DECEMBER 2023 ISSUE

Ace Handyman Services (AHS) is a name that rings a bell. The successful handyman service trusted with the ACE name allows you to hire a Multi-Skilled Craftsman to assist with any home projects you may need a hand with. They have several hundred franchise locations and have been listed as a top franchise in numerous publications. But you don’t suddenly appear one day and become a successful business, what did AHS do to arrive at where they are now?  The story of Ace Handyman Services started with Handyman Matters, established in 1998 by owners Andy and Colette Bell. Andy was previously working in the restaurant industry. Although he loved it, the long hours took a toll on the couple as they were getting ready to start a family. While brainstorming career paths, As Andy explored various career options, he was committed to finding work that would allow him to leave behind a legacy. They did not initially arrive at the decision to join the handyman industry. In fact, they didn’t even know much about the handyman industry at all. The decision came as a result of their own need for aid with their own house projects as they were preparing for their first child. Per Colette, “We weren’t finding anyone. There were people you could call, but no one would answer and they wouldn’t call back.” At that moment, she described it as if a light bulb had lit up above their heads. This was exactly the kind of business that they needed to start. So naturally, an idea was born – to make a handyman business that was concerned about the customers, a place that would answer calls and connect you to a handyman who you trust and can get the job done. Starting in 1998, they enjoyed success building a business that’s focused on consumer satisfaction. Handyman Matters opened several locations in Colorado, and even expanded their services into California. Because each location ended up being so successful, they decided to look into franchising Handyman Matters in 2001. Colette has gone on record stating that it is through working with their franchisees that their business has continued to move forward. In 2018, Ace Hardware contacted Handyman Matters. Ace wanted to expand into services as their next big step, as consumers’ behavior has been moving from “do it yourself” into “do it for me.” Of course, with the powerful ACE name behind them, Handyman Matters would be able to further evolve and grow as a business. And so, Ace Handyman Services was born. Before the Ace acquisition, there were 119 locations. Today that number has increased exponentially to 379. But what exactly caused AHS to grow rapidly? It all has to do with their franchise model. To start, AHS has a very strong support service for franchisees. In addition to resources and brand power, they also offer the aid of a dedicated business coach that one can turn to for advice and counseling if such needs come up. Along with this, owning a franchise comes with its own perks as well. AHS consolidates all information that comes in from each of their branches, and it is through this that they are able to discern what works and what doesn’t. Once they have found things that they think help business run smoother from one franchisee, they pass that information along to other franchisees. The same applies when they discover things that are slowing a business down. It’s all about teamwork and understanding the importance of taking action on positive and negative feedback. But these are all overhead things, how exactly does it work for individual franchisees? AHS treats their franchisees as full-time employers of their branch. This means that they will spend most of their time ensuring the business running smoothly: keeping a proper eye on payroll to make sure employees are earning what they’re supposed to be earning, recruiting and providing proper training for the employees that have been recruited, and of course networking and marketing so that the branch grows further and has a steady flow of clientele. To be an AHS franchisee, it’s essential for a potential franchisee to have a “servant leader” mindset, meaning to operate in service to your employees, hired craftsmen, and community. And of course, a can-do attitude where you’re willing to do better and learn will always serve you well. If Ace Handyman Services seems like the kind brand you would want to be a part of, do take a look at their site AceHandymanFranchising.com – where you can learn more, contact the AHS team, and see if your territory is available.

Wesley Cone Big Peach Car Wash CE O www.bigpeachcarwash.com In its inaugural franchise year, the Big Peach Car Wash franchise has revolutionized the automotive pampering experience. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities and an eco-friendly approach, Big Peach offers more than just a spotless shine. With advanced technology and water conservation initiatives, this franchise has redefined car care, appealing to both environmentally conscious drivers and those seeking top-notch service. The Big Peach experience goes beyond traditional car washes, providing a sensory delight with fruity scents and a commitment to quality. As the franchise celebrates its first year, it leaves a trail of gleaming cars and satisfied customers, setting a high standard in the car care industry.

Dave Wood Mahana Fresh Founder www.mahanafresh.com At Mahana Fresh, we’re on a mission to help people eat well and feel better about themselves. Guests can get creative with their cravings and build their own bowls in a fast-casual restaurant setting with a variety of gluten-friendly bases, veggies, proteins, sauces, and add-ons that are all prepared fresh in-house daily. Here, freshness isn’t just a saying, it’s a commitment. A sincere belief that a good mood begins with good food. That’s why our menu items are created using clean ingredients with individual tastes and dietary needs in mind. We believe the positive energy we send out into the world expands and multiplies. We thrive when we’re sharing our food, our values, and our vibes with others. No matter who you are, you always have a seat at our table.

The goal is not to be better than the other man, but your previous self. — The Dalai Lama It’s been a good year for franchising. The recently released 2023 Franchising Economic Outlook report by the International Franchise Association (IFA) indicated that franchise unit and job growth continue to surpass pre-pandemic levels. Even with ongoing economic uncertainty across the nation and world, franchises deliver jobs and business ownership opportunities for many entrepreneurs. Here’s more insight from the report: The number of franchise establishments will increase by almost 15,000 units in 2023, or 1.9%, to 805,000 units in the U.S. Franchising will add approximately 254,000 jobs in 2023. Total franchise employment is forecasted to reach 8.7 million, growing at 3.0%. The total output of franchised businesses — the measure of total economic activity in nominal dollars — will increase by 4.2% to $860.1 billion in 2023, up from $825.4 billion in 2022. If you have been contemplating entering the world of franchising, now may be the right time. But how can you determine which is the best franchisor for you? Let’s consider some things that make a franchisor the best. Vision and support Think of franchising as a recipe—it requires certain ingredients to turn out well. Building a thriving franchise system requires strategic vision, effective leadership, and a commitment to supporting franchisees. Without this unique blend of qualities, a franchise network will struggle to succeed, no matter how popular its product or service is. It all starts with a proven and replicable business model. This model serves as the blueprint for franchisees, providing a roadmap to success. It should be well-established, demonstrating profitability and sustainability over time. A franchisor must be able to convey this model clearly and comprehensively to prospective franchisees, instilling confidence in the viability of the business. Franchisee support is a linchpin of success. Providing comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and resource access are essential elements. Most importantly, this support must extend beyond the initial stages of onboarding. Support from the franchisor should also include marketing assistance, operational guidance, and continuous education to help franchisees navigate challenges as they arise. A good franchisor understands that individual franchisees’ success contributes to the franchise system’s overall success. All about communication One of the things that draws so many to the world of franchising is the opportunity to be in business for themselves, not by themselves. A franchisor must communicate effectively to optimize that possibility. Open lines of communication create a collaborative environment where feedback is valued, concerns are addressed promptly, and improvements can be made collectively. Communication allows the franchisor to express expectations and will enable franchisees to be heard. But the best communication occurs when the franchisor operates honestly and transparently, providing clear information about costs, expectations, and potential challenges. Integrity and transparency are vital in a business relationship and create a collaborative and positive working environment. Openness to change Finally, the best franchisors embrace innovation and change. As evidenced during the pandemic, the franchising landscape is ever-evolving, and a good franchisor stays ahead of the curve. This involves keeping the brand and its offerings relevant, embracing new technologies, and anticipating market trends. An ability to adapt to changing circumstances ensures the franchise system remains resilient and competitive. Connected to this is an understanding of when and how to expand operations. Strategic growth is a hallmark of a successful franchisor. While expansion is a common goal, it should be approached strategically. A good franchisor focuses on quality over quantity, ensuring that new franchisees align with the brand’s values and standards. Thoughtful expansion leads to a more robust and sustainable franchise system. Top 2023 franchisor A great example of a franchisor that is excelling is The Vital Stretch. The fitness and wellness industry is booming, with a 2023 report from the IHRSA, the Global Health and Fitness Association, revealing about 80% of their survey respondents anticipate membership and revenue to grow by more than 5% this year. Not only has the industry bounced back from the pandemic in a big way, but it is expanding into new areas, including the stretch industry, which has emerged and is comparable to yoga and Pilates. As a clinically based assisted-stretching fitness and wellness franchise, The Vital Stretch is about bringing fitness and wellness to everyone’s community. When it comes to vision and support, The Vital Stretch easily checks both boxes. Potential franchisees can feel confident with The Vital Stretch’s assisted-stretching method developed by trained clinicians. Stretching has evidence-based science behind its benefits. Personalized one-on-one assisted stretching appeals to a broad population looking for injury recovery, graceful aging, and more effortless everyday movement. In terms of support, The Vital Stretch provides: A comprehensive training package. Industry-leading CRM, marketing, and sales tools to nurture leads, boost brand awareness, and increase revenue. Assistance in developing and designing an easier, more cost-effective opening. What about communication? Again, The Vital Stretch is top in its class thanks to monthly membership gatherings for franchisees and a thorough training program — the Vital Stretch Academy, the franchisor’s extensive online learning management system. Speaking of growth and change, while one-on-one assisted stretching may be a new addition to the health and wellness space, its innovative take on wellness is quickly catching on. The Vital Stretch method was created by a physical therapist and a chiropractic physician to offer a safe, effective, and deeply relaxing stretch experience. Vital Stretch Practitioners (VSPc) are trained and certified to deliver an exceptional assisted stretch experience. The experience starts with a thorough intake assessment before discussing flexibility goals that will allow clients to feel looser, lighter, and fully alive. With different involvement levels, such as owner-operated and executive franchise models, The Vital Stretch is winning raves from customers who love the semiprivate stretch spaces, boutique environment, and elevated stretching experience. What makes The Vital Stretch one of the best of 2023 is the franchisor goes the extra mile to understand each body’s unique composition to tailor stretches for optimal results. The best franchisors combine a proven business model with effective communication, innovation, support, and strategic growth. A franchisor creates a foundation for a successful and enduring franchise system by embodying these qualities. Seth Lederman of Frannexus has years of experience helping entrepreneurs find the best franchise to meet their goals and dreams. For more information and how to get started pursuing your business ownership dreams today, contact Frannexus today. About the Author Seth Lederman, CFE, a Franchise Acquisition and Development Specialist, is a multi-faceted entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in small business success, including ownership and sale of his business enterprises. He frequently contributes to The Franchise Journal and is on the exclusive Forbes Business Council. Contact Seth at seth@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com.

Hey there, readers! As I sit down to reflect on the past year, it's hard to believe that my journey as a high school senior writing for Franchise Journal magazine will be coming to an end in a few months. The whirlwind of experiences, opportunities, and lessons learned in the world of entrepreneurship has been nothing short of extraordinary. When I first started contributing to Franchise Journal, I never imagined the impact it would have on my understanding of business, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit. As a wide-eyed high school senior, the magazine became my gateway to a realm I had only glimpsed in textbooks and documentaries. One of the most significant aspects of this journey has been the steep learning curve. Being a high school student in a world dominated by seasoned professionals was both exhilarating and challenging. The early days were marked by a series of late-night research sessions, crash courses in franchise terminology, and the occasional blank stare at industry jargon that felt like a foreign language. However, with each article, I found myself delving deeper into the intricacies of entrepreneurship. From understanding the franchise business model to exploring the intricacies of market trends, every assignment became a window into a world that was not only fascinating but also increasingly accessible. What struck me most profoundly was the opportunity to connect with visionary entrepreneurs who are shaping the business landscape. Interviewing successful franchise owners, hearing their stories, and understanding the passion that drives them was both inspiring and humbling. As a high school senior, the exposure to entrepreneurship education through my work with Franchise Journal has been transformative. It goes beyond the theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom, providing a real-world perspective on the challenges and rewards of building and sustaining a business. The stories of entrepreneurs who started with a simple idea, faced setbacks, adapted to changes, and ultimately succeeded have instilled in me a sense of resilience and determination. It's not just about making money; it's about making a difference, leaving a mark, and contributing to something larger than oneself. Another learning moment was in the connection between generations. Even though we all have different experiences, we are bound together. The online and technology tools that I take for granted are in great demand by older generations. The other learning was that even before computers, the accomplishments of past generations were as great as our own. They just did it a different way. I had never heard of a “Rolodex” before I spoke with my grandparents but it really is the older equivalent of what we carry in our pocket today. Speaking of that, can you imagine a world where there was no internet, no cell phones, no ability to do zoom calls and yet, somehow, we got done what needed to be done. In an era dominated by digital media, the experience of contributing to a renowned magazine has given me insights into the ever-evolving landscape of online journalism. Learning to navigate content management and engage with a digital audience has been an invaluable part of my journey. The exposure to the digital side of journalism has opened my eyes to the power of storytelling in the online space. It's not just about the words on the page; it's about crafting narratives that resonate with readers, spark conversations, and drive positive change. As I prepare for the next chapter of my life, I carry with me the lessons and experiences gained during this remarkable year. The journey with Franchise Journal has not only deepened my appreciation for entrepreneurship but has also fueled my aspirations to explore this dynamic field further in my college years. To my fellow high school students, I encourage you to seek opportunities beyond the classroom, to engage with real-world experiences that challenge and inspire you. Entrepreneurship is not just a subject; it's a mindset, a way of thinking that empowers individuals to turn ideas into reality. These articles have been more than a journalistic venture. It has been a journey of personal and intellectual growth, a stepping stone into the world of entrepreneurship that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors. Cheers to the lessons learned, the connections made, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead! Thank you for reading my articles, it is really an honor that you took the time to read these and I am grateful for you!

Meridio started in 2018 with a mission to make health access affordable for small business employees in the US.  In today's highly competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent has become a priority for businesses. One key factor that can make or break an employer's appeal is the quality of the employee benefits package. Recognizing this, Meridio has emerged as a pioneering company, specializing in providing innovative health benefits solutions to companies. In this article, we will delve into Meridio's approach and its positive impact on both employees and businesses. A Fresh Approach to Health Benefits Unfortunately, small group health insurance has skyrocketed since The Affordable Healthcare was passed, with premiums, deductibles and out of pocket maxes up over 50%. Meridio is fixing this problem so that small businesses can offer high quality benefits at a much more affordable price than other options on the market. The Meridio Advantage Meridio's platform provides companies with a range of benefits that differentiate them from the competition: Meridio's service comes pre-built with our Affordable Health Stack, which includes healthcare, dental and vision insurance, and supplemental benefits. Small Businesses sign up and the employees go through a needs assessment that allows them to pick products from the pre-built stack that are a best fit for their needs. Customization: Meridio understands that no two employees are the same. By offering customizable health benefits, employers can cater to the diverse needs of their workforce. From dental and vision coverage to mental health support and wellness programs, Meridio allows businesses to create tailored packages that suit their employee demographics. Digital Engagement: In a world where technology plays a significant role in our lives, Meridio leverages digital tools to engage employees proactively. Users can access their benefits through a user-friendly app, providing easy access to health information, resources, and support. Cost Management: Controlling healthcare costs is a significant challenge for businesses. Meridio addresses this by using data-driven insights to optimize spending while ensuring that employees receive the care they need. By promoting cost-effective care options and preventative measures, Meridio helps employers keep their budgets in check. Wellness Initiatives: Employee wellness is a key focus for Meridio. They offer a range of wellness programs and incentives to encourage healthy behaviors among employees. From fitness challenges to mental health resources, Meridio's approach goes beyond just medical coverage, aiming to enhance the overall well-being of employees. Transparency: Meridio values transparency in healthcare. They provide tools and information that allow employees to make informed decisions about their care. This transparency helps employees understand the cost and quality of healthcare services, enabling them to make the right choices for their health and financial well-being. Administrative Ease: Meridio simplifies benefits administration for HR professionals. Their platform streamlines enrollment, billing, and compliance processes, reducing the administrative burden on businesses while ensuring that they remain compliant with ever-changing regulations. Scalability: Whether you're a small startup or a large corporation, Meridio's solutions are scalable to fit the needs of your workforce. As your business grows, Meridio grows with you, ensuring that your employees continue to receive top-notch health benefits. Meridio and Franchising Meridio's unique approach to health benefits offers several advantages to Franchisors: For Example, Meridio works with We work with FedEx Ground, Holiday Inn hotels, Beem Saunas and RockBox fitness. These Franchisors have allowed their franchisees to give their team members healthcare access at a price significantly cheaper than the traditional carriers or the exchange. But our lowest cost plans start out at $149/month. Generally, by providing their franchisees with the ability to offer their employees affordable health insurance plans, Franchisors and Franchisees benefit: Enhanced Employee Retention: Improved Employee Productivity Competitive Advantage: Cost Control Enhanced Company Culture. Another piece of news is that Meridio has signed its agreement to be the preferred benefits provider to Franchise Group and has have built the landing page focused on Franchises. You can find the link here: https://go.getmeridio.com/meridio-franchise-benefits In conclusion, Meridio is transforming the landscape of employee health benefits by offering a personalized, data-driven, and tech-savvy approach. Companies that partner with Meridio are better positioned to attract and retain top talent, manage healthcare costs, and foster a culture of well-being among their employees. With the world of work rapidly evolving, businesses that prioritize their employees' health and well-being through innovative health benefit solutions are poised for long-term success. Meridio is leading the way in this crucial endeavor, redefining what it means to care for employees in the modern workplace. About the Author As the founder and CEO of Meridio, I have over five years of experience in building and leading a company that provides affordable health access to Small Businesses and Freelancers. Meridio is a proprietary platform that combines high-quality affordable health access with expert guidance, simplified payments, all in one simple end-to-end solution. We take a different approach to healthcare, offering an option that is tailored to the needs and preferences of non-traditional workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

Starting a business in the flooring industry can be a daunting task, but with the support of a proven business model, entrepreneurs can set themselves up for success. Floor Crafters offers a unique opportunity with their “Mobile Design Showroom” to tap into a thriving market. Benefit from an established business model, brand recognition, and receive comprehensive training and ongoing support. In this article, we will explore the advantages of investing in a Floor Crafters flooring franchise and the potential for growth and profitability in this competitive sector.  1. Advantages of investing in an established industry One of the primary advantages of investing in a flooring franchise is the immediate access to an established industry, that is projected to grow at over 6% through 2030. Customers are more likely to trust and be more comfortable investing in a well-known industry that really is the sexy and major part (more dollars spent than painting and cabinets) of any in-home remodeling project. Now attach that to a well-grounded franchise system, that uses industry experience, new technology and a proven business strategy, you get a low risk, high margin franchise opportunity, which will significantly reduce the challenges associated with building a business, and brand from scratch. Moreover, a reputable franchise typically comes with a proven track record of success, making it easier for franchisees to gain customers and generate revenue quickly. 2. Comprehensive Training and Support Flooring franchises offer extensive training programs for their franchisees. These programs cover various aspects of the business, including sales and marketing techniques, product knowledge, and installation processes for each service. Franchisees benefit from the experience and expertise of the franchisor and can confidently approach customers with the necessary skills and knowledge to design their perfect floor project. Additionally, ongoing support is provided to help franchisees overcome any obstacles they may encounter along the way. 3. Access to High-Quality Products Being part of flooring franchise grants access to a wide range of high-quality products and materials that are chosen for performance, price-points and ongoing trends. Franchisors often have strong relationships with suppliers, enabling franchisees to procure materials at competitive prices. This access to top-notch products ensures that customers receive the best possible flooring solutions, further enhancing the franchise's reputation. 4. Marketing and Advertising One of the challenges faced by independent businesses is creating effective marketing and advertising campaigns. Floor Crafters has a dedicated digital marketing team that works on hyper-focused, local, regional, and national digital marketing strategies, including SEO and pay per click, including, consistent content development, implementation, and management for their franchisees. You as a franchisee will not have to worry about how to create, design or implement your online marketing strategy, active (paid for) or passive (organic), because at Floor Crafters, its “Done-For-You”, driving a consistent number of leads to each protected territory. Franchisees will benefit from these campaigns, allowing them to focus on serving customers while the franchisor handles online promotional activities. 5. Established Business Processes Starting a business from scratch involves developing efficient business processes, which can be time-consuming and costly. With a flooring franchise, franchisees can leverage established business processes that have been refined over time. These streamlined procedures cover everything from sales, customer service, project management, to inventory management, allowing franchisees to operate efficiently and effectively from day one. This means you get to leverage our experience and grow at a much faster pace, while mitigating any hurdles that we had to overcome. 6. A Strong Support Network Floor Crafters offers a strong support network through a community of fellow franchisees. Franchisees can share insights, best practices, and tips for success. This support network creates a collaborative environment where franchisees can learn from each other and grow together. 7. Targeting Diverse Markets The demand for flooring spans across various markets, from residential homes and commercial spaces to educational institutions and healthcare facilities. Floor Crafters caters to a diverse range of customers and flooring opportunities, giving franchisees the flexibility to explore different sectors and expand their customer base. As a franchisee this will allow you to increase your per project dollar amount through, multiple flooring sectors (Wood, carpet, tile and luxury vinyl & concrete epoxy), product sales and installation services. A franchise where you aren’t restricted to offering one type of flooring option or just services. you can now offer a solution for every room, where everything is under one roof for your clients. 8. Growth Potential The flooring industry is witnessing continuous growth, driven by factors such as construction activities, home renovations, and commercial developments. As the real estate market expands, the demand for flooring solutions will also increase, presenting ample opportunities for flooring franchises to thrive and expand their business. Investing in a Floor Crafters flooring franchise can be a smart and rewarding business decision. With the advantage of an established brand, comprehensive training, ongoing support, access to high-quality products, all backed by technology and of course our signature Mobile Design Showroom, franchisees can confidently navigate the competitive flooring industry. Moreover, the growth potential in this market ensures that flooring franchises have ample opportunities to flourish and achieve long-term success. If you are an aspiring entrepreneur looking to enter the flooring industry, consider the potential benefits of joining our flooring franchise to set yourself on a path to growth and profitability. About the Author Rob Petka is a member of The Franchise Consulting Companies Native American Council. Rob has been in franchising for over 20 years and loves helping people recognize their dream of business ownership. Contact Rob at robpetka@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

In the dynamic world of franchising, success often hinges on a unique blend of experience, insight, and unwavering commitment. Ronak Patel, a seasoned business owner and CEO of a thriving medspa, is a testament to this winning combination. As a Franchise Consultant at ArcPoint Labs, Ronak Patel's journey is marked by a remarkable track record of success and an unshakable passion for helping businesses thrive. What sets him apart is not only his wealth of experience but also his dedication to assisting clients in achieving their dreams, including those interested in pursuing EB-5 visas. With an exceptional ability to listen, Ronak effortlessly connects with his clients and understands their unique needs. His extensive knowledge of products and the art of educating prospects, customers, and staff have earned him widespread recognition. Ronak is a proactive problem solver, offering valuable solutions to any team he collaborates with. His professional, hunter mentality, coupled with quick-learning capabilities, positions him as an expert in business development, negotiation, and penetrating new markets. It's no wonder that he is a highly sought-after consultant in the franchise industry. Having walked in the shoes of a business owner himself, Ronak brings a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in entrepreneurship. He excels at identifying lucrative prospects and channels his boundless energy, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment into ensuring the success of both his clients and his own ventures. Ronak Patel's unique background and skills make him an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to expand or diversify their business portfolio.  Moreover, Ronak's commitment to the field goes beyond conventional boundaries. As a member-at-large in the India Franchise Council, he is well-versed in assisting clients with EB-5 visa opportunities, ensuring that ambitious entrepreneurs from around the world can participate in the incredible growth that franchising offers. In the ever-evolving world of franchising, individuals like Ronak Patel play a pivotal role in driving success and growth. His journey stands as an inspiring example of how experience, passion, and dedication can come together to create a path to prosperity for both entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. ArcPoint Labs is fortunate to have a consultant of his caliber, and his clients, including those pursuing EB-5 visas, benefit from his expertise in every step of their franchising journey. About the Author Ronak Patel, a successful business owner and medspa CEO, is a prominent Franchise Consultant with expertise in business development and a consultative approach. As a member of the India Franchise Council, he specializes in assisting clients with EB-5 visa opportunities in the franchise industry. Contact Ronak at ronak@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .