Veterans in Franchising September 2020

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Veterans in Franchising september 2020

www.franchisingusamagazine.com

This Airforce Vet’s Best Business Weapon is Attention to Detail How to Harness the Elevated Relationships with Franchisees

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Leadership.

Teamwork.

Executing SOPs. Connecting veterans with education, resources and opportunities at vetfran.org

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V e t e r a n s i n F r a n c h i s i n g S u ppl e m e n t s e pt e m b e r 2 0 2 0 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 On the Cover

Veterans Profile

54 Ziebart: This Airforce Vet’s Best Business

Weapon is Attention to Detail

56 The UPS Store - After the Armed Forces

58 How to Harness the Elevated Relationships

with Franchisees

60 fit20 USA - Welcomes Raymond Kusch

as its Newest Shareholder and Member of

the Board of Directors

Veterans News

62 Postal Connections - As a Postal Business Franchisee, I Launched a Non-profit to

Benefit Homeless Veterans – Here’s Why

52 Assisted Living Locators 53 Hammer & Nails, Grooming for Guys

Expert Advice 58 How to Harness the Elevated Relationships

with Franchisees Sam Ballas | Founder and CEO | East Coast Wings + Grill

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veteran news

Assisted Living Locator’s East Valley Franchisee Dustin Baker Recognized as a Franchise Rock Star for Second Consecutive Year by Franchise Business Review

Dustin Baker

Assisted Living Locator’s East Valley franchisee Dustin Baker was identified by franchisee satisfaction research firm, Franchise Business Review, as a Rock Star Franchisee for the second consecutive year. Baker’s franchise provides senior placement and referral service throughout Chandler, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, and East Mesa areas.

Each year, Franchise Business Review honors franchise owners who set exceptional examples of achieving success within the franchise model. Baker was selected as a Franchise Rockstar from over 28,000 franchisees, representing more than 300 brands that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research in the past 18 months.

The Rock Stars recognized were nominated by their franchise brand leadership as franchisees who set admirable examples when it comes to leadership, business acumen, financial and professional success, and contributing to their community.

“There are so many success stories out there and thousands of inspiring franchise owners who are living their dreams of

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business ownership that it was incredibly difficult to narrow down the list,” said Eric Stites, CEO of Franchise Business Review.

“In the end, we chose individuals who are exceptional examples of achieving success through the franchise model and exemplify a strong work ethic and a real commitment to their business and community. We are thrilled to recognize these individuals as Franchise Rock Stars.”

According to Assisted Living Locators CEO RN Angela Olea, Dustin Baker is a top franchise producer that not only helps and mentors his fellow franchisees, but also passionately cares about his senior clients and his community. “As an Iraq veteran and medic, Dustin has been determined to make a positive impact on his community during the coronavirus pandemic,” Olea explained. “He has supplied over a thousand N-95 masks to protect healthcare workers in veterans’ homes and senior living properties.”

Prior to joining the senior care industry,

Baker served in the United States Army as a combat medic in an artillery unit during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was also an

administrative supervisor at an outpatient

surgical ward at William Beaumont army medical center at Fort Bliss, in El Paso, TX.

“We are very proud of Dustin receiving

this great honor for the second consecutive year,” said Angela Olea, Assisted Living Locators CEO RN. “He goes ‘above

and beyond’ to serve seniors and their

families and has tremendous compassion and problem-solving skills. At Assisted

Living Locators, we work hard to make

our franchisees successful and stress the importance of giving back in business.”

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full list of 2020 Rock Star Franchise Owners.

Marine Veteran Brings Three More Men’s Grooming Franchises to Central Ohio Hammer & Nails Grooming Shop for Guys, a men’s grooming shop that provides haircuts and shaves & hand and foot care, in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, is pleased to announce it has signed a multi-unit franchise agreement with Nate Anderton, a Marine veteran and entrepreneur.

The pandemic didn’t stifle Anderton’s ambition, and he signed on to bring three Hammer & Nails locations to the Columbus, Ohio area.

This January, while running errands, Anderton came across the Hammer & Nails that had recently opened in Westerville. Already looking for a new business venture to dive into, he was intrigued by the men’s grooming shop and began researching the franchise opportunity. He was impressed with the uniqueness of the business model – a membership experience where men could be completely comfortable enjoying a hand or foot service while getting their beard groomed. While Columbus has great barbershops, Anderton liked how Hammer & Nails goes the extra mile for its members.

Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Anderton spent his adult life serving his country. After high school he spent six years in active duty for the Marines. When he got out, he still wanted to serve and joined the Army National Guard where he had a full time position for 14 years. After he retired from the Army in 2018, he was one of 70,000 veterans who applied for a special program with Amazon pairing military veterans with contracting careers, so Anderton has spent the last two years owning and operating a logistics company that contracts deliveries for Amazon.

“I was blown away by the experience at Hammer & Nails and knew pretty quickly that I wanted to be a part of the grooming shop’s growth,” said Anderton. “The stigma surrounding men getting pedicures and manicures is quickly falling by the

wayside, and I look forward to offering a one-of-a-kind experience. After spending more than two decades having to be clean shaven in the military – you know what a great trim and shave feels like, and this is it.”

Anderton hopes to have his first location open by year’s end, and is looking for locations in Upper Arlington and Dublin.

The Hammer & Nails experience coming to Central Ohio is unlike any other. The atmosphere is low-lit, with soft ambient lighting throughout the shop. Exterior windows are tinted for privacy and the interior is furnished with dark wood and steel, creating a relaxing vibe. Members are greeted by name, escorted to a luxurious oversized Bison leather chair, and handed a menu with complimentary beverages ranging from an ice-cold water to McAllen’s whiskey, all of which is included in the service cost. Shops have Direct TV, and every guest has a personal TV, remote and noise-cancelling headphones for entertainment during his visit.

“Nate is joining our brand at a key moment of growth. While the coronavirus pandemic has impacted life across America, we are confident that the men’s grooming industry will prove resilient

Nate Anderton

throughout Ohio because of our driven, welcoming franchise partners like Nate,” said Nick Bertagna, Ohio Area Developer and Westerville franchisee for Hammer & Nails. “With Nate’s three Hammer & Nails locations, men in Columbus will have never looked or felt better.”

As Bertagna notes, Hammer & Nails has a strong future in Ohio. The brand is looking to add five shops in Cincinnati and five shops in Cleveland with qualified franchisees.

For more information about the Hammer & Nails franchise opportunity, visit hammerandnailsfranchise.com

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cover story: Ziebart

This Airforce Vet’s Best Business Weapon is Attention to Detail As a former Weapons Director for the U.S. Air Force, veteran and Ziebart franchise owner, Nick Lambie was in charge of managing every move of his tanker and fighter aircrafts in order to execute each mission successfully.

One mistake could have potentially fatal consequences for anyone under his command, so it was vital to keep everything under his watch in perfect working order to avoid disaster.

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Lambie has found that the secret to franchising success lives in the same detail-oriented mindset he carried with him throughout his time in the Air Force.

Today, he is the owner of a successful Ziebart franchise in his hometown of Morgantown, West Virginia. Franchising USA’s editors sat down with Lambie to discuss the lessons he has carried over from the military into business ownership.

Here’s what he had to say:

Understand Other Perspectives Before embarking on a mission, Nick Lambie was tasked with wrapping his head around every detail so he knew exactly what his team had to do and when. He was challenged to think critically about not only his next move as a leader, but his entire team as a whole and its potential

outcome. This has translated into how he runs his business. Leaders can only be effective if they understand not only theirs, but their team and ultimately their customer’s point of view.

Nick and his wife, Courtney found Ziebart when they needed to take their car in for protection services against the harsh weather of upstate New York.

Nick was immediately impressed with the thoughtful, personalized care he received and assumed Ziebart was a small, locally-owned company. A year later, he discovered that Ziebart was a franchise and knew it would be a perfect fit for Morgantown knowing that vehicle owners in his area needed services to protect the integrity of their vehicles. Lambie set out to bring his own location to Morgantown with the support of Ziebart’s home office

“If you were to walk into his store on any given day, it’s likely you’d find him alongside his brother Mark – who runs their day-to-day operations – getting deep into the weeds of servicing a customer’s car, whether he’s vacuuming some deep-rooted grime out of the upholstery or running out to grab his team lunch in the middle of a busy week.”

If you were to walk into his store on any given day, it’s likely you’d find him alongside his brother Mark – who runs their day-to-day operations – getting deep into the weeds of servicing a customer’s car, whether he’s vacuuming some deeprooted grime out of the upholstery or running out to grab his team lunch in the middle of a busy week.

“I do everything I can to help out and work side by side with the team. I’m not just a boss giving orders,” Lambie said. “If I want my team to succeed, I need to do my job as a leader to show them the way.” in Troy, Michigan and opened his store in the summer of 2019. Today, the store has grown widely-popular in the community, especially as the reliance on personal vehicles is at an all-time high amid the pandemic.

Lambie credits the success of his store to having an understanding of Ziebart’s customer and what they need most, since he and his wife were once customers themselves.

Lead by Example Lambie learned first-hand from his military experience that the only way to earn the respect of your team is to work right alongside them. In turn, “leading from the front” has carried over into running his Ziebart store.

Communication is Key In the military, Nick Lambie traveled all over the world and met people of different ethnicities and backgrounds within his unit and in the outside world. One of the most important things he learned during this time is that communication and being able to connect with others is not only important to your success, but gratifying to open your mind to new people, personalities and cultures.

Lambie strives to communicate often with his team members and to build meaningful, personal connections with them on a daily basis. This means if a team member is having a great week and has been going above and beyond to get their tasks done and done well, they are acknowledged and rewarded. He recognizes that in order to create that essential team connection,

acknowledgement of one another’s successes is key, and those connections shouldn’t solely be based on proximity.

Even on the other hand, if a team member is not having such a great week, Lambie would lend an ear to understand what needs to be said or done to help that person succeed.

Open communication doesn’t stop at just team members – it expands to communication with customers as well.

Lambie’s team makes sure to send out hourly changes and updates, post all safety measures and give fair and accurate estimates of the time and money needed for a service to be completed. Their honest and transparent approach to customer communication is what keeps them coming back and safe.

It’s All in the Details At the end of the day, whether embarking on a mission overseas or taking on a day in the life of a franchise owner, it all boils down to attention to detail in order to succeed. The skills Lambie learned from his military service – understanding, a hands-on leadership approach and strong communication skills – have all led him to becoming a successful Ziebart franchisee who prides himself on the impact that he gets to make on the lives of customers in his community on a daily basis. www.ownaziebart.com

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profile: The UPS Store, Inc

After the Armed Forces

Business ownership appeals to veterans seeking post-military careers Once their service ends, veterans often expect to start a new career. In many cases, the same skills and characteristics that helped make them successful in the military, such as ambition and a drive to succeed, make veterans uniquely suited for entrepreneurial endeavours like business ownership.

Franchising is a path toward business ownership that requires strong leadership skills, so veterans are often some of the most qualified and successful prospective franchise owners. According to the Veterans Transition Franchise Initiative (VetFran), a strategic initiative of the International Franchise Association and the Franchise Education and Research Foundation, at least 97 percent of franchisors believe veterans would make excellent franchisees; 70 percent have brought on a veteran franchisee or employee in the last year alone.

“The skills veterans develop through their military experience are integral to pursuing a new career,” said Tim Davis, president of The UPS Store, Inc. and former U.S. Marine Corps captain and Gulf War veteran. “Franchising presents a great opportunity for veterans to utilize the unique skillsets they developed in the service while also developing additional traits necessary for business ownership.”

Leadership. Work ethic. Discipline. These

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qualities are exactly what help more than 200 veteran The UPS Store franchisees succeed.

• Working as a team: The success of an organization relies on its members working together and a recognition that the business is greater than the sum of its parts. Many veterans learn to rely on their fellow service men and women; franchise owners must embrace teamwork at multiple levels, from employees of the local franchise to the franchise’s national and regional leadership team.

• Executing a plan: Although a franchise owner typically has access to a proven business model and ongoing support, executing the plan is the franchisee’s responsibility. Putting the pieces together and developing a working business plan requires an entrepreneurial approach similar to the military training veterans received.

• Thriving under pressure: Things don’t always go according to plan, and service members possess the training and discipline to remain calm in pressure-filled situations. For best results when navigating situations like disgruntled customers or employees, a level-headed approach often prevails.

• Working hard to accomplish a goal: Not all business owners have the level of commitment and work ethic necessary to accomplish their entrepreneurial goals. Service members are trained to understand the requirements of a mission and work diligently to achieve them.

Financing a franchise dream Through its participation in VetFran, The UPS Store, Inc., makes it easier for veterans to attain their post-military professional goals.

“Becoming a franchise owner is a big decision, which means it’s important to thoroughly research potential opportunities and carefully review all the available documents.”

For example, its “Mission: Veteran Entrepreneurship” program offers nearly $300,000 in financial incentives to assist qualified U.S. military veterans in opening their own franchise locations. In addition, the first 10 eligible veterans to submit a complete buyer’s application packet and initial application fee by Nov. 11 will receive a waiver for their franchise license fees.

To learn more about franchise opportunities and special incentives for veterans, visit theupsstorefranchise.com/ veteran.

Before You Buy a Franchise Becoming a franchise owner is a big decision, which means it’s important to thoroughly research potential opportunities and carefully review all the available documents. In most cases, you will have an interview with the franchisor, which is not only a chance for him or her to assess your abilities but also for you to ask questions like these that can give you more perspective.

1. How mature is the brand?

Some franchise systems are backed by a nationally renowned brand name and decades of franchise experience. A mature

brand with a proven track record of success can be especially beneficial for a first-time business owner.

2. Will training be provided?

that can thrive even in the face of market volatility.

4. What type of marketing, advertising and promotion do you provide?

While you can generally expect to receive marketing assistance and grand opening guidance when first opening a franchise business, the type of marketing and advertising support provided beyond that can vary greatly among franchisors.

A good franchise will be committed to helping you succeed by providing the tools and training necessary to get you started on the right foot. The best franchise opportunities will offer a comprehensive training program that covers more than just basic operational procedures, but also provides ongoing assistance. Ask if there is a support team you can reach out to with questions. Also find out how the brand’s franchisees work collaboratively to learn from one another and help each other succeed.

5. What is the total short and long-term financial commitment?

3. How stable is the industry?

The costs associated with opening a franchise business can be a significant factor in finding the right opportunity.

Some franchisors offer financing options, as well as special incentives for veterans, women and minorities; certain business models; or opening a location in specific geographic areas.

It’s impossible to guarantee the success of a business regardless of the state of the economy. However, some industries are more recession-resistant than others.

Those that offer essential products and services that remain in demand or those that flourish due to tough economic conditions are typically among the best franchise opportunities. If you’re exploring opening a franchise business as a means of controlling your own employment and financial security, consider an industry

It’s important to discuss all initial and ongoing fees in depth with the franchisor before committing to buy. Keep in mind that you will also need enough operating capital to support the business until it breaks even. The franchisor should be able to give you an idea of how long it typically takes franchisees in the network to become profitable.

6. Do you offer funding, incentives or deals?

To learn more about franchise opportunities and special incentives for veterans, visit www.theupsstorefranchise.com/veteran

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expert advice: Sam Ballas | Founder and CEO | East Coast Wings + Grill

How to Harness the Elevated Relationships with Franchisees How Companies Can Maintain Momentum of Engaged Franchisees to their core – leaving owners with a multitude of questions and franchisors with little turnaround time for answers.

The franchise companies that deployed effective responses and overcame the hardships brought on by the pandemic, like East Coast Wings + Grill, share a key similarity: they demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their franchisees.

Sam Ballas

The relationship between franchisor and franchisee is absolutely critical to the success of a company.

This is true no matter what the circumstances are, but the stakes are seemingly more intense in times of crisis and uncertainty – much like the coronavirus pandemic.

As many franchise businesses can attest, COVID-19 rocked daily operations

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ECW+G has always been data driven and hyper focused on unit-level economics, and that focus did not change in with the arrival of the pandemic. In fact, it only reinforced our efforts and, in turn, those efforts continue to solidify our outstanding relationships with our franchisees.

For other franchisors looking to create similar bonds with their owners, here are three ways to harness, elevate and leverage franchisee relationships for the betterment of your company.

Set the Tone Early On When you speak with franchise prospects and candidates, many will cite “culture” and “support” as reasons why they’re

looking at specific companies to invest in. To that point, franchisors have a lot to gain, and potentially lose, when it comes to setting the tone early with its owners.

At ECW+G, we pride ourselves on the relationship we have with franchisees and the internal culture we espouse – one built on support, commitment, trust and data-driven strategies and tactics. From the onset of the pandemic, we wasted no time updating and implementing new operation procedures to reflect the current realities our franchisees were facing. These updates included refining labor models, revisiting financial-analysis programs, providing timely white papers, supply chain inventory, COVID educed unit level breakeven models, debt/ rent deferment strategy, pivoting our business model to emphasize delivery and curbside options, and more.

As a franchisor, one of your first priorities, and arguably the most important, for you to focus on is setting the tone with your franchisees. Ensure they understand you are there to support them at the beginning and through the duration of any storm.

Keep Open Lines of Communication

two requires a constant commitment to keep lines of communication open.

In any successful relationship, communication is key. The presence, or lack of, of open and honest communication will play an essential role in determining a company’s success.

Continue Moving Forward

In today’s world, business owners are being challenged by some of the toughest realities ever faced. The value and importance of providing frequent and transparent communication to franchisees cannot be overstated.

For example, to keep our franchisees looped in and sustain their faith in us as a supportive franchisor, ECW+G provided constant updates where the brand was in its response process and shifted monthly conference calls to biweekly. We even provided templated letters franchisees could send landlords for rent relief and banks for loan deferments. These enhanced communication measures allowed us to give real-time updates, share strategies and provide a solid shoulder for owners to lean on during these hard times.

Franchisees want to hear from their franchisor just as much as the franchisor wants to hear from the franchisees. A positive, elevated relationship between the

The pandemic inspired a lot of questions and uncertainty. Just because there are so many unknowns, however, does not mean the creative process should halt. Quite the opposite; for the sake of their franchisees’ success, franchisors must maintain momentum and continue moving the brand forward.

We at ECW+G realized it was more important than ever to continue to entice potential guests with deals and initiatives, like timely promos around Father’s Day and National Chicken Wing Day. We also introduced new items to keep our menu fresh and seasonal.

However, it was equally just as important to respond to the new realities and consumer behaviors the pandemic brought on. As such, we enhanced our pay-at-thetable experience, fast-tracked and launched a brand-new app, and introduced both a curbside pickup and delivery service.

Franchisees need assurance from their franchisor that they’re doing everything they can to continue driving business into their locations. By implementing new initiatives and responding effectively

to everchanging consumer habits, the franchisor is taking a forward-thinking approach that will keep franchisees happy and satisfied.

The lifeline between franchisor and franchisee is being analyzed, prioritized and scrutinized more now than ever before. To set your company apart and make sure you end up on the positive end of this spectrum, it’s crucial to elevate the relationships with your franchisees and harness those them to your benefit.

By setting the tone early, keeping lines of communication open and maintaining forward momentum, franchisors give themselves the best opportunity leverage those relationships to drive the company forward.

Sam Ballas is the Founder/CEO of East Coast Wings + Grill and CEO of ZorAbility, an advisory and investment strategy firm. In addition to being in the c-suite for two different companies, Ballas also serves on International Franchise Association (IFA) Board of Directors. Ballas graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1989 and six years later in 1995, founded ECW+G. Under his leadership, ECW+G has won several awards and accolades.

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profile: fit20

fit20 USA welcomes Raymond Kusch

as its newest shareholder and member of the board of directors

With studios in Virginia, Florida, and Michigan, fit20 is a unique concept that provides a private, noise-free environment geared to accommodate busy schedules and reflect personal physical requirements, featuring a 20-minute weekly session with a certified personal trainer.

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“We are honored to have such a dynamic and compelling investor as Raymond join the fit20 USA team,” said Aqil Radjab, CEO. “He has overcome so much and is an inspiration for so many. We look forward to his insights and advice as we grow our franchise program in the U.S.” Kusch was looking for the next big thing and believes fit20 is it; a simple, effective way for maintaining strength and vitality as people age. “As a veteran and a disabled person, I know I need to stay fit, but finding the time and the right place is challenging,” said Kusch. “The science behind fit20 substantiates the fact that 20 minutes per week with a personal trainer has an amazing impact. I could not be more

motivated to be part of an organization like fit20 that is able to help people of all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels, including veterans and those living with disabilities.

This concept truly is the perfect ‘fit’ for anybody.

Kusch went into the Army after high school and in 2012 was severely injured from an IED blast. The explosion ultimately caused him to lose his left leg, among many other injuries, from which he spent three years recovering. Not

willing to let his injuries hold him back, Kusch went on to attend the University of Michigan-Flint and graduated in December as a recipient of the distinguished Maize and Blue Award, the highest academic honor bestowed upon a student. Kusch played club hockey while in college and earned a Team USA selection for the 2020 International Disabled Hockey World Cup. He was also named USA Hockey’s 2020 Disabled Athlete of the Year. Kusch was recently accepted into Notre Dame’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) dual degree program.

Kusch has founded and owned multiple businesses, including UMG Events, LLC, and American Professional Gutters.

Currently, Kusch is the founder and CEO of Kinvesting, LLC, which is a consulting and investment firm for small businesses.

Adding fit20 to his successful investment portfolio aligns with his commitment to help others live better lives through business. “There is no reason fit20 can’t be in every community in America in the next few years, and I’m excited to be a partner helping make that happen.”

The fit20 concept is unique as its members meet weekly with a personal trainer for an intense slow-motion resistance training session to ensure a safe and highly effective workout experience. A circuit of specialized strength training machines is used to create a full-body workout that increases strength and vitality. The key elements of the fit20 training approach include: • always with a personal trainer and by appointment • exercise without changing clothes or showering in a climate-controlled environment • no distracting music, mirrors or group workouts • only 20 minutes per week After nine years of development, Walter Vendel, the founder and CEO of fit20 Franchise BV, opened the first fit20 studio in Zwolle, The Netherlands. There are now more than 18,000 members in over 150 fit20 studios worldwide including The

About fit20 USA

free introductory training. There is no

fit20 is a unique, high-intensity, 20minute training method that improves strength, vitality, and mental focus.

You always work with a specialized personal trainer in a private, noise-free environment geared to accommodate busy schedules and reflect personal physical requirements. Your oncea-week training session is by appointment, so you never waste time waiting. The climate-controlled environment offers state-of-the-art equipment with individualized attention – no group workouts, distracting music or mirrors. Sign up online here:

than trying this method firsthand.

fit20usa.com/Free-training/

obligation to join, but nothing is better Follow fit20 on Twitter @fit20USA and on Facebook.com/fit20USA. Visit fit20usa.com to learn more.

About fit20 USA Franchising fit20 USA is a Master Franchisee of fit20 BV based in the Netherlands.

Offering a single-Studio and a Regional Developer franchise program, fit20 USA Franchising is focused on rapid expansion across the U.S. with strategic partners. For more information on the franchise programs

or call 833-fit20-US for your “FIT” --

visit www.fit20usafranchise.com

Netherlands, Belgium, USA, UK, Qatar, New Zealand, Germany, the Caribbean, France and Sweden. Studios are expected to open in three more countries by the end of the year. fit20 USA is a master franchisee of fit20 Franchise BV.

a single-Studio model and the Regional Developer option for markets with 1M or more in population. “By working with strategic partners in key markets who operate Studios and support independent franchisees, we can meet the demand for strength training quickly and effectively,” said Litalien.

According to Chief Development Officer, Dr. Ben Litalien, “We couldn’t ask for a better first investment partner. Raymond is committed to our concept of fitness programming to increase strength and vitality. I am confident that his insights and influence will bring significant and strategic value to our U.S. expansion efforts.” The fit20 USA strategy features

fit20 USA will open a new flagship location in Liberty Place in September, the new residential and retail building in downtown Fredericksburg, and will include a conference center and state-of-the-art training facilities to accommodate the growing national franchise.

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profile: Postal Connections

As a Postal Business Franchisee, I Launched a Nonprofit to Benefit Homeless Veterans – Here’s Why Nationwide, there are more than 40,000 homeless veterans, with majority of whom have served in wars ranging from World War II to the Korean War; the Cold War and the Vietnam War; as well as the Persian Gulf War and in Afghanistan and Iraq.

At least one-third of homeless veterans have been stationed in a war zone, and twothirds have served our country for at least three years.

As a veteran myself and a business owner, I have made it my goal to positively impact veterans in need, which is why in 2018, I co-founded Beds4Vets, a 501c (3) non-profit organization with the mission to help veterans as they transition from homelessness to living in their own apartment or house.

Founded by myself; Zachary Bagdon, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and a member of the U.S. Naval Order, the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and the Military Officer Association of America; and Justin Czerwinski, Marine Corp veteran, now retired from the organization, Beds4Vets helps fill the gaps in existing government programs while giving thanks to homeless veterans for their service by helping them get the

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essentials they need to comfortably live in their own home.

Although the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) assists homeless veterans in finding permanent housing, they lack the funds to furnish these spaces. So, we work directly with the Veteran Affairs social workers to provide recently housed veterans with household items like beds, kitchen tables, linens and cooking utensils.

The process starts with a veteran being placed in permanent housing, followed by Beds4Vets providing the social worker with a check list of items we can provide.

The social worker then reviews the list with the veteran to determine what household items are needed. Upon receipt of the list, we purchase the items through the many vendors we work with to meet the veteran’s needs. Finally, these items are delivered directly to the veteran by UPS and FedEx to respect the privacy of the individual.

The impact we have on these veterans’ lives makes such a difference and helps reduce the risk of reverting back to a life of homelessness. Keeping veterans off the streets requires more than a roof – it requires the veteran to build out a social network and develop a sense of pride in their home. Those are hard things to do when you don’t have a bed to sleep in, a chair to sit on or the kitchenware necessary to prepare food.

is that our organization helps recognize

We are excited to be able to provide support through our Beds4Vets organization, which is 100 percent volunteer based. As a possible result of deployment or other life events, veterans can often face homelessness, and our hope

help veterans make an empty apartment or

our veterans’ great service and sacrifice by helping them settle into safe, comfortable housing.

We are filling a need by providing essential household items to newly-housed veterans, helping to improve their physical and

psychological well-being by increasing

their social interaction and giving them a sense of belonging. We’re so proud to house feel more like a home.

Visit beds4vets.org or

www.postalconnections.com/franchiseopportunities

Assisted Living Locators Assisted Living Locators provides the vital function to seniors and their families of identifying their ideal alternative living solutions and other related services – all at no cost to them.

Our proprietary evaluation system results in free residential referrals that enable our clients to make the best possible decisions for their loved ones. Our elder care advisors are trained to find solutions that meet our clients’ needs and to personally accompany them on guided tours of facilities that match their individual preferences.

Ours is a truly turn-key program that puts our owners on the path to success through a proven executive business model with high profit margins, low overhead, minimum employees,

Business Finance Depot

repeat referrals, and residual income. Even more importantly, many of the industry’s most desired areas of the country remain available for new development.

If you’re aware of the unsurpassed value of the assisted living market, if you’ve always dreamed about the freedom and independence that business ownership could bring you, and if you’ve been waiting for the perfect, local, affordable opportunity to carve out your piece of the industry, Assisted Living Locators may be just the match you’ve been seeking.

For more information please contact Mary Ann Russo or Tom Ingle at: Phone: 800-267-7816 Email: franchise@assistedlivinglocators.com Website: www.assistedlivinglocators.com

Business Finance Depot specializes in packaging equipment leases and SBA Express Working Capital loans for start-up and existing businesses.

Our company also works with SBA 7(a) lenders, alternate financing sources, crowd funding financing sources and companies that specialize in using retirement funds to capitalize a new business. Please visit our website for more information.

Our main clients are franchisors seeking financing for their new franchisees and manufacturers seeking financing for their equipment purchases.

Website: www.businessfinancedepot.com Email: paul@businessfinancedepot.com Phone: (800) 788-3884 Contact: Paul Bosley

caring transitions

with the hassles or laws that involve elderly medical care, though you might want to invest in knowing the companies that do supply such services in your area. Many times our services are needed in order to fulfill the lifestyle changes recommended by healthcare professionals, so putting your leads into contact with upstanding medical professionals can create a favorable impression that causes them to return to you for help with non-medical side of their changing circumstances.

Caring Transitions is a solution-oriented company, and we accomplish this by bringing three services under one roof that are normally all accomplished by separate companies. The three services we combine to provide unique solutions for our customers are: • Senior Relocation • Estate Sales • Downsizing & Decluttering One final thing – we are NOT a medical service company. As a franchisee, you will not be dealing

Clayton Kendall Clayton Kendall provides comprehensive branded merchandise programs for franchise communities nationwide, resulting in greater brand exposure, cost-savings, streamlined operations and brand compliance.

Phone: 1-800-647-0766 Email: CaringTransitionsFranchising@gmail.com Website: https://caringtransitionsfranchise.com

We provide marketing collateral, signage, POP displays, printed materials, promotional products and apparel. Our services include graphic design, merchandising, sourcing, warehousing and fulfillment, kitting and proprietary technology with advanced management reports. All programs are scalable and can be customized to the unique needs of your community. Customer service is our forte.

With a customized online store as the organizing principle, our websites give users the ability to purchase their advertising and marketing tools in one easy to use program.

Contact: Dan Broudy CFE, Chief Executive Officer Phone:412-798-7120 Email: dan@claytonkendall.com Website: www.claytonkendall.com

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Excellent for branding and recognition.

A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business, giving you a presence within our publication and also the Franchising USA website.

Each detailed, full colour A-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

Choose a 12 or 6 month package or simply add the A-Z directory onto your Focus, Profile or Ad! To learn about the A-Z directory or any other products please contact Vikki Bradbury: advertising@cgbpublishing.com or 778-426-2446

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FirstLight Home Care FirstLight Home Care offers comprehensive, inhome, non-medical and personal care services to seniors, new mothers, disabled adults and others needing assistance.

FirstLight’s team brings more than 170 years of collaborative experience in health care, franchising and senior services, creating FirstLight’s Culture of Care foundation.

The last 10 years, we’ve received numerous awards, most recently including ranking among Entrepreneur Top 500 Franchises, Forbes’ Best Franchises to Buy,

FranFund, Inc. An IFA supplier forum member and recognized as the #1 franchise funding supplier by Entrepreneur, FranFund, designs smart all-in-one funding plans that grow with franchise businesses.

No matter where you are in your journey of business ownership – whether you are considering leaving your current job to start a new venture or if you are looking to expand your existing operation – we are here to help. Through a personal and painless process, FranFund helps solidify your dreams of franchise ownership while positioning you for long-term success.

We offer ongoing support and make sure you know all of your options for funding single units through multi-unit expansions

Franchise Payments Network Franchise Payments Network (a.k.a. FPN) is the only merchant services company focused exclusively on franchising. Since 2006, we have served over 190 franchise brands and we’ve grown a reputation as a premier vendor in the franchise industry.

Our goal is to help both franchisors and franchisees save money on every transaction. We offer competitive payment processing rates and excellent customer service. More importantly, we assist franchise organizations with payment security and compliance

Fresh Coat The average Fresh Coat on average earns 41.22% gross profit and $507,883.18 in revenue!* (*See Item 19 of our April 1, 2018 Franchise Disclosure Document for details. Based on data reported by franchisees that were open and operating full-time for at least 1 year for the period ending December 31, 2017 and that reported Gross Revenues and income statements. A new franchise owner’s results may differ.

Our owners continually testify about the amazing amount of help they receive from our company. From coaching and onboarding, to marketing and operational support, we guide you every step of the way.

Marketing Support & Operation Support – At Fresh Coat, our franchisees are constantly surrounded by support from both

Home Technology Handyman As you know by now, the Home Automation industry is growing at record rates. All around the world, people are beginning view Connected Home products as an essential component of their lifestyle. They’re looking to integrate technology into their homes to make their lives easier, safer and more convenient.

There’s no doubt that this industry will continue to grow. In effect, the need for connected home professionals to install and integrate this technology will grow right along with it.

If owning your own Smart Home Franchise through Home Technology Handyman has piqued your interest, there’s never been a better time to see what we’re all about!

What exactly does a Home Technology Handyman do?

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& Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises for franchisee satisfaction. In the $80 billion home care, demand for our services already exceeds market supply in many areas. In 2015, the babyboomers turning age 65 in the U.S. reached 10,000 per day! By 2025, it will grow to nearly 72 million.

We’re looking for people who are passionate and strive to provide exceptional service. If you want to make a difference in people’s lives while building a powerful business, THIS is this franchise for you.

Phone: 866-985-4031 Email: jdavis@firstlighthomecare.com Website: Firstlightfranchise.com

including SBA loans, conventional lending, and retirement plan funding with a risk-free SafetyNet® option.

By utilizing our franchise-specific pre-qualification tool and cultivating an extensive network of lenders who are franchise and small business-friendly, clients pre-approved by FranFund have a loan approval rate of 99%.

We believe delivering an exceptional customer experience is just as important as providing high-quality products and services and are proud of our high level of customer satisfaction.

Contact: Tim Seiber, CFE Phone: 817-730-4500 Email: info@franfund.com Website: www.franfund.com

to minimize the risk of breaches that could place brand equity in jeopardy.

Our team of franchising experts can enhance the consumer experience through secure payment acceptance on any device. Whether it’s online, through a smartphone or tablet, or our many POS integrations, we tailor our services to each individual brand for efficient operations.

Contact: Tom Epstein Phone: (866) 420-4613 Email: tomepstein@franchisepayments.net Website: www.franchisepayments.net

our Marketing Department and our Operations Team. We have national and local marketing initiatives and resources to drive customers to your place of business, and experts to guide and coach you for as long as you own your Fresh Coat franchise.

Fresh Coat is committed to leading the painting industry by driving platinum level customer service delivered by a team of professionals and painting experts. To do this, our franchisees only hire the most skilled and experienced painters, allowing their franchise businesses to offer 6 unique services. Your painters provide positive experiences from the initial quote to final touch-ups.

Phone: (513) 605-4877 Email: freshcoatpaintersfranchise@gmail.com Website: www.freshcoatfranchise.com

We’re a home service provider, just like a plumber or electrician. Our technicians are the trusted resource for sales, service and installation of home technology products to customers of all income brackets.

From basic service calls to turn-key projects, Home Technology Handyman can handle it all. Our most popular services include: • Connected Home Devices & Systems • Home Networking • Audio/Video Systems • Home Theater • Surveillance Cameras • TV Mounting • Remote Control Systems • Basic Lighting Control • Security Systems We want you to Take Control of Your Future!

Contact Jack Beeckman at: Ph: 888-303-4191 Email: franchise@hometechnologyone.com Website: hometechnologyhandyman.com/franchise

International Franchise Professionals Group

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.

Lifted

Lifted’s inventory exemplifies the brand’s serious commitment to quality products; but not without playful elements such as, the Lifted Candy Bar, where customers can choose from an array of CBD-infused sweets, treats and edibles. Lifted has an educational shopping experience where the sales team does not follow like a shadow, they lead as a guide. The aesthetics of the brand further lend themselves to the name with a sleek, modern FFE package and colors that are fresh and crisp. In every way, Lifted is truly an elevated experience.

Lifted, An Elevated Experience is a Hemp/CBD shopping experience. Stepping into the retail environment at Lifted, it only takes a few seconds to realize why the consumer’s needs are so readily met, as this is not the typical Hemp/CBD shopping experience.

The space is laid out in such a way that the flow lends itself to making the most of the square footage - which is modest, by some retail standards and yet, is comfortable and inviting; creating ease and efficiency for hemp/CBD consumers of every experience level. This design also reinforces Lifted’s respect for the consumer’s time, as well as their own.

Contact: Gary Gale Norris Phone: 336-477-3693 Email: admin1@liftedclt.com Website: www.Liftedclt.com

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Excellent for branding and recognition.

A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business, giving you a presence within our publication and also the Franchising USA website.

Each detailed, full colour A-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

Nathan’s Famous, Inc. NEW YORK IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA, which is why - after over 100 years as one of New York’s most famous restaurant brands - anyone can walk into a Nathan’s Famous Restaurant anywhere in the world and experience the best of the New York Casual Food scene.

Universally regarded as the “Flavor of New York”, Nathan’s Famous’ menu focuses on four food pillars: World-Famous Hot Dogs & Fries; Premium Subs, including Angus Ribeye New York Cheesesteaks by Pat LaFrieda; Best-in-class, cooked-to-order burger with our proprietary Best Burger Pledge™, and Hand-Breaded Chicken and Onion Rings.

Our restaurant system includes over 250 restaurants

Office Evolution Founded in 2003 and franchising since 2012, the Colorado-based company is the largest and fastest growing coworking franchisor in the United States.

Office Evolution currently has 70 locations open with a projected 80 open by year end. The brand has nearly 140 units sold in markets across the country and is poised for further growth as the demand for suburban workspace continues to rise. The brand’s model fills a niche for suburban-based workers looking for a professional environment to get their work done.

Choose a 12 or 6 month package or simply add the A-Z directory onto your Focus, Profile or Ad! To learn about the A-Z directory or any other products please contact Vikki Bradbury: advertising@cgbpublishing.com or 778-426-2446

worldwide, with adaptable, locally sourced menus and prototypes. Nathan’s Famous branded products are currently distributed globally, including packaged hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, onion rings and more. Our world-famous hot dogs are served in a multitude of outlets, including movie theatres, bowling centers, cruise ships, and casinos. And with more than 28 billion views worldwide of our cult-favorite Hot Dog Eating contest last Fourth of July, Nathan’s Famous’ claim to the cuisine and culture of New York isn’t just authentic, it’s proprietary.

Contact: James Walker Phone: 516-338-8500 Email: jwalker@nathansfamous.com Website: www.nathansfamous.com

Office Evolution is helping thousands of business owners be dreamers, risk-takers, and doers by providing them with access to professional services that will help them drive their business forward.

Office Evolution continues to lead the workplace transformation that is projected to see nearly 30 percent of all office space become shared office space by 2030, according to a JLL report. Office Evolution is currently operating in more than 24 states across the nation.

For more information about Office Evolution, please visit www.OfficeEvolution.com and www.OfficeEvolutionFranchise.com

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pet wants Pet Wants creates fresh and all-natural pet food and delivers it to our customers on a monthly, subscription basis...that ensures the food is fresh for the pets and that you generate consistent and ongoing revenue streams.

As a franchise owner, you will need to share this love of pets and their well-being. But no experience is needed. No matter if you start in your home, a small office or store, we teach you everything you need to know about operating and growing a successful pet food business.

franchising usa A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business, giving you a presence within our publication and also the Franchising USA website.

Each detailed, full colour A-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

PropertyGuys.com INC. PropertyGuys.com has created a marketing system that is transparent and includes a community of real estate professionals who are empowered through technology – providing the customer with a true endto-end experience.

We have reconstructed how real estate is bought and sold. We’re NOT real estate agents or brokers, we’re something very different, something we believe is much better.

We provide sellers with all the tools required to successfully and confidently sell their property on

SOCi SOCi is an all-in-one localized marketing platform built for multilocation businesses that allows them to post to social media networks, manage reviews, update online listings and deploy social media ads at scale, down to each location.

Re-Bath In an industry of independent home remodeling contractors, Re-Bath stands out as a unified, trusted national brand. Re-Bath is known for providing expert, affordable and effortless bathroom remodeling solutions that transform homeowners’ bathrooms in days, not weeks. We offer a spirit of innovation and an alternative to cover-up or overpriced remodeling.

We handle both the design and the installation – it’s a branded, one-stop customer experience that the industry sorely needs. We are the go-to resource for bathroom remodeling in the markets our franchisees currently serve, and our national reputation strengthens as we continue to connect the dots across the country.

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You just need a passion for pets, the drive for success and the ability to follow our proven operating system.

In return, you will be rewarded with the great benefits of being a business owner. Bottom line, this is a fulfilling, financially rewarding and enjoyable “people and pets” business.

Contact: Beth Boecker Phone: 513-331-3647 Email: bbboecker@strategicfranchising.com Website: www.petwantsfranchise.com

Excellent for branding and recognition.

Choose a 12 or 6 month package or simply add the A-Z directory onto your Focus, Profile or Ad! To learn about the A-Z directory or any other products please contact Vikki Bradbury: advertising@cgbpublishing.com or 778-426-2446

their own at a fixed rate, not a percentage of the value of the home.

Ultimately, we help buyers and sellers avoid the high cost of commission by connecting directly.

We have experience two decades of franchise success and along the way, have been honored with many awards and acclamations. Franchisees benefit from the knowledge and skill of our award-winning franchise system.

Contact: Franchising Team Phone: 844-333-7017 Email: opportunities@propertyguys.com Website: www.propertyguys.com

In times of crisis and changing business dynamics, SOCi empowers businesses to reach customers locally with urgent messaging that is relevant to current operations, offers, and opportunities. www.meetsoci.com

Of course, it helps to have the trust of renowned companies like Home Depot. Re-Bath is the nation’s largest complete bathroom remodeling franchise with presence in more than 150 cities and 43 states.

The ideal candidate for Re-Bath should have sales, marketing, and/or management experience and be extremely results oriented. Construction knowledge is not required. You must have a minimum of $100,000 in liquid capital, and be ready to make a full-time commitment.

Contact: Samantha Wilson Phone: 866-721-7761 Email: swilson@sfdpros.com Website: www.rebathfranchise.com

StretchLab Founded in 2015, StretchLab is the first boutique health and wellness franchise that offers one-on-one assisted stretching services in a fun, energetic and communal environment.

It is designed to increase mobility and flexibility, helping to reduce pain, decrease muscle aches, improve posture, reduce recovery time and enhance quality of life.

Guided by highly-trained Flexologists™ in a one-on-one or group atmosphere, StretchLab is

Veterans Business Services Veterans Business Services provides the most advantageous franchise acquisition terms for Veterans and provides innovative entrepreneurial training for qualified Veterans seeking grants under the VA Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

Veterans Business Services (“VBS”) specializes in entrepreneurial opportunities for Veterans and has an extensive reach into the Veterans community and can generate significant interest from qualified Veterans who wish to start a franchise or small business.

VBS offers multiple marketing methods that have proven effective with helping franchise organizations with their expansion plans. Utilizing custom email marketing

Window World Window World is the largest window replacement and exterior home remodeling franchise in the United States, with over 18 million windows sold to date.

Window World’s commitment to industry-backed, energy-efficient products and services is a determining factor when consumers choose Window World to improve their homes.

Window World Window World is the largest window replacement and exterior home remodeling franchise in the United States, with over 18 million windows sold to date.

revolutionizing the stretching industry through its approach to help clients of all ages, fitness levels, genders and sizes achieve deeper stretches that allow them to reach individual wellness goals.

Headquartered in Irvine, CA, StretchLab is backed

by Xponential Fitness, a curator of popular boutique fitness brands.

Contact: Martin Balcaitis Phone: (949) 326-9765 Email: martin@stretchlab.com Website: https://stretchlab.com

campaigns, news press releases, and online franchising e-magazine articles, VBS gets the message to qualified Veterans who are invested in starting a franchise.

VBS supports service disabled Veterans who are enrolled in the self-employment track within the Veterans Administration and provides outreach efforts to transitioning military through TAP and ACAP programs. As a graduate business of the Entrepreneurial Bootcamp for Veterans (“EBV”), we also assist other graduates of EBV and provide coaching support through mentoring programs. VBS is where Veterans turn to make their franchise dreams a reality.

Contact: James Mingey Phone: 202-349-0860 Email: info@veteransbusinessservices.us Website: www.veteransbusinessservices.us

Operating from the corporate headquarters in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and in markets across the country at over 200 franchise locations, Window World is poised to provide next-level window installation and home remodeling services to Americans nationwide.

For more information contact Zach Luffman, Director of Franchising at: Phone: 1-866-740-2100 Email: ZLuffman@WindowWorld.com Website: www.windowworldfranchise.com

Operating from the corporate headquarters in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and in markets across the country at over 200 franchise locations, Window World is poised to provide next-level window installation and home remodeling services to Americans nationwide.

Window World’s commitment to industry-backed, energy-efficient products and services is a determining factor when consumers choose Window World to improve their homes.

For more information contact Zach Luffman, Director of Franchising at: Phone: 1-866-740-2100 Email: ZLuffman@WindowWorld.com Website: www.windowworldfranchise.com

franchising usa

Excellent for branding and recognition.

A-Z Listings are a great way to promote your business, giving you a presence within our publication and also the Franchising USA website.

Each detailed, full colour A-Z listing comes with a 150 word write up and your logo.

Choose a 12 or 6 month package or simply add the A-Z directory onto your Focus, Profile or Ad! To learn about the A-Z directory or any other products please contact Vikki Bradbury: advertising@cgbpublishing.com or 778-426-2446

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