training. In over a decade of service, he served in Iraq, Bahrain, and Thailand. During his time in Iraq, Tommy started browsing postmilitary career options. “I read a lot about

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the Veterans Franchise Initiative, which led me to fitness franchises,” Tommy said. “In the process of researching fitness center franchises, I came across Snap Fitness and fell in love with the Snap brand.”

For Tommy, running a fitness-focused business played perfectly into his strengths. “As I moved up the ranks in the Marine Corps, I was in charge of physical training in different units,” Tommy said.

“I’m naturally entrepreneurial and had a strong desire to be self-employed.”

After leaving the Middle East in March 2012, Tommy opened his club in April 2012. Two benefits of being a Snap Fitness franchisee are the flexibility and freedom this career provides. Tommy said he’s had more time to spend with his growing family and complete his MBA – something that “wouldn’t be possible with a more traditional 9-5 job.”

“Running a Snap Fitness club is full of challenges, but the rewards are great,” Tommy said. “I am my own boss and have a front row seat to watching people transform their lives.”

For more information about the Snap Fitness franchise please visit: www.veteransbusinessservices.us/ product-item/snap-fitness-24-7/

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

Er b er t & G er b er t ’s

Lindsey Gentry

a Veteran Success story Many times in the franchising world we hear about Veterans starting new franchises and getting an opportunity to grow a business but we don’t get the chance to hear about their future success.

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As many franchisees are already aware owning multiple locations within a franchise organization is the right direction to take.

Well, this is the case with Lindsey Gentry, an Army Veteran who proudly served her country for six years. She was stationed at Fort Hood, deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2007-2009, and held various leadership positions, to include Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Company Commander.

Lindsey did her undergrad at University of Wisconsin Eau Claire, which is the city that Erbert & Gerbert’s is headquartered out of. Herself and her friends would be there every week hitting up the Erbert & Gerbert’s sandwich shop downtown and loved it. At the time she didn’t think, “Someday I want to own one of these.”

She always knew that she wanted to be a business person in some respect. Even when she was in law school, she always felt that she would combine her legal knowledge with business pursuits. So she kept brands in the back of her mind that she really liked. When it came down to her picking a brand to buy into, when she met the team at Erbert and Gerbert’s she was sold.

Lindsey has built a whole career with Erbert & Gerbert’s and currently owns one location and she has purchased the rights to three more franchise locations. Her first year in 2014 she received awards for both, Rookie of the Year, and Marketer of the Year. Currently Lindsey is President of the Franchise Advisory Council for Erbert & Gerbert’s Franchise Systems and her success just keeps growing.

She states, “Truthfully, it’s a constant learning process, a very humbling process. You’re always around subject matter experts whether it be accountants, franchise attorneys, commercial brokers, or just whoever: a whole variety of people on your team who know more than you do. So, it’s constant learning for me, and I expect it to be that way for a long time.”

Lindsey believes the military has prepared

her in many ways, “just on a basic level, the confidence level that different leadership positions in the Army instill in you and build in you gives you the ability to go after something like this.

When you’re in the Army, they build you up slowly by giving you more and more leadership, and before you know it you’re leading in a way that you couldn’t imagine when you first started. The confidencebuilding and leadership-building in the Army is so essential to tackle something like owning a business and run it because there’s a lot involved in this that requires guts. And of course on the organizational level, the Army is very methodical. Having that background of mission planning and meeting deadlines and all those kind of things that, when you’re in the military are just a norm that you take for granted, are very unique and can make you very successful in the outside world.

Really mastering the fundamentals has prepared me to run a business in terms of communication and the desire to lead people.

“I love the Erbert & Gerbert’s product.

In terms of the unique flavor profiles and freshness of the product, I don’t currently see anything else in market like it. It’s very exciting to watch customers become raving fans of what you are selling. As far as the Erbert & Gerbert’s team is concerned, I

have been very fortunate to have a strong working relationship with them. There are not too many companies out there where you can call the CEO direct and where that is the norm. I have always felt very appreciated and respected by this corporate team, and I feel that they truly care about my thoughts and success path.

It’s very clear that they are invested in my growth, and that’s a good feeling.”

Currently, in addition to her one brick and mortar location, Lindsey also owns and operates an Erbert & Gerbert’s concession stand in Bobcat Stadium at Texas State University and a mobile Erbert & Gerbert’s food trailer at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, TX, where they serve crowds at such events as MotoGP racing, X Games, and Formula 1 Racing. Lindsey is a proud partner of Bobcat Athletics and a strong supporter of Bobcat Build, one of the largest student led philanthropic projects in the nation.

She plans to open at least two more locations in the near future. Veterans Business Services wishes Lindsey the best of luck with her future business endeavors.

If you are interested in learning more about the Erbert & Gerbert’s franchise opportunity please visit: www.veteransbusinessservices.us/ product-item/erbert-gerberts

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

Ronnie Christopher, Owner, U.S. Lawns, Warner Robbins GA

Veteran Spotlight:

From U.S. Air Force Personnel

to Franchise Owner According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, of the 3.2 million veterans who have served in the armed forces since 2011, over 250,000 service members leave the military each year... I happen to be one of them.

I entered the United States Air Force at the young age of 17 and when I left the military 21 years later, I was terrified by the idea of returning to ‘normal’ civilian life, and even

more terrified of choosing a new career path. Like many other servicemen and women in

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my position, I knew that the traditional 9-5 desk job wasn’t right for me.

Needless to say, leaving the military was a challenging time for me. Because I enlisted right after high school graduation, the armed forces were all I’d ever known— it was my identity. When I was in the Air Force, my opportunities for promotion and rewards were in someone else’s hands, but

“When you choose to join a franchise, you’re joining a family. As a franchisee, you inherit an instant network of friends who will advise and support you.”

Becoming a franchisee also made the transition to the civilian workforce much less frightening for me, because I realized that the skills I developed in the military had already prepared me to be a business owner. Veterans understand the importance of leadership and teamwork.

Successful business owners know how to communicate with their teams effectively and, more importantly, listen to their teammates. You could say veterans have a leg up when it comes to franchising, as we embrace the policies and procedures the company has in place and don’t waste any time fighting it.

This isn’t to say that the road will be easy for a veteran looking to go into franchising. Any new business owner is going to face many challenges. For example, I initially struggled with closing business because I hated the idea of being a ‘salesman’. When you think of the stereotypical salesman, you imagine someone who is pushy, greedy, and obnoxious—I’m none of those things (and I’m still not, which I’m happy about).

once I left the service, that was no longer the case. I realized that my opportunities were now in my hands, and that if I worked hard enough, I would be successful in owning my own business one day.

That’s when I discovered franchising.

Though franchising would never compare to the emotion I felt for the military, it gave me a new sense of belonging and camaraderie. Similar to the military, franchises run as a system of moving parts.

They follow procedures and provide their franchisees with a successful business model and extensive brand knowledge.

When you choose to join a franchise, you’re joining a family. As a franchisee, you inherit an instant network of friends who will advise and support you.

I struggled with hiring the right employees. In the military you didn’t have to worry about recruiting or retaining your teammates, so that territory was still very new to me.

I also found that even though you’re equipped with a proven business model, the necessary resources, and a team of advisors to help you launch your business, your business still won’t grow overnight.

Unless you grow up living and breathing the franchise (which most of us don’t), it will take time to learn the ins and outs of the industry you’re joining. While franchising allows you to grow your business at an exponential rate, it won’t happen overnight. It takes time and an immense amount of effort.

I overcame these challenges by making a few important adjustments to my mindset and business practices:

Focusing on relationship building, not sales I learned that to be successful in sales, you don’t need to be a salesman. Get your name out there and start talking to people.

I found that attending various networking events and mingling with other business owners in the local community was an organic way to meet potential clients. By joining my local chamber of commerce, I quickly learned that trust is everything in a business-to-business (B2B) relationship, and that sales are just a by-product of that relationship.

Finding a mentor I’ve always believed that life’s too short to learn all the secrets of success on your own, which is why having a mentor can really help you go in the right direction.

My mentor has suggested many strategies that have helped me increase the efficiency of my business, saving both time and money.

Staying involved in the franchising community Attending your owner meetings and annual conferences is the most effective way to continue learning. When I attend conferences, I like to listen and write down concerns and ideas that other owners have experienced, so that I can be more prepared as my business continues to grow. It’s also beneficial to stay close to other franchisees in your area, as I’ve found that they have provided me with an immediate support system.

Seeing the bigger picture Owning a business is a roller coaster ride, especially for new business owners.

Having the persistence and confidence in yourself to see the bigger picture in times of turmoil is what’s going to keep you going. I’ve found that checking in with my crew has helped my business stay on track.

It’s also important to be transparent with your crew, and make them feel like they’re a part of the bigger picture, as they play a significant role in helping you get there. www.uslawns.com

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Veter ans in Fr anchising

A A MCO

Veteran to Entrepreneur AAMCO FRANCHISEE Mark McGregor

Mark McGregor is an AAMCO franchisee who owns and operates a service center in his hometown of Marietta, Georgia.

Although he is a relatively new franchisee, McGregor has a long history with the brand and once served as both a vendor and center manager prior to taking over his current center nearly a year and a half ago. As a decorated combat veteran, it is no surprise that running an organized and streamlined business is his top priority.

Having spent eight years in service honing his skills as a mechanical engineer, he now applies that expertise to his business as a franchise owner.

McGregor discovered his passion for mechanics at an early age. He always had a fascination with building things as far back as he can remember. At the age of 14, he took a part-time job working for a nearby auto repair center where he serviced old transmissions. He also took an auto repair shop class while in high school. It was during this time that McGregor learned the foundation of automotive technology and car repair.

“After my first hands-on experience in the shop, I knew that this would become more than just a part-time job – it was a calling,” said McGregor.

After graduating from high school, McGregor enlisted in the Marine Corps to further explore his career options within mechanical engineering. Following his training at the recruit depot in Parris Island, South Carolina, he served with the

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second Marine Division at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where he became certified in motor transport maintenance. Soon after, McGregor was assigned to the third Marine Division in Japan where he spent a year before he was brought back to Camp Lejeune. It was less than month after McGregor’s return to the states that he was again deployed to Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield, during which he was promoted to corporal.

Following the Gulf War, McGregor left active duty and returned to Marietta where he voluntarily joined the active reserves at Dobbins Air Reserve Base as a motor transport. In addition, he took a job with the world’s largest line of automotive transmission parts distributor, at the time, traveling to local transmission and general automotive repair facilities in the northern metro area of Atlanta. McGregor also started a clutch business for a few years that he eventually sold.

“What I didn’t know at the time was that one of the AAMCO locations I frequently visited would one day become my very own business. I was friendly with the owner and when he offered me a job as his center manager, I had to accept. It was one of the top-rated AAMCO locations in the country and known for its exceptional growth and customer retention. When it came time for him to retire, he then presented me with the opportunity to purchase the company from him,” said McGregor.

For the past year and a half, McGregor has enjoyed being a business owner and all the facets that come with being part of a brand with a proven concept and an established name. As part of its commitment to

expanding veteran ownership, AAMCO offers an $8,000 discount on the franchise fee for all qualified, honorably discharged U.S. veterans.

“There’s no other franchise that gives as much support to its franchisees as AAMCO does. The company offers a training program with a curriculum that is second to none. In fact, AAMCO opened a new state-of-the-art training facility in Georgia this year. The transition was seamless and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my experience thus far,” said McGregor.

McGregor’s AAMCO center is situated right in front of the Dobbins Air Reserve Base where he served, a constant reminder of his passion for serving his country and now his community. As a proud military veteran, McGregor offers discounted services to any military personnel or veterans who visit his location and makes annual donations to the Wounded Warrior Project. www.aamcofranchises.com/index.html

Page 49

Franchising USA

Veter ans in Fr anchising

Cr uise O ne

Top Five Reasons Military Veteran

Enter to Win a Cr Franchise

Tim Courtney, CFE

Owning a home-based franchise is a popular option for military veterans who are transitioning out of active duty.

Not only do their military skills translate well into successful franchise ownership,

Franchising USA

but owning a home-based cruise franchise has lower start-up costs and provides more flexibility to create hours that allow more time to be spent with family.

Recognizing the value of military veteran franchise ownership, many franchisors offer attractive incentives and contests. A list of these opportunities and additional resources can be found on the website for the International Franchise Association’s VetFran initiative (www.vetfran.com).

Military veterans who love to travel and are seriously interested in owning a homebased cruise franchise should consider entering CruiseOne’s nationally acclaimed contest “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General,” which awards five free franchises to deserving military veterans who have demonstrated their passion for travel and entrepreneurship.

Here are the top five reasons to enter CruiseOne’s franchise giveaway contest.

Value Home-based franchises generally have a lower start-up fee than those opportunities with a storefront. Even though the initial home-based investment is less than $10,000, the expenses may add up when adding in franchising fees, overhead costs, marketing initiatives and more.

By entering to win a cruise franchise, it is possible to eliminate most of these costs. The five winners of Operation Vetrepreneur each receive a grand prize valued at $12,700, which includes a complimentary CruiseOne franchise with a waived $9,800 initial start-up fee and monthly service fees.

Built-In Due Diligence Opening a franchise is a serious decision that requires research and due diligence to ensure one is making the best decision. CruiseOne works this into its

ns Should

ruise

winner selection process by requiring all candidates to participate in two phone interviews with members of the company’s leadership team. This vital step is beneficial for the franchisor, so it can better qualify the applicant, and for the potential franchisee by naturally providing information and interviews they would normally have to pursue on his/ her own to learn more about the franchise opportunity.

Training Franchises operate on systems and in order for them to succeed, it is important they have training methods and tools in place that provide actionable instruction, as well as proven success rates. The training programs in place are an important consideration when selecting a franchise.

CruiseOne has an award-winning training program that begins immediately with weeklong orientation at its world headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The training continues when franchisees return home and have access to ondemand training sessions online, as well as regional trainings and a national conference for all franchise owners hosted

by CruiseOne. The training curriculum educates new owners on the industry, soft and hard sales skills and how to operate and build a business. These programs are included in the cost of a franchise and are a valuable resource for owners.

Support A key component of franchising is the support system in place, which begins even before signing a contract and is ongoing throughout the length of the business venture. A Franchise Development Specialist walks all prospective

“CruiseOne is committed to the success of all its franchise owners and wants everybody to succeed.”

More than 100 Military Veteran franchise owners being recognized at our annual National Conference on Veteran’s Day last year

franchisees through the purchasing process and explains the details of the various incentive programs and contests so the prospect can make an informed decision. All franchise owners have access to a regional Business Development Manager who facilitates boots-on-theground local marketing efforts, an IT team that creates best-in-class technology and provides technical support, and a corporate headquarters team that is committed to the success of each individual owner.

Jump Start Your Business CruiseOne is committed to the success of all its franchise owners and wants everybody to succeed. One way the homebased franchise positions its military veteran contest winners for success is by requiring finalists to submit a detailed business plan outlining their goals and development plans, which can easily be implemented once they open their franchise for business. A business plan can be difficult to create, but it is important to be successful.

CruiseOne’s “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest is open to former members of any of the five branches of the U.S. military who are retired, off active duty and/or honorably

discharged prior to the contest start date of May 25, 2015. To enter, candidates must complete an online entry form by Friday, Aug. 7; participate in two rounds of phone interviews; and submit a franchise application, business plan and resume.

The form and all contest details can be found at www.OperationVetrepreneur.com or on CruiseOne’s Facebook page, www.

Facebook.com/CruiseOneFranchise.

Certified Franchise Executive Tim Courtney is Vice President of Franchise Development and Ambassador of Veteran Affairs at CruiseOne®, the nation’s leading home-based travel agent franchise. As part of World Travel Holdings, the world’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company, CruiseOne offers consumers the lowest possible pricing on cruise and land vacations through its relationships with every major cruise line and many tour operators. In operation since 1992, CruiseOne is a member of VetFran and proudly supports military veterans. It is consistently recognized by leading industry publications as a militaryfriendly franchise.

For more information visit: www.CruiseOneFranchise.com/veterans.

Franchising USA

Veter ans in Fr anchising

Page 51

Veter ans in Fr anchising

Jim Mingey, Founder & Managing Director, VBS’

Saving you time and m the Franchise Registry How does a Veteran save time investigating the financial feasibility of their franchise acquisition?

How do Veterans find out if lenders are actually interested in financing the franchise brand they selected?

Simple: use the Franchise Registry The primary purpose of the Franchise Registry is to make lenders aware of franchise brands; however prospective franchisees, government agencies,

Franchising USA

educational institutions and industry experts can use the Registry site (www. franchiseregistry.com) to validate that a franchise is a viable and thriving company.

One of the more difficult parts of getting financing is simply finding an appropriate lender. The Franchise Registry website serves the entire small business lending community; thousands of lenders use the site each month to find and underwrite franchise loans.

The Franchise Registry lists every franchise in the United States. Powered by the FRANdata database, the Franchise Registry includes all brands franchising in the United States. Each brand has a franchising status and each franchise company listed shows if their units are eligible for SBA loans. The Franchise Registry lists franchise systems whose franchisees enjoy the benefits of a streamlined review process for U.S. Small

Business Administration (SBA) financing.

Loan applications for franchises on the Franchise Registry can be reviewed and processed faster and more efficiently by the SBA and its lenders because the respective franchise agreements do not need to be reviewed in each individual franchisee situation.

This is because, through the Registry SBA Eligibility Review process, the SBA has already reviewed the franchise agreement and has determined that there are no unacceptable control provisions by the franchisor over its franchisees.

Unacceptable control provisions could result in affiliation with a franchisor that is considered to be other than small; that would mean that a franchisee would not be considered to be a small business eligible for SBA financing.

A franchisor’s participation in the Registry SBA Eligibility Review process

money is voluntary. If a franchisor decides not to have its agreements reviewed through this process, the SBA or its participating lenders will have to review and evaluate each franchise agreement when a franchisee or potential franchisee in that system seeks SBA financial assistance.

This can take considerable time. (However you should not construe a franchise system’s presence on or an absence from the Registry as either an endorsement

by SBA or an indication of the franchise system’s quality or profitability.)

In order to have a brand listed on the Registry, a Franchisor must submit its Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) to verify that the franchise. The Franchise Registry is where lenders come to do franchise financing. So as a prospective franchisee needing to open their unit, or when your existing franchise need to refinance, a franchisor included on the

“Thousands of lenders use the site each month to find and underwrite franchise loans.”

Franchise Registry will greatly expand the pool potential lenders who are interested to making the loan.

Lenders consider loan packages that do not have any information about the franchise system to be high risk and they are reluctant to make the deals. A Bank Credit Report from the Registry about your franchise system provides lenders the information they need to overcome their risk concerns. Endorsed by major lending institutions such as Bank of America, TD Bank, The Bancorp and others, Franchise Registry reports are beginning to be a requirement for franchise lending.

Many lenders make it easy and fast for franchisees to get SBA-guaranteed loans by having their agreements pre-reviewed to ensure eligibility. Many lenders, in fact, require that agreements are reviewed this way.

James Mingey

So before Veterans gets too excited about franchise brands they should first ask if the brand is listed on the Registry as eligible for financing. Time is money, right?

FRANdata and Franchise Registry are trade names of Franchise Information Services, Inc.

James F. Mingey, Managing Member www.VeteransBusinessServices.us

Franchising USA

Veter ans in Fr anchising

Page 53

Veter ans in Fr anchising

Sid’s Piz z a & G r ill

Sid’s Pizza & Grill

Announces Special Franchise Pricing For Veterans

Suwanee, Georgia based Sid’s Pizza & Grill Managing Member Stan Kurnett announced today the company is offering a special discount to veterans interested in owning a Sid’s Pizza franchise.

Active and honorably discharged former members of the military receive a 50% reduction in the initial franchise fee, a savings of $15,000.

Said Stan Kurnett, “My wife Sharon and I want to show our deep gratitude for the service that the members of our armed forces perform for our country. We recognize the sacrifices that our military and their families make every day to protect us, our loved ones, our community and our freedoms. By offering this discount, we hope to express our thanks for their service in a meaningful way, by helping them to achieve their dreams of

Franchising USA

owning their own business and having financial security.”

Sid’s Pizza offers authentic Sicilian pizza, handmade from scratch and stone baked, with either traditional or thin crust, in a laid-back, vintage California surfer atmosphere. The menu also includes wings, oven baked subs, burgers and salads. Some of Sid’s specialty pizzas, such as the Buffalo Billabong and Haole, have achieved a virtual cult-like following. In the restaurant’s over ten-year history, Sid’s Pizza has earned accolades ranging from being voted Best Pizza on the Northside by readers of the Atlanta Constitution/Journal, Editor’s Choice for Best Pizza on the Northside by Points North Magazine and Atlanta’s Best Kept Secret by radio station DaveFM. The restaurant offers dine-in, take-out, delivery and catering options.

Sid’s Pizza has developed the procedures to produce a high volume of superiorquality pizza from a smaller space with relatively low food and labor costs. With the restaurant’s operating system and oven, a location can turn out over 100 large pizzas an hour.

Steve Raines, President of National Franchise Associates, one of the nation’s leading franchising consulting and development firms, helped create the Sid’s Pizza franchise system. Raines is a former winner of the Georgia Veterans Advocate of the Year Award for his work with Vietnam-era veterans. Said Raines, “I am so pleased that Stan and Sharon are making this very generous offer to former and active members of the military. It can be hard to fully appreciate the difficulty many veterans experience in transitioning to civilian life. This substantial discount could very well make the difference in a member of the armed forces being able to open this franchise and flourish in life after the military.”

For more information on the Sid’s Pizza franchise program contact: (678) 319-4288 www.SidsPizza.com sid@sidspizza.com

“North America’s Premier Brokerage Firm” “I truly, truly enjoy making the dreams of others come true. Whether you’re looking for that perfect business or franchise to buy, or selling the business that you’ve built over the years of loving care, we can guide you through the process.”

CURT MAIER – YOUR SUPERBROKERTM Buy/Sell a Business or Franchise 425.679.6627 office | 425.505.3649 cell c.maier@murphybusiness.com | www.YourFranchiseAdvisor.com/home/ourfranchise-advisors/curt-maier/

Our Motto: LEAVE

NOTHING TO CHANCE!™ LNTC

MURPHY BUSINESS NORTHWEST GIVES YOU THE BEST OF TWO WORLDS: OUR OFFICE IS A SMALL, LOCAL BUSINESS CLOSELY CONNECTED TO THE COMMUNITY HERE IN PUGET SOUND, SPECIALIZING IN PERSONAL SERVICE TO OUR CLIENTS; YET, WE ARE AFFILIATED WITH THE LARGEST AND MOST SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS BROKERAGE WITH OFFICES THROUGHOUT NORTH AMERICA. OUR EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS OFFER AN UNSURPASSED RANGE OF BROKERAGE SERVICES:

Our professional business brokers all have past experience as business owners and senior managers. We apply that business sense to help match buyers to an appropriate business or franchise opportunity.

s When selling a business or buying a business or franchise, our affiliations with National and International Business Brokers and Merger & Acquisition associations assure sellers the best exposure and buyers the broadest marketplace s Business Valuation Services performed by qualified professionals s Experienced CMEA appraisal professionals perform machinery and equipment appraisals s Skilled intermediaries provide assistance in Mergers & Acquisitions s We uncover the best franchise opportunities for buyers and are members of the IFPG and FBA s We work with franchisors and franchisees on franchise resales A strong presence in the community provides insight into the local market. Murphy Business Northwest deals with local companies and business professionals every day, which helps us gain their respect, and ultimately helps us uncover those gems in the “hidden market” you won’t find on the internet, whether it’s businesses or franchises for sale.

Beyond the local market in the greater Puget Sound region, Murphy Business is a national firm with over 165 offices and 275 brokers.

Curt Maier and Ajay Kumar, Area Developer in Seattle of SUPERCUTS

www.seattlebusinessbroker-curtmaier-murphy.com

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Eliot Burdett, Co-Founder & CEO, Peak Sales Recruiting

TOOLS TO MOTIVATE SALES REPS FOR 2nd QUARTER SUCCESS With the second quarter of the fiscal year underway, it is time for public and private companies alike to assess their financial success over the first part of the year.

Franchising USA

This is a particularly crucial time period for companies that rely on sales to drive revenue. It is the time for senior management to assess which of their salespeople are on their way to earning the proverbial set of steak knives, and which ones need help and motivation to reach their goals.

Similar to a coach who has to give a speech with the team down 20 points, what is the best way to ensure sales reps pick up their game after a lackluster first quarter?

As the CEO of Peak Sales Recruiting, a leading B2B sales recruiting company, I have seen seven tools that will put sales reps in a position to succeed and help companies reach their financial numbers by the end of the fiscal year:

1

Communicate the Importance of the Target to the Team, Again: While the reasons for hitting sales targets may be blatantly obvious to every senior manager in the company, sales reps may be too focused on their own day-to-day to see the

forest through the trees. Even if the team has heard the message 50 times, it literally pays to keep reinforcing the message.

“It is important for senior leaders to listen to employee concerns and do their part to fix any macro problems that could be hampering their staff.”

2

Excuse versus Issue: When a salesperson is struggling, they may make excuses. At the same time, there could be a real issue standing in their way.

It is important for senior leaders to listen to employee concerns and do their part to fix any macro problems that could be hampering their staff. If the determination is that no major roadblock exists, and a person is still struggling, it may be time to have an honest chat about the company’s expectations and if there needs to be a change.

3

Monitor Activity Volumes: While some people possess an ‘it’ factor, in most cases sales success is simply a numbers game. Make 50 calls to line up ten meetings and make five sales. If a person is struggling, see if the number of calls, meetings and proposals they are making are in line with typical ratios required to hit targets. If not, this is the likely reason for their struggles and it is time to remind them to pick it up.

4

Track Deal Slide: Take a look at what percentage of forecasted deals are sliding into the next quarter. Often times a rep will put a deal on the backburner, believing there is other low hanging fruit. Since time kills deals it is up to the manager to figure out why deals keep slipping and offer clear guidance and support that will help the rep close before the quarter is up.

5

Focus on the Target and Ask Tough Questions: Effective sales managers ask their reps tough questions to determine if they are actually on track to hit quota.

By consistently qualifying and validating a rep’s pipeline size, in addition to emphasizing the right selling tasks and behaviors that will enable them to achieve their target, sellers will be able to keep their eye on the prize.

6

Don’t let anyone quit: It is somewhat common for people to quit if they feel

like there is no way they will make their numbers this quarter. Sales leaders should watch for defeatist attitudes and focus on motivating those reps to keep pushing to close deals. Remind them that there is still plenty of time, that they are only one big deal away, and that they should continue to prospect and good things will happen. If the person consistently quits, it is time for a change.

7

Find Ways to Have Fun: There is an old saying in sales to “smile through the phone.” Whether selling in person, on the phone or via Twitter, remember to always encourage your team to have fun.

Try utilizing friendly competitions and organizing team-building events since clients and potential customers will be drawn to the positive energy, leading to more sales, guaranteed.

About Eliot Burdett: Eliot Burdett is the Co-Founder and CEO of Peak Sales Recruiting, a leading B2B sales recruiting company launched in 2006.

Under his direction, the company leads the industry with a success rate 50 percent higher than the industry average, working with a wide-range of clients including boutique, mid-size and world-class companies including P&G, Gartner, Deloitte, Merck, Western Union and others.

Prior to Peak, Eliot spent more than 20

Eliot Burdett

years building and leading companies by recruiting and managing high performance sales teams. He co-founded Ventrada Systems (mobile applications) and GlobalX (e-commerce software) and served as Vice President of Sales for PointShot Wireless.

Eliot received his Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from Carleton University and has been honored as a Top 40 Under 40 Award winner. He co-authored Sales Recruiting 2.0, How to Find Top Performing Sales People, Fast.

For more information visit: www.peaksalesrecruiting.com

“Effective sales managers ask their reps tough questions to determine if they are actually on track to hit quota.”

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

Page 57

I FA news

EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES call for nominations for inaugural

Awards Program Will Recognize the Best, Most Innovative Community Leaders and Charitable Programs Nationwide.

Following the launch of Franchising Gives Back at the International Franchise Association (IFA) Annual Convention in Las Vegas in February, the IFA Educational Foundation announced today that it is accepting nominations for the inaugural Franchising Gives Back Annual Awards. Established in partnership with Roark Capital Group, the awards program will salute the best, most innovative community leaders and charitable programs nationwide.

“We continue to be inspired by the stories of how franchise businesses make an impact on their local communities and around the world. The Franchising Gives Back Awards program will recognize the significant contributions businesses make and inspire others to do the same,” said John Reynolds, CFE, president of the IFA Educational Foundation. “We encourage IFA members to become part of this year-long celebration and nominate their company’s community support programs.”

“As founding partner of Franchising Gives Back, we are honored to be part of such a great initiative and recognize those businesses with an exceptional commitment to community leadership across the U.S. and around the world,” said Steve Romaniello, CFE, managing director, Roark Capital Group. “These

Franchising USA

ANNUAL AWARDS companies will set an example for our industry to follow and inspire others to join our efforts in making a difference.”

Now through June 26, current IFA members and/or any of their affiliated organizations are invited to visit www.franchisinggivesback.org/awards and nominate their company’s charitable initiatives performed in 2014. Winners will be selected in five categories and honored at a special event in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 28, 2015. The awards categories are: Spirit of Franchising Award — honors an IFA member whose charitable or community support program embodies the spirit of what it means to be a part of the franchising industry by giving back to his or her local community.

The Newcomer Award — highlights a new charitable or community support program launched that has made a significant impact on a local community.

Enduring Impact Award — honors an IFA member with a longstanding commitment to his or her community that has been executing an outstanding charitable or community support program(s) for at least five consecutive years.

Support Our Veterans Award — recognizes an IFA member whose charitable or community support program has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help those men and women who have served in the U.S. military and their

families, and positively impacted their local community along the way.

Innovation and Impact Award — honors an IFA member whose charitable or community support program focused on using creative, innovative ways to maximize the benefits and impact on their community with limited resources.

Additionally, as part of the national initiative for Franchising Gives Back, the IFA Educational Foundation is developing a national registry of the franchising industry’s charitable contributions.

Members of the IFA can register and create a profile for their organization by visiting www.franchisinggivesback.org, where they can submit details about their charitable activities — including hours volunteered and money donated — as well as upcoming events, news and blog posts.

The IFA Educational Foundation will also develop a Franchising Gives Back Annual Report highlighting the industry’s contributions and a best practices guide for IFA members who want to develop their community support and charitable activities.

Franchising Gives Back depends on donations to the IFA Educational Foundation. For more information on contributing to Franchising Gives Back through its partner program — including sponsorship opportunities for the Annual Awards event — please visit www.franchisinggivesback.org/who-weare/partners/.

Page 59

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Franchising USA

ex per t advice

George Knauf, Senior Franchise Business Advisor, FranChoice

Is Indoor Cycling Really

“The Next Big Thing”?

We watch the franchise industry, our radar is always on, and we see new ideas as they surface.

Some of those ideas get off to a good start but will take years to mature and develop.

Some will fizzle out before you know it.

But, every now and then one looks like it has all the right pieces in place to capture the brass ring early out of the gate.

Which category does Premium Indoor Cycling fit into?

Let’s begin with the sandbox they play in: the indoor cycling space traces its roots back to the cycle classes you would find in your local big box gyms beginning in

Franchising USA

the late 1980s. In large measure, these classes were lumped in with a number of other amenities offered by those big gyms to entice new members to sign up. Over time training and certification programs brought over 200,000 cycle instructors into those gyms.

As we have seen happen with personal trainers, Pilates and yoga instructors, some of those gym-based trainers eventually set out to open a small owner-operated studio. In time we see a few of those ‘mom and pop’ operators wanting to become pioneers and build bigger more successful businesses. In the cycling space this seemed to pick up pace in the early 2000s where the founders of the brands, both independent and franchised, set out to stake a claim in the Premium Indoor Cycling category that you might find

popping up in your community today.

In those early days it was a quest to figure out what consumers would pay a premium for, often in addition to their regular gym memberships. What they learned was that it was about the experience from start to finish; almost more of an entertainment business where you get the side benefit of burning a huge amount of calories during your visit.

Clients in these businesses tend to buy packages instead of memberships and this means the need for a membership salesperson goes away. Those packages may be purchased online, which can simplify the accounting process within the operation as well as what owners need their counter staff to do.

The trainers could be brought in as contractors, and this would simplify

“With upwards of 40-60 cycle seats to fill in every class and one instructor leading them, the unit economics in this category are pretty compelling, even at partial capacity.”

• Do they have experience with franchise systems: building them, running them, growing them?

• How will they handle site selection and growing as fast as may be required to be dominant in the space? Can they get top sites and negotiate good leases?

payroll and management. The key here would be to get top talent and make sure they can be that big personality at the front of the room. Potential trainers may currently reside in most markets given the number of certifications that have been awarded over the years. The best trainers among them would be candidates to lead these classes and provide the right experience. The biggest brand in the space over time may be most likely to control the largest pool of this top talent.

With a manager sourced from the fitness or hospitality industries, this could be run as a semi-absentee business - one with low payroll and overhead. The start-up cost should be pretty reasonable given the fit-out and equipment leasing options as well as the “bring a friend” nature of many fitness operations. From a portfolio building point of view, the semi-absentee role, low start-up and low overheads are likely to make this category very attractive to those who see themselves, now or in the future, as multi-unit franchise owners.

With upwards of 40-60 cycle seats to fill in every class and one instructor leading them, the unit economics in this category are pretty compelling, even at partial capacity.

There are some key areas to confirm capability in: • Do they have expertise in setting up indoor cycling businesses: running them, building a class curriculum and filling all those cycle seats?

• Do they have the architectural and construction teams to get their franchises open fast?

Being first to market here may not be critical as the first couple of brands to get some notoriety, SoulCycle and Flywheel, are independently owned and not franchising. While they are getting press and moving at a good company-owned location pace, their growth rate could still be considered modest by some standards.

Being the first 800 pound gorilla to market will be the true test. That first player to capture true market dominance and control over the potential market (not just most units today) would attract the best talent, get the best real estate and leases as well as potentially become that household brand on the tip of everyone’s tongue.

How would they do that?

• They would seek a very fast expansion by partnering with very qualified candidates (money and skill) - that market leader may turn down more candidates than they offer franchises to.

We help our candidates pursue franchise approval every day and it always makes us nervous if a franchise company accepts everyone.

• They would be hard pressed to offer those big mega unit franchise deals. It just takes a long time to roll them out and in a fast moving space like this they need the brand on the street everywhere and fast. They may have a couple of big sales, but most would be 1-10 unit deals with the opportunity to add more (depending on territory availability) down the road.

• They would roll substantial resources into growing their infrastructure as fast as possible with the goal of being ahead of the growth curve.

Back to the question we started with, is Premium Indoor Cycling the “Next Big Thing”? Well, my crystal ball is in the shop for routine service, but this space is lighting it up in terms of press, sales, growth and consumer adoption. The numbers are compelling and it fits the role of a portfolio addition.

What I can say is that my wife, who has never wanted to own her own business before, told me to buy her a few of these.

I’ll take that as a sign there is something worth investigating here!

Mr. Knauf is a highly sought after, trusted advisor to many companies; Public, Independent and Franchised, of all sizes and in many markets. His 20 plus years of experience in both startup and mature business operations makes him uniquely qualified to advise individuals that have dreamed of going into business for themselves in order to gain more control, independence, time flexibility and to be able to earn in proportion to their real contribution.

Contact the Franchising USA Expert George’s Hotline 703-424-2980 www.FranGuide.com

George Knauf

Franchising USA

ex per t advice

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fr anchisee in acti o n

N u tr ition Zone

Football game leads to

franchise success for LA-area franchisee

One Los Angeles-area franchisee has scored a touchdown with his Nutrition Zone retail outlet thanks to a serendipitous sporting event.

Prior to buying his Harbor City, CA Nutrition Zone franchise in July 2014, franchisee Jabin Pound met the company’s founder and CEO, Joe Eckstrom, while playing in a football game. From there, the two formed a fast friendship and the more he learned about the company — a retail nutritional supplement store — the more Pound knew he wanted to be involved in it.

Coming from the services industry where he was a pool and spa technician, Pound was thankful for the opportunity to be his own boss and work toward his own goals rather than work long, gruelling hours for the goals of somebody else’s company.

“Working in the pool and spa cleaning business just made me feel like I could not reach my full potential, I enjoyed the service part of the job but I wanted to give more to people then just a clean pool.,” he said during a recent interview from his store in Harbor City.

“Get to know the people behind the franchise first and make sure they are as concerned about your welfare as they are about the brand’s welfare.”

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“From the start, the franchise support system was great, I was never alone during these phases.” relishes the team aspect of it. Everything he does makes his team and the Nutrition Zone team better and it also goes the other way, too.

Working for himself brings joy into his

life, which in turn brings balance to his

life, he noted. Plus, he also enjoys helping people get healthier.

“I really enjoy going to work on a Monday — you know, I don’t get a case of the Jabin Pound, Franchisee, Harbor City, CA

The turning point for him was a combination of meeting Eckstrom during that football game and realizing that he could be his own boss while at the same time improving people’s lives by helping them become healthier. Pound really wanted to be a part of that.

Part of a Team Right from the start of the franchising process, Pound said, he felt like he was part of the team.

The company called him in for an initial meeting and he sat down with Eckstrom and other Nutrition Zone franchising team members and much to his delight, they assessed what he wanted and why he thought Nutrition Zone was a good fit for him.

He told them he wanted a Harbor City location and Nutrition Zone’s real estate team worked with him to find the perfect spot, calling him often and going over potential spots with him and always soliciting his opinion on the various locations they found.

During this process, Pound said, he also learned a lot, as he was constantly asking their expertise about why they thought certain spots would work better than others.

“From the start, the franchise support system was great,” Pound said. “I was never alone during these phases.”

He always had someone there to answer questions and point him in the right direction, the franchisee noted and he was also able to give his input during the entire process.

Mondays — because I know that there are people who could come in who are just

fed up with their weight or they want to change something about themselves and I have an opportunity to do that for them,” Pound explained.

The franchisee said he would tell other

potential franchisees who are interested in joining either Nutrition Zone or any

other franchise to do their homework, ask

Nutrition Zone offers its franchisees the opportunity for ongoing training via NZ Online, which Pound described as an online university style training program about nutritional benefits. NZ Live is inperson training to help with the customer service aspect of the business and the recently initiated NZ Advanced Online, which Pound just finished, continues the ongoing training for franchisees.

questions, and make sure the franchise

In addition to this, the company also helps with marketing support like sending its franchisees weekly Instagram posts to share with their customers and holding giveaways over social media that all franchisees can encourage their customers to participate in. For example, if customers tag themselves in a Nutrition Zone photo, they can win a product from the various stores.

now they’re ready to share their dreams

they choose is right for them. Get to know the people behind the franchise first,

he advised, and make sure they are as concerned about your welfare as they are about the brand’s welfare.

Nutrition Zone spent years perfecting their training and support before they started pursuing franchising opportunities and with others, like himself, Pound said.

There’s no telling where Pound’s life

would have ended up had it not been for that football game, but from being on

that football team together to joining the Nutrition Zone team, the franchisee has managed to fulfill his real potential.

Greg Ferrell

Bringing Balance

gferrell@nutritionzonefranchise.com

Pound said he loves working for himself, but also for a franchise brand, as he

844-GONZUSA – 844-466-9872 www.nutritionzonefranchise.com

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2015 International Franchise Association events Franchise Development Seminar

April 23, 2015

The Marquette Hotel // MINNEAPOLIS, MN

Legal Symposium

May 3-5, 2015

CHICAGO MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN // CHICAGO, IL

Franchise Development Seminar

IFA Summer Board Meeting

Marriott Marquis // WASHINGTON, DC

GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT & SPA // TRAVERSE CITY, MI

June 4, 2015

Public Affairs Conference & Fall Leadership Meetings September 28-October 1, 2015 JW MARRIOTT // WASHINGTON, DC

June 14-17, 2015

FranTech: Digital Marketing & Technology Conference

October 27-28, 2015

InterContinental Dallas // DALLAS, TX

Check franchise.org regularly for updates!

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IBA/IFA Joint Conference

May 5-6, 2015

CHICAGO MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN // CHICAGO, IL

International Franchise Expo

June 18-20, 2015

JAVITS CENTER // NEW YORK, NY

West Coast Franchise Expo

November 12-14, 2015

ANAHEIM CONVENTION CENTER // ANAHEIM, CA

IFA Franchisee Growth Conference

May 17-18, 2015 LAS VEGAS, NV

Franchise Development Seminar

September 3, 2015

CROWNE PLAZA REDONDO BEACH AND MARINA // ORANGE COUNTY, CA

Emerging Franchisor Conference

November 17-18, 2015

INTERCONTINENTAL MIAMI // MIAMI, FL

Page 65

FranchisingFeature spo rts & fitnesss

june 2 0 1 5

9ROUND

mixes passion with inspiration

Aging Strong The importance of staying strong and active as you age

how the

Real Estate Business Model

Bulks Up the Fitness Pay Scale Franchising USA

spo rts & fitness fr anchising

what’s new!

A New View on Fitness from High Altitude Personal Training When it comes to getting help with physical fitness, it seems you have two choices: pay a high price for personal training, or pay a little less for one-size-fits-all classes. There usually isn’t anything in between. That’s where High Altitude Personal Training comes in.

The fitness facility, aiming to help members achieve better health, is now franchising. Launched in 2009 in Flagstaff, Arizona, by Joey McDonald and Dustin Evans, High Altitude Personal Training provides individualized small group personal training. “We have the cost effectiveness and energy of the group environment, with individualized programs tailored to each client,” says co-founder Joey McDonald. “In addition, we provide ongoing nutritional accountability because the quantity and quality of food can make or break even the best fitness regimes.”

The franchise program is being rolled out in the Southwest region of the country first, with further expansion to follow.

If you eat clean, and move well – you may find that you’ll truly live free!

For more information visit www.haptfranchising.com

PURE BARRE CELEBRATES 300th STUDIO OPENING North America’s leading barre concept positioned for further expansion Pure Barre, the largest and most established barre concept in North America, is pleased to announce the opening of its 300th location.

The franchise has experienced consistent and unprecedented expansion throughout its history, showing a growth of more than 50 percent from 2013 to 2014 alone. Now with locations in 42 states, along with the District of Columbia, Pure Barre is forecasting steady growth and has plans to expand to Canada by year-end.

With three times the presence of any other barre concept, Pure Barre is the clear market leader in the barre sector and a dominant force in the growing boutique fitness industry. Pure Barre is rigorous in its selection of new franchisees and attributes much of its success to organic interest from a dedicated following – 90 percent of franchise owners begin as Pure Barre clients before turning their love of the technique into a business. Pure Barre offers a consistent and unmatched client experience in all of its locations by providing studio partners with an elevated training and support program.

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“We’ve taken great care to establish Pure Barre as the leader in the barre segment by focusing on providing an effective and continuously evolving technique and unparalleled community atmosphere in our studios,” said Sloan Evans, chief executive officer at the company. “Because of that standard, we have attracted amazing business partners and loyal clients across the nation.”

The 300th studio recently opened in Augusta, GA and is owned and operated by Jill Garner-Kraft, who discovered Pure Barre as a beneficial asset while training for a marathon.

For more information on Pure Barre and its 300 locations across the nation, please visit www.purebarre.com

Orangetheory Fitness Orangetheory Fitness®, the revolutionary and rapidly expanding fitness franchise, recently opened its 200th studio in Gainesville, Florida.

The opening represents the latest

milestone for the fitness company, which has been experiencing explosive growth since opening its first studio in 2010.

Today, Orangetheory Fitness continues

to raise the bar in the health and wellness industry, having nearly doubled its footprint in past 16 months. With a total of 525 franchises licenses already awarded, the company shows no signs of slowing down. The company is on track to open an additional 100 locations by the end of 2015, with plans to break into new markets including Hawaii, Oregon, Iowa, Arkansas and Nebraska. Orangetheory Fitness also

has international presence with studios in South American, Canada and the U.K., and has signed a master agreement to bring the concept into Australia. Today, Orangetheory Fitness has become one of the world’s top fitness franchises, with 200 studios in 28 states. The high energy, 60-minute, five-zone heart-rate monitored interval training concept has helped tens of thousands of members lose weight, get toned and meet their overall fitness goals in a short amount of time. www.orangetheoryfitness.com

Tropical Smoothie Café Announces Highest Average Unit Volume in 18-Year History Tropical Smoothie Café has announced an all-time high average unit volume (AUV) of more than $578,000, while the top 50 percent of its cafes nationwide reported exceeding $734,000.

“We are thrilled that in the last year our system’s AUV has grown by nearly 10 percent — an outstanding result of Tropical Smoothie Cafe introducing more fresh food featuring bold flavors and quality ingredients, and our franchisees’ hard work and passion for the brand,” said Mike Rotondo, CEO of Tropical Smoothie Café.

Tropical Smoothie Café recently announced the signing of 51 franchise agreements and a same-store sales increase of 12.31 percent in the first quarter of 2015. The brand currently has franchise opportunities across the U.S. in markets such as Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Boston, Portland and Columbus, Ohio, among others. www.tropicalsmoothiefranchise.com

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C over S tor y - 9 Round

Fitness franchisor mixes

passion with inspiration

Passion, when combined with the right inspiration, can lead to the biggest ideas.

Co-founder of 9Round fitness centers, Shannon Hudson, took his passion for kickboxing and added some inspiration from the Curves circuit training clubs to establish the kickboxing circuit training franchise.

“I wanted to bring the real training that fighters do to get into phenomenal shape to the average person, but take out the worst part, which is getting punched in the face,” Hudson said during a recent interview from his franchise headquarters in Greenville, SC. Hudson, who has been training in martial arts almost his entire life, co-founded the business with his wife, Heather, in 2008, borrowing money and maxing out their credit card in the process. Without being able to buy a sign for the building and without a marketing budget, the

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couple still signed up 100 members within the first month of operation and it’s been growing steadily since then, with franchising starting in 2009.

Currently, 9Round has 220 locations open in 39 states and four other countries: Canada, Mexico, Australia and Saudi Arabia. The company is opening two to three clubs a week and has another 140 licenses in the process of becoming franchisees, Hudson said.

Short Circuit With their circuit training method, Hudson said, they’ve solved the four problems of the fitness industry. The first is people not being able to get to a gym on time for a workout class.

With 9Round, members perform exercises using common kickboxing gym equipment like dumbbells, kettle bells and punching bags and they switch through nine different stations. A bell rings every three minutes and when the bell rings, members switch stations. This way, there are no classes.

“The client is never late,” he said. “They can jump in anytime.”

Second, is that it’s hard to fit a good workout into such a short amount of time. But, thanks to the specially devised kickboxing-inspired exercises at 9Round, a full body workout can be achieved in 30 minutes.

Thirdly, they’ve solved the problem of repetition by having different workouts every day. The workout programs are made at the Greenville headquarters and communicated to all the 9Round clubs so they are all doing the same program right across the country on any given day.

And finally, 9Round gets around the usual large square footage requirements of gyms by having no machines, allowing them to keep a modest footprint of about 1,200 square feet.

The small size means members always have a trainer there who knows their name and can give them that personal touch by motivating them and ensuring they’re doing things properly.

“The small size means members always have a trainer there who knows their name and can give them that personal touch.”

To keep things light and fun, the 9Round co-founder said, the clubs play good music, keep up good energy, and give everyone a fun-fighter name. His is “Shannon the Cannon,” for example.

sold about 40 more franchisee licenses in the past year than it had, but many people were turned away because they didn’t fit the culture and the brand, and were in it for the wrong reasons.

Ideal Franchisee

Hudson says 9Round wants owner operators who want to be active in their communities. They also have to be physically fit themselves so they can be an example to others. That’s why they have to undergo a physical fitness test as well as an initial interview.

Hudson described his ideal franchisee as someone with a passion for fitness and a personality, noting that fitness is a personality-driven industry. “Good trainers have good personalities and can motivate people to do things they wouldn’t normally do on their own,” Hudson said.

The company still has territory available virtually everywhere in the US except for a few cities that have sold out, including Greenville, SC, Kansas City and Charlotte, NC. The company’s goal is to get to 1,000 clubs opened by the end of 2017.

Hudson called 9Round the pickiest franchisor out there. The company doesn’t take everyone and in fact it could have

No Need to Think Fitness is a growing industry, meaning there is always a demand for it, Hudson said. However, it’s such a huge industry with so many offerings that people often get confused by it. That’s where 9Round fits in, giving people a workout that they don’t have to think too much about.

They simply show up to a 9Round location and the trainers there will tell them

exactly what to do, how many to do, and when to do it. “All members have to do is walk in the door and follow the circuit,” Hudson said. The company has effectively streamlined fitness. Anyone can do it, no matter their fitness level or their age, he said, noting that 9Round has seen people from 12 to 70 years old in their clubs.

Training and Support The company has people and programs to help new franchisees. It offers to bring franchisees to the corporate headquarters for four days of training that encompasses sales and software training in the classroom and hands-on training at various clubs around Greenville.

“A lot of time is invested in new franchisees up front to make sure they’re successful,” Hudson noted. 9Round also has dedicated staff members available for ongoing support once a franchise has opened.

Coming from passionate and inspired roots, 9Round continues to inspire entrepreneurs who are passionate about fitness and want to be successful with their own business. www.9round.com

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Featu re

b y G i n a G i l l Fr a n c h i s i n g U S A

“The number of hea has steadily incre

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sports & fitness franchising

alth clubs across the country eased since 2005 to keep up with demand.�

Sports

e r u t Fea

The sports industry is a desirable franchise opportunity. Those who are passionate about sports can live their dream by becoming a franchisor in a recreational field that is truly enjoyable.

Sports offers the perfect mix of business and pleasure. People tend to forget that their favorite sport can be turned into a business in a variety of ways and they can create the perfect work life balance.

Sports Retail There are many high profit companies that have become the main source for a lot of sporting equipment. Not only do they provide sporting goods, but they specialize in clothing, services and accessories with a lot of name brands which help establish a well-known presence amongst customers.

The brand has already created a lot of marketing value within the store and drives sales before a franchisee has even attempted their own marketing strategy.

The love of sports is an American staple, it’s become a part of our identity and it is established in our history. People will always be seeking new equipment and there will be an undying interest in sports and its apparel.

Recreational Franchises have recognized a need for organizations that provide sports and activities to children, families and individuals. Both children and adults are playing organized sports and the

opportunity is available to everyone, not just professionals.

With parents putting their kids in more activities and studies showing the need for young kids to develop their athletic bone and gain some new motor skills, little gyms have become huge successes. The market for children has become one of the most profitable and small gyms provide activities, classes, free play, retail products, birthday parties and hosted events, to name a few.

Soccer clubs, hockey adventures and basketball courts are franchise opportunities specific to one sport. Though it may seem isolated, there are always new kids passionate about one certain sport and will remain dedicated to the area. There are also adults who want to keep healthy by playing the game they love.

Industries have learned to expand in sports clubs by providing food, name-brand products, rental space and equipment creating an everlasting industry. The recreational end of sports has expanded in to so many areas including yoga, martial arts, training facilities and dance studios.

All of these fields have created great franchise opportunities for people who have a specific passion; they can utilize this to create great business opportunities.

Fitness America is facing a health crisis that has recently been acknowledged. People are taking ownership for their health and kicking the crisis to the curb with fitness.

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Featu re

b y G i n a G i l l Fr a n c h i s i n g U S A

“The love of sports is an American staple, it’s become a part of our identity and it is established in our history.

However, we all need some support and that is where the fitness industry comes in.

The Physical Activity Council Topline Report stated that over 60 percent of Americans partake in fitness sports – which shows it is important in the lives of many Americans and continuous to be an area of potential profit.

Fitness Clubs This is a great franchise opportunity, especially for those with a passion for fitness because they can gain muscle and profit at the same time in their own

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location. A fitness club gains profit from membership fees and services include: use of equipment, classes, training, showers and change rooms to name a few. A lot of clubs also experience extra profit through fitness trainers and specialty classes.

Though a lot of people intend to use their membership to its fullest capacity, 67 percent of memberships go unused. That’s a lot of money going into franchisees pockets without even having to provide a service.

The number of health clubs across the country has steadily increased since 2005 to keep up with demand. There has also been a consistent increase in membership purchases. In 2012, the total revenue reported for the fitness industry was $21.8 billion and this means fitness clubs offer a great opportunity (with a great customer base) for success.

Some gym franchises have diversified their clubs with areas for children, spas and pools, as well as basketball and tennis courts, which helps put them ahead of the game.

Weight Loss Programs To achieve weight loss at fitness clubs can take a lot of hard work and dedication to see results, and sometimes people just want a quick fix. In 2007, over a quarter of Americans said they were on a diet and wanted an immediate solution for their health issues.

The goal for many people is weight loss and they will consider a lot of different avenues to help achieve their objective.

The main target for this industry is women and though that may seem to minimize the potential customer, it’s still a $2 billion revenue industry.

That being said, it is slowly turning into a field for both women and men, since most Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the obesity rates and the associated health risks.

“With continuous growth, possibilities and profit on offer, both sports and fitness offer a variety of opportunities for interested franchisees.”

Weight Loss programs usually provide meal plans, a coach, a calendar of exercises and supplements or protein additives. There are industries that offer health coaches, who usually provide a lot of vitamins and supplements and assessments to determine problem areas in the past and to create a future goal for the client.

A hindrance in this field of fitness is the competition. Though a lot of clients need support and guidance to help achieve weight loss, once they have reached their goal, they are no longer a continuous customer. Once people have received counseling, they may train themselves and retain the information they have learned.

Weight loss industries are in competition with quick fix diet pills and celebrity fad diets. Weight-loss programs can also become a fad themselves and people can quickly lose interest in them. However, that being said, weight loss continues to bring in profit and is a constant concern for Americans, especially in this day and age. The obesity problem shows no signs of ceasing, and with people becoming increasingly aware of the associated risks, they will continue to turn to programs offering help.

Sports are an engrained part of American culture. We are dedicated to the home team and the many of us play a sport

or two. Children are also constantly engaged in activities and they can rekindle a passion for sport in their parents.

While sports and recreation create a healthy atmosphere, fitness is a direct individualized effort to get healthy and take care of one’s body. While some people may need a bit of support along the way, it’s a business prospect that is constantly evolving.

With continuous growth, possibilities and profit on offer, both sports and fitness offer a variety of opportunities for interested franchisees - especially for those who are passionate about the industries.

About the author: After receiving an English Degree, followed by a Journalism Diploma, Gina became a freelance journalist in 2008.

She has worked as a reporter and in communications, focusing on social media. She currently works as a community information officer with Epilepsy Society, while pursuing her writing career at the same time.

Look out for our next special feature:

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B r itish S w im School

The Business Behind

Teaching Water Safety Survival Skills It’s time parents change the way they think about infant and toddler swim lessons. As the leading cause of death among children ages 1-4, drowning claims an average of 3,500 lives every year.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in five people who die from drowning are children 14 and younger, and for every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries. These numbers are absolutely astonishing and even more so saddening because of the fact that tragic water accidents of this nature can be significantly reduced through the participation in formal swim lessons.

Drowning is known as the ‘silent killer’ due to the fact that it happens quickly

and quietly in any location where there is a body of water, and even during the supervision of a loving parent, family member, friend or lifeguard. There is a deadly misconception in our nation that “I love my child, there is no way they will ever fall victim to a drowning death.”

The contrary is true, as loving parents lose their children to an avoidable water accident every single day. In the same sense that tornado or earthquake drills will always be prevalent in school systems, so will the teaching of water safety drills and lessons forever be necessary within

“The swim school franchise concept is a perfect match for the business person who wants to have the opportunity to grow, create high income, yet wants to be part of something worthwhile.” our communities. Children will never stop needing to know how to swim and a network of professional teachers will always be necessary to provide those lifesaving water skills. Therefore, the franchise opportunity within the aquatics industry is one that is ever growing and, perhaps surprisingly, extremely lucrative.

Answering the Growing Demand for Water Safety Programs Serving as a solution for this amplifying demand for water survival skills, participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risks of drowning among children most in danger between the ages of 1-4 by nearly 88 percent. Therefore, it is undeniable that the aquatics industry must continue to press ahead at full speed by promoting water safety survival programs in meaningful ways. This is what will ultimately save the lives of countless children. While industry experts note the crucial need for formal swim programs, parents alike understand the importance and consequently enroll their children in water safety lessons.

To accomplish the mission of filling an increasing demand from parents seeking a program that teaches their child to survive a water accident, it is common for swim school franchises like British Swim School to conduct an average of 250,000 swimming lessons each year, reaching more than 7,000 students per week with a growing number.

Breaking Common Misconceptions of the Swim Safety World With our planet comprising of nearly 70 percent water, swim school franchise experts have noted the industry’s growth at an all-time high, not only during the

Rita Goldberg, CEO and Founder of British Swim School

summer months, but also during the icy winters. While many think that the swim industry is only profitable during the warmer weather, the opposite is true as franchises operate out of pools year round.

Understand that water accidents do not only happen in family pools. These same accidents occur in the dead of winter, for example on a semi-thawed lake.

The necessity of water safety survival programs spans throughout the full 12months of our calendar, hot or cold. As a result, swim school programs are part of a multi-million dollar growing industry, comparable to Best Buy or Walmart, that isn’t show any signs of slowing down.

Another strong misconception that is seen within the aquatics industry is that swim school franchise owners are moms and pops who work part-time during the summer months. However, the most successful swim school programs are led by business-minded professionals with a strong financial acumen. It is important to note that individuals looking into the swim industry do not necessarily have to be aquatics driven; however, they must see the potential business culture and believe in the work being done within the water safety programs. Nonetheless, it is extremely important that the franchisee

hires an aquatics focused team member to help drive the passion for water safety and training at the core level. For example, someone who buys a preschool doesn’t have to know how to teach but they have to have teachers, and the same goes for swim school franchises.

The swim school franchise concept is a perfect match for the business person who wants to have the opportunity to grow, create high income, yet wants to be part of something worthwhile. The trade has an emotional connection in the service industry and is impacting people in a way that may save a life. Caring for children in the community, having fun and saving the littlest of lives is a very rewarding way to earn a successful living and find a strong purpose in daily work life.

Before opening a British Swim School, Rita Goldberg was a national swimmer in Britain, who went on to become a dedicated swim instructor. After finding success in England with the opening of her own private swim school in 1981, Goldberg brought the concept of teaching babies how to roll onto their backs to survive a water accident to American families. www.franchise.britishswimschool.com

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N FP Spor ts

Stand for Something Bigger: Building a Successful Franchise Company in the Millennial Generation In 2009, my business partner, Don Crouch, and I were among the 200 employees laid off by former fundraising giant, Varsity Gold, as the company was forced to declare bankruptcy.

At that time, there was no bigger player in the high school fundraising industry than Varsity Gold and their sudden shutdown left a large void that needed to be filled.

So, drawn together by our common passion for youth sports and unique fundraising tactics, Crouch and I joined forces to start our very own high school sports company - NFP Sports.

Six years later, we can proudly announce that NFP Sports has become the nation’s first and fastest growing high school sports fundraising franchise. Working hand-inhand with our staff and franchisees, we’ve been able to expand to more than a dozen locations throughout the northeast and we’ve helped more than 1,000 high school sports teams raise more than $10 million in the process. In fact, one high school football team in Connecticut was able to raise more than $25,000 in a matter of weeks using the NFP Sports program - a huge success story at a time where billions have been cut from youth sports programs, putting their very existence at risk. And the most beautiful thing? We’re just getting started!

So - how can a small, upstart franchise company like ours thrive at a time when

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a giant national corporation in the same industry stumbled to a halt?

The answer? We have prioritized the millennial generation and created multiple programs, features, and even a national holiday that showcase how NFP Sports stands for something much bigger than effective fundraising strategies.

And in order to help other aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to bootstrap their own franchise company, just like we did, I’d like to share the five key catalysts that have fuelled our success and allowed us to stand for something bigger:

1. We started with a clear and concise value proposition that generates real results Of course, no company, franchise or otherwise, can survive without a powerful value proposition that resonates with target customers. It’s impossible to stand for something bigger until your company does, indeed, stand for something. At NFP Sports, ours is simple – ‘high impact fundraising for sports teams’. When we first got started, we focused all of our attention on establishing our reputation as the most thorough and effective resultsoriented high school sports fundraising coaches in the country. And that’s still the backbone of our success - the merchants and high school sports teams who work with us know we are committed to their success. Here are a few programs we’ve established to show that commitment: • VIP Program - NFP’s next-level fundraising program. We work with leading brands to offer valuable products to local customers through

multi-platform promotional campaigns.

Each VIP relationship includes a custom-designed discount program, eMarketing and social media programs, mobile app exposure, and in person promotional item giveaways, like shirts and gift cards.

• NFP Sports Savings Club - With this mobile app, tailored to each specific team and community, high school teams can offer team-branded discounts from local businesses to customers who are seeking hyper local offers. Customers using the app can geo-locate these offers and ensure their finding the right deals.

• Hometown Heroes Online Campaign This is a secondary fundraising program through which NFP Sports partners can secure online donations instead of writing letters and licking envelopes.

NFP Sports offers each partner 80% of the profits and takes fundraising out of the hands of coaches.

2. We have been early adopters with regard to new technology Unlike many others in sports fundraising, like Varsity Gold, who have been resistant to change; we embrace new technology with open arms. While other fundraising companies stick exclusively to print calendars and coupon booklets, we have created a multi-tiered digital and print fundraising program that appeals to the millennial student athletes who benefit from our fundraising strategies. For example, in addition to the programs listed above, we have recently created a digital calendar app customizable to each local

high school that allows each team to post schedules, share updates, and engage with fans. Further, fans can submit photos, comment on game action, and access deals at local stores and restaurants through the app. Apps like these are key for our target audiences as the digital deals will generate additional revenue while sports teams and merchants extend their reach and influence with local fans/customers.

3. We reward the young athletes who make us great With our unique fundraising concept, our success is completely contingent on our ability to connect with and motivate youth athletes. We take fundraising out of the hands of parents, coaches and administrators by training and incentivizing the athletes themselves to meet and exceed sales numbers that fit their team’s goals. For example, the top sellers each year receive sizeable college scholarship packages. In fact, we’ve given away more than $7,500 in scholarship money in the past three years - helping multiple high school students afford a college education AND develop public speaking and sales skills that last a lifetime.

4. We have created jobs and franchise opportunities that are perfect for young and aspiring minds We also actively recruit young and motivated millennials to work for NFP Sports as staff members and sales people or lead our company in local markets as franchisees. We have noticed that countless recent college graduates and young retired athletes, veterans, and servicemen are eager to return to their communities and make a difference. What better way to do so than helping save the same local community high school sports teams and coaches that helped prepare them for the real world? Always remember that monetary incentives aren’t the biggest motivator for millennials - they want to make a difference and do something significant for their community. Keep that in mind as you build your business.

5. And lastly, we’ve created a powerful annual event and awards program that celebrates the coaches who shape youthful minds To us, this is the key to our future success.

Last year, we created the annual National Coaches Day event and awards program, powered by a website, blog and social media properties, to recognize the official October 6 holiday created in 1972 by Richard Nixon. Coming off an incredibly successful first year, we already have interest from multiple sponsors who want to host National Coaches Day parties in their neighborhood and do their part to help ‘celebrate coach’ in their community.

It’s a perfect fit for us as it inspires all of our target audiences (local business owners, student athletes, coaches, parents, and school administrators) to share emotional stories related to just how important high school sports have been to their development as a human being.

We certainly don’t have everything figured out over at NFP Sports, but we do know that we must appeal to the nation’s youth

if we are to achieve sustainable growth.

This is the new normal for any emerging or established franchise brand - it is the companies who work diligently to showcase how they stand for something bigger than their products or services who will grow and prosper. Be an early adopter...or begin creating your exit strategy!

James Thomson is a national high school fundraising expert who leads NFP Sports, the First and Fastest Growing Sports Fundraising Franchise.

Thomson is a highly motivated entrepreneur with 13 years’ experience in the sports fundraising industry.

His main goal is to build and grow National Fundraising Partners, which goes by the brand of NFP Sports, into the most successful franchise operation in the fundraising industry. With the direct experience of running a highly successful fundraising business and coaching others to achieve similar success, it is Thomson’s passion to build the NFP Sports brand and franchise network. www.nfpsports.com

Franchising USA

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spo rts & fitness fr anchising

Matt D. Essex, MS, ActiveRx

Aging Strong

The importance of staying strong and active as you age As the United States populace continues to age, there seems to be an endless array of ailments that affect this already vulnerable population. From heart disease to arthritis, cancer, diabetes and depression, Medicare is spending a staggering $84 billion annually in treatment.

Franchising USA

While most people know that a healthy diet and stress reduction can contribute to improved overall health, physical activity – specifically strength activity – has been shown to positively impact the effects of these diseases, both from a prevention and management point of view.

Research has shown that muscle loss can actually be prevented and that it can easily be restored at any age. Strength exercise has been proven to effectively manage these conditions by significantly reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life of those who have been diagnosed with muscle and strength loss.

In fact, companies like ActiveRx®, a brand that is launching a network of Strengtherapy Centers across the country,

are solely focused on improving the quality of life for older adults (those 60 and older) through a system known as Strengtherapy®.

Through strength regeneration protocols like Strengtherapy, older adults are able to regain both their strength and their independence. As strength increases, mobility and balance improve and this helps prevent hazards such as falling.

Falls are a main concern of aging adults.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among people over age 65 every year. In fact, one out of three older adults fall each year, but fewer than half talk to their healthcare providers about it.

“Preserving and regenerating strength is the single best way to remain vertical and prevent falls as you age.”

Matt D. Essex

any age, and with it comes a cascade of benefits that can give people the ability to do almost anything they set their mind to - climb the pyramids in Egypt, dance at their granddaughter’s wedding, go paragliding in the Swiss Alps. These are all true ActiveRx stories from real people who discovered the power of strength in life and living.

Interestingly, preserving and regenerating strength is the single best way to remain vertical and prevent falls as you age.

Knowing this, it is more important than ever to encourage adults 50 and over to remain strong and active. The sooner one becomes aware of its importance and begins to focus on their strength, the earlier it is that muscle and functional losses and falls can be prevented.

Based on years of academic research, the ActiveRx Strengtherapy System includes professional evaluations, chronic disease prevention and management, and a proven process to efficiently enhance strength, mobility, agility and balance.

According to the World Health Organization, the older adult population is projected to triple by mid-century, from 531 million in 2010 to 1.5 billion in 2050.

In the United States, it is expected to more than double, from 41 to 86 million.

As the nation ages and longevity increases, the value that strength delivers cannot

be ignored. Concepts like ActiveRx are built on the proven fact that strength is the foundation of health and wellness. Everyone talks about fitness, but Strengtherapy focuses strictly on functional strength, which research continues to show is the best thing you can do for your overall health as you age.

The time is now to begin redefining the aging process Every older adult has the ability to regain years of their previous ability to function.

Through Strengtherapy, older adults can empower themselves to become more capable of performing daily tasks without struggling, such as walking longer distances without worry of falling lifting groceries and extending to put them into high cabinets, and having the peace of mind that if they sit down they are able to stand back up. Everyday tasks such as these should not be overlooked, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. The truth is that strength can be regained at

With strength exercise, adults will be able to live independently for longer than they ever thought possible. Even more importantly, they will live better and with fewer restrictions than they ever thought possible.

ActiveRx services are delivered by fullytrained, degreed and licensed professionals who specialize in working with older adults. The ActiveRx Strengtherapy Center teams work to encourage each patient to achieve their personal optimal state of prevention in a safe and effective manner.

It is through Strengtherapy and strength exercise in general that we can all play our part in helping aging adults around the country get a new lease on life.

Recognized as one of Arizona’s leading authorities in geriatric health and wellness, Matt Essex is the founder of ActiveRx, a Chandler, Ariz.-based company and national leader in preventative senior healthcare that focuses on the allimportant connection between strength maintenance, independent living and a high quality of life.

For more information about ActiveRx and its franchising opportunities visit: www.activerx.com/franchise

Franchising USA

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spo rts & fitness fr anchising

Fitness on the G o

How the Real Estate Business Model Bulks Up the Fitness Pay Scale For years, I’ve heard personal trainers complain about their pay.

This should come as no surprise to anyone in the fitness industry, who has undoubtedly heard the same message from Franchising USA

coworkers, employees or even competitors: “How am I supposed to make a living on $25 thousand a year?”

Americans are investing in their physical

Well, it’s not because the money isn’t

The problem stems not from consumer

U.S. health & fitness clubs alone produce

business model that all but few personal

there. Despite poor paychecks for trainers, over $22 billion a year.

well-being more than ever as 53 million

gym memberships prove that a healthy and happy lifestyle is a growing priority. There are endless reasons to believe that fitness is a flourishing industry- and yet most

personal trainers are struggling to get by. habits, but from the traditional fitness trainers have accepted as the norm.

“U.S. health & fitness clubs alone produce over $22 billion a year.”

Others who are brave enough to choose a less traditional path test the waters of starting their own personal training business. Now they have the freedom to run their training sessions with a more personal touch and often take many of the clients with them when they separate from their former gym. The problem surfaces when it’s time to bring in new customers. Trainers that run their own business don’t have the marketing experience, client resources, structured business model and company support that an established fitness concept offers.

Suddenly, the trainer is wearing several different company hats to make sure ends meet. From a personal standpoint, I’ve tried this route and suffered from working 70 hours a week doing training sessions, sales and advertising on my own. It’s simply exhausting and doesn’t provide enough stable income for success in the long run, nor does it allow for a flexible, balanced or healthy lifestyle.

2

Typically, two well-traveled paths are used to pursue their career:

1

Most personal trainers choose to work at health clubs. Although they see numerous clients a day and produce plenty of profit for high-priced lessons, much of the revenue goes straight back to the gym. The trainer is only making around $18 an hour when the customer pays $70 for the session. Those from outside of the fitness industry are quick to identify that poor compensation is what hinders any potential career growth. However, it’s the clients in particular that are the fuel behind this conflict. As frustrating as this model is for trainers, customers are equally irritated by watching significant amounts of their payment go to a large gym rather than the trainer they’ve developed a relationship with. The result is less participation from customers, stifled financial growth for trainers and ultimately a career path that leads to a dead end.

These are the two options that many personal trainers are aware of. However, once the traditional business model is rethought, another door opens that allows the best of both worlds.

How Does the Real Estate Model Apply to a Personal Training Franchise?

For those that are unfamiliar with real estate, the franchise model is designed for fair compensation and work load at each level. Realtors are aided by franchisee support that oversee a territory. In return, the realtor and franchisee benefit from the company’s brand and resources.

Franchisees aren’t burdened with finding new clients; that’s up to the realtor’s determination for more income. This isn’t an overly complicated model, so why can’t it work in the fitness industry? The day Fitness on the Go used this real estate

model is when it became clear that there was no need to settle for plateaued growth.

Using this business model offers each player the benefit of seeing more rewards based on their work.

• Personal trainers are making double or, in some cases, triple their salary by receiving about 90% of the compensation. The company support and propriety software allows trainers to bring in more business, as well as better manage the clients they already have.

By paying a small fixed amount to the franchisee each month, trainers receive premier marketing, business tools and support and a structured model, so their primary focus remains on training.

• Franchisees benefit from having exclusive rights to a territory for a minimal investment. With corporate aid, they already have a business model and support system in place so that they can concentrate heavily on recruiting and managing their trainers. Thanks to a rare opportunity that makes trainers happier and better paid, building a team in a territory is an easy sell.

• The brand benefits from franchisees and trainers that have more incentive to produce results. Thanks to this model, Fitness on the Go has become the most widespread in-home personal training franchise in Canada. As long as territories have a large population, there’s no end to the growth potential, which is why this year we’ve just announced expansion into U.S. markets.

• Finally, and most importantly, the customer benefits from all of the above.

Clients develop a strong relationship with their personal trainer and are more satisfied knowing a majority of their payment goes to the one they trust.

With more time to focus on sessions, trainers are able to provide customers with improved and more personalized lessons. Happier and healthier clients are retained at a higher rate and business continues to grow to new territories.

For more information on Fitness on the Go franchising opportunities, please visit: www.fitnessonthegofranchise.com

Franchising USA

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spo rts & fitness fr anchising

So l dier Fit

SOLDIERFIT FRANCHISE

Creates Unique Military Fitness Model Franchisees benefit from a tested business model primed for aggressive expansion.

When Danny Farrar and David Posin began SOLDIERFIT nearly a decade ago working out of rented gym space, neither imagined how quickly their militaryinspired fitness concept would spread.

“We believed we had something special, but the amount of growth we’ve witnessed over the past five years has been truly incredible,” said Posin, co-founder of SOLDIERFIT.

Immediate franchise growth plans for SOLDIERFIT Soon after launching its franchising opportunity this spring, SOLDIERFIT signed its first franchisee, a longtime member and follower of the brand.

Harry Santucci will be opening a new SOLDIERFIT location in Ashburn, Virginia, early fall 2015.

Additionally, SOLDIERFIT launched an innovative military veteran franchise giveaway called Mission: Fit to Own. The contest runs now through the end of July and is open only to U.S. military veterans.

SOLDIERFIT will waive the franchise fee and royalties for 12 months to a military veteran who possesses the drive and values it’s looking for in franchisees.

beginnings to an ever-expanding fitness brand with multiple locations across Maryland and the soon-to-open franchise location in Northern Virginia.

And this is only the beginning.

“As we welcome franchisees, we anticipate opening at least 10 to 15 locations in the next few years, with exponential growth to follow,” Posin added. “Our expansion plans currently blanket the East Coast, extending north and south from our Maryland headquarters.”

In addition to Maryland and Virginia, SOLDIERFIT franchise expansion plans initially target Connecticut, Delaware, the Carolinas, Georgia and Florida.

What separates SOLDIERFIT from other fitness franchises While SOLDIERFIT benefits from the growing popularity of gym and health club membership – the U.S. health club market is a $22 billion industry – the franchise distances itself from traditional health clubs with an approach that’s more about attitude than appearance. SOLDIERFIT is a fitness organization based on military values that aims to educate its members on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and lives by its mantra ‘pride, not ego’. It helps members live healthy lives through boot camp classes, kids’ fitness classes, personal training, functional fitness and mixed martial arts in some locations.

mentality out of our gyms and into their everyday lives.”

The military theme extends beyond members to the entire gym. Locations are often referred to as ‘The Fort’. A typical Fort features both indoor and outdoor facilities, including an indoor turf field, gym with equipment, showers, a pro shop, and a front desk area designed to look like the front end of a military vehicle.

Locations are usually situated in industrial or light industrial areas and average 7,000 to 10,000 square feet of space. Gyms are equipped with weights, a TRX resistance system, movable resistance objects such as tires and sleds, and a variety of cardio and toning equipment, including bicycles.

Why franchisees are interested in the concept The SOLDIERFIT business model has a number of potential revenue opportunities.

Revenue can come from boot camp classes; personal training programs; kids’ programs; customized training opportunities; and pro shop sales including branded apparel and an assortment of fitness accessories, plus nutritional food and beverage products. And, the customer base is quite broad.

SOLDIERFIT also provides a generous 50 percent discount off the franchisee fee to all qualified veterans who join on as franchisees.

SOLDIERFIT’S unique, fast-paced, military-style workouts incorporate strength, cardiovascular endurance, and core training. It’s all done in a teamoriented environment.

“Our troops come in all levels of fitness experience and every shape, size and age group and include kids, mothers, teenagers, athletes, and even law officers,” said Farrar. “If you’re looking for a gym franchise that’s different from the rest of the pack, you’ll find what you’re looking for through our opportunity.”

Posin’s background in managing multimillion healthcare clubs and Farrar’s passion and dedication as a U.S. Army veteran who served a tour in Iraq have lifted SOLDIERFIT from its humble

“We call our gym members ‘troops’ to help instill the team value and our overall mission,” said Farrar. “We’re about creating opportunities for our troops to become healthy people who carry the team

For more information about the franchise opportunity, visit Soldierfitfranchise.com, email franchise@soldierfit.com or call (240) 341-4126.

Franchising USA

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presence in communities across the U.S., we will

greater health and wellness through a great mas-

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exceed the client’s expectations, or the next one is

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on us.

model, give us a look. Here’s why:

Elements Massage™ implemented the promise to

• Industry leader in customer satisfaction • Ranked #208 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2015 Franchise 500 and #51 fastest growing

give consumers clarity in their search for the right massage studio. We want every massage client to know that Elements Massage™ is the place to go for the industry’s best massage.

• Ranked #20 on Franchise Times 2015 Fast & Serious list

Along with The Elements Promise™, Elements

• Membership based business model

materials and an improved website that more clearly

• Franchise owners come from a variety of backgrounds

captures the peaceful essence of the brand, which is

• Same studio average revenue increase of 17.7% (2014 v. 2013)*

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place in the market will only continue to expand.

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*Refer to 2015 FDD for further details.

Franchising USA

relax.

Elements Massage™ invites you to experience the highest rated massage in the industry. We are so committed to being Number #1 in customer satisfaction that we promise to meet or exceed your expectations – or your next massage is on us.

Experience the Elements Massage™ difference for yourself. Book online today.

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ex per t advice

Lori Karpman, President & CEO, Lori Karpman & Company

FRANCHISING IN CANADA FOR UNITED STATES FRANCHISORS:

THE RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

“Canada, as well as each province, has its own culture, customs and laws that need to be respected.”

Canada is a vibrant geographically proximate market, and a natural choice for the expansion of United States franchise concepts.

Franchising USA

Franchises operate in more than 40 sectors of the economy and account for one out of every five consumer dollars spent.

Expanding to Canada is an investment that must be well reasoned, capitalized and thoroughly organized. We have seen many U.S. brands achieve enormous success in Canada, but we have also seen others fail. The successful ones acknowledge

these two factors: (1) engage Canadian professionals and (2) recognize that Canadians are not “just like Americans”.

Canada, as well as each province, has its own culture, customs and laws that need to be respected. These two recognitions separate the winners from the losers.

Only five provinces have franchise legislation requiring disclosure documents namely, Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and PEI, and they are all slightly different. In Quebec the Civil Code of Quebec governs the franchise relationship. Unlike the U.S., there is no federal franchise legislation nor any

ex per t advice

Lori Karpman, President & CEO, Lori Karpman & Company

“The biggest mistake by far is to sell “onesies”: single unit locations to individual franchisees in different parts of the country.” requirement to register the disclosure document either federally or provincially.

Given that the U.S. disclosure document varies greatly from that of any Canadian province, Canadian counsel will likely start from scratch and create a new Canadian document since this is much cheaper than revising the U.S. version.

The new Canadian version is then easily modified per province.

Quebec, in particular, offers U.S. franchisors the opportunity to simulate entry into European markets. Many international concepts enter Canada via Quebec because it’s a natural fit with their culture and language. Not to be overlooked for direct expansion, Quebec residents make up a third of the entire population of Canada and are a target market not to be overlooked. Quebecers are the most loyal and least price-sensitive consumers in Canada. As an Anglo-born Quebecer with a national practice I can say with all honesty that the French language fears are unfounded. Quebec professionals provide all the services (including translation) to ensure a proper and easy entry.

Traditionally, people with high capital are bilingual and most often Quebec is sold via a master franchise agreement. It is also good to know that Quebecers love anything American so this is a market well worth the price of admission.

The two most popular expansion models are master franchising and area development agreements. In the former, the master franchisee buys the rights to operate and sell franchises in Canada.

It also assumes the U.S. franchisor’s obligations to provide Canadian support and enforcement, in return for receiving a large percentage of the Canadian royalties and other fees. Area Developers are sold a geographic territory for certain time periods within which they must open a number of franchises on a pre-set schedule. They must develop

Franchising USA

these locations themsleves, they cannot franchise, and they are effectively multiunit operators.

The biggest mistake by far is to sell “onesies”: single unit locations to individual franchisees in different parts of the country. These franchisees cannot receive proper support or pricing and are doomed to fail. I do highly recommend that the franchisor develop one single location as a corporate test center allowing it to operate a franchise, make its mistakes and get all the kinks out before opening a public unit. The franchisor will also learn about the market, its culture and consumer behaviour and can sell the corporate store as a means of financing the building of a second store.

The Top 5 Factors to Consider in a Nutshell: 1. Intellectual Property: The franchisor must ensure that all U.S. trademarks, trade-names, patents, etc, can be registered and used in Canada without contestation.

2. Financing: Franchise financing is very different and much harder in Canada.

Canadian banks require a higher percentage of the total initial investment which makes the prospect pool smaller.

3. Supply Chain: Can Canadian franchisee get materials, inventory or supplies at the same margins as the U.S. locations? Do products need to be sourced in Canada and if so, what is the effect on the product cost, taste profile, quality? How will volume discounts on Canadian purchases be handled?

4. Currency: What currency will the franchisor/franchisee operate in? The Canadian master’s income is in CDN$ so it should still pay royalties in USD$?

If it has to pay USD$ for supplies then the margins will be smaller - how is that compensated for if at all? And what

Lori Karpman

about market currency fluctuations?

5. Marketing and Advertising: Often new materials have to be created as U.S. messages do not resonate with Canadians. Will a Canadian ‘ad fund’ be created and when? Will all Canadian money stay in Canada or will there still be a U.S. ad fund payment?

This article is an extremely concise version of the considerations to be taken in expanding to the Canadian market.

Those brands that do not take the time to understand the market properly (read: Target) have failed miserably and often go back home leaving Canada in an economic mess of lost revenue and jobs in the hundreds of thousands. As a general rule, Canada is very welcoming to American brands and we look forward to seeing more of you “somewhere up here”.

Lori Karpman is considered one of Canada’s leading experts on franchising and multi-unit business development models. She is also the President/CEO of the multi-award winning consulting and legal services firm, Lori Karpman & Company. During her esteemed career, Lori has been a franchisor twice and the Master Franchisee of the Pizza Hut brand for the Province of Quebec. The firm’s clients range from the Fortune 500 brands to the local start-ups. Lori is a prolific writer and sought after guest speaker and has been featured on television, YouTube and radio.

Lori can be reached at: lori@lorikarpman.com (514) 481-2722 www.lorikarpman.com

Page 89

From MADMEN to MODERNMARKETING: The Evolution of Digital Media By: Matthew Jonas

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Franchising USA

FR A NCH ISEE IN ACTI O N

FastSig ns

FASTSIGNS of Chicago - Lakeview, IL

Businessman chooses proven method which pays off For one Chicago businessman, the decision to open a franchise came from a desire to go with something that had already been proven to work and three years in, that decision turned out to be the right one.

Todd Fisher bought his FASTSIGNS® franchise in October 2011 and just celebrated his three year anniversary in May of this year. As part of FASTSIGNS, he offers a full range of custom sign and graphics products.

Franchising USA

After being in the commercial print industry for many years, Fisher made the decision in 2010 to own his own business.

His first thought was to open his own print shop, but he decided against that because it’s not a growth industry.

Franchising seemed attractive, Fisher said, because he was in his late 40s and he didn’t want to start something from scratch. Following a proven system would be better, he decided.

After considering several different franchise opportunities, Fisher decided to stick to an industry he knew well; signs and graphics. And, as FASTSIGNS is a growing business, the decision was relatively easy for the franchisee.

“All the myriad products that we create here at FASTSIGNS is something that is in demand and is something that will

continue to be in demand in our growing economy,” Fisher said during a recent interview.

Prior to buying his franchise, he visited other FASTSIGNS franchisees to get a feel for the company.

What he has experienced in his first three years has exceeded his expectations.

Todd managed to break even sooner than expected and is growing at a healthy rate.

Training During the process of finding a suitable location and doing the general buildup toward opening, FASTSIGNS requires franchisees to complete a series of educational and training classes with University of FASTSIGNS, which is done online and covers a wide range of topics in the industry.

Shortly before opening their center, franchisees then go to the company headquarters with the two employees they’ve hired for two more weeks of intensive training where they learn about 80 percent of what they need to know, including working with the point of sales system and the wide-format printers and equipment used to make the signs.

Once a franchisee is back in their center and has their grand opening (which the company helps promote and execute), FASTSIGNS sends a business consultant to spend the first week with them. Even after they leave, though, the business consultant is just a phone call away.

Additionally, franchisees are privy to a lot of different ongoing training from FASTSIGNS that they can elect to take via webinar.

They also hold an outside sales summit each summer, and an annual convention and vendor trade show each January where franchisees network with other owners, and attend seminars and breakout sessions.

One aspect that Fisher especially likes is the board groups, which are groups of five to seven owners who all have a similar amount of experience as a FASTSIGNS franchisee. He’s in a group of five owners who are all at approximately the same tenure with the company. Each group

“All the myriad products that we create here at FASTSIGNS is something that is in demand and is something that will continue to be in demand in our growing economy.” stays together for three years and has a representative from the company involved as well. The objective is to help one another write and execute their respective business plans.

Marketing FASTSIGNS likes to start its franchisees off right, Fisher said, by allocating $12,500 from each franchisee’s initial investment costs and putting that money toward the first initial few months of marketing for the new franchise. This includes direct mail, teleprospecting campaigns, public relations work, hiring brand ambassadors and extensive local SEO and marketing campaigns. It’s basically a massive initial push to let everyone in the region know the franchise is open.

“That worked well,” Fisher recalled. “That worked really well.”

The company also has a full suite of effective marketing tools. One of Fisher’s favorites is the key prospect video brochure, which is a small, hardbound book that you can send out to lucrative prospects — the kind that could

potentially spend over $20,000 per year like a hospital, manufacturer or university.

The book opens and it actually contains a video player inside that plays a 30 second commercial about FASTSIGNS and the services and products they offer.

It’s such an effective tool for procuring meetings with prospective clients, Fisher noted, that he’s used it with about 10 companies and it’s worked every single time, including four large hospitals in his territory. Using this video brochure, he turned them all into regular customers.

He also used the video brochure to land business with the largest advertising agency in Chicago, Leo Burnett USA. “That’s the result of using this sophisticated, savvy tool from the franchise,” he said, adding that the company is always thinking up new ways it can help franchisees with marketing.

With so much help coming from headquarters, Fisher’s decision to go with a franchise seems to be paying off. www.fastsigns.com

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Michael Mohammed, CEO, Chronic Tacos

Keys to Building a More Cohesive Franchise Brand That is Ready for Expansion A thriving brand is the sum of many interdependent parts working simultaneously and complementing each other.

If done right, the customer will keep coming back for a consistent and top-notch experience. In the fast-casual restaurant industry, this is especially key to the success of a brand.

When I stepped in as CEO of Chronic Tacos in 2012, the franchise had ballooned to more than 40 locations in just a few years. The biggest challenge that greeted us was the lack of management and direction the franchisees were previously

Franchising USA

given. All of the systems and processes weren’t documented and there was no enforcement from the franchisor to ensure that every franchise was running the same across the board.

I knew our primary focus was restoring the consistency of brand and scaling back our locations until we could move forward with renewed expansion. During that period, our team established three complementary objectives to keep the brand consistent for our new period of growth.

Consumer Demand and Brand Perception Our brand has been able to gain a loyal following through customer engagement.

Before making any changes to our franchise operations, we wanted to know

what customers liked about the brand what kept them coming back and what changes did they want to see. Within my first year, our team conducted a consumer study and the feedback gave us valuable insight into what we were doing wrong and what was right. The process was humbling, but it served as the motivation we needed to restore our brand to its original vision.

The customer survey served as a blueprint for determining where the brand needed to be and how to get there.

Going further, our team made sure to open the lines of productive communication within the franchise system. That entailed working with each franchise to source their perception of what was and wasn’t working. The franchisees explained their need for a better way to communicate within the franchise system, share

“Before making any changes to our franchise operations, we wanted to know what customers liked about the brand.”

marketing and management ideas, and gain access to corporate tools. By listening to their feedback, our team engaged in several initiatives internally that increased franchisee communication and participation and which led us to create an internal portal and organize a franchise advisory council. Today, the portal and the council serve as a forum for discussion amongst the franchisees and corporate to discuss best practices and experiences.

Evaluating perception among customers and franchisees was a valuable first step to getting our current franchisees back on the right track. Knowing what aspects of our brand we needed to stay true to and what operational aspects could be enhanced for our franchisees was the first key in establishing a culture among franchisees of aligning their goals and aspirations with the franchisor.

Brand Commitment To make progress, every aspect of the relationship between the franchisor, the franchisees and the customer had to be approached with equal significance. The franchisor’s commitment to keeping the brand consistent across the board reflects positively across the system. I knew the brand would be successful if all those interdependent pieces were a part of the decision-making process. What helped our team the most in realizing this process,

was viewing those three components as three inter-locking circles - or a threesided venn-diagram that joined in the middle. When deciding upon a course of action, we considered our venn-diagram first and every point of view. Where those three components met in the middle was the direction we usually took. We never approached an issue as too trivial for this process; because of that the brand grew stronger and more consistent.

We want our franchisees to see our brand as interconnected and trust our corporate team to keep it running smoothly. This meant putting the right leadership in place and building a team that understood our vision and the steps to make our system more consistent.

Corporate Brand Leadership & Evolution Communication doesn’t stop within the corporate team; it should cascade down through our entire system. I knew that having the right approach to leadership would resonate with our existing franchisees and help prepare our system for new franchisees. I aligned my goals and aspirations with that of the franchises.

Another important aspect of leadership is constant evolution and progress. Our franchisees know that as we evolve, it is a direct result of listening to various opinions within the system and evaluating the success of that decision. A proven leader will listen before communicating.

I don’t come from a franchise or a restaurant industry background, but I do bring a business philosophy that puts emphasis on evaluating what is a brand’s strength. For Chronic Tacos, that strength continues to be the customers and the franchisees. From consumer focus groups to operational feedback from the

line cooks, there was no stone unturned.

We approached our new commitment to consistency by actively recognizing ways to evolve the brand and avoid becoming stagnant.

We’re starting to see the fruits of our labor as we see more prospective franchisees approach us, eager to bring our brand into their markets. This year we expect to open locations in Washington, Colorado, Arizona and North Carolina. With our approach, we are in a position to experience rapid growth and still maintain the brand’s original vision, which is to provide a positive experience to our customers.

Chronic Tacos opened its first store in 2002, in Newport, CA, and was quickly followed by the second at Huntington Beach, CA. With the first franchised Chronic Tacos opening in April of 2006, there are now more than 30 locations throughout California and beyond, including Nevada and Canada.

For more information visit: www.eatchronictacos.com

Michael Mohammed

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foucs

Fra n Fu nd

What does FranFund do?

FranFund helps entrepreneurs realize their dream of business ownership by providing access to capital. We built our reputation in the franchise world by pioneering the concept of offering a portfolio of funding solutions under one roof, or simply put, one-stop-shopping. Our team works with each client to develop a customized

Custom funding S

strategy that fits their situation, whether it is launching a new business, expanding a current one or acquiring an existing business.

What makes FranFund different?

In our business, it’s all about building relationships that last and no one does it quite like us. We are very proud to say that over 90% of our clients come from referrals. When our clients choose FranFund, a dedicated financial consultant will be there to guide them through the process of determining the best capitalization strategy for their specific situation and answer all of their questions.

In addition, we have long-standing, exclusive relationships with major financial institutions, wealth managers, franchise bankers and small business specialists that when combined, offer a complete solution from the very start of a business all the way to the exit strategy.

I think we all remember the credit crisis that began in 2008, which significantly reduced or eliminated lending for business

startups. Is there capital available today for aspiring entrepreneurs? Yes, there are funding solutions available.

Banks are more conservative now in the way they analyze credit and underwrite loans, but we have created a process that enables us to navigate those waters smoothly. There are more options available today through crowdfunding and other non-bank lending, but we see the majority of franchise deals funded using one of three basic types of lending, all of which are offered by FranFund. Those three types are Unsecured Loans, SBA Loans and a vehicle affectionately called ROBS by the IRS. ROBS stands for Rollover for Business Start-up and this is the number one way that we see franchises being funded today.

How does the ROBS program work?

ROBS is a process where a person can take up to 100% of their retirement assets and invest them into a small business without taking a taxable distribution or creating any debt. Though you may not have heard

“When our clients choose FranFund, a dedicated financial consultant will be there to guide them through the process.”

Franchising USA

mized Solutions of this program, it is completely legal, and in fact has been in existence since the ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) Act of 1974. There are several advantages for using this option.

One very important feature is that credit score and financial strength are not a factor; there are no qualifications to meet since there is no loan being requested. If these funds are able to cover the entire project cost, then there will be no loan payments and the business will reach breakeven sooner. Another beneficial feature is that these funds can be used to pay the client a salary during the critical start-up phase of the new business, before the business begins generating revenue.

This is especially attractive if someone has left their employer to begin their new franchise.

The process itself is relatively simple.

The first step is for FranFund to establish a corporation for the client in the state where the business will operate. Next, we create a new 401(k) Profit Sharing plan for the new business, and roll or transfer up to 100% of their existing retirement assets into this new plan. Finally, the new 401(k) plan invests in the stock of the new corporation. At the end of this transaction, the 401(k) plan owns shares of stock and the new business has cash available for any legitimate business expense, including paying the franchise fee for the new business.

“In our business, it’s all about building relationships that last and no one does it quite like us.”

What has changed in lending?

The good news in lending is that banks are willing to lend money again! At FranFund, we have established a portfolio of lenders across the country that understand the value that a franchise system brings to the success of a new business owner. We have a tool that enables us to pre-qualify a potential borrower for a loan to help give them the confidence they need to move forward.

This is similar to getting pre-qualified for a mortgage.

A game-changer for lending What does someone considering franchising need to know about obtaining a loan?

The SBA (Small Business Administration) created the idea of government guaranteed lending to incentivize banks to provide loans to small businesses and their programs have increased loan availability across the country. SBA loans are usually granted for terms of 7 to 10 years, at an attractive interest rate of about 6%. A potential borrower will be judged by a

common scale in lending called the 5 C’s of Credit: Credit, Cash, Collateral, Capacity, and Character. Credit – showing that you have demonstrated responsible use of credit in the past; Cash – having 20-30% of the total investment available to contribute to the project; Collateral – pledging additional assets which the lender can take security in for the loan; Capacity – can the borrower meet the obligation of the debt; and Character – which is the borrowers overall reputation both personally and professionally. FranFund works with potential franchisees to complete the loan package for maximum effectiveness and then shop that loan to multiple lenders for the best offer.

Any closing remarks?

For most potential franchise owners the subject of financing can be intimidating.

At FranFund, our goal is to create a customized funding solution for each client so they understand the options available and can pursue the right business opportunity with confidence.

For more information: www.franfund.com

Franchising USA

focus

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Tom DuFore, Chief Operating Officer, Franchise Marketing Systems

MULTI-UNIT FRANCHISING:

A DIFFERENT KIND OF FRANCHIS It’s difficult in most franchise systems to open even a single unit, opening multiunits creates a sizeable responsibility not only for the franchisee making the investment into the franchise system, but also for the Franchisor who sells the multi-unit franchise model.

Many new franchisors who enter into Multi-Unit franchising, have a difficulty traversing this aggressive franchise expansion model.

Recently, my team exhibited at the MultiUnit Franchise Conference in Las Vegas where over 2,000 Multi-Unit franchisees came to visit, review and evaluate over four hundred different franchise brands.

Several of the Multi-Unit franchisees owned and managed in excess of 300 franchises, several industry segments, multiple brands and across several states.

When meeting with several of these large franchise investors, we asked questions related to their decisions to invest in certain brands and industry segments.

There were some extremely interesting answers and what I took as insightful as to how to market to this group of high powered franchisees.

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Answer #1: “People, Products and Processes…..these are the three elements of what make a successful franchise model.” We look for this in any franchise brand before we make an investment. I’ve heard this saying on the show ‘The Profit’ and it makes sense, but it was interesting to hear Master Franchisees and Multi-Unit franchisees follow the same line of thinking when evaluating which franchise brands they would be interested in investing with.

Answer #2: “We only invest in concepts we see the opportunity to scale. If we can’t open 10 or more of a franchise model efficiently, we aren’t interested.” This seems to make sense and be logical when interacting with a Multi-Unit franchise investor, but should shed some light on your own franchise brand. Does your model allow for absentee owners…do you have the systems in place that have true enterprise capabilities…is your brand scalable and will it attract investors of this size?

Answer #3: “We never guess, it is a careful evaluation of numbers, time and energy put into the ROI and a detailed analysis of what kind of bottom line we are looking at for the franchise investment.” Out of the three answers up to this point, this seemed to be the least surprising….Multi-Unit franchise investors are just that…investors…and typically are very good investors. They will scrutinize the financials, bottom

line, ROI and total financial picture of a franchise model from every angle before making the move. If you don’t have the numbers in place, you will have some difficulty marketing to Multi-Unit franchise buyers.

Answer #4: When speaking with a Multi-Unit Franchise investor who owned over 170 franchises across 4 states and over 6 different brands, I accepted his card and looked over the logos on the back of his card proudly displaying his array of franchise investments. The logo in the bottom right corner of the card was an Italian family restaurant brand I had never heard of. When asked why this brand along with Wendy’s, Subway, McDonald’s and Dunkin Donuts, the response was interesting…”I just loved the food…their breadsticks were amazing and I knew this could work well in Sioux Falls South

“Before making any changes to our franchise operations, we wanted to know what customers liked about the brand.”

SEE

Dakota.” This seemed out of place for a Franchise investor of his stature. I thought that only individual franchise unit buyers made decisions based on emotion and petty reasoning such as the breadsticks being good, but not the case. Multi-Unit franchisees make investments based on just plain liking the concept in some cases as well…so don’t lose the train of thinking regardless of who the buyer is that people buy emotion and excitement when evaluating franchises.

Answer #5: “We look for a solid support system, although we create and develop our own internal support staff, we want to leverage any possible resources and advantages from the franchisor we can. The people and quality of the support model is something we put a great deal of weight behind.”

“People, Products and Processes…these are the three elements of what make a successful franchise model.”

Answer #6 “We want brands that haven’t expanded too quickly and have great unit level economics. What’s the point of operating four mediocre units that make only as much money as two outstanding ones?”

This answer is similar to one that I’ve heard several times from Venture Capital professionals considering investing in franchise systems and has logic behind it…a franchise system who sells units just for the sake of selling units isn’t going to attract a large volume of Multi-Unit franchise investors if the units are showing performance and validating financially.

Tom DuFore is the Chief Operating Officer for Franchise Marketing Systems. In his critical role he is responsible for the oversight of Franchise Marketing Systems Operations and

Tom DuFore

consulting with and advising FMS Clients. Tom has personally worked with and advised hundreds of businesses ranging from the largest companies in the world to start-up. www.franchisemarketingsystems.com

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7-Eleven Franchising with the world’s #1 convenience store is easier than you think.

It also might be the smartest business move you’ve ever made.

It’s turnkey – we provide the store, land and equipment.

Start-up is fast (3-6 months). You get extensive training and support from 7-Eleven pros.

As a 7-Eleven Franchisee, you’ll be partnering with a brand known and loved around the world. We’re consistently ranked as a top-five franchisor with more than 54,200 stores worldwide.

Our field consultants and operations teams offer a wealth of support and information. Leveraged vendor relationships mean national buying power.

World-famous brand. World-class opportunity.

Take a second and learn why franchising with 7-Eleven could be the career changer you’ve

9Round 9Round is a 30 minute circuit training workout that incorporates boxing, kickboxing, dumb bells, kettle bells, jump ropes, and a whole lot more.

Phone: 1-800-782-0711 Fax: 972-828-5017 Website: Franchise.7-Eleven.com Email: Franchise.Inquiries@7-11.com

chance of getting bored. The best part is there is a trainer included each and every time to motivate and encourage. With over 200 locations open in 38 states and five countries, 9Round will be coming to your community soon.

This program solves the four problems in the fitness industry. There are no scheduled class times - a client can work out at any time; each session is only 30 minutes and is full body.

Franchise opportunities are available worldwide.

The workouts change daily so there is no

Website: www.9round.com

All About Loving Care, Inc.

The clients we service range from those newborns to the elderly and with conditions ranging from Autism to Alzheimer’s.

All About Loving Care, Inc. is designed to assist people maintain an independent lifestyle.

We provide the means for all our clients to remain in the privacy of their own home.

We believe in treating each client with respect, compassion, and dignity, and strive to meet each client’s physical, emotional, and financial needs.

We offer non-medical home care for those in need of assistance with their day-to-day activities.

Phone: 864-962-4601 or email: jeff. mathews@9round.com

We are a non medical home care agency specializing in Senior care. Our services include but are not limited to 24 hour care, hospice care, personal care, respite care, meal planning and preparation.

Phone: (877) 822-0211 Fax: (310) 301-0004 Website: www.allaboutlovingcare.us

Beef Jerky Outlet

• Freedom from major contracts

With 1000% growth over the past 20 months The Beef Jerky Outlet franchise system is simple in comparison to other popular retail franchise concepts. We offer an easyto-follow business model with little or no competition in the specialized market of beef jerky sales.

• Personalized interaction with the hands-on owners of the overall outlet franchise

• Contact with one centralized, knowledgeable product team

• Continuous, ongoing support

The Beef Jerky Outlet franchisees enjoy: • High quality product with extended shelf life • Low outlet franchise operating costs • Inventory that sells quickly, offering no need for warehouse storage • A business with only a small amount of payroll and other general retail paperwork

• Higher than average sales per transaction

Big O Tires®

• Leading name-brand recognition.

BIG O Is Your BIG Opportunity.

With more than 50 years in the tire and automotive maintenance industry, Big O Tires® is proud to be a worldclass leader. As we continue to thrive in an ever-expanding market, we invite you to be a part of the exciting opportunities as a member of the Big O Tires® family.

Big O Tires® is proud to be one of the most progressive tire and automotive service franchises in the nation. When you join our family, we supply you with a powerful set of tools to help bring your business to the front of the pack: This website and any request for information or forms are not a franchise offering or an offer to sell a franchise.

Franchising USA

Been looking for. Your earning potential is as big as you want to make it. We offer a gross profit split, which means your success is as important to us as it is to you.

Many of our best retail franchise opportunities are now available and we are searching for qualified individuals to become part of our growing, dynamic jerky franchise team.

Please visit www.beefjerkyoutlet.com and fill out the request for more information form.

• Experienced franchise system.

• Competitive marketing strategies.

• Dynamic and perpetuating consumer engagement • Comprehensive start-up training.

• Sales guidance from a network of retail experts.

• Multiple warehouses stocked to meet inventory demands.

• National and regional meetings/conventions.

• Access to exclusive marketing resources.

• On-site visits and strong support from Franchise Business Consultants.

Contact us today! www.bigofranchise.com

Bin There Dump That Bin There Dump That is a mini disposal container system and we’re FRANCHISING IN YOUR AREA! This is a franchise business that can be up and running quickly. We invite you to imagine yourself operating your own successful mini disposal business, providing cost effective solutions to customers who appreciate your service.

The time is right for Bin There Dump That. We are a low-tech business whose systems are recognizable and repeatable.

We offer services that are systematic. The process is easy to teach and easy to learn. In no time you will be answering customer’s requests for bins and building a strong, robust client base.

Come and get your piece of this SIMPLE TO OPERATE business that has a reasonable entry cost, offers exclusive

Cardinale Enterprises Cardinale Enterprises is a leading real estate investment and development company that has built a solid reputation in the New York and New Jersey commercial real estate marketplace.

For more than 25 years, our company has

Fastsigns® Now more than ever, businesses look to FASTSIGNS for innovative ways to connect with customers in a highly competitive marketplace. Our high standards for quality and customer service have made FASTSIGNS the most recognized brand in the industry, driving significantly more traffic to the web than any other sign company.

We also lead in these important areas: • #1 Ranked Sign Franchise in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 three years in a row • Franchise Business Review FBR50 Franchisee Satisfaction Award 2006-2015 • Franchise Research Institute World Class Franchise 2011-2015 ®

Filta Enviromental Kitchen Solutions The Filta Franchise is described as a mobile vacuum-based fryer management company. Serving 5,000 customers a week on average from 130 Filta Franchise Owners and hundreds of Service Technicians all over the United States.

Micro-filtration of oil and fryer management may not be a franchise you’ve considered yet. However, first consider the demand from customers. Filta’s customers save a great deal of money in oil costs, less accidents and labor in their operation. FiltaFry, a core service of the company, claims to save customers up to 50% in their oil usage.

Second, consider reports which now show food service industry sales to exceed $683 billion in the US alone.

Franchise Dynamics, LLC Franchise Dynamics is a full-service franchise sales outsourcing firm. We provide our clients with world class consulting, training, lead qualification services and full service franchise sales, building the next generation of leading franchisors around the globe.

Franchise Dynamics provides a full suite of services on an ongoing basis, allowing our clients to focus on their operations and marketing.

We provide start to finish franchise development for our clients. We recommend and manage lead generation marketing, distribution of marketing

territories, full training, marketing materials, lead programs and offers you over 100 years of experienced franchisor support!

Enjoy the benefits of non-competitive relationships with other Bin There Dump That dealer/owners across North America. Share in a pool of knowledge that will assist you in maintaining competitive market advantages.

Learn key success factors from the pioneers of the mini roll off container systems. Create an organization designed to maximize productivity while controlling costs.

Contact: John Ferracuti Phone: 905-823-8550 Email: john@BinThereDumpThat.com Website: www.BinThereDumpThat.com

established a track record of excellence by developing, marketing, managing and investing in retail properties and mixed-use developments throughout the Northeast.

Phone: 732-747-7846 or Email: Leasing@cardainaleenterprises.com You can also visit our website: www.CardinaleEnterprises.com

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

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

Both points make it clear to see the unique position Filta has and how it’s directly keyed into the growth of the food service industry.

For a Filta Franchise Owner, this means an in-demand value based service, which everyone can agree is the cornerstone of any successful business. Not to mention, offering a service which prevents workplace accidents is just good for you, your business and your customers.

Want to learn more about becoming a Filta Franchise Owner?

Address: 7075 Kingspointe Pkwy #1 Orlando, FL 32819 Phone: 407-996-5550 Fax: 407-996-5551 Website: www.filta.com Email: ablake@filta.com Please send leads to franchiseleads1@filta.com Contact: Adam Blake, VP of Franchise Development

materials, disclosure documents and manage all leads through the franchise sales process. The Franchise Dynamics team on each project looks, feels and operates like a member of the franchisors’ internal organization, working with marketing, operations and executives and staff to coordinate activities. Our fulfillment model is shared risk; unlike other competitor companies, we never take a portion of either royalty or equity from our client companies.

Contact: Robert Stidham Email: info@franchisedynamics.net Website: www.franchisedynamics.net

Franchising USA

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FRANFUND FranFund provides a comprehensive set of funding solutions for your new or expanding business including business loans, securities backed financing and our proven capitalization solution, the FranPlan™.

The FranPlan™ allows you to use an existing retirement account to fund your new business debt, tax and penalty free.

honkamp krueger Honkamp Krueger & Co., P.C. is a Top 100 CPA and business consulting firm and the eight-fastestgrowing CPA firm in the U.S. (Accounting Today, 2015) Specializing in franchise services, HK offers 40-plus forward-thinking, innovative solutions to franchise organizations in all 50 states.

In addition to our tax, accounting and consulting services, HK offers total hire-to-retire solutions through our human capital management affiliate, HKP. Through our HK Financial Services affiliate, HK offers world-class wealth management solutions.

International Franchise Professionals Group

Our team of funding experts are here to work with you to create a customized capitalization solution for your specific situation, including obtain a pre-qualification so that you can conduct your franchise investigation with confidence.

Phone: 817-730-4500 Fax: 817-546-1291 Website: www.franfund.com Email: info@franfund.com Contact: taseiber@franfund.com

Our depth and level of franchising expertise along with our track record for providing independent and objective franchise advisory/consulting services clearly differentiates HK from all other franchise advisors across the country.

When you partner with HK for your franchising needs, you will always have easy access to one of our owners who will walk in your shoes with you and who has a unique perspective on being an entrepreneur and business grower.

Phone: 888.556.0123 www.honkamp.com

IFPG to power their business. All of these individuals understand the value of being associated with IFPG.

The International Franchise Professionals Group (also known as IFPG) is a membership based organization that has over 700 members. Our members consist of Franchisors, Franchisor Brokers, Lenders, and other Franchise Professionals that help potential candidates in the process of buying a franchise.

The IFPG is a strictly membership based organization that does not participate in any referral fees from our franchisor members or our brokers, thereby allowing all of our members to work freely together.

Our long-term success is predicated on retaining our members and providing all the tools needed to help you sell more franchises, and close more deals.

Hundreds of nationally recognized franchise companies have chosen the IFPG and its members to represent their brand; hundreds of experienced franchise consultants and brokers have chosen the

If you’re a franchisor, franchisor broker, or another profession that serves the franchising industry call us today at (888) 977-IFPG to learn about membership opportunities.

Income Store

Generating” websites for individuals, groups and funds. They refer to the individuals, groups and funds as “Site Partners”.

Income Store takes the real estate agent model to another level. Not only does Income Store find revenue generating websites, they buy, manage, market and further monetize the website for their Site Partners.

Income Store uses the term Site Partner because they have skin in the game. Instead of getting paid an upfront fee, like a real estate agent, Income Store receives a revenue share on each site purchased.

Income Store is unique on many levels.

Phone: 877-627-1213 Website: www.Incomestore.com Email: mengstrom@incomestore.com Contact: Mike Engstrom

We are an Inc 500/5000 company as of 2013 and over 5 years of business growth.

What if a store carried income items that produced $500 / month to $20,000 / month? Although sounding a bit “Too Good To Be True”, that store exists.

You can find it at www.incomestore.com We are looking for capital investments of $50,000 to $700,000 to put a partnership together with you. We buy it with you and run the business for you. We maintain and grow your online business as you do other things. Watch our videos on IncomeStore.com and TodaysGrowthConsultant. com web sites for more information.

Similar to a real estate agent, Income Store finds “Revenue

jani-king Jani-King - The world’s largest Commercial Cleaning Franchise Opportunity. This Franchise Opportunity has over 9,000 unit franchise owners in 14 countries.

Franchise Owners are professionally trained to provide services to customers in Commercial Buildings, Healthcare Facilities, Schools & Universities, Hotels/Resorts, Casinos, Sporting Venues, etc.

For 44 years Jani-King has perfected a method

Franchising USA

of operation in the commercial cleaning industry.

Known as “The Jani-King System”, new franchise owners are trained using the most up to date technologies, procedures, tools, and equipment.

They are able to grow their business and succeed with the expertise and support of a local regional office, in addition to numerous Jani-King International resources.

For more information: Phone: 972-991-0900 / 1-800-JANIKING or Email: csturdivant@janiking.com Website: www.janiking.com

kz companies KZ Companies is a full service commercial & residential real estate development and investment company.

Our Franchise Services Division specializes in directly integrating with franchise operators to lead in all aspects of new store development and new store roll out programs.

We provide an unparalleled access to capital and manage our client’s development process from start to finish. Our in-house resources and well capitalized company provide turn-key capabilities that deliver stores quickly and economically.

Liberty tax service Founded in 1997 by CEO John T. Hewitt, Liberty Tax Service is the fastest-growing tax preparation franchise in the industry and has prepared almost 18 million income tax returns in more than 4,400 offices and online.

Liberty balances strong growth, best business practices, social responsibility, and a fulfilling life experience for our franchisees. We’re committed to creating a business system and environment that will be held up as the model for all other tax preparation franchises to emulate.

Since the inception of our company in 1994, we have successfully built over 200+ projects for national and regional retailers across the country and developed an extensive foundation of relationships with tenants, homeowners, landlords and municipalities. Through our relationships we pride ourselves on a proven track record of delivering all our projects on time and on budget. Our long history of successful projects can be attributed to a grounded belief that our success depends on our clients’ and partners’ success.

For more information: Phone: (949) 476-2700, Email: info@kzcompanies.com Or go to Website: www.kzcompanies.com

Liberty Tax is a company to watch, not just in tax preparation franchise terms, but in the business world as a whole. Our corporate team, Area Developers, and franchisees are accessible and down-to-earth. We provide a supportive network and a culture that is progressive and fun.

You can join one of the top franchise opportunities in the world. Just fill out our request franchise information form to find out more about Liberty Tax. www.libertytaxfranchise.com/request-franchiseinformation.html

Little Caesars

continue to receive support, expert analysis and consultation from corporate as their business grows.

Little Caesars offers strong franchisee candidates opportunities in select locations across the country. As America’s fastest growing pizza chain, Little Caesars provides candidates an opportunity for independence with a proven system, a simple operating model and strong national brand recognition.

Little Caesars’ requires candidates desiring to open one store to have a net worth of $150,000 with a minimum of $50,000 in liquid, unencumbered assets (such as cash).

Franchisees must also be able to obtain financing to cover the total costs of opening a franchised location.

Franchisees benefit from a comprehensive training program that focuses on all aspects of the business, including training, architectural and construction services to help with design, preferred lenders to assist with financing, the ongoing research and development of new products, and effective marketing programs. Franchisees

For the sixth year in a row, Little Caesars was named “Best Value in America”* of all quick-serve restaurant chains.

Phone: 800-553-5776 Email: USdevelopment@LCEcorp.com Website: www.LittleCaesars.com

LivePOS

franchisors with the ability to run a successful and very profitable business, with ZERO upfront cost.

Technology is changing the way we shop. Social Media, targeted advertising and repeat customers can make the difference between a successful business and failure. If you are still using outdated, dinosaur like point of sale system, you are leaving money on the table.

Real-Time sales and inventory reports, employee time and attendance, commissions, payroll, promotions and over 1,000 other features makes LivePOS the market leader in this space. The LivePOS FMS Dashboard provides direct access to store sales, royalty remittance, franchise wide SKU control and many other tools to ensure consistency throughout the brand, regardless of state or location

Enters LivePOS, a Cloud Point of Sale Solution designing exclusively for multi-location, chains and franchises owners. With over 20,000 customers worldwide, LivePOS provides both franchisees and

LoyaltyGenerator LoyaltyGenerator provides a fully-managed, automated, cloud-based cross-media marketing platform that incorporates prescriptive analytics to empower franchises of all sizes to simply, predictably and profitably generate intense customer loyalty.

With LoyaltyGenerator, franchisors can systematically define and drive the loyalty story at any level of their value chain, controlling brand

Website: www.livepos.com Email: info@livepos.com

continuity and consistency from the top-down, while selectively enabling franchisee autonomy from the bottom-up.

Innovators like Annex Brands trust LoyaltyGenerator to automatically deliver the right message to the right customer on the right channel, at the right time. Just set it and forget it.

We’ll take care of the rest.

For more information about increasing your customer loyalty, please visit: www.loygen.com.

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Midas Midas, a recognized brand throughout the world and highly renowned name in complete car care, is proud to be one of North America’s original franchise opportunities – and one of its best.

With Midas, you experience the best of both worlds - the support of an experienced franchise organization and the satisfaction of operating your very own auto service enterprise. As a Midas franchisee, you become a trusted name the day you open your doors for business. Building consumer trust is at the heart of our brand. We work every day to earn that trust by providing expertise, responsiveness, and the best value to every customer every time.

Benefit from nearly 60 years of “The Midas Touch”

Money Mailer Money Mailer Franchisees are marketing consultants, showing neighborhood business owners how to target their best prospects with compelling offers delivered in the mail, on the Internet, to mobile devices and on social media.

This integrated marketing solution is provided to each business for literally pennies per household. We are the only national franchise laser-focused on local businesses, one of the most under-served market segments in the Country. Local business owners do not have the time or internal resources to develop this marketing expertise on their own so franchisees become an internal ad agency resource creating monthly repeat business potential in each protected territory.

murphy business Murphy Business Northwest gives you the best of two worlds: our office is a small, local business closely connected to the community here in Puget Sound, specializing in personal service to our clients; yet, we are affiliated with one of the largest business brokers with offices throughout North America. Our experienced professionals can offer an unsurpassed range of brokerage services: • When Selling a Business or Buying a business, • Business Valuation Services • Commercial Real Estate Brokers

Naturalawn of america NaturaLawn of America offers organic-based lawn care services to customers across the United States seeking safer alternatives to traditional chemical lawn care.

They pioneered the breakthrough into environmentally responsible lawn care back in 1987 (before “going green” was the norm). While chemicalbased companies continued to randomly spray unnecessary pesticides, NaturaLawn of America developed an Integrated Pest Management System (IPM), which was unprecedented in lawn care.

Nutrition Zone Nutrition Zone is in the business of changing lives.

That includes the Franchisees who join us on this incredible and noble journey. At Nutrition Zone, we do not only take great pride in creating stronger, smarter and healthier clients through the best stores and business model in the industry, we take great pride in identifying and developing successful, determined entrepreneurs providing them the tools and opportunities to reach their financial goals along the way.

Nutrition Zone was founded to serve, educate and empower the community by improving the quality of our

Franchising USA

Midas has built a stellar reputation in the automotive service and repair industry nearly six decades. We want to help you succeed. Before you open a location and as you continue to operate your shop, Midas will help you with the following: • Business management system for your shop • New franchisee orientation • Ongoing training and training resources • Operational support.

• Development support • Optimizing and marketing your business: Join Midas today by calling 1-800-365-0007 or visiting www.midasfranchise.com!

This website and any request for information or forms are not a franchise offering or an offer to sell a franchise.

Money Mailer’s revolutionary “GPS” (Goals, Process & System) franchise package provides an exclusive 2 -year performance based funding platform that gives new owners a clear and direct path to success as they open and build their business. It also includes one week of classroom training, 4 weeks of “Boot Camp” at Money Mailer’s company store, 2 years of $0 royalty and a personal Franchise Performance Coach to assist in a successful launch in your own territory.

Money Mailer’s training and ongoing support is unrivaled in franchising.

Phone: 714.889.4698 Website: www.franchise.moneymailer.com Email: franchiseleads@moneymailer.com

• Best Franchise Opportunities for buyer • Equipment Appraisals Our professional business brokers all have past experience as business owners and managers. We apply that business sense to help match buyers to an appropriate business.

Visit the website www.yourfranchiseadvisor.com/home/our-franchiseadvisors/curt-maier/ For more information contact Curt Maier Office 425 679 6627 or Cell 425 505 3649 you and also email curt.maier@murphybusiness.com

By creating natural lawn care programs specific to the needs of each individual lawn and through its use of organic-based lawn care products, NaturaLawn of America continues to give customers nationwide, the healthier, greener lawns they desire while protecting people, pets and the environment.

Headquartered in Frederick, Maryland, NaturaLawn of America provides business opportunities to individuals wishing to own their own franchise.

For more information Phone: (800) 989-5444, Email: info@naturalawnfranchise.com Or go to Website: http://naturalawnfranchise.com/

clients’ lives.

From inception, Nutrition Zone’s customer service and sincerity has been at the forefront of our growth. This is realized through highly educated team members who share our goal of making a positive, meaningful impact in our communities. Nutrition Zone provides premium service and premium products at extremely competitive prices.

SERVICE - QUALITY -COMPETITIVENESS - EXCELLENCE NUTRITION ZONE – A FORCE BEHIND A BETTER YOU!!

www.nutritionzonefranchise.com

One Stop Tax One Stop Tax is a professional tax preparation services provider offering personal and business income tax returns catered to the low and middle income brackets.

As a franchisor we offer state-of the art tools that help make the entire business run efficiently and intelligently because of our proven business system.

Our Town America For over 40 years, Our Town America has been providing new movers with traditional hospitality by mailing warm housewarming gifts from local businesses in a premium welcome package.

It is Our Town America’s mission to welcome new movers into their communities, to help local businesses gain new loyal and long-term customers, and to provide franchisees with an excellent business opportunity.

Thousands of satisfied business owners throughout the United States attest to the success and effectiveness of the Our Town America program

Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria is the only “Create Your Own” concept of its kind that was developed by two Chefs— one classically trained and the other an Italian Pizzaiolo and World Pizza Champion.

Persona’s exceptional quality starts with our fresh and extremely high quality ingredients. We craft an authentic Neapolitan pizza from imported “00” flour imported from Naples, Italy. The vine ripe plum tomatoes grown for our tomato sauce are sourced from the San Joaquin Valley. Our hand-made meatballs, sausage and sauces have all won gold medal acclaim worldwide, and we think your taste buds will agree.

Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria is the only “Create Your Own” concept of its kind that was developed by two Chefs— one classically trained and the other an Italian Pizzaiolo and World Pizza Champion.

Persona’s exceptional quality starts with our fresh and extremely high quality ingredients. We craft an authentic Neapolitan pizza from imported “00” flour imported from Naples, Italy. The vine ripe plum tomatoes grown for our tomato sauce are sourced from the San Joaquin Valley. Our hand-made meatballs, sausage and sauces have all won gold medal acclaim worldwide, and we think your taste buds will agree.

Redrhino REDRHINO isn’t just another flooring company – we are a premium epoxy coating supplier and installer committed to doing the industry’s best work on every project.

That one philosophy sets us apart from our competitors, and has helped us grow into a nationwide leader in epoxy flooring since 2005.

There are a lot of businesses and independent contractors offering epoxy coating for concrete floors, but when precision, quality, and real-world

Our services are sought year after year despite economic condition and regardless of demographics and income levels.

Contact: Charles Kinuthia Phone: 855.408.2937 or Email: franchise@onestoptax.com You can also check out our website: www.onestoptax.com

while dozens of locally owned franchises validate the Our Town America concept as a viable business opportunity. Franchisees are neighborhood marketing consultants, showing local business owners how to target their best prospects with enticing offers via direct mail.

Since beginning to franchise in 2005, Our Town America has been consistently ranked a Franchise Business Review Top 50 Franchise making them the only Advertising brand to land a spot in the 10-year Hall of Fame and the sole company to be crowed Franchise Business Review’s Top Company.

Website: http://www.ourtownamerica.com Email: franchising@ourtownamerica.com

You can choose from one of our chef inspired specialty pizzas or create your own with over 30 toppings to choose from. Our expert pizza makers will create your pizza just the way you like it. Your imagination and creativity is the only limit!

Once your pizza assembly is complete, we bake it in one of our imported Italian Marra Forni wood fired ovens. At 800 degrees, 90 seconds is all it takes to produce a pizza that is crispy and chewy in the Neapolitan tradition.

Craving something from the garden? Our freshly tossed salads are a great complement to your wood fired pizza. Our award- winning dressings are all made from scratch. Complete your experience with our rich gelato handmade locally by an Austrian-trained gelato chef.

For more information visit www.personapizzeria.com or Email: info@personapizzeria.com

You can choose from one of our chef inspired specialty pizzas or create your own with over 30 toppings to choose from. Our expert pizza makers will create your pizza just the way you like it. Your imagination and creativity is the only limit!

Once your pizza assembly is complete, we bake it in one of our imported Italian Marra Forni wood fired ovens. At 800 degrees, 90 seconds is all it takes to produce a pizza that is crispy and chewy in the Neapolitan tradition.

Craving something from the garden? Our freshly tossed salads are a great complement to your wood fired pizza. Our award- winning dressings are all made from scratch. Complete your experience with our rich gelato handmade locally by an Austrian-trained gelato chef.

For more information visit www.personapizzeria.com or Email: info@personapizzeria.com

guarantees matter, clients turn to us. That’s because we have a reputation for being customer-service centered, and being able to manage projects and timelines that other epoxy flooring companies can’t.

When you need flooring that’s beautiful and durable, applied correctly the first time on your schedule, REDRHINO should be your first call.

For more information contact Michael D. Kenealy | CEO 1 (310) 435-4153 or 1 (888) 292-6478 email: info@redrhinoflooring.com Or visit our website www.redrhinoflooring.com

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service brands international One Company. Multiple Brands.

We’ve created life-changing opportunities as a privately-owned company with a distinctive culture of community service and hundreds of successful business owners nationwide.

With over 30 years of franchising experience, SBI provides the leadership, business systems and franchisee support that allow our

We are: Molly Maid, Mr. Handyman and ProTect Painters. Our mission is to help owners quickly reach their profit goals and realize their dreams.

For more information contact: Steve Lajiness, V.P. of Franchise Development for SBI Tel: 734-822-6110 or Email: steve.lajiness@servicebrands.com Website: http://franchise.servicebrands.com/

Sherpa Kids

Each member of the Sherpa Kids Franchise System has an important role to play.

Sherpa Kids will work and engage with all stakeholders to ensure continuous learning that meets children’s needs. We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing and caring environment for the care of your school-aged children. We do this through a structured and wellbalanced program in before, after school and vacation care services.

The success of every individual Franchise strengthens the Sherpa Kids brand. A growing Franchise System means greater marketing and advertising power, more brand awareness, higher market penetration, new and improved systems, and more team members to share knowledge, ideas and strategies.

Become a Sherpa Kids Country Master Franchisee and make an investment on two levels.

Your new life will be rewarding financially and personally as you help school communities and franchisees achieve their business and lifestyle goals.

smokes poutinerie Smokes Poutinerie is the Worlds Largest & Original Poutinerie; inventing and leading the quick-serve Poutine industry, offering over 30 types of Gourmet Poutine.

The exclusive Poutine menu plays a very significant role with its Signature Gravy, Fresh Hand-Cut Fries, Squeaky Cheese Curds and an unlimited combination of toppings like double-smoked bacon, flat iron steak, grilled chicken, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers and many more mouthwatering options.

Already operating in 6 countries – Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England , Canada and Ireland.

Contact: Vicki Prout Email: vicki@sherpa-kids.com Phone: +61 8 8354 4886; Mobile: +61 4 3980 3078 Website: www.sherpa-kids.com

There is no slowing down the Gravy Train, with Smoke’s Poutinerie expanding exponentially since its debut on the Franchise scene in 2009. Boasting a whopping 100 locations Coast to Coast in Canada and kicking it into high gear with its expansion into the U.S., Sports & Entertainment and International Markets.

The first official U.S. location recently opened in Berkeley, California where customers were lined up around the block anxiously awaiting their first bite! Next up, Smoke’s Poutinerie Las Vegas, Hollywood, New York City and numerous other states and cities.

The Smoke’s Poutinerie goal is to bring this authentic, quality Canadian dish to the rest of the World in their own original and unique way.

Phone: 905 427 4444 Website: www.smokespoutinerie.com Email: franchises@smokespoutinerie.com

SOLDIERFIT

on personal service, member connections and teamwork, members are made to feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves.

SOLDIERFIT is a military inspired fitness franchise with centers and gyms specializing in large group boot camp training, personal training and kids’ fitness programs. It offers a functional fitness gym set in a family environment for all fitness levels.

SOLDIERFIT is different from other fitness companies in that character building is the number one priority, not aesthetics. By focusing

Spherion Staffing Services Join the ranks of an established recruiting and staffing leader!

As a Spherion franchise owner, you will be well-positioned to create a successful future for yourself and you’ll have a stake in helping others make a better life for themselves through rewarding employment opportunities. This is the passion that drives our business every day and the financial rewards are just as exciting. One of the fastest growing industries, staffing is projected to grow six percent annually and reach $115 billion this year. Spherion owners produced more than $500 million in annual sales last year alone. It’s an ideal opportunity for an entrepreneur to step into and begin building a thriving business.

Since 1946, Spherion® has been supplying flexible, tempto-hire and direct-hire talent to companies of all sizes and

Franchising USA

franchisees to experience ease of operation and success.

The business is founded on community, patriotism, and the American dream. Since launching in 2007, SOLDIERFIT has expanded across Maryland with locations in Gaithersburg, Frederick and Columbia and will be opening a franchise location in Virginia in fall 2015.

Website: soldierfitfranchise.com

industries. Specializing in administrative, light industrial, contact center, non-clinical healthcare and professional placements, we offer a comprehensive range of workforce solutions to fit the unique needs of our clients. Operating through a network of 175 franchise locations, Spherion has distinguished itself as a local staffing partner providing personalized service, backed by the resources and breadth of a $2 billion workforce leader. Last year, we connected more than 170,000 job seekers to 3,000 companies nationwide, and the numbers continue to grow. We are a strong community of owners that genuinely love what we do and it has earned us a reputation of excellence in our industry.

To learn more, please contact Bill Tasillo on our Market Expansion Team at 404/964-5508 or go to www.spherion.com/franchise

Stratus Building Solutions Founded in 2006, Stratus Building Solutions was developed to provide a superior, environmentally friendly commercial cleaning experience driven by dedicated, entrepreneurial, small business owners and regional support centers.

Now under new ownership, the company continues to grow upon idea that through commitment and a loyalty to exceptional service, your own commercial janitorial service franchise has unlimited earning potential.

For the past 9 years, Stratus Building Solutions has developed into a household name in the janitorial service industry. Offering professional training programs,

The Interface Financial Group – IFG 50/50 The Interface Financial Group – IFG 50/50 is an affordable home-based franchise that provides short-term working capital to small and medium-sized businesses by purchasing current, quality invoices at a discount, thus accelerating the client’s cash flow and growth.

All transactions are syndicated 50/50 with the franchisee and the franchisor, and that means less working capital required to fund transaction: IFG does the bulk of the due diligence and the ‘paperwork’ for the transactions, and IFG 50/50 franchisees will concentrate their efforts on building the referral relationships – they do the ‘people work’.

Key advantages of being an IFG 50/50 franchisee include: • No staff to hire, fire, or manage

The Joint Chiropractic The Joint Chiropractic is reinventing chiropractic care by making quality alternative healthcare affordable for patients seeking pain relief and ongoing wellness.

Our membership plans and packages eliminate the need for insurance, and our no-appointment policy, convenient hours and locations make care more accessible.

The Joint performs more than two million spinal adjustments a year across 250+ clinics nationwide.

With a proven franchise model in a $12 billion dollar

TopFire Media TopFire Media is an integrated digital marketing and public relations agency, specializing in the franchise industry.

Our clients benefit from our years of experience in franchise SEO service, public relations, media relations, content writing and management, social media marketing, and web design. We work to bring all of these elements together to achieve a common goal – our clients’ success.

WELLBIZ BRANDS, INC WellBiz Brands, Inc. is headquartered in Highlands Ranch, Colo. and is one of the largest health and wellness companies in the United States. The company owns three separate franchise entities: Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., which franchises massage studios, providing custom therapeutic massage to meet clients’ individual needs, Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, which franchises one-on-one and semi-private personal training studios, and Fit 36, Inc., which franchises high intensity interval training studios, with workouts done as a group.

multi-level business support, state-of-the-art cleaning equipment, Green Seal Certified, biodegradable, non-toxic “Stratus Green Clean” chemicals, 24-Hour emergency services, Stratus Building Solutions is second to none in the commercial janitorial service industry and the pursuance of cleaning for health.

With customizable cleaning options and competitive rates, Stratus Building Solutions provides services to a large range of clients, from schools, medical offices, shopping centers, warehouses, dealerships, religious centers, professional offices, daycares, retail stores, gyms and more.

Contact us today at www.stratusclean.com

• No storefront to own, lease, or maintain • No Inventory or stock to purchase • No extensive travel because IFG franchisees do business locally • Business-to-Business, professional environment with regular business hours of operation • Flexibility to relocate for part of the year or permanently and continue doing business Our franchisees are excellent communicators, relationship builders with decision-making and problem-solving skills, and much more sales & marketing oriented. IFG has been in the ‘invoice discounting’ business since 1972, and employs its franchise network in the US, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, the UK, Ireland, Australia, Mexico and South Africa. www.interfacefinancial.com

industry, The Joint is making quality healthcare affordable, approachable and convenient for patients—while simplifying business operations for chiropractors and franchise owners.

Our plans and packages eliminate the need for insurance, and our no appointments policy and convenient locations make care more accessible.

The Joint performs more than two million spinal adjustments a year across 250+ clinics nationwide.

For more information, visit thejoint.com/franchise or Email: franchise@thejoint.com

Our integrated approach combines our public relations and franchise SEO service prowess and is designed to generate brand awareness, drive consumer engagement, and build credibility for your company.

Phone: (708) 249-1090 Fax: (708) 957-2395 Website: www.topfiremedia.com Email: info@topfiremedia.com Contact: Matthew Jonas

Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc. began franchising in 2006 and has approximately 210 Elements Massage™ locations. Fitness Together Franchise Corporation began franchising in 1996 and has approximately 175 Fitness Together® locations across the United States. Fit 36, Inc. began franchising in 2014 and has a single FIT36™ location in downtown Denver.

For more information Websites: wellbizbrands.com, elementsmassage.com, fitnesstogether.com, fit36fitness.com

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