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South Shore Skin Center and Spa Dermatologists Provide 5 Sun Protection Tips for Babies & Toddlers

Every time we go outdoors, we’re exposed to Ultraviolet (UV) rays and the repeated exposure builds over time. The delicate skin of babies and toddlers is particularly susceptible to sunburn and UV damage.

According to Dr. Ramzi W. Saad, Board Certified dermatologist and partner at South Shore Skin Center and Spa, “UV damage can happen at any age, but it begins to occur during childhood. The more frequent the exposure to Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays without protection, the greater the risk of developing melanoma or skin cancer as an adult. Parents and caregivers are responsible for protecting the very young, so knowing HOW to best protect them is key.”

The dermatologists at South Shore Skin Center and Spa provide the following expert advice to parents and caregivers for protecting the skin of very young children from harmful UVA/UVB rays from the sun (which are present even on cloudy days):

1. Apply a chemical-free sunscreen containing an SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreen may be applied to babies older than six months and toddlers. Look for products that are chemical free and have 10 percent micronized Zinc Oxide such as Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Baby SPF 30+ or Solbar Shield SPF 40.

2. Dress young children in sun protective clothing. Covering up the skin with clothing is one of the most effective ways of protecting the sensitive skin of babies and toddlers. Sun hats with wide brims and flaps to shade ears and neck, lightweight long sleeved shirts, sun rompers and swim bodysuits provide good coverage. Brands such as Coolibar offer 50+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing. Other sun protective clothing brands may be found online or at retailer REI.

3. Sunglasses help protect the delicate eye area. Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, including eyelids. Because sunscreen cannot be applied on or around the eyes, it’s important to shield the eye area from UV rays. For young children, opt for rubber or flexible frames and shatterproof lenses. To ensure that lenses provide UVA/UVB protection, look for the statement “100% UVA/UVB protection” label on the lense when making your purchase.

4. Seek shade. Shady areas not only offer some cool relief on a hot summer day, but some protection from UV rays.

5. Block UVA/UVB rays in babies younger than six months. Sunscreen should not be applied to babies younger than six months of age, yet exposed skin is left vulnerable without sunscreen. So, how do you protect your baby’s skin from UV rays? Follow tips 2, 3 and 4.

Dr. Saad continued, “As children become more independent, parents and caregivers have a greater challenge of ensuring their tweens and teens wear sunscreen every day, seek shade and wear protective clothing. That is one reason why it is imperative that children learn ‘sun safe’ habits at a very young age because they will have a better understanding of the importance of protecting their skin as they grow older.”

Melanoma is the most common cancer in young white women ages 25-29 and second only to breast cancer in women ages 30-34. New England has the highest concentration of melanoma cases in the United States.

“It cannot be stressed enough that one of the key ways to minimize melanoma mortality is to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, starting in early childhood,” noted Dr. Saad.

About South Shore Skin Center and Spa
South Shore Skin Center and Spa is one of Massachusetts’ most progressive dermatology practices offering a wide range of medical, surgical and cosmetic services.

Founded in 1984, South Shore Skin Center and Spa is a unique team of physicians, physician assistants, nurses, medical assistants, surgical assistants, and licensed estheticians who are all specialists in dermatology and share a passion for excellence and a commitment to providing the highest level of care to both children and adults in the greater Boston area. In addition to the medical dermatology office and Mohs Surgical Unit for skin cancer, South Shore Skin Center and Spa offers cosmetic dermatology treatments for wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring, birthmarks, hair removal, tattoos and more using the Fraxel re:store DUAL and Fraxel re:pair lasers, DEKA SmartXide DOT, Candela VBeam, Gentlelase, Gentle YAG, and Alex lasers. The practice also offers a full range of affordable anti-aging services including Botox, Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm and other wrinkle fillers; volumizers such as Radiesse and Sculptra; microdermabrasion; medical grade facials, micropeels and chemical peels.

South Shore Skin Center and Spa is located at One Scobee Circle, Unit 3, in Plymouth, Mass. (508) 747-0711 and at 223 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Suite 202, in Cohasset, Mass. (781) 383-3340. For more information, visit the website at www.southshoreskincenter.com.

South Shore Skin Center and Spa Dermatologists Provide 5 Sun Protection Tips for Babies & ToddlersRead More

Avoid the summer bummer. Preventative tips to prepare your automobile for a driving family vacation.

BIDDEFORD, BANGOR, AUGUSTA AND FALMOUTH, MAINE… 

Family car trips are as part of American lore as apple pie, fireworks on the 4th of July and presidential elections. Sure, DVD players, satellite radio and handheld video games have made family road trips more tolerable than years ago. Technology notwithstanding, a breakdown of any kind can still turn a family summer road trip into a summer bummer in a heartbeat. That’s why it’s critical to prepare your vehicle before the trip.

“When you see somebody broken down by the side of the road, nine times out of 10 it’s something that probably could have been avoided had they taken proper precautions,” said Tim Haley, owner of Haley’s Tire & Service Center. “If you’re planning a driving vacation with your family, the difference between smooth sailing and being that car along the side is really a matter of making an appointment with a certified mechanic before your trip. And if you’re handy with automobiles, most of these things you can do on your own.”

Haley recommends checking: 

  • Fluids – Have all your fluids checked prior to your trip. That includes: engine oil; transmission fluid; antifreeze/coolant; radiator coolant; brake fluid; windshield washer fluid; power steering fluid. While many express oil change services will change your oil and do some type of check of fluids and belts, they may not top off things like power steering fluid. Be sure to ask. Also, whatever service you get on your car prior to departure, you want to make sure that filters—oil, air, and gas—have been changed if needed.
  • Hoses and belts – Make sure these are tightly secured and in good working order. If you’re not certain of how to do that, make an appointment with a local service technician.
  • Tires – The obvious is to make sure you have enough air pressure so you’re getting better gas mileage. Remember, the number on the tire’s side is the maximum pressure it can withstand, not the recommended amount. For summertime driving, your tires should be close but not at the maximum. Never inflate your tires too much as it could provoke a blowout. Before starting any trip, you want to make sure your tires have adequate tread. If your tires look worn and you’re not sure whether the tires need to be replaced or rotated, bring your vehicle to a tire dealer. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles. And whatever you do, do not embark on any kind of trip without a spare tire that is also appropriately filled and with sufficient treads.
  • Air Conditioning – Nothing turns a driving trip into a summer bummer more than air conditioning not working. If you notice any inconsistencies prior to the trip, be sure to have it checked out.
  • Brakes – Brakes are not ordinarily part of an oil change inspection. Many service centers offer a summer maintenance packages that include brake inspections and other precautionary checks, like air conditioning. 
  • Emergency kit – You can mitigate or even prevent a number of potential road trip difficulties just by packing an adequate emergency kit. This should contain jumper cables, a knife, a flashlight, a multipurpose tool, tire sealant and duct tape.

“Vacation time with your family, even if much of it is in transit, is special time and you want to spend that time having fun, not stuck along an interstate or in a service center waiting room,” said Haley. “By taking these simple precautionary steps, you greatly improve your odds againstunning into a problem on the road, which means more time for fun.”

For more information about Haley’s Tire, including store locations and directions, please visit www.haleystire.com .

About Haley’s Tire

Founded in 1970 by Frederick Haley and Frederick J. Haley, Jr., Haley Tire is a third-generation tire retailer and service center with locations in Augusta, Bangor, Biddeford and Falmouth. Haley Tire is an authorized Goodyear, Dunlop and Kelly Tires dealer. Haley Tire’s repair offerings include oil changes, alignments, brakes service (including free brake inspections), transmission maintenance, computerized engine analysis and much more.

For more information on Haley’s Tire, including store hours, locations and directions, please visit www.haleystire.com or call 207-781-3136.

Avoid the summer bummer. Preventative tips to prepare your automobile for a driving family vacation.Read More

Boston Bearing Company to exhibit at GlobalSpec Machine Tools & Metal Working Trade Show On August 10th

Emerson Bearing, the sister company of Action Bearing, the Boston based distributor of bearings and related parts to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) markets throughout New England, will be the featured bearing company at GlobalSpec’s Machine Tools & Metal Working Virtual Trade Show on Wednesday, August 10, 2011. There is no cost to attend.

Emerson Bearing will be the only bearing distributor among the exhibitors at the Machine Tools & Metal Working show. Visitors to Emerson Bearing’s booth will learn about new products and have an opportunity to chat with Emerson experts from the comfort of their desks at no cost. Attendees will also be able to visit the Networking Lounge, interact with other event attendees and download materials of interest from the Resource Center. Emerson Bearing will be giving away an iPad as a prize.

Both Action and Emerson Bearing are a source for buyers in such markets as automation, food processing, material handling, oil and gas, as well as recreation and printing. Both companies have dedicated Machine Tool and Metal Processing divisions with marketing specialists trained to accommodate the unique needs of these industries, for which 24/7 service and inventory are critical to many operations.

“The online Machine Tools & Metal Working Show enables attendees to gain the knowledge needed to help their company remain competitive in today’s marketplace,” noted Steve Katz, president of Emerson Bearing. “Bearings are the type of old-line business that is sometimes overlooked in today’s economy. We’re an industrial distributor that keeps rolling after more than 50 years. The key to our longevity has been the high level of knowledge that our sales team brings to customers; the way we cater inventory to fit the needs of our industry groups through our worldwide sourcing and our ability to offer solutions at various price points to our customer base.”

Register for the Machine Tools and Metal Working Show online at http://www.globalspec.com/events/upcomingevents and attend on August 10th via desktop or laptop.

For more information, contact Mary Ann Quintal at Action Bearing at 800-225-4587 or email info@actionbearing.com.

About GlobalSpec Virtual Trade Show

The Machine Tools and Metal Working e-Event offers conference-goers as much or more than they can get from a traditional trade show. Within the online environment, networking with manufacturers and peers is as simple as an instant message or the exchange of a v-card, and you can easily gather valuable resources like white papers, tech articles, and data sheets in your online briefcase. GlobalSpec e-Events provide all of this in a one-day live conference without a pricey registration fee, travel or lodging expenses.

About GlobalSpec, Inc.

GlobalSpec is the leading specialized vertical search, information services, e-publishing and online events company serving the engineering, technical and industrial communities. GlobalSpec users benefit from domain-expert search engines, a broad range of proprietary and aggregated Web-based content, 40 e-events and more than 60 e-newsletters; helping them search for and locate products and services, learn about suppliers and access comprehensive technical content. SpecSearch®, GlobalSpec’s trademarked search technology, allows users to search by specification more than 186,000,000 parts in 2,300,000 product families from more than 23,000 supplier catalogs. For suppliers, GlobalSpec offers highly filtered sales and marketing opportunities, product promotion and brand advertising platforms, including the GlobalSpec Industrial Ad Network, and a wide range of e-media advertising and marketing solutions. *GlobalSpec, SpecSearch, The Engineering Search Engine and The Engineering Web are registered trademarks of GlobalSpec, Inc.

The Action and Emerson Bearing Difference

In a proud tradition, the same families that started the company in 1957 keep Action and Emerson Bearing rolling by specializing in bearings for OEM and MRO markets throughout New England and far beyond. Action and Emerson Bearing inventories between 15,000 and 20,000 items, primarily ball and roller bearings, at their 26,000 square foot facility. The company can provide bearings ranging in size from 3mm to tunnel-boring 15-foot-diameter giants.

The company provides solutions to a variety of industries including: aggregate, concrete, mining, machine tools, electric motor repair, marine, material handling, metal processing, packaging, food processing, paper converting, printing, power generation, recreation, heavy construction, robotics, automation, transportation, wood products, wastewater treatment, pump, compressor and oil field.

Action and Emerson Bearing offers customers a one-stop shopping experience. With an online product catalog with over 3 million bearings; a vast inventory of bearings; worldwide sourcing; a fixed price program; a knowledgeable staff dedicated to delivering; same day shipping and 24/7 service, they have become the leading provider of bearings to OEM and MRO markets. The comapany is headquartered at 201 Brighton Ave. Boston, MA. For more information, contact 617-782-1400 or toll free, 800-225-4587, email info@actionbearing.com or visit www.actionbearing.com.

Boston Bearing Company to exhibit at GlobalSpec Machine Tools & Metal Working Trade Show On August 10thRead More

Energy award-winning green design build construction firm, Alares, LLC launches alternative energy division

DATELINE: QUINCY, MA

Alares, LLC has rapidly become a nationally recognized, award winning, green design-build construction firm focusing in designing and implementing cost-effective heating and cooling systems such as geothermal. Alares announced today a new energy division to provide better, cleaner, more cost-effective methods necessary in clean-build construction.

“We are committed to helping our clients clean up the environment, reduce energy consumption and decrease carbon emissions,” said Don Maggioli, a former Green Beret and owner/president of Alares LLC. “With our new energy division, we can offer an even broader range of energy services in the area of energy audits, feasibility studies, Energy Conservation Measures (ECM), sustainability and LEED services.”

Alares’ new energy division specializes in:

  • Turn-key design-build
  • Feasibility and comparative assessments of alternatives
  • Evaluation of environmentally impacted sites for renewable energy alternatives
  • Economic analyses including ROI and financial incentives
  • Energy audits
  • Retro-commissioning
  • Advanced metering design and installation
  • Feasibility Studies including Life Cycle Cost Analysis
  • Energy Modeling (eQuest)
  • Geothermal Design and Installation
  • Wind Studies and Turbine System Installation

Alares’ new energy division abilities are not constricted to just commercial enterprises, but also for municipalities, state and federal agencies. Their recent project for the Connecticut Air National Guard garnered them an energy award from the Association of Energy Engineers for the design and installation of a geothermal heating and cooling system.

For this recognized Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), the military niche is purely natural. Led by a former Green Beret, 75 percent of Alares’ senior staff served in the military.

“While it may seem like two different things, there are a lot of parallels between running a greener, more cost-efficient building or organization and the military,” said Maggioli. “In the military, you conserve your resources—manpower, ammo or weaponry—all with a goal toward saving lives. Running a greener operation may not save lives directly, but it can have a definite impact on saving the planet.”

About Alares LLC

Alares LLC is a nationally recognized, award winning design-build construction firm focused on construction, design, and energy and the environment. The Group’s areas of expertise include interior remodeling, HVAC mechanical systems including geothermal, electrical/control systems, fire alarm systems, ground-up construction, building commissioning, energy consulting and environmental assessment and remediation.  Alares’ staff includes licensed engineers and architects, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professionals (AP), and Certified Energy Managers (CEM), experienced energy auditors, scientists and other specialists.  Alares is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)—veterans make up 75 percent of Alares’ senior staff. For more information, please visit or their website www.AlaresLLC.com or call 617-995-4397.

Energy award-winning green design build construction firm, Alares, LLC launches alternative energy divisionRead More

Plymouth steps it up for a good cause. First annual Run for Faith 4Mile Memorial Run set for August 28th at Plimoth Plantation.

Marcy "Faith" Romboldi
Faith Romboldi

PLYMOUTH, MA…

Plymouth, MA continues to be a crossroad for area and destination runners. The Run for Faith is the newest race and a gold member in the Bayside Runner Racing Series. 

The first annual Run for Faith 4Miler is set for Sunday, August 28 at 9 a.m.at historic Plimoth Plantation. Entry fee is $25 – all of which will be donated to local charities.

The new 4 mile race loop captures spectacular views of Cape Cod Bay, the Eel River and scenic horse farms. The course features rolling hills and unmatched history.  Water stations will available and the event will be professionally timed by Spitler Racing Systems.  There will also be a 100 yard fun run for children.

 Prizes will go to top finishers for various age groups. Post-race “light refreshments” will include bananas, oranges, bagels, muffins and scones.  To amuse younger family members, a jumpy house will be available.

The Run for Faith is organized by Run for Faith, Inc., which is 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created to commemorate the special life of Faith “Marcy” Romboldi who gave so much of herself to both individuals and the community.

Money raised from this Run/Walk will benefit the Plymouth Public Library, Children’s Department, Plymouth Elementary Schools, and music scholarship programs. Proceeds will also be contributed  to awareness and prevention programs for ovarian cancer..

Faith, or “Marcy” as she was known by her friends and family, was a teacher, member of the Red Hat’s Society, Sweet Adeline’s, and Daughters of the American Revolution. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2008. Marcy’s ability to fight this vicious disease with incessant might and unsurpassed grace will never be forgotten and surely serves as inspiration to those who were close. Mostly, Marcy will be remembered for her acts of kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness. Many will remember her for her two best accessories- a lovely hat and a radiant smile!

Among the champions of the race committee are Marcy’s husband Russell Romboldi, son Matthew Romboldi and wife Nicole Romboldi, daughter Lisa O’Hanley, and many close friends.

Corporate sponsors include Delaney & Muncey, P.C.; Lombard’s Waste Service; Plimoth Plantation; Nolan Schelle Insurance; Mayflower Bank; Left Shore Designs; Dunlap Propane; Pilgrim Belle; Cape Cod Media Center; Pilgrim Custom Countertops; Baker’s Music and Video; and Water Street Café.

For more information and to register for the race, please visit www.runforfaithplymouth.org, or email info@runforfaithplymouth.org. 

View the course online at: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/42074524.  Register for this event at: www.active.com.

Plymouth steps it up for a good cause. First annual Run for Faith 4Mile Memorial Run set for August 28th at Plimoth Plantation.Read More

No heat wave for Coastal VW man…VW mascot welcomes customers to new Volkswagen dealership on Rt. 53 in Hanover.

Coastal VW's mascot VW Man
Coastal Volkswagen’s mascot Coastal VW Man needs something to do before the opening on August 8

HANOVER, MA… 

Coastal VW Man, Volkswagen’s mascot, recently made an appearance at the entrance of the new Coastal Volkswagen on Route 53 in Hanover. While the dealership is a few weeks away from opening, Coastal VW Man still made quite an impression on passerby’s—not only as a curiosity but for how the person inside was holding up to the weather.

“Even though it was a typical summer day, I was actually quite comfortable,” said Coastal VW Man.

Coastal VW Man was wearing a specially designed mascot costume created by Promo Costumes of Marion, Ohio. The costume is 48 inches in diameter, with a VW logo on both sides, and features a ProMo Pack Cooling System, and a battery-operated cooling fan. 

“Businesses love the visibility mascots like Coastal VW Man can provide them but don’t always take into consideration how exhausting it can be to wear a suit like that,” said Tom Norton, co-owner of Coastal Volkswagen. “Folks driving by on Route 53 can rest assured that Coastal VW Man is not overheating and that we’re keeping him hydrated. We want him ready to go for our opening in August.”

The new Coastal Volkswagen, located on the southbound side of Route 53 just before the Hanover Mall, will officially open on August 8. The dealership’s future inventory will include 200 new vehicles and a huge selection of high quality pre-owned models. Among the new automobiles coming soon to the Coastal Volkswagen include the much anticipated 2012 EOS, Jetta and Passat.

The dealership’s amenities will also include a state-of-the art service center with eight bays and customer amenities like a kids’ area, high-definition televisions and complimentary Wi-Fi in the waiting area. Coastal VW will also offer a complimentary shuttle service. 

Perhaps most importantly, the new dealership represents the only VW dealership and service center south of Quincy and north of Hyannis for Volkswagen owners who live, work or play in the Route 3 corridor.

“There’s been quite a bit of anticipation from VW owners and lovers regarding the opening,” said Richard Walker, co-owner of Coastal VW and a Hingham resident. “Trotting out Coastal VW Man is our way of saying to all those folks is ‘stay cool, Coastal Volkswagen is on its way.’”

For more information on Coastal Volkswagen, you can visit www.coastalvwboston.com.

About Coastal Dealerships Group

For more than 10 years, the Coastal Dealerships Group has not only made looking for a new or pre-owned automobile easy…but fun. Its latest dealership, Coastal Volkswagen, lives up to the standard set by the Group’s other dealerships, Coastal Nissan, located at 109 Accord Drive in Norwell, and Coastal Auto Center, located at 742 Cushing Highway in Cohasset. Coastal Volkswagen offers the same first-rate customer service and professionalism, with  no pressure sales and  straightforward, bottom-line pricing–including  fair trade-ins every time.

For more information on new and pre-owned automobiles, you can go to www.coastalvwboston.com or, come this August, stop by the dealership, conveniently located at 1 Saturn Drive in Hanover, just off exit 13 on Route 3.

For more information on Coastal Dealerships Group, please visit www.coastaldealerships.com.

No heat wave for Coastal VW man…VW mascot welcomes customers to new Volkswagen dealership on Rt. 53 in Hanover.Read More

Greater Brockton CHNA Awards Grant to Old Colony Elder Services

Greater Brockton Community Health Network Area (CHNA) has recently awarded a $3,000 grant to Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) the Brockton based regional elder services agency.

The grant will be used to help fund the My Life, My Health Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) for the 10 communities served by CHNA.

The My Life, My Health CDSMP is a community workshop designed to give seniors and others with chronic conditions (such as arthritis, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, asthma, etc.) and/or their caregivers the knowledge and skills needed to take a more active role in their health care. It is facilitated by OCES staff members who are certified leaders of the program.

Three programs in English and three programs in Spanish will be offered to seniors residing in Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Holbrook, Stoughton, West Bridgewater and Whitman. There are five English speaking trained program leaders and two Spanish speaking trained leaders. (Additional Spanish speaking volunteers who would like to become trained leaders are needed.)

According to Dorothy Slack, who is a certified leader of CDSMP, “We would like to thank Greater Brockton CHNA for their generous grant which will enable us to run this essential program. We’re really excited to offer the program in both English and Spanish. The grant will help pay for program supplies, books and lunch for attendees.”

Each program runs for six consecutive weeks. The first Spanish speaking session will be held at the Neighborhood Health Center in Brockton on September 14th. The first English speaking session will be held at the Abington Council on Aging in Abington on Tuesday, September 20th.

“It is through the generous support of organizations and individuals that we can continue to provide programs that better enable elders to remain independent and living in their own homes throughout the 23 communities we serve,” said Diana DiGiorgi, OCES’ Executive Director.

About Greater Brockton CHNA
Greater Brockton Community Health Network Area (CHNA) was established in 1992 by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. It is a local coalition of public, non-profit, and private sectors working together to build healthier communities in Massachusetts through community-based prevention planning and health promotion. It is in the mission of the Greater Brockton CHNA to use funding to support local programs and initiatives that meet the CHNA’s guiding principles. The Greater Brockton CHNA serves the communities of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Holbrook, Stoughton, West Bridgewater and Whitman. For more information, visit the website at www.preventionworks.org.

About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is a private, non-profit corporation designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver Support; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services and Home Care.

OCES serves elders, their families and caregivers in 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts:
Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.

In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 157 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org

Greater Brockton CHNA Awards Grant to Old Colony Elder ServicesRead More

Love the commute! Why home-based businesses are the hottest trend—and fastest moving opportunities– in franchising.

 HIALEAH, FLORIDA… 

The appeal of working from home isn’t difficult to see. Great commute. Setting your own hours and adjusting those hours to your lifestyle. Lower overhead costs and, in many cases, no need to purchase or lease space. Yet the trend towards more franchisors offering home-based franchises and more opportunity seekers opting for a franchise rather than simply starting their own home-based business is less about dollars up front and more about long-term success.

According to HomeBasedBusinessDevelopmentCenter.com, statistics show that 95 percent of home-based franchises succeed. By the same token, 97 percent of home-based, small businesses fail.

Hunter Stokes, President of Franchise Solutions, a seasoned franchise marketing company noted, “Especially in the last decade, there has been a real trend among franchisors to offer home-based businesses as a growing number of prospective franchisees look to career pursuits that keep them close to home. If the American Dream can be sought from a home office, why stand behind a counter or commute to an office?”

Natural Fruit Corporation Senior Vice President Susan Morris adds, “The home-based franchise doesn’t have the huge start-up costs associated with franchises that require a physical location, plus you get the benefits of working from a home office. At the same time, you’re not completely on your own like many independent small business owners are. Being a franchise owner should mean that you have a proven, marketable product or service to sell and support from your franchisor in running and marketing your business.”

Natural Fruit Corporation makes Chunks O’ Fruti® 100% natural frozen fruit bars. The company recently repackaged its franchise opportunity—including a distributorship to sell Mars ice cream products as well—to be even more attractive to people seeking a home-based franchise opportunity.

Each franchisee purchases an exclusive territory with a capacity for 1,000 freezers. Franchisees are then responsible for negotiating with merchants at high-traffic retail locations (e.g. convenience stores, health clubs, independent supermarkets) to place a Chunks O Fruti® freezer at the location, stocking those locations and acquiring new locations.

While the opportunity does require an initial investment for the freezers and product, storage space for product and the refrigerated truck for delivery can be leased. The typical Fruti franchisee can start their business for around $100,000 and run the business entirely from a home office.

“We’ve been researching franchise opportunities for a few years now with the goal of living on our ranch outside of Albuquerque in Tijeras and starting a family. The Chunks O’ Fruti® franchise provides an opportunity we can run out of our home,” said Jamie Linn, who along with her husband Roger, runs a Chunks O’ Fruti® franchise in New Mexico. “Probably more importantly, it involves selling an all natural, healthy product that’s good for you and that we believe in.”

Chunks O’Fruti® frozen fruit bars are 100% natural and contain real fruit with no artificial coloring or flavoring–the fruit is spread evenly throughout each bar by a proprietary manufacturing process. It’s also low calorie and there are more than 20 natural flavors to choose from.

Fruti franchises are available across the U.S. For complete information on Fruti ‘s franchise offering, please visit www.frutifranchise.com or contact Bruce Wildes, Acadia Business Advisors, LLC at 207 370 8210 or info@acadiabiz.com.

About Natural Fruit Corporation
Brothers Simon and Jorge Bravo Sr. founded Natural Fruit Corporation in 1985. Equipped with their vast backgrounds in food processing and production, the brothers set out to produce the highest quality, 100 percent natural, frozen fruit bars. Nearly three decades later, the company is still going strong, manufacturing more than 20 flavors of the Chunks O’ Fruti brand products—100 percent natural with no added colors or flavoring. All flavors and color come directly from the fruit! Chunks O’ Fruti brand products are Kosher-certified and gluten-free.

In 2009, Natural Fruit Corporation entered into an agreement for its distributors to offer the full line of Mars Ice Cream products, including Twix, Snickers, Dove bars and M&M brands. Natural Fruit Corporation began offering a revised franchise opportunity in 2010.

Fruti franchises are available across the U.S… For complete information on Fruti’s franchise offering, please contact Bruce Wildes, Acadia Business Advisors, LLC at 207 370 8210 or info@acadiabiz.com or visit www.frutifranchise.com.

For information on Fruti products, please visit www.nfc-fruti.com.

Love the commute! Why home-based businesses are the hottest trend—and fastest moving opportunities– in franchising.Read More

A 100% natural choice for a business advisor. National Fruit Corporation retains Acadia Business Advisors to sell Chunks O’ Fruti® franchises.

 HIALEAH, FLORIDA…

When Natural Fruit Corporation (NFC), makers of Chunks O’ Fruti® 100% natural frozen fruit bars, revamped its franchise opportunity, it had one goal in mind: find franchise owners who had the desire and talent to be successful. NFC passed on high-priced consultants and business brokers content to simply to move units and collecting franchise fees. Instead, NFC chose Acadia Business Advisors, LLC, a firm known for its ability to understand a business first and then tailor the franchise offering to attract desirable candidates.

“There’s nothing like Chunks O’ Fruit® frozen fruit bars. They are 100% natural, fruit is always the first ingredient, there is no artificial coloring or flavoring, and the fruit is spread evenly throughout each bar by a proprietary manufacturing process. It’s also low calorie and there are more than 20 natural flavors to choose from.,” said Susan Morris, senior vice president for Natural Fruit Corporation. “We wanted to work with an advisor who approaches our business with the attitude of a partner committed to our long-term success, before and after the franchise fee has been collected. Bruce Wildes and the team at Acadia understood the uniqueness of this product, how our franchisees had to not only have the capital but the drive to be successful.”

The franchise opportunity calls for owners to sell 100% natural Chunks O’Fruti® frozen fruit bar products wholesale to retail outlets like their local convenience stores, hospital cafeterias, schools, independent grocery stores, deli’s, family style restaurants, swim clubs and many other high-traffic locations. Through a special partnership arranged by Natural Fruit Corporation, franchise owners can also sell the enormously popular Mars ice cream products—like Twix, Snickers, M&Ms and Dove bars—on a wholesale basis to those same retail locations as a Mars distributor. 

Each franchisee is given an exclusive territory within a two-hour driving radius. Franchisees are then responsible for negotiating with merchants to place a Chunks O Fruti® freezer at the location, keeping those locations stocked and acquiring new locations. Each territory has the capacity for 1,000 freezers.

Start up costs, including the franchise fee, can range from $75,000 to $101,000 depending on how they choose to finance the business.

“The Fruti franchise opportunity is extremely attractive for a number of reasons. It doesn’t require a huge capital investment up front. You can run the business out of your home and tailor it to your lifestyle. Those attractive qualities also make it a challenge to find potential buyers who have the right tools and capital to succeed at the business,” said Wildes, the owner of Acadia Business Advisors, LLC. “Because we have experience in representing both franchisors and franchise candidates, we have a pretty good idea in what’s necessary from both a financial standpoint and personality standpoint to be a successful Fruti franchise owner.”

Adds Morris, “Bruce Wildes and the Acadia team have helped us to fine tune our offering, our approach to our offering and our execution of successful Discovery Days. The day-to-day dealings are professional, effective and stream lined.  Their use of automation as well as technology provides us with an avenue to deal with a high volume of franchisees economically in time and effort.”

With headquarters in Maine and offices across the United States, Acadia Business Advisors is a full-service franchise consultant and business advisory firm, serving clients throughout North America and international markets. Yet almost in spite of its broad reach, Acadia maintains a low profile and a reputation for honest answers and deliverable results.

Fruti franchises are available across the U.S. For complete information on Fruti’s franchise offering, please visit www.frutifranchise.com or contact Bruce Wildes, Acadia Business Advisors, LLC at 207 370 8210 or info@acadiabiz.com.

About Natural Fruit Corporation
Brothers Simon and Jorge Bravo Sr. founded Natural Fruit Corporation in 1985. Equipped with their vast backgrounds in food processing and production, the brothers set out to produce the highest quality, 100 percent natural, frozen fruit bars. Nearly three decades later, the company is still going strong, manufacturing more than 20 flavors of the Chunks O’ Fruti brand products—100 percent natural with no added colors or flavoring. All flavors and color come directly from the fruit! Chunks O’ Fruti brand products are Kosher-certified and gluten-free.

In 2009, Natural Fruit Corporation entered into an agreement for its distributors to offer the full line of Mars Ice Cream products, including Twix, Snickers, Dove bars and M&M brands. Natural Fruit Corporation began offering a revised franchise opportunity in 2010.

Fruti franchises are available across the U.S… For complete information on Fruti’s franchise offering, please contact Bruce Wildes, Acadia Business Advisors, LLC at 207 370 8210 or info@acadiabiz.com or visit www.frutifranchise.com.

For information on Fruti products, please visit www.nfc-fruti.com.

About Acadia Business Advisors, LLC

Acadia Business Advisors, a full service franchise consultant and business advisory firm with headquarters in Maine and offices across the United States, serves clients throughout North America and international markets. Acadia specializes in the franchise industry and also works with related non-franchise companies for similar issues. For more information, please visit www.acadiabiz.com or call toll-free 877-456-4197.

A 100% natural choice for a business advisor. National Fruit Corporation retains Acadia Business Advisors to sell Chunks O’ Fruti® franchises.Read More