Franchise Consultant Magazine - September 2022

FRANCHISE CONSULTANT

SEPTEMBER 2022

Leadership & Support DYNAMIC DUO

First Financial’s Dan Pace and Cindy Watson on successful leadership PLUS

IFPG Goes to Philly

WE NEVER STOP LEADING • TRAILBLAZING • CREATING • INNOVATING • EVOLVING

IMPROVING • SUPPORTING • HELPING • GROWING • ASPIRING • CARING

BUILDING • DREAMING • IMPACTING • PERFECTING • DEVELOPING

CHANGING LIVES THROUGH FRANCHISE OWNERSHIP

Voted No. 1 Franchise Broker Network 4 Years in a Row!

THANK YOU IFPG MEMBERS FOR MAKING IT ALL POSSIBLE!

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18

INSIDE September 2022

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FRANCHISE CONSULTANT

SEPTEMBER 2022

4

Editor's Letter

6

Dynamic Duo First Financial’s Dan Pace and Cindy Watson share their formula for successful leadership.

8

Everyday Hero Servant leadership is at the core of Window Hero’s franchise opportunity.

10

Home Run Joe Homebuyer’s simple solutions help entrepreneurs thrive in the real estate business.

Leadership & Support DYNAMIC DUO

First Financial’s Dan Pace and Cindy Watson on successful leadership PLUS

12

Taking Center Stage Showhomes Home Services was the perfect next step for Jamie and Jason Decatur.

14

IFPG Goes to Philly The IFPG gang heads to the City of Brotherly Love for a memorable Regional Discovery Mixer.

16

Focused on Service Support for franchisees is a mainstay for the AtWork franchise.

18

All-In Passion is at the heart of the Naturals2Go business opportunity.

20

Stellar by Design

IFPG Goes to Philly

ON THE COVER Dan Pace and Cindy Watson are the husband-and-wife team behind First Financial, a Florida-based company that provides funding solutions for first-time business owners. They have helped countless people realize their dreams of business ownership. As leaders, they believe in surrounding themselves with a talented team and offering the right training and education to ensure the success of hopeful entrepreneurs.

The name says it all for the newly formed Stellar Service Brands franchise umbrella.

26

The Power of Great Leadership Franchisors share their insights on the role of support and leadership in a franchise system.

PLEASE NOTE The articles featured in this magazine are considered sponsored advertising content.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Leading the Way

MEMBERSHIP Has Its Privileges Networking • Exposure Education

NOT AN IFPG MEMBER? LEARN MORE IFPG Membership call: 888-977-IFPG, ext. 110

E FRANCHISNT CONSULTA

FRANCHIS

E CONSULTANT

JULY 2022

FRANCHISE

JUNE 2022

FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE THROUGH FRANCHISING

CONSULTANT AUGUST 2022

MAKING THE GRADE

PET PROJECT The making of the ultimate healthy pet store franchise

Mathnasium scores high in franchisee and customer satisfaction

A DOG’S LIFE PLUS: Big-time fun at the IFPG Regionals

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel leads the pack in pet boarding

PLUS:

Brands that give

back

PLUS:

Franchise culture

Franchise Consultant Magazine call: 888-977-IFPG, ext. 114

Leadership can make or break any type of group, whether it's a baseball team, a family, a school, a city or just about any organization. In franchising, leadership is everything. It's the most important aspect to any franchise. After all, the reason people invest in franchises is to follow a proven path into business ownership.

So how do you define great franchise leadership?

I asked many of our franchisor members that question and they all agree that effective leadership in franchising includes tremendous support, a clear vision, an amazing culture and engagement from all sides.

This issue has many examples. My favorite happens to be an interview with two amazing leaders from the Naturals2Go team: President Heath Falzarano and VP of Product Strategy and Operations Paul Ihn. You might think that the vending business sounds boring and doesn't require a lot in the way of leadership, but it couldn't be further from the truth. Talk to these two men for just a few minutes and you will understand. Their passion for the brand is contagious. Naturals2Go has led and supported more than 1,000 hopeful entrepreneurs into successful business ownership. Turn to page 18 to see how the Naturals2Go team has created the perfect combination of leadership, support, vision and passion.

Speaking of great leadership and support, I recently had the pleasure of attending IFPG's Regional Discovery Mixer in Philly. Bringing people together is an essential part of leadership, and it's safe to say we have nailed it at IFPG. It was fun to be part of the fast-paced day and have the opportunity to spend time with so many of our amazing members. Check out page 14 for a recap of the event.

For more leadership and support inspiration, just turn the pages.

You will hear from remarkable franchise founders (pages 8 and 10), franchisees (page 12), and of course the dynamic husband-and-wife team featured on our cover who lead First Financial (page 6). We hope their insights inspire you and give you a better understanding of what and who is behind their brands.

Jill Abrahamsen Editor-in-Chief jill@ifpg.org 888-977-IFPG, Ext. 114

Don Daszkowski

Red Boswell

Founder

President

don@ifpg.org

red@ifpg.org

888-977- IFPG

888-977- IFPG

Ext. 106

Ext. 112

the future SHORT-TERM RENTAL MANAGEMENT FRANCHISE HIGH GROWTH INDUSTRY • PROTECTED TERRITORY LOW COST OF ENTRY • HIGHLY SCALABLE

WHAT WE OFFER OUR FRANCHISEES: Robust Guest Marketing 24/7 Guest Support & Call Line Cutting Edge Technology Operations Training Ongoing Support & Coaching

learn more:

FRANCHISE@GRANDWELCOME.COM (888) 441-4218 GRANDWELCOMEFRANCHISE.COM

Leadership & Support COVER STORY | FIRST FINANCIAL

Dynamic DUO

First Financial’s Dan Pace and Cindy Watson share their formula for successful leadership

L

ike any great couple, Dan Pace and Cindy Watson enjoy a shared passion.

As founders of First Financial, they live and breathe funding and are both extremely passionate about the role they play in their clients’ journeys into business ownership.

Together, they have helped thousands of entrepreneurs obtain the funding needed to become business owners.

Anyone who has met this dynamic couple knows that they are driven by what they do.

Their commitment and dedication has fueled the company's growth since it started in 1997.

Initially, First Financial was launched to fill a void in the niche market of equipment leasing, but has grown into a leading force in small business lending. As the company's experience

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in the financial lending space grew, so did its reputation for exceptional service.

The couple attributes the company's success to their team.

“We surrounded ourselves with very talented people who share our same desire to help people chase their dreams,” says Watson.

Their team consists of several family members including two of their nephews: Tim Fitzpatrick, who serves as president, and Mike Allen, the company's chief financial officer.

SBA EXPERTISE A self-proclaimed Small Business Administration (SBA) guru, Watson says First Financial has made a huge difference for franchise brands. “We consistently help new franchisors get listed on the SBA directory through the connections we have made over the past two decades in business,” she says. “This provides franchisees another option for financing their new business and ultimately allows the franchise to expand at a much faster rate.”

As leaders, Watson and Pace believe the key ingredient to success comes down to the basics. “Training and education

TOP LEFT: Dan Pace and Cindy Watson with Terry Crispen of United Midwest Bank. TOP RIGHT: Pace and Watson with their dogs, Lulu and Elvis. ABOVE: The First Financial leadership team from left to right: Dan Pace, Mike Allen, Tim Fitzpatrick and Cindy Watson.

are so important. To help people get into successful business ownership, you have to know your product and believe in what you do,” says Pace. “You have to put in the time.”

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS Relationships are everything to Watson and Pace, including the ones with IFPG members.

“We value their partnership and appreciate their referrals.

We take every one as a vote of

confidence in our ability to help their clients obtain the necessary funding to put them in business,” Watson says.

Pace says that First Financial’s commitment to continual improvement keeps his team on its toes. “You’re only as good as your last loan,” says Pace.

—Jill Abrahamsen For more information, visit www. ffcash.com, email info@ffcash. com or call 1-800-956-7313.

September 2022 7

Leadership & Support TYLER KIRK | WINDOW HERO

Everyday HERO A Servant leadership is at the core of Window Hero’s franchise opportunity

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ll superheroes have amazing powers. Some can fly, turn invisible or lift entire buildings. But that's just in the movies. In the real world, those powers don't exist, but heroes certainly do. Everyday heroes still have great powers, but the human kind. For Window Hero founder Tyler Kirk, his superpower is resilience and hard work.

Kirk lost his hearing as a child and was always determined to be “normal.” Even though his impairment made communication and learning more difficult, he found success by working harder than anyone else and eventually earned a scholarship to play collegiate tennis.

After college, Kirk couldn't find a job he loved and decided to go into business for himself cleaning windows in 2005.

ABOUT WINDOW HERO Team building is a big part of Window Hero's culture. The company holds face-to-face meetings around fun, outdoor activities and events such as whitewater rafting and zip-lining where franchise owners can discuss challenges, swap ideas and solutions, and expand professional development. The company works hard to build camaraderie so franchise owners feel like part of something much bigger than just their businesses. Here are the qualities of an ideal franchise owner.

• • • • •

Motivated to start something new Loves to learn, lead and grow Has sufficient capital for a lasting commitment Faces challenges with tenacity and positivity Enjoys being active and has a sense of humor

Within two years, he had three trucks and six employees servicing homes full time. By 2008, several friends from college were impressed by Kirk's endeavor and wanted to copy what he'd done in their hometowns. “This is where the idea of potentially adding locations in other cities came to fruition,” he says. “From there, we grew exponentially in our Charlotte location and began franchising in 2013.”

Fast forward to today and Window Hero has expanded throughout the Southeast and continues to grow. The window cleaning franchise also offers power washing and gutter cleaning services.

EMPOWERING OTHERS As a leader, Kirk's strategy is to empower the people around him.

“I strive to build confidence in our franchise owners. It’s exciting

to see others realize they can run their businesses well and be rewarded,” he says.

He also looks for leadership skills in his franchise owners.

“Our ideal owner is someone who is influential, humble, teachable, values commitment to relationships, and has great communication skills,” he says.

Window Hero hosts adventure-driven activities to build engagement and a team environment. “An engaged franchisee is more likely to be successful. This allows owners to get to know each other better, which helps create a willingness for them to collaborate toward each of their successes,” he says.

—Jill Abrahamsen For more information, visit www.windowhero.com/franchise, or www.franchiseconsultantmag.com, company code 17951.

Window Hero has an in-house scheduling center, which takes all the calls and leads on behalf of franchise owners, allowing them to focus on the customer and their teams to produce quality work.

Services include:

• • • •

Window Cleaning Pressure Washing Gutter Cleaning Gutter Guards

September 2022 9

Leadership & Support FRANCHISOR PROFILE | JOE HOMEBUYER

HOME

RUN

Joe Homebuyer’s simple solutions help entrepreneurs thrive in the real estate business

J

oe Homebuyer co-founders Cody Hofhine and Mark Stubler are on a mission to improve lives by delivering creative real estate solutions.

They have developed a step-bystep process to sell unwanted properties and help entrepreneurs build wealth in the process — no experience necessary.

The two men have grown their franchise system with aspiring business owners in mind. They feel good about the support and guidance they offer franchisees because they have experienced their own journeys into entrepreneurship.

Stubler entered real estate as a deck and fence salesman.

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While he loved the company and was well compensated, he didn’t have the lifestyle he wanted. “I always had that entrepreneurial blood running through my veins,” Stubler says. “And for years, I kind of suppressed it because I made pretty good money. Some of us joke about the ‘golden handcuffs,’ this idea that you work for a company, get paid pretty well, and get rewarded just enough to stick around.”

Unlike Stubler, Hofhine came into real estate without any experience; prior to Joe Homebuyer, Hofhine’s only exposure to real estate was when he and his wife bought a home, but he quickly fell in love with the

industry and the possibilities to build wealth.

In 2016, the duo started the Utah-based real estate service that helps homeowners sell properties quickly without the hassle of traditional listings. The two soon saw that they had something special and launched the franchise in 2019 to expand to other markets. “We realized that we can build a system and a process where we can partner with talented individuals through the franchise model and help them really thrive in real estate using the Joe Homebuyer best practices,” Stubler says. “Joe Homebuyer has turned into something bigger than we ever imagined.”

“Joe Homebuyer has turned into something bigger than we ever imagined.”

IDEAL FRANCHISE OWNER The ideal franchisee is an ambitious individual who loves real estate and is committed to following the company's mission. No prior real estate experience is required because Joe Homebuyer’s training is comprehensive and customizable for every new franchisee.

Joe Homebuyer welcomes semi-absentee, absentee and owner/operators, and helps them establish a blueprint for successfully running their business.

Franchisees also benefit from networking with each other.

ABOVE: Joe Homebuyer co-founders Cody Hofhine (top) and Mark Stubler (above). TOP RIGHT: Discovery Day at Joe Homebuyer headquarters in Utah.

HOW IT WORKS With Joe Homebuyer, franchisees have three strategies to grow their wealth: wholesaling; fix and flip; and rental income. Marketing is the lifeblood of the business. This marketing attracts people who are looking to sell properties. Since Joe Homebuyer franchisees don’t have to lease a brick-and-mortar location, buy a lot of inventory or hire many employees, they can focus their dollars on marketing.

“In a competitive market, you may have to invest more money, but franchise owners can anticipate a return proportional to that investment,” Stubler says. “This

is true for mid-sized to smaller markets. In a booming economy or a down market, the Joe Homebuyer model is adaptable.”

SUPPORT AND LEADERSHIP When franchisees put their first property under contract, Joe Homebuyer’s support team sits with them to ensure email blasts are ready to go and that they know the steps of the process. Additionally, franchisees can contact the support team whenever they need it and participate in regularly scheduled educational conference Zoom calls to ask questions.

Joe Homebuyer’s support and training is ongoing. In addition to weekly calls, franchisees can leverage acquisition manager support to navigate the negotiation process. New franchisees are also put in groups to build camaraderie and unity throughout the system. The same is true for seasoned franchisees with the real estate brand.

—Haley Cafarella For more information, visit joehomebuyerfranchising.com or www.franchiseconsultantmag.com, company code 17613.

September 2022 11

Leadership & Support

FRANCHISEE STORY | SHOWHOMES HOME SERVICES

TAKING CENTER

STAGE A

Showhomes Home Services was the perfect next step for Jamie and Jason Decatur

fter almost a decade of owning and running a real estate investment company, Jamie and Jason Decatur understood the impact a well-staged home could have on resale. “We've always known that updating and staging a vacant house will undoubtedly yield the highest return on our investment,” Jamie says.

So when it came time for the couple to diversify their business portfolio, Showhomes Home Services was an obvious choice. In their search process, Showhomes caught their attention for many reasons.

“With Showhomes, we can extend that service to others through a reputable and trusted nationwide brand,” she says. “We wanted to build a scalable business that complements our skills and interests, and really wanted a turn-key business model.” Showhomes checked all their boxes.

“After chatting with leadership at the corporate office, researching

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other franchises and comparing similar business models, we knew Showhomes would be a perfect fit for us and the area we live in.” The couple invested in Showhomes of Stafford County, Va. on Aug. 1, 2022.

Although they are still in the hiring process, the Decaturs’ six-month staffing plan is to hire a lead stager, two assistant stagers and an operations manager to assist with the daily functions. “I'm excited to build a team of motivated, likeminded professionals. I'll serve as lead designer and head of relationship building with our local Realtors,” says Jamie.

DIVERSE SERVICES The couple was attracted to Showhomes' diverse offerings and believes they are a must for home sellers who want top dollar. “Because we're the first Showhomes franchise in Virginia, we understand that building relationships is so important. We want people to truly see and experience the value behind what we offer,” she says. “We want to grow our business here in Stafford

and the surrounding areas and eventually expand to new territories as well.”

Jamie describes the corporate team as supportive, fun-loving and incredibly thorough. “They all work well together, which helps them in supporting us as franchisees.”

As a mother of young children, Jamie appreciated that she could do the training on her own time. “With two boys and another business, it may have been impossible otherwise. In approximately four weeks, I was able to finish all the training modules and receive my certification as a Certified Professional Real Estate Stager.”

Following the courses, Showhomes provides a full week of one-on-one Zoom calls with each department. “And, for the first full year, we have scheduled weekly calls with the director of field operations, which is so helpful,” Jamie says.

—Jill Abrahamsen

Showhomes Home Services franchise owners transform their clients' properties and help get top dollar for home sales and short-term rentals. The company's four key services include home staging, home updates, interior design and short-term rental styling.

For more information, visit www.showhomesfranchise.com, or www.franchiseconsultantmag.com, company code 17357.

September 2022 13

IFPG Goes to Philly!

T

he City of Brotherly Love welcomed the IFPG gang for a day of learning, networking and fun at our Regional Discovery Mixer in August. Highlights included a tour of Rumble Boxing, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at

Heyday skincare. The event was capped off with a trip to the famed Brooklyn Bowl for dinner and an evening of speed networking, bowling and live music. Our friends Jack Nagle and Jim Waskovich from Princeton Equity Group joined the fun along with almost 100 franchise consultant, franchisor and vendor members.

Leadership & Support FRANCHISOR PROFILE | ATWORK

Service

FOCUSED ON

Support is a mainstay for the AtWork staffing franchise

W ABOVE: Jason Leverant. TOP AND RIGHT: Franchisee training at AtWork Corporate Headquarters in Knoxville, Tenn.

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hen AtWork Chief Operating Officer Jason Leverant talks about the benefits of the staffing franchise, he heaps praise on the peerless service and support that franchisees receive from corporate headquarters. “Our mission is delivering a service-focused franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs. Our mission is designed around a servantleadership mentality — AtWork for you, the franchisee. Our franchise performance team is the heart of our support model, underpinned by marketing, learning, risk management, accounting/finance, information technology and more.”

AtWork staffing franchisees help their clients fill temporary, temp-to-hire and direct-hire positions in diverse industries. The company, which was founded in 1986 and began franchising in 1992, doesn’t rest on its past successes, Leverant says. “We strive for continuous improvement. The founder of AtWork, John Hall, taught me to never settle. He’s been quoted as saying, ‘If it’s not broke, break it,’ meaning that even if things are going well, we still need to look and see how we can improve them.”

AtWork applies its servant mentality in its work with clients and talent as well as with franchisees. “We understand that as a servicebased organization, we’re only as good as the service we provide today. Our Net Promoter Scores, which measure client and talent

“As a service-based organization, we’re only as good as the service we provide today.”

satisfaction, come in at industryleading levels. We’ve found that satisfied customers and talent result in strong and impressive revenue growth, and that’s exactly what we’ve experienced year after year.”

Leverant says his company’s aim “is to provide franchisees with as much — or as little — support as they need. Primarily we focus on helping our owners grow, so a lot of the support we provide comes in the form of coaching and leadership development that will help that franchise owner perform more effectively in their local market.”

TRAINING AND MORE If Leverant could custom-order a franchisee, the person would be a “sales-minded business professional who has experience managing a team, has potentially owned their own business in the past, and has a proven track record of success.

Staffing experience isn’t required.”

A training program thoroughly

teaches new franchisees about staffing so they can hit the ground running. AtWork training is made up of Owner’s Launch Camp, which is an intense two-day session at corporate headquarters in Knoxville, Tenn.; owner and staff training lasting one week in Knoxville; and a week of field training.

AtWork’s franchisee support system gears up before the franchise opens and continues indefinitely. In advance of opening day, the marketing team assists owners with rounding up clients.

A field operations executive aids with ongoing functions that include sales and recruiting strategies and business coaching.

AtWork’s corporate accounting team delivers services such as payroll processing, invoicing, client payment processing, tax filing and related tasks. In addition, AtWork schedules an annual in-person session with branch leadership and team members. —Mary Vinnedge

WHY ATWORK? In telling prospective franchisees why they should choose AtWork, Leverant emphasizes two main advantages: ATWORK’S SCALING POTENTIAL Leverant describes AtWork's scaling potential as quite impressive when compared with other franchise models of similar investment size.

UNIQUE OWNERSHIP STRUCTURE AtWork franchise owners benefit from tax credits and incentives offered by federal, state and local governments. “This is something other franchise staffing services don’t offer,” Leverant says.

For more information, visit www.atworkfranchise.com, or www.franchiseconsultantmag.com, company code 16752.

September 2022 17

Leadership & Support COMPANY PROFILE | NATURALS2GO

ALL-IN Passion is at the heart of the Naturals2Go business opportunity

T

here is no shortage of excitement and passion from the Naturals2Go leadership team. The healthy vending company President Heath Falzarano and VP of Product Strategy and Operations Paul Ihn talk about the opportunity with the excitement of a two kids in a candy store.

They are seeking the same type of passion from investors and have had no trouble finding ideal candidates so far. “Once people learn what we are all about, they want in,” says Falzarano.

With 70 employees and growing, Naturals2Go's corporate

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team has something you don't find at most companies: a founder's mentality. It’s not surprising considering 80 percent of the team owns and operates their own vending routes, including Falzarano. “Our culture is addictive and our opportunity is unmatched,” he says. “We continue to bring in great people and help them spread their wings to do great things.” The brand has also attracted a number of franchise consultants who know a good thing when they see it, Falzarano says.

Although Ihn recently joined the company, he is an

accomplished vending industry veteran. “We are thrilled to have him on board,” Falzarano says. Ihn was about to retire but couldn't pass up the opportunity to become part of the brand.

“There is nothing quite like Naturals2Go. We're doing something really special here,” he says. “Forget the competition.

Few organizations have this infrastructure. Naturals2Go understands and has been successful in the sales, training, coaching, locating, startup and sustaining of the business for the operator,” he says. In his role, Ihn will help the brand enter new

“Our culture is addictive and our opportunity is unmatched.”

THE NUMBERS

80%

80% of Naturals2Go's 70-plus corporate employees own and operate their own vending routes.

1,000+ There are more than 1,000 Naturals2Go owner/operators who own an average of 10 machines each.

ABOVE: Training is ongoing at Naturals2Go. Each month, 16-20 new owner/operators join the company.

LEFT: Naturals2Go President Heath Falzarano with an Iowa owner/operator. RIGHT: VP of Product Strategy and Opertions Paul Ihn.

markets and expand its offerings.

“There's a lot of exciting things coming for Naturals2Go.” FORMULA FOR SUCCESS The potential for Naturals2Go is mind-blowing says Falzarano.

Despite having more than 1,000 operators, it's just getting started.

There are no defined territories or worries about competition. “We could add 10 operators in a city like Buffalo, and their paths would never cross. We barely penetrated the market. Right now, our market share is like a flea on a tick on a St. Bernard,” he says.

Although more than 75

16-20 About 16-20 new operators sign on to Naturals2Go every month.

Paul Ihn

percent of new Naturals2Go owners come in with no prior business experience, they are set up for success from the start, and that includes adapting a business owner's mindset. “We show new owners how to get past all the emotions of running a business. As long as they have an entrepreneurial spirit and are willing to learn, they will succeed with Naturals2Go,” Falzarano says.

—Jill Abrahamsen For more information, visit www.naturals2go.com or www.franchiseconsultantmag.com, company code 16823.

135 Naturals2Go’s 14 sales consultants have a combined 135 years’ experience helping people.

2 dozen At least two dozen franchise consultants have invested in their own Naturals2Go businesses.

14 There are 14 on-site locators who help Naturals2Go operators build their businesses.

500 Some Naturals2Go operators own as many as 500 machines.

September 2022 19

Leadership & Support FRANCHISOR PROFILE | STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS

Stellar

BY DESIGN The name says it all for the newly formed Stellar Service Brands franchise umbrella

T Sherry Rose

he Stellar Service Brands franchise umbrella may have only come onto the scene in April 2021, but its brands and leadership team are well established in franchising. CEO Sherry Rose has more than 20 years experience in franchise leadership, including over 15 with ServiceMaster brands. COO/CFO Jessica Wescott has held leadership roles with major food franchises, including Fuzzy’s Taco Shop and MOOYAH Burgers, Fries and Shakes.

Based in Dallas, Texas, Stellar Service Brands is the parent company of Restoration 1, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, The Driveway Company and Softroc. Together, they include more than 465 franchise locations awarded across the U.S. On the following pages, we look at Stellar Service Brands and all it has to offer. Here, Stellar's leadership team weighs in on the company's vision and benefits.

—Jill Abrahamsen What is the vision for Stellar Service Brands' growth?

Our goal is smart, intentional growth for our franchise partners, helping them realize their American Dream and furthering their families and communities. We do this by using data-driven insights to make decisions, drive growth and innovate as a brand.

Jessica Wescott

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What strategies will Stellar Service Brands use for franchisee success?

Understanding each brand’s unique purpose and positioning is key to shaping the right strategies through planning. Our goal is to attract and retain the best talent by bringing together a unique set of people, personalities and backgrounds to help drive growth for our partners. Key focuses include training, marketing, technology and overall operations.

Stellar Service Brands is the parent company of Restoration 1, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, The Driveway Company and Softroc. Together, they include more than 465 franchise locations awarded across the U.S.

What sets Stellar Service Brands apart?

Our people. We strive to serve our franchisees so they can appropriately serve their communities.

What are the key ingredients for a successful franchise?

Tenacity, passion for delivering a great experience and leadership skills. Franchisees have a unique opportunity to not only make a positive impact on their families and communities, but also the team they surround themselves with. Franchisees who possess the drive to be successful and serve those around them well are hard to stop!

What do you want IFPG Consultants to know about Stellar Service Brands?

We appreciate your partnership and are grateful to be building relationships alongside you.

MORE September 2022 21

Leadership & Support FRANCHISOR PROFILE | STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS

STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS bluefrog PLUMBING + DRAIN

b

Michael Mushinski

luefrog Plumbing + Drain started in 2014, but underwent a full overhaul in 2021 to position itself for sustained growth. The plumbing franchise aims to change the way consumers view the plumbing industry. “In doing that, we are opening up ownership opportunities to individuals who never dreamed they would consider a service business like plumbing,” says brand President Michael Mushinski. “This is not your stereotypical trade business.

This is a professional organization that just so happens to be in the business of plumbing. Our average owner is generating over $1 million in top line revenue, and those numbers are only going to increase. We support our franchise owners with an unwavering focus on their bottom line.”

Mushinski says this essential business has limitless growth where every home and business in the country is a potential customer. “Our owners have the tools needed from marketing to technology, etc. to scale quickly and achieve success. Very few brands offer the ability to grow a large organization with such low overhead,” he says.

A technology-forward company, bluefrog offers an “Uber-type experience” for customers. “Working with bluefrog could not be easier.

Customers can schedule their own appointments, follow vehicles as they drive to their homes, access photos and invoices online, etc.,” says Mushinski.

For more information, visit www.bluefrogfranchise.com or www.franchiseconsultantmagazine, company code 17850.

“We will never be the sexiest business out there, and for those who are OK with that, bluefrog is an incredible option.”

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STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS Restoration 1

A

Tom Gissler

focus on compassionate, people-centric service has set Restoration 1 apart, says the disaster recovery franchise's president, Tom Gissler. “When disaster happens, we treat our customers like our neighbors. We lead with compassion and expertise to bring order in times of chaos,” he says. “We see the customer as the person standing right in front of us rather than a multi billion-dollar corporation in a far flung city.” The results of this philosophy have created the highest net promoter scores and Google reviews of any provider of restoration services, he says.

The ideal candidate is profit-minded, community- and people-focused and values hustle. “Disasters can’t be scheduled, so the right owner needs to invest the time and effort initially to build a team ready to respond at any time. The barriers to entry are relatively low, but the potential for revenue is enormous.”

Support at Restoration 1 comes in a myriad of ways. Regional franchise consultants are a live voice to coach, motivate and instruct franchise owners at a moment’s notice.

The company hosts regional and national training events, conferences and an annual convention offering the latest strategies and technology. Plus, the company’s intranet provides resources, training videos and discussion forums built to provide instant access to common questions and challenges. “The numbers speak for themselves and our rate of churn or turnover at the franchisee level is remarkably low for an organization of our size. When people are making money, they stay.”

MORE For more information, visit www.restoration1.com or www.franchiseconsultantmagazine, company code 17375.

“Disasters can’t be scheduled, so the right owner needs to build a team ready to respond at any time.”

September 2022 23

Leadership & Support FRANCHISOR PROFILE | STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS

STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS The Driveway Company

T

Courtney Harmon

he Driveway Company offers a one-stop concrete repair and maintenance service for both residential and commercial clients with specialties in concrete maintenance and repair, crack and joint filling, topcoat sealing and more. The company was founded over 30 years ago in Omaha, Neb., with a mission to preserve concrete surfaces in neighborhoods and community spaces.

“Most homeowners do not know that their concrete has the potential to be the longest lasting investment they make in their home, but it requires maintenance and care,” says The Driveway Company President Courtney Harmon. “Where most contractors will suggest full replacement of cracked or damaged concrete, we provide our customers an affordable solution and educate them on how to continue caring for their investment in the future.”

As a franchise opportunity, The Driveway Company offers a simple and scalable business model. The company is looking for franchise partners who value community and believe in traditional marketing efforts to establish a local footprint. “Potential TDC owners typically have a net worth starting at $150,000 and liquid capital of at least $50,000,” says Harmon. No training or specific prior work experience is required, and licensing requirements are minimal. “You don’t need a brick-and-mortar location or heavy equipment. TDC is unlike other service franchises. Our proprietary methods mean you don’t need prior service experience or need to hire service professionals.”

For more information, visit www.thedrivewaycompany.com or www.franchiseconsultantmagazine, company code 17848.

“We are not perfect, but we operate with excellence!”

24 FRANCHISECONSULTANT

STELLAR SERVICE BRANDS Softroc

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oftroc poured-in-place rubber surfaces are used in a wide variety of applications from swimming pools and decks to playgrounds, home gyms, boats, garages and more. The company promises to transform outside spaces into comfortable safe places with its custom, slip-resistant surfacing. “By creating comfortable spaces that look great and feel safe, we're improving people's lives one surface at a time,” says Softroc President Courtney Harmon.

A low initial investment, high-profit-margin service business, Softroc has no national competition in the residential market. It offers a great opportunity for existing business owners in landscaping, pool maintenance and construction or outdoor living looking to expand their portfolios. The application process is simple, making it easy for anyone to install. Ideal franchisee candidates have a net worth starting at $150,000, and liquid capital of at least $50,000.

Potential clients include homeowners, contractors and a number of businesses including gyms, marinas and schools. “Rubber surfacing has been in high demand for the commercial market since 1983, offering five- and six-figure ticket price potential for our franchisees. Our model offers the ability to scale and grow your business.”

For more information, visit www.softroc.com or www.franchiseconsultantmagazine, company code 17937.

“By creating comfortable spaces that look great and feel safe, we’re improving people’s lives one surface at a time.”

September 2022 25

Leadership & Support ASK THE FRANCHISORS

The Power of Great Leadership

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n any franchise system, leadership and support are key to franchisee success. Knowing who to turn to and sharing a common vision all starts at the top. Below, IFPG members from PuroClean and Fish Window Cleaning share what leadership means to them.

“DEFINING A COMPANY CULTURE AND BRAND identity and staying true to that commitment is what allows a franchise system to build a clear vision that everyone can get behind. At PuroClean, we know our values and our mission, and we work tirelessly every day to uphold the PuroClean Way. We believe in servant leadership, extreme ownership and active collaboration, and this message ripples across our network of almost 400 offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. Our franchise owners and our entire network are unified by our common goals, and having that well-defined culture makes all the difference to our organization as a whole. At PuroClean, we care, and this shows in everything we do on a daily basis.”

—Steve White, PuroClean

“THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENTS in leading a franchise revolve around being focused on serving your franchisees. At Fish Window Cleaning, we lead with our serve. Our entire staff takes the success of our franchisees personally, and the franchisees know they are a part of the FISH franchise family.”

—John English, Fish Window Cleaning

26 FRANCHISECONSULTANT

The World’s First And Only All-Natural Floor Coating

THE OPPORTUNITY Lifetime Green Coatings™ provides the nation’s only eco-friendly, high performing epoxy alternative floor coating for homes and businesses. The fast-drying compound keeps home owners a step ahead.

While it takes our competitors a full day to complete one garage, our technology allows us to complete multiple garages in a day! We have served thousands of homeowners and businesses and have no plans of slowing down!

What Your Candidates Will Love Garage & Driveways

• • • • • •

Patios & Decks

Low investment Multiple revenue streams Category disrupter Robust support and marketing teams Simple & quick application process Opportunity for semi-absentee ownership

• • • • • •

Proven business model $5 billion dollar industry Green alternative to epoxy Scalable in B2C and B2B verticals All natural, eco-friendly, and made in the USA The LGC team has over 30 years of franchising experience, they provide the trusted leadership necessary for success

Our Values G

Goals: We know our targets, we achieve them, then reach for new ones.

R Reasonable Profit: E

We execute a sustainable business plan, bringing lasting success and prosperity.

protect our planet and strive to leave the Environmental: We world better than when we came into it.

challenge ourselves, doing whatever it E Extraordinary: We takes to get the job done. care for our team and our franchisees as family, N Nurturing: We creating a professional environment where people thrive.

For franchise information e-mail lifetimegreencoatings@brandonefd.com

www.lifetimegreencoatings.com September 2022 27