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New Franchise Operations Performance Summit (OPS), the only franchise executive conference dedicated to operations performance excellence, announced for Dec. 4-5 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Bob Gappa of Management 2000 will be a keynote speaker at Franchise OPS, December 4-5, in Atlanta, GA.

WOBURN, MA and ATLANTA, GEORGIA…

The influence of new technologies like handheld devices and social media has had a staggering effect on business and, for that matter, our everyday lives for the better part of the last decade. Yet in the franchise industry, franchisors have been relatively slow in employing these technologies to improve operations, particularly with regard to the role of the Franchise Consultant. That’s one of many topics to be addressed at Franchise Operations Performance Summit (OPS), set for December 4-5 in Atlanta, Georgia.

“Technology and new applications have dramatically improved how franchisors work and communicate with franchisees. In terms of franchise operations, however, we’ve only scratched the surface,” said Evan Hackel, founder of Ingage Consulting and one of the keynote speakers for the December Franchise OPS, to be held at the Centennial Hotel in downtown Atlanta. “We covered some Web 2.0 technology applications in previous OPS sessions. The Atlanta OPS will specifically target how modern technology can greatly enhance the Franchise Consultant role to improve service and performance.”

In addition to covering new material, this Franchise OPS will also feature several new franchise experts on its roster of speakers, including Bob Gappa, founder of Management 2000. Over the past 31 years, Gappa and Management 2000 have worked with more than 950 franchises, providing strategic insights and recommendations for those organizations to address critical business challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.

“Anybody who’s anybody in the franchising world either knows Bob Gappa or knows about him,” said Hackel.

In addition to Hackel and Gappa, other Franchise OPS speakers include: Deb Binder of Ingage Consulting, Rupert M. Barkoff of Kilpatrick, Townsend and Stockton; Keith Gerson of FranConnect; Eric Stites of Franchise Business Review; Stacey Ruth of Actio Marketing; Barth Getto of BizUnite; Mindy Golde of Listen360; and Matt Talbot of GoSpotCheck.

Topics to be covered at Franchise OPS include:

  • Technology for Field Consultants
  • Benchmarking
  • The Field Consultant of the Future
  • Better Onboarding
  • FDD Item 19 – How to Do It Right

Said Adam Marmelstein, COO, Brightway Insurance of Franchise OPS, “Even if you know a great deal about many topics, you don’t. Come and learn more about what you don’t know so you can take the first or fiftieth step down the path to success.”

In addition to the educational benefits, roundtable discussions and networking opportunities with C-level franchise executives, the Franchise OPS offers the added bonus of being approved for 300 CFE credits by the International Franchise Association.

“With a lot of conferences, you come away with good ideas and make some good connections but because you get that information on the fly, it’s not as easy to implement when you get back to the home office,“ said Hackel. “With Franchise OPS, each attendee will be able to take actionable items back with them to help improve their franchise operations.”

Interested parties can register for the Franchise OPS before November 3 for $599. After that, the fee increases to $699.

Added Hackel, “Those interested in attending should register early. The previous OPS in Denver sold out before the early bird special and something tells me that with our agenda and roster of speakers, the same will be true in Atlanta.”

Franchise OPS is sponsored by FranConnect, Franchise Business Review, Kilpatrick Townsend and Stockton; Actio Marketing, BizUnite, Ingage Consulting, Listen360, Management 2000 and Go/Spot Check. For complete information on Franchise OPS, please visit http://www.franchiseoperationssummit.com.

About Ingage Consulting

Ingage Consulting is a management consulting firm that works with franchisors and franchisees to improve the franchise organization’s culture which in turn increases sales and satisfaction; improves growth and retention and boosts loyalty and profits. Ingage Consulting provides solutions that drive the cooperation, commitment, passion and loyalty of both franchisors and franchisees.  The company helps solve the problems of franchise organizations by offering services that range from partnership creation and vibrant intranet community creation to trust building, improved communication and strategic planning.  After a thorough assessment, Ingage Consulting devises solutions to a franchise organization’s challenges. These solutions may include the development of methods that maximize collaboration among franchisees/licensees or the development of a clear strategy and execution plan for change which is customized to meet organizational objectives.

Evan Hackel, Ingage founder and management expert has more than two decades of experience in best practices, turnaround strategies and team dynamics.  He is often engaged to analyze franchise businesses, provide recommendations and facilitate strategic planning.  He is a member of the International Franchise Association and New England Franchise Association.

Ingage Consulting is located at 400 Trade Center, Suite 5900 in Woburn, MA.  For more information, contact (781) 569-5900 or visit the website www.ingage.net.

New Franchise Operations Performance Summit (OPS), the only franchise executive conference dedicated to operations performance excellence, announced for Dec. 4-5 in Atlanta, Georgia.Read More

FranConnect’s Keith Gerson joins roster of speaker for 2012 Franchise Operations Performance Summit (OPS), to be held July 18 & 19 in Denver, CO.

Keith Gerson
Keith Gerson, president of FranConnect, will speak at the Franchise Operations Performance Summit in Denver, CO on July 18 and 19.

WOBURN, MA and DENVER, COLORADO…

When franchisors and franchisees think of the Internet, it’s typically in terms of how to better serve customers and attract new ones. The new addition to Franchise OPS speaker roster, FranConnect President Keith Gerson, CFE, will address how new Web 2.0 technology can be used to transform how franchisors train and work with franchisees—elevating franchise performance.

“There are many franchisors who underutilize the capabilities of the internet, particularly when it comes to operations,” said Evan Hackel, president of Ingage Consulting and one of Franchise OPS’ keynote speakers. “We’re ecstatic to have Keith Gerson speaking on this topic because he will not only talk about how new Web 2.0 technology can be used to improve franchise operations but he will provide attendees with a written, actionable plan they can implement from Day one when they return from conference.”

In addition to Web 2.0 technology, Gerson will also hold a workshop entitled “Maximizing the Benefits of an Online University”.  The workshop will illuminate the best practices in implementing an online university as well as presenting real world case studies to stimulate conversation. As with Gerson’s other workshop, attendees will be able to create a list of action items to improve their franchise training systems.

“Done right, online universities can be truly transformational and improve operational execution.  The key is combination of integrating the online training into a comprehensive implementation and having the type of online training that users will both enjoy and learn from,” said Gerson. “The workshop can help with online universities or those thinking about adding one by teaching best practices in implementing an online University. “

Gerson is a 35-year franchise industry veteran. Prior to holding his current position as president of FranConnect, he served as the Chief Operating Officer at Sopra Brands, one of franchising’s leading private equity and management companies. Gerson has also led multiple companies to record levels of franchise development and accelerated them to multimillion-dollar revenue growth, leading to increased royalties and significant EBITDA. Companies he has led include PuroClean, AlphaGraphics, Mrs. Fields, and ChemDry.

A highly sought public speaker and mentor, Gerson’s expertise covers emerging as well as established franchise systems. His knowledge base helps FranConnect efficiently implement in-depth franchise development solutions for consistent growth and revenue profitability.

“Part of what makes Franchise OPS a one of a kind conference, besides the fact that we deal specifically with franchise operations, is speakers the caliber of Keith Gerson,” said Hackel. “His combination of experience, intelligence and presentation skills makes this a must-see workshop.”

The initial Franchise OPS was held last December in Atlanta, Georgia. In addition to Gerson, seven franchise experts—Evan Hackel and Deb Binder of Ingage Consulting, Stacey Ruth of Actio Marketing, Eric Stites of Franchise Business Review, Rupert M. Barkoff of Kilpatrick, Townsend and Stockton, Barth Getto of BizUnite and Bill Gauthier of CCA Global Partners—will conduct two days of workshops at the Westin Hotel in downtown Denver.

Workshops to be held include:

  • Real World Franchise Compliance
  • Impactful, Substantive and Effective Convention/Conferences 
  • Turning a Survey into a Powerful Management Tool
  • Maximizing the Benefits of an Online University 
  • Supercharge Operational Excellence with Web 2.0 Technology
  • Making the Most of Franchise System Buying Services

In addition to the educational benefits, roundtable discussions and networking opportunities with C-level franchise executives, the Franchise OPS offers the added bonus of being approved for 300 CFE credits by the International Franchise Association. Interested parties can register for the Franchise OPS before July 2 for as little as $399. After that, the fee increases to $499.

Franchise OPS is sponsored by Franchise Business Review, Kilpatrick Townsend, Actio Marketing, BizUnite and Ingage Consulting. For complete information on Franchise OPS, please visit http://www.franchiseoperationssummit.com.

About Ingage Consulting

Ingage Consulting is a management consulting firm that works with cooperatives and cooperative councils and leadership to improve the organization’s culture which in turn increases sales and satisfaction; improves growth and retention and boosts loyalty and profits.

Ingage Consulting provides solutions that drive the cooperation, commitment, passion and loyalty of cooperative members.  They offer unique services that help solve the problems of cooperatives in a number of ways.  Working closely with clients, the Ingage Consulting team quickly and thoughtfully assesses, understands and devises solutions to a cooperative organization’s challenges.  Leaders come away with ideas for improvement, including methods for maximizing collaboration among co-op members and a clear strategy and execution plan for change, customized to meet organizational objectives.  Ingage Consulting’s proven techniques to increase collaboration brings about greater productivity and success on many levels. In short, Ingage Consulting makes cooperatives more successful.

Ingage Consulting is located at 400 Trade Center, Suite 5900 in Woburn, MA.  For more information, contact (781) 569-5900 or visit the website www.ingage.net.

FranConnect’s Keith Gerson joins roster of speaker for 2012 Franchise Operations Performance Summit (OPS), to be held July 18 & 19 in Denver, CO.Read More

Franchise Growth Group announces investment with MD Tech Pro

Evan Hackel

WOBURN, MA… 

Franchise Growth Group (“FGG”), a provider of consulting services and capital to the franchise industry, recently announced an investment in MD Tech Pro. With regional offices across the U.S., MD Tech Pro specializes in all phases of IT pertaining to medical practices, including network and system management, EHR transition, EHR support, and practice management.

 “MD Tech Pro represents the kind of franchise we’re looking to partner with on many levels,” said Evan Hackel, managing partner of FGG. “They have a very innovative and scale concept.  A strong management team, but they needed capital and expertise on how to get to the next level.”

MD Tech Pro provides services nationwide and has experience with major electronic medical record software solutions. The range of solutions MD Tech Pro offers includes:

  • Complete support and solutions for your practice
  • 24/7/365 remote monitoring and repair
  • Software management and upgrades
  • EHR selection, implementation and EHR support services
  • Cloud hosting
  • Security risk analysis
  • Virus, spyware and security protection for all computers and servers
  • On-site, remote and phone / help-desk support 24/7/365
  • Discount hardware and software

“We are thrilled to be working with FGG to help take our organization to a higher level,” said Michael Vanderslice , CEO of MD Tech Pro. “Our particular niche, IT for medical practices and clinics, is still relatively in its infancy. With FGG’s help, we’re looking to be able to grow our company and better serve clients and, indirectly, their patients.”

Franchise Growth Group looks to acquire or invest in franchise organizations that have tremendous potential but are unable to realize that potential due to management issues, franchisee relationship problems or lack of capital. Typically those organizations have at least 50 franchisees.

FGG considers acquisitions that require full ownership or allow FGG to become a major investor.

For more information on Franchise Growth Group, please visit www.franchisegrowthgroup.com. For more on MD Health Tech, visit www.mdtechpro.com.

About Franchise Growth Group (FGG):

Based in Woburn, MA, FGG looks to acquire or invest in franchise organizations that have tremendous potential but are unable to realize that potential due to management issues, franchisee relationship problems or lack of capital. By leveraging FGG’s investment fund and its team of Franchise experts, FGG helps small- to medium-sized franchisor (50 or more units) become successful, profitable and positioned for acquisition by private equity firms or others that specialize in long-term franchise investments.

For more information, visit www.franchisegrowthgroup.com or call 781—205-9501.

About MD Tech Pro:

MD Tech Pro is a Phoenix AZ-based healthcare IT company specializing in all phases of IT pertaining to medical practices, including network and system management, EHR transition, EHR support, and practice management. The company provides services nationwide and has experience with most major electronic medical record software solutions. MD Tech Pro currently has offices in Phoenix AZ, Denver CO, Boston MA, Atlanta and Savannah GA and Chattanooga TN and anticipates having offices in over 100 markets by the end of 2015.

Franchise Growth Group announces investment with MD Tech ProRead More

Negotiation Skills for the Franchised Business sponsored by New England Franchise Association on November 17 at the Newton Marriott, Newton, MA

NEWTON, MA…

Stephen Frenkel, director of Negotiation Programs at Mediation Works, Inc. (MWI), recognized as an international expert, will outline “Negotiation Skills for the Franchised Business” at the upcoming meeting of the  New England Franchise Association on Tuesday, November 17 at the Newton Marriott, 2345 Commonwealth Avenue, at the intersections of Route 128 and the Mass Pike, Newton, Massachusetts.

The evening includes a cocktail and networking session beginning at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 7:00 PM, and then the presentation from by Frenkel. The entire business community is urged to attend. Membership in the NEFA is NOT required. Reservations are required.  Registration Fee is $60 per person and includes dinner.  NEFA Members receive $10.00 off. 

MWI is a Boston-based firm specializing in effective negotiation, communication and conflict resolution training and services. Frenkel will address the challenges inherent in managing franchisee/franchisor relationships as well as tools and concepts to more effectively manage those relationships and inevitable difficult conversations.

Frenkel brings extensive experience training and coaching global clients on the art of negotiating successfully – balancing the constant struggle between negotiating for the “win” while building and maintaining long-term working relationships.  MWI clients include Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), Association for Financial Professionals (AFP), Corporate United, CVS Caremark, Iron Mountain, NiSource, and Sallie Mae. 

In addition, Frenkel is a guest-lecturer on advanced negotiation topics for the Graduate Programs in Dispute Resolution at the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he earned his Masters degree. He is a regularly featured speaker at conferences and events across the nation, where he provides information about the collaborative negotiation process and its benefits.  Contributions and publications include the Harvard Negotiation Law Review, Chief Learning Officer Magazine, Publishing Executive Magazine and BuyerZone. 

About NEFA

New England Franchise Association (NEFA) is the trade organization for franchisors and franchisees in the region, with over 150 members. The mission of NEFA is to bring franchise executives, franchisees and vendors together to share ideas for success.

Franchising more than ever before, has an unprecedented opportunity to make a major positive impact on the future New England economy. In a 2001-05 study conducted by PriceWaterhouseCoppers on behalf of the International Franchise Association (IFA) found that in New England over 875,000 jobs are a result of franchising, the total output is over 100 Billion dollars a year, and there are over 35,000 franchise establishments in the six New England States.

To reserve your seats, please contact New England Franchise Association via the organization’s website www.NEFranchise.org, email: info@NEFranchise.org, or by calling Jim Coen, (617) 469-3002.

Negotiation Skills for the Franchised Business sponsored by New England Franchise Association on November 17 at the Newton Marriott, Newton, MARead More

AAFD partners with Mace Security to offer AAFD members discounted rate on state-of-the-art security products

SAN DIEGO, CA…

The American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) today announced a new partnership with Mace Security International, manufacturer of personal defense and electronic surveillance products marketed under the famous brand name, Mace®. Under this new agreement, the more than 50,000 franchised outlets owned by AAFD members have access to Mace’s broad security line at partnership pricing.

“Security is a huge issue with many of our franchisee members and certainly an area where you don’t want to spare quality due to expense. This new partnership gives our members access to state-of-the art security equipment at a reduced rate from a company, Mace, that’s literally a household name in the world of security,” said Robert Purvin, chairman of AAFD.

While Mace is a household name for its personal defense sprays, the company boasts an extensive product line of security equipment. Mace’s security products include: security systems, cameras and accessories, monitors and accessories, digital video recorders and other security products (e.g. mirrors, domes, and signage).

John O’Leary, president of Mace Security Products, expressed his excitement about the new partnership. “Our association with AAFD is a classic win-win, relationship,” said O’Leary.  “Mace wins because we now are associated with the industry’s most respected franchisee advocate, AAFD, many of whose members need our products. AAFD wins by enabling its members to save on state-of-the-art security equipment.”

About the AAFD
The AAFD is a national non-profit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers throughout the United States. Formed in 1992, the AAFD is focused on market driven reform to achieve its mission to define and promote collaborative franchise cultures that the AAFD describes as Total Quality Franchising. Since its formation the AAFD has grown to represent more than 50,000 franchised locations throughout the United States. The AAFD has members in all 50 states and represents more than 100 different franchise systems.
The AAFD’s Fair Franchising Standards, Fair Franchising Seal, Trademark

Chapters, and emphasis on Marketplace Solutions led to the Association’s recognition as a growing force in franchising. The AAFD’s Branded Partner programs add a new dimension to the value of AAFD membership. The AAFD provides a broad range of member services designed to help franchisees build market power, create legislative support of interest to franchisees, provide legal and financial support, and provide a wide range of general member benefits.
For more information about the conference or the AAFD, please call toll free – 800-733-9858 or visit www.AAFD.org.

About Mace

Mace Security International, Inc. is a manufacturer of personal defense and electronic surveillance products marketed under the famous brand name, Mace®, and is an owner and operator of a wholesale central monitoring station.  The Company also operates a Digital Media Marketing and e-commerce business.  In addition, Mace owns and operates car washes, and has previously announced that it is exiting this segment of its business.  The Company’s remaining car washes are located in Texas.  Mace’s web site is www.mace.com.

AAFD partners with Mace Security to offer AAFD members discounted rate on state-of-the-art security productsRead More

A landmark on a long journey…Resort Maps hits 90- map milestone

WAITSFIELD, VERMONT…

Part of any journey are those landmarks you pass along the way. Mile markers, in particular, tell the story in how far you’ve come and how far you have to go. Resort Maps, creator of customized travel maps, recently passed a mile marker of its own, publishing maps in 90 cities and towns across the U.S. and U.K.

Resort Maps are colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort towns and cities. Free to area visitors, each map advertises restaurants, accommodations, retail stores, factory outlets, recreation and attractions, real estate and other local services. Each advertiser is represented with a display ad surrounding the map, including a color-coded grid locator and a building drawn, highlighted and labeled making it easy to locate.

“Ninety cities and towns is quite a milestone and one we’re quite proud of,” said Peter Hans, president of Resort Maps. “It’s a tribute to the hard work of both our staff here at Resort Maps headquarters in Vermont and our franchisees across the U.S. and U.K.”

Resort Maps began creating and publishing maps in the northeastern U.S. back in 1986. In an effort to continue the company’s growth and simultaneously keep the quality of the product, Resort Maps became a franchisor in 1993. Since adopting the franchise model, Resort Maps has grown steadily to 90 maps distributed across 20 states as well as towns and cities in England and Puerto Rico.

In 2009, Resort Maps will print and publish over 20 million maps.

“People usually pick up our maps when they’re on their way somewhere. By prominently displaying local tourist attractions and our advertiser locations on our maps, we point out what the local area has to offer. Many times that leads tourists to stay a little longer and check things out, which of course makes our advertisers very happy and explains why we go through so many maps,” said Hans.

And what of the next mile marker, 100 maps?

“Resort Maps is truly a unique and appealing franchise opportunity. It’s not a 9-to-5 gig and you don’t necessarily have to work 12 months a year to run a successful franchise. You just have to be willing to work hard when you work,” said Hans. “With more and more people looking to escape the corporate world for an opportunity that gives them some freedom and flexibility and great earning potential, 100 maps is certainly a tangible goal as we attract more franchisees– hopefully one we can meet within the next year.”

For more information on Resort Maps or to inquire about ownership of a Resort Maps franchise, please visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

About Resort Maps

Headquartered in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Resort Maps has been creating and publishing advertising maps in the northeastern U.S. since 1986. In 1993, Resort Maps expanded its reach by creating a franchise model for distribution of its colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort towns and cities. Today, that network of franchises grown to nearly 90 Resort Maps in publication in the US and the UK, with several more in the process of being published. More than 20 million Resort Maps will be printed and distributed in 2009.

For more information on Resort Maps the company and/or the franchise opportunity, visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277. 

A landmark on a long journey…Resort Maps hits 90- map milestoneRead More

Peter Hanson receives AAFD’s Chairman’s Award for Community Service

SAN DIEGO, CA…

The American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) honored AAFD President Peter Hanson with a special Chairman’s Award to recognize his years of service to the franchising community. Hanson was recognized at AAFD’s Total Quality Franchising Awards banquet at the recent Annual Franchisee Leadership Summit in San Antonio, Texas.

“Peter’s service to AAFD and the franchisee community as a whole—both during his tenure as president and prior to that as a member—has been exemplary and invaluable,” said Robert Purvin, chairman of AAFD. “The wealth of knowledge and experience Peter brings to the table as president has helped us forge many of the relationships that make an AAFD membership highly desirable for members and member associations.” 

Hanson first served the AAFD for many years in a volunteer capacity as treasurer before his tenure on the AAFD Board of Directors for five years. He also served as a member of the AAFD Standards Committee and was named the AAFD’s Member of the Year in 2003. Hanson became president of AAFD in 2006.

An owner of four Huntington Learning Center franchises in southern California, Hanson is past President of the Association of Remedial Educators, the independent Huntington franchisee association. Prior to his life as a franchisee, Hanson served in various senior management capacities, notably as Executive Vice-President of Operations and Finance at Mitchell International, Vice-President and Principal of Polaris Capital Group LTD. Vice-President and CFO of Nucorp Energy, Inc. and Audit Partner at Arthur Young & Co.

“It has been quite an honor to serve as president of AAFD and I’m touched by this award,” said Hanson. “AAFD has been a big part of my career and life for that matter. We’ve made tremendous strides over the past few years and I’m looking forward to helping AAFD continue to be the vital force in the franchising community that it’s been.”

About the AAFD

The AAFD is a national non-profit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers throughout the United States. Formed in 1992, The AAFD is focused on market driven reform to achieve its mission to define and promote collaborative franchise cultures that the AAFD describes as Total Quality Franchising.   Since its formation the AAFD has grown to represent more than 50,000 franchised businesses throughout the United States. The AAFD currently has members in all 50 states and represents more than 100 different franchise systems.

The AAFD’s Fair Franchising Standards, Fair Franchising Seal, Trademark Chapters, and emphasis on Marketplace Solutions led to the Association’s recognition as a growing force in franchising. The AAFD’s Branded Partner programs add a new dimension to the value of AAFD membership. The AAFD provides a broad range of member services designed to help franchisees build market power, create legislative support of interest to franchisees, provide legal and financial support, and provide a wide range of general member benefits.

For more information about the conference or the AAFD, please call toll free – 800-733-9858 or visit www.AAFD.org.

Peter Hanson receives AAFD’s Chairman’s Award for Community ServiceRead More

Janet Sparks and Blue MauMau Editor Don Sniegowski receive the AAFD Community Service Awards.

SAN DIEGO, CA…

The American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD) has honored investigative journalists Janet Sparks and Don Sniegowski with the Chairman’s Award for Distinguished Service to the Franchising Community.

Sparks and Sniegowski, the founder and editor of the franchise news social media Web site Blue MauMau, received their awards at AAFD’s Total Quality Franchising Awards banquet at the recent Annual Franchisee Leadership Summit in San Antonio, Texas.

Janet Sparks, columnist and reporter for Franchise Times magazine and, over the past two years, an investigative reporter for Blue MauMau. Previously, Janet had been owner and publisher of the Continental Franchise Review, an industry trade journal she worked for and then acquired in 1991.  When Franchise Times acquired CFR in 1998, she became the magazine’s associate publisher, at which time Janet’s journalism became focused on a critical examination of franchising practices, a focus that the AAFD applauds.

“The AAFD is pleased to recognize investigative reporter, Janet Sparks, as a recipient of our Chairman’s Award for Distinguished Service to the Franchising Community,” said Purvin. “Janet has emerged as a vigilant sentinel for fair franchising practices, tenaciously investigating and exposing unscrupulous conduct, and providing an important outlet for franchisee victims to have their stories taken seriously, exposed and investigated.”

Continued Purvin, “In a journalistic environment that is largely patronizing to the franchising community, Janet never shies from a tough or controversial story.  Her forte is to investigate, to challenge and, where appropriate, to expose.  At the heart of Janet’s journalism is a conviction that franchisee rights should be recognized and protected.  Janet has urged grassroots activism amongst franchise owners, and has encouraged franchise owners to come together for their common good.”

“I’m quite honored by AAFD selecting me for its Chairman’s award,” Sparks said.  “I have known Bob Purvin for over 15 years and have followed the AAFD mission in bringing equality and balance to franchising. I’m in awe of the courage and zeal of the AAFD members to bring about a fairer franchise relationship.”

Don Sniegowski is the vision, courage and proud parent of Blue MauMau, the country’s leading online social media Web site covering news for franchise operators and investors and perhaps the single most influential vehicle and instrument for the empowerment of franchise owners ever assembled. In conceptualizing a community of citizen journalists to reveal ‘truth and transparency’ in franchising, Sniegowski has created an online publication that offers honest dialogue with top experts and independent franchise news.

“Don is both innovator and entrepreneur, but is first and foremost a journalist who yearned to reveal hard truths about franchising—to place the glare of public scrutiny on a community that has been much insulated from the voice of franchisees,” said Purvin.  “Because of Blue MauMau, franchisees and their advocates have found their voice, and franchisors are now less likely to succeed in coercive or predatory practices without bearing public scrutiny and scorn.”

“It’s an honor to receive such an award,” said Sniegowski. “It’s even more of an honor considering that this award is freely given from the audience we report for—franchise owners. It wasn’t very long ago when sources of reliable, spin-free information for franchise owners were next to nonexistent. What is really different nowadays is the Internet’s interactive news format, which allows those on the front lines to quietly share information without retribution from the franchisor. Investigative reporters have more sources to tap into and faster access, giving a better news product. That helps operators and investors make informed decisions based on authentic, more timely news, not conjured-up propaganda and re-wrapped press releases.”

To view the Chairman’s Award presentation, please go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdgSHNYS7SU.

About the AAFD

The AAFD is a national non-profit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers throughout the United States. Formed in 1992, The AAFD is focused on market driven reform to achieve its mission to define and promote collaborative franchise cultures that the AAFD describes as Total Quality Franchising.  Since its formation the AAFD has grown to represent more than 50,000 franchised businesses throughout the United States. The AAFD currently has members in all 50 states and represents more than 100 different franchise systems.

The AAFD’s Fair Franchising Standards, Fair Franchising Seal, Trademark Chapters, and emphasis on Marketplace Solutions led to the Association’s recognition as a growing force in franchising. The AAFD’s Branded Partner programs add a new dimension to the value of AAFD membership. The AAFD provides a broad range of member services designed to help franchisees build market power, create legislative support of interest to franchisees, provide legal and financial support, and provide a wide range of general member benefits.

For more information about the conference or the AAFD, please call toll free at 800-733-9858 or visit www.AAFD.org.

Janet Sparks and Blue MauMau Editor Don Sniegowski receive the AAFD Community Service Awards.Read More

Curves International Recognized as 2009 Franchisor of the Year

SAN DIEGO, CA…

The American Association of Franchisee and Dealers (AAFD) announced Curves International, Inc., as AAFD’s Franchisor of the Year for 2009. 

Curves International is the franchisor of Curves fitness centers, the world’s largest fitness network with nearly 10,000 franchisee-owned fitness clubs serving four million women worldwide.  Curves is also one of the fastest growing franchise companies in history.

Notwithstanding the challenges of rapid growth and dynamic involvement in multiple channels of distribution, the Company has embraced a collaborative culture with its franchise network and has enjoyed a very positive relationship with its members as a result. 

AAFD Chairman Robert Purvin cited Curves’ exemplary franchise culture as the primary focus of the AAFD’s recognition.  “Curves management has encouraged and supported the organization of an independent franchisee association, including a willingness to engage the association’s elected leadership.” 

“In the 15 years that I have been representing franchisee associations, my experience with Curves International has been utterly unique,” said Ron Gardner, the attorney for Circuit Fitness Association (CFA). “The company has supported a completely independent association, both financially, and through open and continuous access to Curves’ senior management and have embraced the CFA as a valuable source of information. That’s contributed to noticeable improvements in the system for both the franchisees and the franchisor—exactly how a healthy franchisor/franchisee relationship should work.”

“Curves International, under the leadership of Gary and Diane Heavin, as well as Mike Raymond, has shown tremendous support for the Curves Franchisee Association. This has been done through funding as well as an open dialogue with not only top leadership, but with the various department heads,” said Mary Ella Young, president of CFA. “Curves has always asked for complete honesty and has been very open to criticism when the CFA felt it was necessary. This never dissuaded them from their support of the CFA. Quite the opposite; they are interested and support the transition to being a completely independent and autonomous group.”

Under the wise leadership of company founders, Gary and Diane Heavin, Curves has defined itself as a franchise system built upon a culture of collaboration with and respect for its franchisee network, as well as setting a high standard for customer satisfaction and commitment.

Said CEO Gary Heavin, “We have always made every effort to work hand in hand with our franchisees—as partners and as friends. The CFA is an indispensable resource, providing invaluable feedback that allows us to serve our franchisees at a higher level. I am pleased to accept this award in recognition of the collaborative efforts of our corporate employees, our franchisees and the CFA.”   

The Heavins opened the first Curves in 1992, and sold their first franchise in 1995. The company is headquartered in Waco, Texas.  All Curves fitness clubs are independently owned and operated.

The AAFD’s Total Quality Franchising Awards will be presented during the Association’s Annual Franchisee Leadership Summit on Thursday, April 30, 2009, in San Antonio, Texas.

About Curves

Curves works to help women lose weight, gain muscle strength and aerobic capacity, and raise metabolism with its groundbreaking, scientifically proven method that ends the need for perpetual dieting. Curves works every major muscle group with a complete 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. Founders Gary and Diane Heavin are considered the innovators of the express fitness phenomenon that has made exercise available to 4 million women. With nearly 10,000 locations in 70 countries, Curves is the world’s largest fitness franchise. For more information, please visit: www.curves.com.

About the AAFD

The AAFD is a national non-profit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers throughout the United States. Formed in 1992, The AAFD is focused on market driven reform to achieve its mission to define and promote collaborative franchise cultures that the AAFD describes as Total Quality Franchising.   Since its formation the AAFD has grown to represent more than 50,000 franchised businesses throughout the United States. The AAFD currently has members in all 50 states and represents more than 100 different franchise systems.

The AAFD’s Fair Franchising Standards, Fair Franchising Seal, Trademark Chapters, and emphasis on Marketplace Solutions led to the Association’s recognition as a growing force in franchising. The AAFD’s Branded Partner programs add a new dimension to the value of AAFD membership. The AAFD provides a broad range of member services designed to help franchisees build market power, create legislative support of interest to franchisees, provide legal and financial support, and provide a wide range of general member benefits.

For more information about the conference or the AAFD, please call toll free – 800-733-9858 or visit www.AAFD.org.

Curves International Recognized as 2009 Franchisor of the YearRead More