News

Yogurtland is celebrating National Frozen Yogurt Day this Monday, Feb. 6, by offering guests free frozen yogurt and toppings from 4-7 p.m. at all participating U.S. Yogurtland locations. In keeping with Yogurtland’s “You Rule” philosophy, guests can choose from any of the 16 sweet and tart flavors, including the two new limited time flavors...
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Five years after weathering the media firestorm that erupted when Pizza Patrón advertised its Pizza por Pesos promotion, the company announced today that it is planning three new campaigns for 2012 designed to celebrate the brand’s Latino roots. In January 2007, Pizza Patrón launched Pizza por Pesos, announcing that it would accept Mexican pesos...
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E&G Franchise Systems, Inc. announces that Jim Schwitzer has joined the 53-unit Erbert & Gerbert’s Sandwich Shop organization as the director of franchise sales. In his new role, Schwitzer will report to Eric Wolfe, CEO/president of E&G Franchise Systems, Inc., and will focus on attracting multi-unit franchisee candidates and territory agreements to continue to...
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London-based YO!Sushi signed its first U.S. franchisee in 2011 and the company is piggybacking on that success for 2012. YO!Sushi will open its first two American locations this year in Washington, D.C. with leases signed for at least one additional location. The company also plans to sign two to three franchise agreements for approximately...
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Saladworks, the nation’s first and largest fresh salad franchise concept, is proud to announce its first multi-unit development agreement in Arizona. New franchisee James Riggs of Scottsdale, Arizona, has been a fanatical fan of Saladworks for 20 years. Previously a resident of New Jersey, he was a frequent customer of the Cherry Hill location....
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Krispy Kreme Valentines Doughnuts: three tasty ways to say, “I care.” Celebrate the season of love with Krispy Kreme’s iced, drizzled, and sprinkled heart-shaped treats, available for a limited time at participating Krispy Kreme U.S. and Canada shops. “Krispy Kreme has become a go-to Valentine’s Day destination,” explains Krispy Kreme Corporate Chef, Ron Rupocinski....
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Domino’s Pizza raised more than $2.4 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during the 2011 St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign. This year’s campaign brings Domino’s total amount raised for St. Jude to more than $12 million since the partnership was announced in 2004. “Domino’s Pizza stores across the country rallied around this...
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Baskin-Robbins is making Valentine’s Day even sweeter with the introduction of two new flavors to its line of Ice Cream Cake Bites. The new flavors, available for a limited time only through the end of February, are Love Potion #31 and Chocolate Dipped Strawberry. Baskin-Robbins’ Ice Cream Cake Bites feature ice cream with an...
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The Dupont Circle neighborhood is about to get a caffeine boost with the arrival of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf,  just steps inside Washington Hilton. The largest privately-held specialty coffee and tea retailer in the U.S., The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is set to open in mid-February just off of Connecticut Avenue. The family-grown, California-based...
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As optimism of small business growth continues to rise, entrepreneurs nationwide are still struggling to receive financing. Nestlé Toll House Café by Chip is poised to take a major step to ensure new and existing franchisees are able to take a bite out of the brand’s two new franchisor funding programs, Capital Improvement Program...
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Pizza and pasta chain Sbarro Inc. named a new CEO and chairman, both veteran food industry executives, two months after emerging from bankruptcy protection. James Greco is taking over for Nicholas McGrane, who was named temporary President and CEO in July 2010, before Sbarro filed for Chapter 11. Mr. Greco, 58, is the former...
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Nathan’s Famous Franchise, Inc. announced the final results of its modified Dutch Auction tender offer to purchase for cash up to 500,000 shares of its common stock, $0.01 par value, at a price per share of not less than $20.00 nor greater than $22.00 per share.  The tender offer expired at 12:00 midnight, Eastern...
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As one of the biggest days in sports nears, it’s not just the coaches and players who are readying themselves for the big day. The final football matchup of the season means big business for Buffalo Wild Wings®, who proved last year that the field isn’t the only place records are broken. In fact,...
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SapientNitro’s scope of services will include research and strategy development, website development, rich media and online creative, broadcast production, print and radio advertising, media planning and buying, and menu development. SapientNitro will begin working with Bertucci’s to market its new menu, as well as develop an episodic YouTube series featuring new Executive Chef Jeff...
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When teams from New York and New England meet on the gridiron in Indianapolis this Sunday, professional football’s ultimate crown will be on the line. And when it comes to choosing a meal for the Big Game, fans across the nation will look to Pizza Hut to deliver a championship spread just in time...
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Old Chicago –the made-from-scratch American fare, pizza and beer authority known for its World Beer Tour ™ and 110 unique, cold beers – just launched its latest limited-time offer, “Crisp Greens & Hearty ‘Zones,” a meal combination sure to cure those winter blues. Through Sunday, March 11, Old Chicago guests can order three savory,...
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Wendy’s president and CEO Emil J. Brolick unveiled in the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call yesterday a new recipe to “take the brand where we need it to be,” and said reviving the iconic brand will require competing with upstart fast-casual brands. While Wendy’s North American company-operated same-store sales increased 5.1 percent in the fourth...
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“Berke Bakay is the right person to lead Kona Grill at this time,” said James R. Jundt, chairman of the board of directors. “He has been a very active and positive influence to the company as a director and we think that as the largest shareholder, he is exceptionally motivated to see Kona succeed.”...
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Today, the name says it all. Pie Five Pizza Co. is celebrating the grand opening of its fifth location with a new restaurant in Dallas, at 15250 North Dallas Parkway near Beltline and the North Dallas Tollway. Five lucky guests will also win free pies for a year in honor of the occasion. People...
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Each year, ActionCOACH honors some of its top coaches with an ActionMAN Award. This award is given to coaches who embody the 14 Points of Culture developed by ActionCOACH. At this year’s Americas Conference held at the Hilton Memphis, in Memphis, Tennessee, Bill Gilliland of Staunton, Virginia was one of the winners. The Founder...
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Panchero’s Mexican Grill has given a Franchisee of the Year award for the first time. Lou Kathrakis, owner of the Panchero’s located at 704 Bridgeport Ave. in Shelton, Connecticut, received the honor. Kathrakis, 30, opened the restaurant in 2007. “I feel honored to be the first recipient of the award, and look forward to...
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Auntie Anne’s, the franchise known best for its fresh, convenient, hand-rolled treats, began testing new whole grain pretzel products Jan. 8, 2012, in select markets across the U.S. as part of a mission to better appeal to guests looking to consume more whole grains. Not only are the Honey Whole Wheat Pretzels and Apple...
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Wendy’s will build 20 and remodel 50 company-operated restaurants in the U.S. and Canada in 2012 with new, bold, and contemporary designs. This follows the opening of 10 “Image Activation” restaurants in 2011. To see QSR’s exclusive tour of one of the prototypes, go here. The company conducted nationwide research and studied every aspect...
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Local entrepreneurs Emmy and Don Marquess and Mary and John Speaker, principals of The Speaquess Group LLC, recently opened their first Jamba Juice store in Lexington, Kentucky. This launched Jamba into its 26th state. “I am thrilled to be in Lexington to welcome fans and celebrate the opening of our first Jamba Juice store...
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Pizza Ranch, Inc. announced the appointment of Cody Pierce as vice president of marketing, effective Jan. 9. Pierce reports to Pizza Ranch’s Chief Operating Officer Jon Moss. Pierce will be responsible for developing and leading the execution of Pizza Ranch’s marketing and advertising strategies to grow sales, traffic, and profitability for the franchisee community...
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A group of Cold Stone Creamery franchisees filed a lawsuit against the company this week over a dispute relating to the company’s Flexible Marketing Plan (FMP) and gift-card breakage policy. The law firm of Zarco Einhorn Salkowski & Brito, P.A. filed the lawsuit in Miami-Dade County, Florida, on behalf of the National Association of...
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Togo’s Eateries, Inc., a “West Coast Original” since 1971 serving up big, made-to-order sandwiches stuffed with the freshest ingredients, experienced an unprecedented year of growth in 2011. In 2011, Togo’s signed 23 agreements for new restaurants and opened seven new California restaurants, including a new company-owned prototype in Pleasant Hill, California. As part of...
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Pizza Patrón announced today four exciting new party paquetazos (combos) that each includes chicken wings and pizza, just in time for those planning events and parties for the big game. “Over the years, we have discovered that our customers often times make two trips for their parties or game-watching events–one for pizza and the...
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Featuring some of America’s favorite breakfast brands such as Johnsonville®, Cinnabon®, Tropicana and Seattle’s Best Coffee, individual items will range from 99 cents (sausage or bacon and egg burrito) to $2.79 (Grande Skillet Burrito), with participating restaurants opening their doors and drive-thrus one hour earlier. For most locations, that means 8 or 9 a.m.,...
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Beautiful Brands International today announced an agreement with multi-unit developers, Brad and Francy Bauer, to open 20 new Smallcakes A Cupcakery stores in North Carolina. The first store from the agreement is slated to open spring 2012 in Wilmington, N.C. “I can’t tell you what a great moment this is for Smallcakes and our...
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This latest announcement is part of the continuing expansion of the popular chain into the Dallas/Ft. Worth market. In 2010, Del Taco announced plans to expand in the market with approximately 80 restaurants. To date, Del Taco has opened six restaurants in Dallas and area communities including Denton, Hurst, Irving, McKinney and Plano. The...
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Smashburger, the rapidly expanding better burger restaurant concept, today announced a summary of its 2011 accomplishments and its plans for 2012. 2011 was another successful year of growth and consumer acceptance for the fast causal concept that opened 51 new units, including expansion into 12 new markets. The company ended the year with 143...
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Rent-to-own franchisor, ColorTyme, honored its top performers and recognized exceptional owner accomplishments yesterday at the 2012 National Convention. Mark and Tracy Childers received ColorTyme’s Franchisee of the Year Eagle Award, the highest honor bestowed by the chain. “This is all I’ve ever done and all I ever plan to do,” said Childers. “I think...
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This year the National Chicken Council projects more than 1.25 billion wings–or 100 million pounds–will be consumed during Super Bowl weekend. And on Sunday, Feb. 5, more than 6,500 Wing Experts nationwide will join forces behind the counter at 500 Wingstop restaurants to sauce and toss 5.6 million wings. Since Wingstop was founded almost...
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Jersey Mike’s Subs’ 55th anniversary year in 2011 was cause for celebration as the popular chain, known for its fresh sliced/fresh grilled East Coast-style subs, opened its 500th restaurant, adding 69 new locations during the year, for record unit growth of 15 percent. In addition, in 2011, the company awarded contracts to open 216...
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Quiznos today announced that the Company has successfully completed its previously announced financial restructuring on an out-of-court basis. The agreement eliminates one-third – or approximately $300 million – of the company’s outstanding debt, and provides a significant infusion of $150 million in new equity from Avenue Capital Group, a global investment firm, to position...
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Papa Murphy’s International today announced it has joined the 2012 American Cancer Society Relay For Life National Team Program. Employees and franchise owners will come together this year to raise money and awareness in the fight against cancer. All funds raised will support the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives by helping people...
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With U.S. consumer credit ratings at historic lows, credit repair businesses are one of the nation’s few growth industries. Thousands of Americans are struggling to stay afloat in the recessive economy. High unemployment, frozen wages, forced furloughs and rising costs have plunged already debt-ridden Americans into default on credit card bills, auto loans and...
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The Hooters system is comprised of 430 corporate and franchised units, which operate in 44 states in the United States and in 27 foreign countries. Before joining Hooters, Ms. Levitas spent 16 years with Huddle House, Inc., an Atlanta-based diner concept with over 400 locations where she held the titles of both General Counsel...
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“We are thrilled that Nils has returned to the Arby’s® brand,” said Hala Moddelmog, President of Arby’s.  “His ability to provide leadership through transformative corporate transactions combined with his experience at the operating company level with Arby’s dating back to 2005 makes him a great addition to our team as we chart a course...
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This Chicago-born neighborhood bar made famous for their handcrafted signature martinis and cocktails, also features an exceptional selection of distinctly prepared food such as small plates, sandwiches and burgers. Bar Louie is dedicated to remaining a local bar that delivers unforgettable experiences to every guest. The unique atmosphere is filled with passionate bartenders that...
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The 50th Fuzzy’s Taco Shop is opening today in Dallas at 4740 W. Mockingbird Ln. near Love Field.  Fuzzy’s #50 is a franchise location owned by Ches Williams with Adam Haig and Shawn Phillips as operating partners. Chuck Bush, one of the partners that launched Fuzzy’s Taco Shop nine years ago, commented on opening...
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Swirl, Inc., parent to U-SWIRL International, Inc., the owner and franchisor of U-SWIRL Frozen Yogurt® cafes, announced today that the 24th U-Swirl Cafe in the chain is open for business in Missoula, MT. There are an additional seven locations throughout the United States that are under construction and due to open by June of...
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Starting with Tokyo, Wendy’s Japan LLC plans a national rollout of restaurants in the coming years. Wendy’s Japan plans to open approximately 100 Wendy’s restaurants within the next five years and estimates the long-term market potential to be about 700 restaurants. Wendy’s Japan LLC was established earlier this year as a joint venture between...
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Joining three other Johnny Rockets they own, in nearby Quezon City, the Company’s American cuisine and atmosphere have become local favorites since opening, two years ago. By the end of January, they plan to open their fifth Johnny Rockets restaurant at Alabang Town Center, in southern Metro Manila. Camamiq Foods CEO, Dr. Amable C...
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Mike Courts is a rent-to-own professional who has, for years, wanted to own his own ColorTyme stores. After years of managing four stores for a competitor, Courts made his move at the beginning of this year. He opened his first ColorTyme at 5850 Route 60, Summit Plaza in Ashland, Ky. “For quite some time...
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Nearly 50 years after the first Chicago Dunkin’ Donuts opened, the 500th Dunkin’ Donuts in the area, located at 3206 W. 111st St., will celebrate its grand opening with Benny the Bull, the Luvabulls, Bulls radio broadcasters Bill Wennington and Chuck Swirsky and B96′s J, Julian and Showbiz Shelly. In addition to the excitement...
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Del Rio, Texas is now the home of  the World’s Greatest Hamburgers as Fuddruckers brings the sizzle of its grill and signature Build Your Own® market fresh produce bar to 2211 Veterans Blvd., a site formerly occupied by Luby’s Cafeteria.  The only Fuddruckers location for more than 50 miles, the Del Rio restaurant formally...
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No National Football League sponsor knows a quality “toss” like Papa John’s founder, chairman, and CEO John Schnatter, but he’s counting on America to call the coin toss for Super Bowl XLVI so that the country can flip over free pizza. Papa John’s, the Official Pizza Sponsor of the NFL, today unveiled its Super...
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A country-fried steak ladled with sausage gravy has been a stick-to-your-ribs breakfast staple for generations, but has rarely, if ever, found its way onto fast food menus…until now. Hardee’s is introducing the Country Fried Steak ‘N’ Gravy Breakfast Platter, complete with a breaded beefsteak smothered in sausage gravy, Hash Rounds, eggs, and a famous...
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Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, the Fort Worth, Texas-based restaurant phenomenon famous for its Baja style fish tacos and ice-cold beer, is ringing in the New Year with a milestone event, the opening of its 50th location. The 50th Fuzzy’s Taco Shop is opening today in Dallas at 4740 W. Mockingbird Lane near Love Field. Fuzzy’s...
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Figaro’s Italian Pizza, Inc. announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of the 17-unit Nick-N-Willy’s chain of baked and take & bake pizzerias. Nick-N-Willy’s started in Colorado in 1988. Today, it is known for the highest quality pizza, offered in nine states from Wisconsin to California. Ron Berger, Figaro’s chairman and CEO,...
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Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill, a Denver-based fast-casual restaurant concept featuring fresh, healthy, and authentic Mediterranean cuisine, celebrates its four-year anniversary. Founded in 2007, Garbanzo currently has 14 Colorado locations: nine in Metro Denver, three in Colorado Springs, one in Boulder, and one in Fort Collins. Additional restaurants are set to open this year both in...
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Pollo Tropical is offering a sweetheart of a deal on Tuesday, Feb. 14. This Valentine’s Day, the “Two Can Dine for $9.99” offer features two entrees, including a choice of a small Create Your Own TropiChop or a 1/4 Chicken Platter with rice and beans, along with two regular size fountain drinks and a...
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Beginning mid-January, Häagen-Dazs Shops will unveil four indulgent flavors available exclusively for new and loyal shop customers. Prior to hitting grocery aisles, shops nationwide will feature the flavors in unique sundaes for a limited time. The internationally renowned brand known for its pure, super premium ice cream developed a collection of new flavors, inspired...
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Tasti D-Lite, the great-tasting, lower-calorie frozen dessert chain that recently acquired Planet Smoothie, has partnered with “The Vow”— in theaters Feb. 10—for the Tasti D-Lite “The Vow” Sweepstakes. Customers will be able to register in participating Tasti D-Lite and Planet Smoothie locations and online at www.thevowgiveaway.com through Feb. 14 for a chance to win...
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Leading the frozen yogurt market in better-for-you, great tasting products, TCBY, The Country’s Best Yogurt and frozen yogurt innovator, takes pride in delighting (and surprising) customers by providing unique flavors and innovative products at TCBY locations nationwide. To kick off 2012, or what TCBY is calling “the year of flavor and delight,” TCBY will...
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Going forward, guests walking into every new Moe’s Southwest Grill will have the opportunity  to enjoy drink selection at its finest with Coca-Cola Freestyle®. The revolutionary beverage dispenser, which offers guests more than 100 different brands, can already be found in 140 Moe’s locations. With the commitment to implementing Coca-Cola Freestyle in all new...
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Planet Beach had an amazing 2011 and 2012 is looking to be even better. While the automated, push-button day spa alternative continues to get rave reviews, the in-spa product sales are heating up and growing in popularity. Planet Beach spa visitors often need products to get the most out of their visits. Spray tans...
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ACF Consulting (Trinity, Florida), was named the Best Overall Company (Less than 10 Employees) at the 2012 Business Excellence Awards at the Business Excellence Awards ceremony that took place at the Memphis Hilton. The Business Excellence Awards honor the “best of the best” results in small and medium sized businesses from around the world,...
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Caribou Coffee today announced the launch of two new coffees, carefully crafted to bring coffee drinkers the broadest spectrum of flavors available to match their personal tastes. Starlight and Eclipse round out Caribou’s full lineup of flavor profiles, and are the first permanent additions to its retail coffeehouse portfolio since the launch of Lakeshore...
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Pretzelmaker announced today that it has created a new combination featuring the hunger-stopping Mini Pretzel Dogs. The combination is being introduced during Pretzelmaker’s Stop Your Growl With a Bite celebration and includes a 12-piece order of Mini Pretzel Dogs as well as a regular beverage. Pretzelmaker is managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary...
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When there’s a sub shop around nearly every corner, it’s hard to stand out.  To break through in the crowded $22 billion sub sandwich category, Menomonee Falls, WI-based Cousins Subs® is combining the best of its brand’s last 40 years with a renewed focus and franchise acquisition plan to grow the company by 10...
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The Franchise Research Institute has identified 25 World-Class Franchises for 2012, based upon independent, third-party research conducted with the companies’ franchisees. In its tenth year of providing franchise research, the Institute contacts every franchisee and guarantees their complete confidentiality. The Institute identifies and recognizes excellence. Jeff Johnson, founder of The Franchise Research Institute/FranSurvey states,...
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Every year millions of people find a renewed sense of potential come January 1. That means resolving to do things like get fit, lose weight or tone up. Snap Fitness, the franchisor of more than 1,200 24/7 fitness centers worldwide, is making a resolution of its own – to continue finding ways to help...
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We are extremely excited to report that Meineke Car Care Centers, Inc ranked in the top 100 companies in the prestigious Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2012 Franchise 500 Ranking publication. Each year, Entrepreneur Magazine surveys hundreds of franchises of who are judged based upon factors such as financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of...
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IHOP, one of America’s favorite restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner, is on trend for value-seekers in 2012 with the launch of its 7 for $7 Menu, according to leading money-saving blogger Tara Kuczykowski from DealSeekingMom*. Raising the bar for the New Year, IHOP is featuring a delicious variety of seven great meals for...
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Tijuana Flats, known for its fresh Tex-Mex food and anything-goes atmosphere, is also known for bringing the heat to just about any occasion.  And Super Bowl Sunday is no exception. On February 5, Tijuana Flats is offering a free $10 gift card to anyone who places a catering order for $50 or more. For...
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The Dairy Queen® system’s newest, most exciting restaurant concept has opened its doors at 4265 Hacks Cross Road with the DQ  Grill & Chill location in Memphis. The new restaurant has added 40 to 45 new jobs in the area contributing to Tennessee’s employment growth and also will contribute to the state’s restaurant sales,...
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Consistent with NPC International, Inc.’s objective to continue its growth within the Pizza Hut system, NPC announced that it had entered into an Asset Sale Agreement with Pizza Hut, Inc. and affiliates. Through this, NPC has agreed to purchase from PHI 36 Pizza Hut units for $18.8 million in cash, plus an additional amount...
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BoBenton is satisfying Murrells Inlet residents’ craving for Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits with the opening of its newest location at 12005 Highway 707 on January 19, 2012. Situated on the corner of TPC Boulevard and Highway 707, the new Bojangles’ features drive-thru and in-store dining with breakfast served all day, including made-from-scratch proprietary...
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Year after year, eating healthier, slimming down and getting fit are among Americans’ top New Year’s resolutions. As 2012 kicks into full swing, Energy Kitchen – the restaurant chain known for changing the perception that fast food has to be fat food – is making it a little easier for people to stick to...
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Honest-1 Auto Care, the only national full-service auto repair and maintenance franchise that is 100 percent ESA® Certified Eco-Friendly, has been ranked 338 in Entrepreneur magazine’s 2011 “Franchise 500,” a move up from last year’s ranking of 373. “This significant climb in the rankings further validates our strength and stability as a franchise system,”...
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For the 16 regional winners, the time to prove their mettle is now! The final stage is set for these competitors to play for the first-ever Slider Bowl National Championship in Indianapolis, IN. After four months, 12 regional tournaments and hundreds of players, the sweet 16 go head-to-head at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 31...
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Allegra Network LLC, one of the world’s leading marketing, print, sign and graphic communications franchisors, announced today that Vice President of Marketing Jessica Eng will co-present a seminar on strategies for selling to the non-profit market at the PODi Application Forum taking place Jan. 23-25, 2012 at the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas. Teaming-up...
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Today, McDonald’s restaurants of the Greater Philadelphia Region launched a new Happy Meal in support of the company’s recently announced ‘Commitments to Offer Improved Nutrition Choice’ which strive to help customers – especially children and families – make nutrition-minded choices whether visiting McDonald’s or elsewhere. Available nationwide by March 2012, the new Happy Meal...
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The Interface Financial Group (IFG) credits its ability to help small business owners survive and grow out of the recession for its continued strong showing at #228 in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list. The international franchise, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, ranked higher by three spots to #64 in the Top Home...
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Yogurtland, the pioneer of the self-serve frozen yogurt category, expands its presence in Utah with a pop-up store in Park City for participants of ChefDance during the Sundance Film Festival. Hailed as a five night culinary extravaganza, ChefDance brings together food, wine, frozen yogurt, and film with Yogurtland participating as an official sponsor. Each...
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Kansas City Commercial Outdoor Lighting Professionals, NiteLites, will engage with hundred of other professionals at The Pro Expo. This show is the opportunity of the year to find representatives from reputable construction professionals in the remodeling, home building, and commercial industries. Only the top building experts are invited to attend this prestigious event. NiteLites...
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Zaxby’s unveiled its newest store design, an overhaul of the exterior and refresh of the interior that will debut in two corporate-owned locations in February. Zach McLeroy, cofounder and CEO of Athens, Georgia–based Zaxby’s, says this is the third time the company has changed its design as it strives to set itself apart from...
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Tom Sagehorn, president of 9Round Franchising, has announced that a Discovery Day has been set for Tuesday February 7th, 2012, starting at 9:00 AM (eastern) at 9Round headquarters in Greenville, South Carolina. Says Tom, “Discovery Day is the most important step in the process of becoming a franchise owner of 9Round Fitness Centers. This...
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Beautiful Brands International (BBI), a Tulsa-based fast-casual innovation company, today announced the signing of a master franchise agreement with Ken Peterson to open at least 20 new CherryBerry Self-Serve Yogurt Bars throughout Illinois and South Dakota. “I can’t express what an opportunity this is to really boost our CherryBerry brand recognition and build our...
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Yes. I think buying a business today can be a great idea. I believe this regardless of what you might hear from the media or feel because of the economy. Steve Caldeira, President of the International Franchise Association agrees, “Now is the time to beat the crowd back into the market by buying a...
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At The Original Brooklyn Water Coffee Co., coffee lovers can now experience the freshest cup of coffee possible made with specialty-grade, hand-picked beans from around the world that are roasted on-site daily. Brooklyn Water Enterprises Inc., the pioneering company that creates Brooklynized water for use in all its restaurants’ food, beverage, and bakery products, today...
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National custom signage and graphics company Signs By Tomorrow in conjunction with 3M Commercial Graphics and United Application Standards Group (UASG) announces the launch of its nationwide “Imagine It…We Can WRAP It!” custom wrap design contest, in which one lucky winner will win a very unique prize – a professionally-produced custom wrap that will...
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Krystal Restaurants, the Southern fast food restaurant chain known for its hot, small, square Krystal burgers, has introduced two new combo meals to the menu. For Krystal lovers with a sweet tooth, ordering three Krystals, fries, and a drink now comes with the Strawberry Shortcake dessert, which was just introduced to the menu last...
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Coverall was a featured exhibitor at this weekend’s Franchise Expo South, the premier franchise expo serving the Southeastern U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean.  The Expo, held this year at the Miami Beach Convention Center on January 20-22, was an opportunity for potential business owners to talk with hundreds of franchising companies and learn...
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The wait is over for all Colorado Springs, Colorado, area citizens tired of driving to Denver for their Freddy’s fix. With the opening of Freddy’s 59th location in Monument, Colorado, today, the popular quick-service concept has big plans in the tri-lakes region. Franchise partner Kyle Gerstner’s development agreement calls for three more stores in...
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More than 335,000 people found work in the United States and Canada in 2011 due to the efforts of Express Employment Professionals, one of the nation’s largest private staffing companies. “Of those job seekers, 220,000 were new employees having never worked for Express previously,” said Robert A. Funk, CEO and chairman of the board....
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The new 900-square-foot food court location boasts a full menu of Hamburgers, American Fries, Shakes and other classic entrees, starters and desserts – made to order and delivered with Johnny Rockets’ trademark friendly service. A seasoned Johnny Rockets franchisee who operates Johnny Rockets restaurants at Guadalajara and Toluca Airports in addition to the now-three...
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It’s hip, fashionable and geared to women 25 to 45. And it’s coming to downtown Duluth. A winner in the Greater Downtown Council storefront contest plans to open the state’s first Apricot Lane Boutique this spring. With franchise and financing in hand, retail veteran Wendy Myers will seal the deal today when she signs...
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Liberty Tax Service marked another milestone as the company held a recent grand opening for its 4000th office in the Tampa Bay area.  Since its inception in 1997, Liberty Tax Service has grown to 4,000 offices in the United States and Canada. When rival tax companies reached fifteen years, H&R Block (NYSE:HRB) had 1,700...
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Baristas Coffee Company, Inc. announces that it is has been progressing according to schedule on the remodeling of its Tampa location. The opening, previously set for Jan. 23rd has been moved to Jan. 27th in order to accommodate schedules and to coincide with the “Gasparilla Pirate Festival” and the “Parade of the Pirates” held...
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Premier Inn has announced it is set to open a new hotel and restaurant development in Camborne, bringing a total of 41 new jobs to the area. The new Table Table restaurant, named Trevithick Inn and Premier Inn hotel will be opening on Treswithian Road in January 2012 – injecting a total investment of...
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Ruby Tuesday, Inc. announced that Marguerite N. Duffy, its Chief Financial Officer, will retire from her position effective as of June 5, 2012. The Company is commencing a search for her successor. A long-time member of Ruby Tuesday’s executive team, Duffy was named Chief Financial Officer in 2001 after having directed each of the...
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FREEBIRDS World Burrito, the fast casual burrito joint with the rock ‘n’ roll attitude, announced it will open in Folsom, California on Thursday, January 19, 2012. The Folsom location brings the California total to eleven. To celebrate, FREEBIRDS will give the first 25 guests in line free burritos for a year. FREEBIRDS is about...
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The multi-unit development agreements include an 11-store deal with Chicagoland Wing Kings, LLC, and a three-store deal with existing franchise partners Pat Madden, Sean O’Brien, Dan Moran and Al Connor who own the Wingstop at 4428 S. Pulaski Road and recently opened their second Wingstop at 6188 S. Archer Avenue. “Chicago loves wings, and...
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Congratulations goes to two of our current franchisees who both have just opened new locations! First, the owners of the Colorado Springs location just celebrated their grand opening of their second location in Englewood Colorado.  This location will be owned and operated by their son, Jeramie. Also, another grand opening took place January 10th...
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Manhattan Bagel, the popular neighborhood quick-casual restaurant featuring genuine boiled and baked New York style bagels, is ringing in the New Year with tasty breakfast classics for guests to enjoy for a limited time only. “Our three new breakfast classics fit in perfectly with our goal to be at the leading edge of what...
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SONIC welcomes four new members to its Oklahoma City corporate leadership group in a series of talent acquisitions designed to bolster the strategy and growth of the brand. * Clas Petersson, vice president of product and packaging * Bob Franke, senior vice president of field services – east region * Larry Archibald, vice president...
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Tulsa-based Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe has signed an agreement with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. to place its franchises in supercenter stores around the nation. The first Supercenter Camille’s is expected to open within the year in Austin, Texas, said David Rutkauskas, founder of the chain. Next on the menu: Scottsdale, Ariz. He anticipates about 200 to...
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Saladworks, the nation’s first and largest fresh-salad franchise concept, is proud to announce an agreement to develop, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. The franchisees, husband-and-wife team Mark and Ebony Satterfield, have held several successful business ventures and are looking forward to opening their first Saladworks franchise. Both born in New York, Mark and Ebony now live in...
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Showhomes, America’s largest home staging company, ranked high in several categories in the 2012 Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 list. The magazine released their 33rd annual list last week, ranking America’s top franchise opportunities. The list also looks at trends that are impacting the franchise industry. Showhomes ranked at #256 for in the overall Franchise...
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NestléToll House Café by Chip, a premium dessert destination franchise concept built based on the world’s most powerful food name, today announced the grand opening of its first café in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The location is the first of nearly 50 to open throughout the country within the next 10 years by...
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Senior Helpers, one of the largest in-home senior care companies in the nation, has created Senior Helpers’ Stay At Home Score quiz. It’s a quick, eight question quiz adult children take to help determine whether their parents can live independently in their own home. The quiz was created for Senior Helpers by Dr. John...
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Church’s Chicken Chief Executive Officer Jim Hyatt, after only four months at the helm of the globally recognized quick-service chain, announced today key talent acquisitions and promotions to its leadership team. “As we move forward to strengthen our brand globally and relentlessly work on improving restaurant operations and profitability for all our stakeholders, it’s...
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A new sandwich has arrived in town—the sub. Jersey Mike’s Subs opened at 7836 Herschel Ave. on Wednesday. The old school sub shop serves up classic sub sandwiches, wraps and salads for dine in or take out. Menu items include the popular Original Italian sub with provolone, ham, prosciuttini, cappacuolo, salami and pepperoni; and...
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Former UK Head of Food at McDonalds, Mike Faers has launched a new management consultancy called Food Innovation Solutions (FIS) to help global food businesses deliver truly innovative new products. “Being so focused on managing costs in these difficult financial times can make it difficult to justify true innovation,” Faers says. “But a continuous...
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Allstate Insurance Co. today announced the opening of a state-of-the-art onsite medical facility for employees and their families. The Allstate Wellness Center is the latest addition to the company’s range of services that support the wellbeing of its employees and their families. The new facility, which features a physician, a nurse practitioner, a physical...
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Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the taste you crave, and top it off with a new dessert. White Castle is once again hosting its famous Valentine’s Day dinner and Castles are now taking reservations. Devoted couples can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner Tuesday, February 14 that is easy on the wallet and is complete with...
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With lightning speed, Florinda Albarron of the Tomball, Texas CiCi’s Pizza restaurant, stretched, sauced and baked a full buffet of perfect CiCi’s pizzas to win the second annual CiCi’s Pizza Throwdown finals, held in Frisco, Texas, Tuesday, Jan. 17. Ultimate Pizza Artist Albarron, a Houston resident, will receive an all-inclusive trip for four to...
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Cruise prices remain in consumers’ favor going into 2012, according to the Cruise Holidays 2012 Cruise Trends survey, with prices to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean still averaging lower than they were in 2008, 2009 and 2010. However, prices to these destinations have actually risen slightly since 2011, which is seen as a positive...
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When Long Islanders were asked to choose their favorite national ice cream, their resounding answer was: Carvel Ice Cream. This year, over 70,000 Long Island Press readers voted in what has become the weekly newspaper’s biggest edition of the year. Of the ice cream shops nominated (including several local stores, as well as national...
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Chili’s® Grill & Bar introduces a new Lighter Choices menu with seven bold entrees that, in addition to being delicious, also happen to nutritious and flavorful. The Lighter Choice items are featured on HealthyDiningFinder.com and meet HealthyDiningFinder’s nutrition criteria: not more than 750 calories, 25 grams fat and 8 grams saturated fat. Seven menu...
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Jack in the Box restaurants today announced a $250,000 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters, which will apply the contribution to primarily support its military mentoring programs. Monies for the donation were raised during a holiday promotion at Jack in the Box restaurants, where the chain sold a limited-edition elf ornament for $1. With...
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The Wild Bird Centers of America has targeted several suburbs and municipalities in the Greater Toronto, Ontario area as high-potential markets for company expansion in 2012 to meet increasing franchisee and retail customer demand. A Wild Bird Center franchisee in British Columbia is featured on page 54 of the February, 2012 issue of “Canada...
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Throughout 2011, Huddle House, the 400-unit full-service dining chain, has focused its marketing efforts on enhancing its relationship with the community and customers with technology advancements, particularly in the social media arena. These efforts will now be multiplied as Huddle House’s CEO, Ken Keymer, has announced his newest hire, Marc Butler, who will serve...
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Kasey Kahne Racing (KKR) announced today that longtime sponsor, Great Clips, will back Joey Saldana for the 2012 World of Outlaws season. Great Clips has been a sponsor of KKR for the past two seasons on the #91 car with drivers Cody Darrah and Paul McMahan. In 2012, they will be a primary sponsor...
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Bennigan’s Franchising Company began a legendary comeback in 2011 by re-energizing the beloved brand with a commitment to bring memorable dining experiences to every guest, every day. This remarkable resurgence began over the past year with a brand refresh at the company’s two corporate locations and a plan to bring the same menu optimization...
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With healthier eating a growing priority around the country – and diners eager to stick to New Year’s resolutions – Luby’s has just debuted its 2012 list of smart menu choices. The iconic, Texas-based cafeteria chain’s newest Livin’Smart menu now encompasses more than 60 fresh and flavorful dishes that each weigh in at less...
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Planet Beach, the world’s largest day spa franchise, is seeking local franchise partners to open up to six new locations in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra and St. Augustine this year. Planet Beach already has six locations in the Jacksonville area, but much of the sprawling metro area is undeserved. Florida, especially the Jacksonville area, has...
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NiteLites of Dayton Outdoor Lighting will exhibit their energy efficient landscape lighting systems at the 2012 Miami Valley Home Improvement Show, within the Hara Complex, from January 12th to January 15th.  Building contractors, design professionals, and outdoor living area experts will display their home improvement and home renovation products and services. Many home show...
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Following a two-month temporary closure and major renovation the Yuba City Sizzler at 872 W. Onstott Road will begin re-welcoming guests at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 16, 2012. The Sizzler that closed in November bears little resemblance to today’s restaurant,” said Gary Myers, president and CEO of Temecula-based BMW Management, which owns and...
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Pizza Pizza is game ready for one of its busiest days of the year. The company, Canada’s leader in the pizza segment of the quick service restaurant industry, is optimistic that sports fans will continue to gather around a pizza or wings order to enjoy the biggest football game of the year. In addition...
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Swisher Hygiene, Inc. announced today that on Friday, January 13, it filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-3 (the “S-3 Registration”) and a Post-Effective Amendment to its Form S-4 (the “S-4 Amendment”). The S-3 Registration replaces the two S-1 Registration Statements previously on file with the SEC...
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From burger joints and sandwich shops to beer and wine distributors and grocery store owners, BIGGBY COFFEE franchisees have come from a magnitude of various backgrounds. But no matter the differences in the path’s they have traveled, each has chosen to land with BIGGBY COFFEE, the fastest growing coffee chain in the U.S. Entering...
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The Quaker Steak & Lube®,known for its Best Wings USA and over 20 sauce varieties, will be rolling out a new menu on January 10, 2012. The new menus will be appearing in all of the award-winning casual-dining concept’s restaurants now open in fifteen US states. Highlights of the new menu include the following...
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Tim Hortons Inc. today announced that Scott Toop, General Counsel, is leaving the organization effective January 13th, 2012.  Mr. Toop joined Tim Hortons in August of 2009. Mr. Toop sought to return to the U.S. where he is a citizen and he will be commencing a new career opportunity. “We appreciate Scott’s many contributions...
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With the goal of bringing a convenient, better-for-you, specialty beverage and meal option to commuters, shoppers, and residents of Bloomington, Minnesota, Jamba Juice franchisee, JJ MAA, Inc., one of the largest franchisees for Jamba Juice Company, celebrated the opening of its 42nd store, located in Mall of America, the nation’s largest retail and entertainment...
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Joe Gibbs Racing announces today that Sport Clips Haircuts will sponsor a total of eight races during the 2012 NASCAR season, including the Sprint Cup Series race in Darlington with the No. 11 Sport Clips Toyota driven by Denny Hamlin and seven additional Nationwide Series races. “We are excited to continue our growth and...
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Boloco, the chain of globally inspired burrito restaurants based in Boston, presented to a packed room at this year’s 14th Annual ICR XChange Conference on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2012. This is the third year in which Boloco received an invitation to present at the event. The ICR XChange Conference gathers both small and large...
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SERVPRO®, a disaster recovery and restoration franchise company, jumped up four notches on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 ranking this year, moving to the No. 4 spot in 2012 from the No. 8 spot in 2011. This year’s results make SERVPRO® No. 1 in the cleanup and restoration industry for the ninth consecutive year. “It’s...
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Despite a weakened economy that has stalled growth for most businesses, Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen are defying recession-conservatism by implementing plans for further expansion throughout the south and supporting growth with advances in operations and marketing for the brand – sparking encouragement among current and potential franchisees. “As other...
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Erbert and Gerbert’s is happy to announce that we have added three new scrumptious soups to our menu: Sweet Corn Chicken Chowder, Tomato Basil Parmesan and Fiery Southwest Chili are now available at all Erbert and Gerbert locations (be sure to check with your local store for where they are on their soup schedule)....
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Through the opening of more than 2,400 restaurants worldwide, including 1,100 new locations just in the U.S. and Canada alone, the Subway restaurant chain created approximately 24,000 new foodservice job and career opportunities in 2011. By opening an additional 2,500 outlets by the end of 2012, Subway expects to add another 25,000 full and...
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Allstate Insurance Co. (NYSE: ALL) today announced the opening of a state-of-the-art onsite medical facility for employees and their families. The Allstate Wellness Center is the latest addition to the company’s range of services that support the wellbeing of its employees and their families. The new facility, which features a physician, a nurse practitioner,...
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“Welcome to Moe’s!” will soon be heard throughout Baylor University when Moe’s Southwest Grill opens in the Science Building located at 101 Bagby Avenue on Monday, January 9th. A Gold Award winner of the 2008 Consumer’s Choice in Chains Awards, Atlanta based Moe’s Southwest Grill’s serves fresh made-to-order burritos and more in a fun...
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Tint World window tinting and car audio automotive styling franchise has awarded license to a new store to be developed in Charlotte, North Carolina. The new Charlotte store under development shows tremendous North Carolina franchise growth, following the recent 3-Stores under development that were awarded in November for Greenville, Fayetteville, and Wilmington, NC. The...
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Hala Moddelmog, President of Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc. (ARG), announced today that Russ Klein will join Arby’s as Chief Marketing Officer. Klein, who brings a 25-year track record of marketing management, brand turnarounds and value creation at Burger King, 7-Eleven, Dr Pepper, 7-Up and other brands, will lead Arby’s efforts to revitalize the iconic...
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Recently, three of the country’s top independent auto body repair centers around the country have joined the CARSTAR Nation to provide their customers and community members even better service and support. CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts are North America’s largest group of auto body repair experts with some 400 stores in the United States...
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The Wendy’s Company (NASDAQ: WEN) today announced the appointment of R. Scott Toop, 57, as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary and a member of its Executive Leadership Team, effective today. Toop will report to Wendy’s President and Chief Executive Officer Emil Brolick. A proven leader with extensive strategic legal and business experience,...
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Roosters Men’s Grooming Center (MGC), a rapidly growing national franchise, has opened its first Illinois store at 1426 North Meacham Road in Schaumburg. Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson and representatives of the Schaumburg Business Association were on hand to welcome franchise owners Candace and Dave Laudadio and their team during the store’s official ribbon cutting...
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In honor of its third-year anniversary, Pizza Fusion in Ridgewood is passing down savings to its customers. The three-year old pizza restaurant is offering half off its personal organic cheese pizzas at only $3 dollars each. For large pizza orders, Pizza Fusion customers can enjoy another special, featuring buy any one (1) large pizza...
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Jamba Juice announced that it has entered a new phase of growth and will be ramping up expansion across the country this year. James White, president and CEO of Jamba Juice, says the company achieved the goals laid out in its 2009 “BLEND” plan and is now pursuing BLEND Plan 2.0. The original BLEND...
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The Wild Bird Centers of America has targeted neighborhoods in the Greater Boston, MA metro area as high-potential markets for company expansion in 2012 to meet increasing franchisee and retail customer demand. According to Wild Bird Centers of America CEO, George Petrides, Jr., “The Boston market offers excellent demographics, an extraordinary Metropolitan Park System...
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Popular for its delicious, convenient comfort food, Veggie Grill is about to open its first location outside of Southern California in Beaverton, Oregon. As it moves into the Portland market, Veggie Grill is pleased to announce its partnership with long-time restaurant developer Ed Casey. Based in Portland and an Oregon resident for more than...
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The Earned Income Credit makes a major economic difference in the lives of over 26 million low and moderate income Americans workers. Although 4 out of 5 of those eligible for EIC are now claiming it, millions of others who suddenly experience lower wages may find themselves eligible to claim the EIC credit for...
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Taco Bueno Restaurants announced that it has amended its existing credit agreement to increase financial flexibility and to pay a dividend to shareholders. Taco Bueno is a Mexican quick-service restaurant chain founded in 1967 that currently operates 161 company-owned restaurants in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, as well as 23 franchise stores. The company...
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Copeland’s of New Orleans and Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro bring New Orleans flavor to a Lite menu with lower calorie chef crafted dishes. This menu, with dishes that are 550 calories and under, was introduced into both concepts on January 11, 2012. Each concept will carry its own Lite menu with many different options for...
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Charley’s Grilled Subs, the international Philly Cheesesteak sandwich franchise, has promoted Bob Wright to president and chief operating officer to help guide the brand into the future. Bob Wright was named COO for Charley’s Grilled Subs in 2010. Since joining the company, Wright has been responsible for company and franchise operations, purchasing, training, and...
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Cousins Subs®, best known for their hand-crafted, deli-style subs and freshly baked bread, kicked off the New Year by opening a new store in Chandler, Arizona. As a part of the Chandler store’s grand opening activities, Cousins Subs will be raising funds for the Boy and Girls Club of Chandler. From now until February...
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In less than six years, Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning® has become the nation’s fastest-growing, environmentally-friendly carpet cleaning franchise, growing to more than 235 locations in 45 states. Since 2008, Oxi Fresh’s continued success has earned it top rankings in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500. Now in 2012, despite a still sluggish economy, Oxi Fresh has...
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ABRA Auto Body & Glass, a Minnesota-based damaged vehicle repair company and industry leader, is forging ahead with its growth plans by announcing the opening of a full service collision center in Warner Robins, Georgia. The newest state-of-the-art facility is located at 581 Carl Vinson Parkway in Warner Robins which is 90 miles southeast...
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PRO MARTIAL ARTS, the nation’s fastest growing Martial Arts concept, announced today that it has added three Martial Arts Schools to the Philadelphia Market, owned and operated by Bob Bush. Mr. Bush has been a practicing attorney for over 20 years and was formally a U.S. Army officer and served most of his time...
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Muscle Maker Grill, a chain of casual eateries that serves great food prepared with your health in mind, announces it has opened the doors to a restaurant in founder Rod Silva’s hometown of Newark, New Jersey. Located at 478 Market St. in the Ironbound District, the new restaurant offers local residents healthier versions of...
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BO-J of MS, LLC is satisfying Columbus’ craving for Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits with the opening of its newest location at 1612 Highway 45 North in Columbus on January 10, 2012. Situated on the front parcel of the Leigh Mall, this marks the second Bojangles’ location to open in Mississippi and the second...
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Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop is excited to announce the opening of its newest location in Torrance today. After much success throughout Southern California, Capriotti’s opens its third Los Angeles location to satisfy the demand for fresh and delicious sandwiches. South Bay residents will now be able to get a taste of the award-winning sandwiches. The...
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To kick-off National Pizza Week, Jan. 9-15, Zpizza adds the fan-created Pepperoni Caprese Pizza to its menu through the end of January. Last October, Zpizza asked Facebook fans to build their dream pepperoni pizza via the “Pure Pepperoni Design Your Dream Pizza” recipe contest, using pepperoni and any existing ingredients at Zpizza. Zpizza’s culinary...
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As the fro-yo category grows increasingly competitive and repetitive, many have attempted to lay claim to the healthy leader position, but no one comes close to Super Fro-Yo launched by TCBY less than a year ago. Today, TCBY announces the next evolution of soft serve frozen yogurt, by being the first to market Greek...
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OpenDNS today announced Caribou Coffee Company has deployed OpenDNS Enterprise to secure the free public Wi-Fi it offers at more than 400 locations. Caribou Coffee, which has rapidly grown to become the nation’s second largest coffeehouse chain, is using OpenDNS to protect both customers and its network from Internet threats. Caribou Coffee’s team knew...
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Countless hours spent perfecting cocktail recipes and working on bottle-wielding skills is about to pay off for nine T.G.I. Friday’s® bartenders. On February 26, 2012, Friday’s will host its 21st annual World Bartender Championship (WBC), a premier bartending competition where these nine finalists, who took home top divisional titles around the world, will face...
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Pinkberry has signed a multi-unit franchise agreement with A5 Group, to open six Pinkberry stores in Las Vegas, Nev. Pinkberry will introduce the city to the fresh flavors and sophisticated style for which the brand is known. The A5 Group is a management, marketing and entertainment company with extensive experience in the hospitality, nightlife...
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The Netherlands-based gourmet retail chain, with US headquarters in Seattle, is now back serving the Dallas Texas area consumers after vacating the market 5 years prior. “The initial USA-based store was opened in the Galleria in 2004 and closed in 2007″, explains President/CEO Matt Stermer. “A great deal has changed since the Brand was...
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Zinga will hold its Grand Opening on Saturday, Jan. 21, in Boston at Kenmore Square, on the corner of Commonwealth and Brookline avenues. The Kenmore Square shop is the first of several planned for the Boston area. Zinga offers twelve flavors of delicious frozen yogurt daily. This self-serve concept enables customers to mix and...
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Four years after opening their first North Carolina rent-to-own store in Goldsboro, Mark and Dawn Martin have added another ColorTyme, this time in Raleigh. Located at 3673 New Bern Ave, the new store will offer rent-to-own appliances, electronics and furniture to residents in the city’s central and eastern neighborhoods. “We are so pleased to...
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Friendly Ice Cream Corporation announced that the Company has successfully emerged from its voluntary Chapter 11 by consummating the sale of its business to Friendly’s Ice Cream, LLC and its subsidiaries. “The completion of our financial and operational restructuring in just over three months is a significant accomplishment.  It is a testament to the...
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BannaStrow’s, a Miami-based crepe franchise, has recently joined the International Franchise Association’s (IFA’s) Veterans Transition Franchise Initiative, known as “VetFran.” VetFran is a voluntary effort of IFA member-companies to honor men and women who have served in the U.S. military in order to help them transition to civilian life. BannaStrow’s joined the VetFran program...
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Capriotti’s announced the appointment of Patrick Walls to president of the company. Walls previously served as chief operating officer for more than two years with the company. Walls will be responsible for implementing and executing the strategy developed by the CEO and the Board of Directors as well as ensuring the company and each...
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Pizza Hut is ringing in the New Year by bringing back the most famous deal in pizza history: the $10 Any pizza deal. To celebrate in style, Pizza Hut has launched a new TV ad that sings the praises of the legendary deal, reminding consumers that they can get any size, any crust, and...
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Just in time for the New Year, Pollo Tropical is announcing the release of the 2012 version of its 21 Days to a New You Meal Plan. The plan provides three weeks of healthful eating out options, plus easy-to-prepare breakfast and snack options. Each daily meal plan includes lunch and dinner options for both...
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Cousins Subs® announced today that participating stores throughout Wisconsin will conduct a campaign benefiting the “Special Olympics Polar Plunge.” Starting Jan. 15, Cousins Subs’ guests who donate $1 to Special Olympics during their visit will receive a coupon to save $1 off a 7½-inch sub on their next visit. Guests who donate will also...
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January is generally the month New Year’s resolution holders stay true to their goals, and Smoothie King announced a new campaign that it hopes will help those who have resolved to get in better shape. The Iam1 campaign launches January 10 and runs through February 29. The campaign revolves around a microsite that invites...
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Sport Clips Haircuts, the nation’s leading provider of haircuts for men and boys with more than 850 locations, launched a new website this week using ElementsLocal, a Franchise Online Marketing Software platform that enables Sport Clips to BrandLocal™. This new website combines a proven software platform with cutting edge creative design to improve search...
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Land O’Frost, the nation’s largest family-owned packaged lunch meat company, has announced a national partnership with Blimpie, to offer the restaurant chain’s signature meats in its popular Sub Sandwich Kits for consumers across the country. In these tough economic times, more and more consumers are choosing to recreate a restaurant sandwich at home. By...
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Gold’s Gym, the world’s leading authority on health and fitness, today announced that it has opened its newest Gold’s Gym Express location in Norman, OK situated at 1000 Alameda Street. The new concept gym has been built to help individuals of all fitness levels achieve their health and fitness goals at a cost-effective price....
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Freebirds World Burrito, the fast casual burrito joint with the rock ‘n’ roll attitude, announced today it will open in Temecula, California on Thursday, January 12, 2012. The Temecula location brings the California total to ten. To celebrate, Freebirds will give the first 25 guests in line free burritos for a year. Freebirds is...
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The Senior’s Choice is now offering candidates who qualify with good credit the opportunity to finance up to $20,000 of the $45,000 franchise fee.  This front-end financing is being offered internally, not outsourced to 3rd party Lenders, and the  financing is long-term with competitive rates. The Senior’s Choice announces this new offer as  part...
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Customers will notice a distinctly new interior incorporating the use of natural wood, stone, and warm colors, in addition to a more accommodating seating plan. Additionally, the menu is designed to incorporate more customization. First, guests select their choice of protein; fire grilled fresh chicken, steak, shrimp, Wahoo, or lean & slow roasted Pork...
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Smashburger, the fastest growing “better burger” concept in the U.S. and recently ranked as Forbes Magazine’s No. 1 “Most Promising Company in America,” today announced it has partnered with international restaurateur Richard Eisenberg and his company, QSR International, in a growth initiative to expand the brand’s footprint into Latin America. Eisenberg’s franchise commitment of...
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BoeFly, the premier online marketplace connecting lenders with business borrowers, announced today that TCBY, the leading international frozen yogurt franchisor, has selected BoeFly to assist its franchisees in obtaining bank financing. Nearly half (49.2%) of the respondents in a recent survey by the International Franchise Association (IFA) of its members identified “financing/access to credit”...
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Del Rio, Texas is now the home of the World’s Greatest Hamburgers as Fuddruckers brings the sizzle of its grill and signature Build Your Own market fresh produce bar to 2211 Veterans Blvd., a site formerly occupied by Luby’s Cafeteria. The only Fuddruckers location for more than 50 miles, the Del Rio restaurant formally...
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PRO MARTIAL ARTS, the nation’s fastest growing Martial Arts concept, announced today that it has hired World Martial Arts Champion, Louis M. Marvil as its Chief Martial Arts Trainer. Master Louis Marvil began his training in Tang Soo Do in 1978 at the age of 11 under the direction of Master Young Kwon.  He...
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Hala Moddelmog, President of Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc., has announced that George Condos will serve as the Chief Operating Officer for the Arby’s brand. Condos joins the company with more than 30 years of restaurant experience, primarily with Dunkin Brands, where he held the position of Vice President of Marketing, Development and Operations leading...
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FASTSIGNS International, Inc. begins the New Year with a brand extension test. “Brand Imaging Group, Powered by FASTSIGNS®” is a full-service visual identity creation, high capacity production and fulfillment brand extension currently being tested by the FASTSIGNS center in Antioch, Tenn., which is owned by Scott Snoyer. FASTSIGNS International decided to test a brand...
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Steak ‘n Shake is introducing its first Steak ‘n Shake Signature restaurant on January 12, in New York City, immediately next to the Ed Sullivan Theater in Times Square. The new, contemporary Signature restaurant will be smaller in footprint than existing Steak ‘n Shake formats, and will feature a counter-service-only model with a simple...
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With the debut here today of a new restaurant in the equally new Virginia Tech Research Center, The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille reached 30 open units, a key milestone in its mission to expand to 150 eastern U.S. restaurants, and made a quick start of a year in which it expects to...
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Saladworks, the nation’s first and largest fresh-salad franchise, signed a three-store franchise agreement with Calvin and Felicia Rucker of Tampa Bay, Florida. The first store, set to open in mid-2012 will be located at 2020 W. Brandon Blvd., the couple’s two other stores will follow in subsequent years. “Expansion in areas outside of the...
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Merzi, the Washington, D.C.–based fast casual that has been compared to an Indian version of Chipotle, has been so successful that founder Qaiser Kazmi says it is finally prepared to open unit No. 2—and many, many more. “We think by the end of this year we should have another three or four units opening,...
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Planet Beach is growing and continues to attract positive attention in the news. Chicago’s WGN featured Colorado’s Best visit to Planet Beach in Parker, Co.  to talk with owner, Sandra Whitton, about the rise of the contempo day spa and the services customers are raving about. “Planet Beach has morphed into something very unique,”...
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PRO MARTIAL ARTS, the nation’s fastest growing Martial Arts concept, announced today that it has hired World Martial Arts Champion, Louis M. Marvil as its Cheif Martial Arts Trainer. Master Louis Marvil began his training in Tang Soo Do in 1978 at the age of 11 under the direction of Master Young Kwon.   He...
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Just in time for the New Year, the Dairy Queen® system is bringing back one of its most popular Blizzard® Treats with Strawberry CheeseQuake® as the January Blizzard of the Month. An indulgent combination of sweet strawberries and chunks of rich cheesecake blended with DQ® vanilla soft serve, the Strawberry CheeseQuake Blizzard Treat is...
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Moe’s Southwest Grill, the fast-growing restaurant franchise best known for its flavorful southwest fare and distinct brand culture, ranked No. 89 in the 2012 Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500. Entrepreneur‘s Franchise 500® is the world’s first, best and most comprehensive franchise ranking based on objective, quantifiable measures of success. The most important factors include financial...
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Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, today introduced its first new flavor of the year and the latest addition to the BRight Choices® line, Berry Nut Honey Frozen Yogurt. This honey and vanilla-flavored frozen yogurt with a triple berry ribbon and sweet honey oat almond pieces is the perfect flavor...
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ABRA Auto Body & Glass, a Minnesota-based damaged vehicle repair company and industry leader, announced the opening of a state-of-the-art repair center in Roswell, Georgia. The new facility is located at 740 Holcomb Bridge Road and increases the total number of ABRA repair centers to 113 in 12 states. Charlie Drake, Vice President of...
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The Wild Bird Centers of America is proud to announce that the following Wild Bird Center franchisees celebrate store anniversaries this month in dedicated service to their customers and communities: Brad & Amy Schmonsees             Oakton, VA            1988            24 years     www.wildbird.com/oakton Steve Frye & Julie Graf                 Boulder, CO           1989            23 years    www.wildbird.com/boulder Bob & Heidi...
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Upon his retirement from a long and successful journey in the corporate world, Anthony Tjahjono began looking for an opportunity where he could use his skills and help businesses and individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset reach their full potential. This is when he decided to join ActionCOACH to become part of a world renowned...
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Wingstop Names David Vernon Senior Vice President of Development Vernon promoted to oversee Wingstop franchise development, construction and real estate departments Wingstop has promoted David Vernon to Senior Vice President of Development. In his new role, Vernon will oversee the franchise development, construction and real estate departments. “Since joining the Wingstop family, Dave has...
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The latest annual rankings of the top 500 franchisors from Entrepreneur.com show SYNERGY HomeCare moved up into 177th place.  This position, up from 182 since 2011 and 406 in 2010 shows the home care company’s consistent strong growth in the franchising and health care industries. The demand for health care, especially non medical home...
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A Biggby Coffee cafe is poised to open in Battle Creek sometime in March, the franchise owner and an official for the company say. The East Lansing-based franchise company is expected to open a cafe at 5466 Beckley Road, Suite F, adjacent to Minges Creek Chiropractic in the Minges Creek Plaza, according to Katie...
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Inspired by his spring break trips to Mexico, Ralph Rubio perfected his recipe and started a nationwide food phenomenon in 1983 when he introduced the United States to its first fish taco. Since then he’s dedicated his life to creating affordable seafood dishes known for their memorable flavors and fresh ingredients. Now, nearly 30...
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CKE Restaurants, Inc. announced today that it has entered into a definitive development agreement with AML Foods Limited to build Carl’s Jr.® restaurants in the Bahamas over the next five years. The first restaurant is scheduled to open later this year. AML is a well-recognized and established Bahamian company with vast experience in food...
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With the awarding of its latest franchise in Livingston, New Jersey, Always Best Care Senior Services now tops 175 franchised territories throughout the United States and Canada. Named the fastest growing Senior Care franchise system in the USA by Entrepreneur magazine, Always Best Care is now represented in 34 states and provinces. Since 1996,...
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RKF, the exclusive retail-leasing agent in Manhattan for Pret A Manger, is helping the sandwich chain expand throughout the city, most recently by arranging two new long-term retail leases. The newly opened shops are located at 350 Hudson St. and 62 West 45th St. in Manhattan. In total, Pret A Manger has 33 Manhattan locations....
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Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, today announced that the company has signed a master franchise agreement with Blue Star Food Corporation, a Vietnamese food manufacturing company, to develop the brand in Vietnam. The agreement calls for approximately 50 Baskin-Robbins restaurants to be opened in that country over the next...
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The Zoo Health Club is coming to The Simsbury Commons in Simsbury Connecticut, with every intention to be the leader in fitness in the Simsbury area. We will provide a fun, friendly, professional atmosphere for the entire community. We truly believe that service with a purpose is our #1 obligation, especially in an industry...
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Tasti D-Lite recently announced its next phase of expansion in the Middle East. Al-Himmah International Limited signed an international master franchise agreement to expand Tasti D-Lite into six Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, and Jordan, with plans to open its first two locations in Saudi Arabia in March 2012....
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National signage and graphics company Signs By Tomorrow is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Ron Frost to the position of Franchise Business Consultant for Signs By Tomorrow’s Central Region. Although new to Signs By Tomorrow, a leader in the custom signage, graphics and imaging space, Frost is a veteran of the signage...
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Pizza Inn Holdings, Inc. has named Jerome L. Trojan, III as chief financial officer. Trojan joins the company at a time of considerable growth, bringing strong financial experience in leadership roles for private and publicly traded companies in the small cap space and in franchising. “Jerry is a great addition to our executive team...
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How did an entrepreneur convince Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, to partner with a new and relatively unknown beauty salon franchise concept that specializes in the art of brow shaping, facial hair removal and waxing? With hard work, creativity, and attracting more than 1,000 customers a week, Seva founders, Vas and Sonal Maniatis, overcame...
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Red Mango, the No. 1 Zagat-rated frozen yogurt and smoothies chain in America, enjoyed a record year for franchise development in 2011. The company awarded agreements for more than 70 new domestic locations, expanded the chain from 102 to 151 open stores, and added the states of Connecticut, South Dakota, and Tennessee to the...
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Games2U, Inc., the world’s leading provider of mobile entertainment, has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the top 500 Franchise systems in the U.S. 2012 will be the second year in a row that Games2U has been listed on Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise List. “We strive to grow our franchise organization, while...
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Sir Speedy, a franchise network of printing and marketing services providers, ranked high among printing brands and franchise systems in 2011. Three major trade/business publications recognized Sir Speedy as follows: * #20 on Printing Impressions 400 * #158 on Franchise Times 200 * #309 on Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Now in its 28th year, the...
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On Monday, January 23, Tijuana Flats, famous for its fresh Tex-Mex food and unique ambiance, opens its second location in Gainesville at 3414 SW Archer Rd. This new location will feature Tijuana Flatsʼ fresh, made-to-order menu, a 15-pump hot sauce bar and all the lively atmosphere patrons have come to expect from the Tex-Mex...
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After three years of service in the Greater Montreal Area, Pizza Pizza, Canada’s leading pizza chain, has reached a new milestone in the market with the opening of its 10th restaurant. The new restaurant, located at 2155 Cure-Labelle in Laval, recently opened its doors in the community of Chomedey and joins a growing presence...
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Salad Creations has opened its doors on the campus of the University of Florida in Gainesville.  “We’re delighted to bring more healthy options to our students and staff,” says a University representative. And the menu offerings, ranging from fresh chopped salads, to delicious wraps, all made from the highest quality ingredients make it a...
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The Wild Bird Centers of America (wildbird.com) has targeted the Salt Lake City, UT “Front” area as a high-potential market for company expansion in 2012. The company plans to open new locations to meet increasing franchisee and retail customer demand, especially in the Holladay, Provo and Ogden markets. According to Wild Bird Centers of...
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The Dog House Diner, located outside of the Encinitas Home Depot, has quickly gained a reputation as the source in San Diego for authentic regional hot dogs and sandwiches. Sandy Cherman bought the former hot dog vendor out and transformed it from a basic hot dog stand into a hot dog nirvana that also...
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BOJ of WNC, LLC is satisfying Seneca residents’ craving for Bojangles’ “Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits” with the opening today of its newest location at 1011 Highway 123 Bypass in Seneca. The new Bojangles’ features drive-thru and in-store dining beginning with breakfast and continuing through dinner late into the evening. Spanning more than 3,800 square...
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CBRE Group, Inc. has arranged a 2,865-square-foot lease for The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co. of Pikesville. This will be the first location of the Boca Raton, Florida.-based restaurant chain in the Mid-Atlantic Region. The restaurant will be located in Hooks Village, 25 Hooks Lane in Pikesville, Maryland, and will open late in the...
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TCBY, the leading frozen yogurt concept, continues to expand its footprint in Florida with a new store now open in Sanford, marking the 30th store in Florida. The owner of the new location is Richard Santos, a first-time franchise owner in Florida. The new store, located at the Marketplace at Seminole Town Centre at...
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Gold’s Gym, the world’s leading authority on health and fitness, today announced the opening of its newest facility located at 4450 Oakhurst Blvd. in Harrisburg, Pa. The new 28,500 square-foot Gold’s Gym offers a variety of convenient health and fitness options for the local community. Equipped with state-of-the-art strength equipment as well as cardio...
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Rapidly expanding Wingstop, which recently opened its 500 restaurant, has promoted David Vernon to senior vice president of development. In his new role, Vernon will oversee the franchise development, construction, and real estate departments. “Since joining the Wingstop family, Dave has produced outstanding results and cultivated relationships with new franchise groups and existing brand...
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The 21st Annual NEFNGLA Jacksonville Trade Show will offer educational sessions and information for Florida’s Nursery Growers and Landscape Association members February 9th and 10th.This trade show is hosted by the NEFNGLA and the Duval County Extension Service at the Jacksonville Fair Grounds. General admission for the Jacksonville Home Show is $10 per person....
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Dunkin’ Brands Inc., the parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, and National DCP LLC (NDCP), a Dunkin’ Donuts franchisee-owned cooperative, announced that they had signed a long-term, performance-based agreement for NDCP to be the exclusive supply chain provider for all Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in the continental U.S. The agreement, which was effective the...
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Taylor Gourmet is set to open at 1908 14th St. NW D.C. on Jan. 3, 2012. This will mark the fourth location from Philadelphia natives and longtime friends Casey Patten and David Mazza. The duo is excited to bring Philadelphia-style hoagies to the vibrant 14th St. Corridor, where hoagie lovers who live in the...
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A family-focused company that employs over 350 team members serving more than 1800 children through eleven centers across New Jersey in Bergen, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Morris, Monmouth and Union counties is proud to announce the opening of its newest childcare center Fair Lawn this December. This most recent addition to the Rainbow Academy® family of...
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Scott Griffiths has cast his golden touch on another breakthrough brand – a stroke of genius that reflects a shining symbol of excellence. Griffith’s 18|8 Fine Men’s Salons, a name that creatively embraces the transformation of traditional steel into the better looking and performing stainless steel (18% chromium, 8% nickel), is now on course...
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After more than 30 years of smoking and serving up generous portions of Southern Bar-B-Q to a growing fan base, the masterminds behind Florida-based Woody’s Bar-B-Q® envision a full-flavored future as one of the hottest fast casual concepts to hit the United States. By pairing age-old secret recipes with cutting edge operations and smaller...
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With this week’s inclusion in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500, Freddy’s finishing touches on 2011 are complete, and preparations for a new year of accelerated growth are well under way. “During this very exhilarating time of unprecedented growth for Freddy’s, we will remain focused on our fundamentals: high-quality, cooked-to-order meals served in a clean and...
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Steak ‘n Shake, the restaurant industry’s longest established brand in the premium burger and milkshake segment, announced it will not raise its menu prices in 2012. To celebrate its devotion to providing honest and high value to its loyal consumers, anyone who purchases a sandwich with fries may order a free legendary Orange Freeze,...
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LA Boxing Franchise Corporation announced today it has awarded ten new U.S. territories, giving fitness enthusiasts who prefer a demanding workout of strength, cardio and mental training a lot more locations from which to choose. The company is adding a Birmingham facility – the first LA Boxing in Alabama. The other new locations are...
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At 6 a.m. on Jan. 3, residents of Portsmouth and surrounding communities are invited to the grand opening of the Krispy Kreme Portsmouth Neighborhood Shop, located at 4028 Victory Blvd., in Portsmouth, Virginia. Grand opening activities include fun prizes, commemorative T-shirts, tasty treat sampling, and more. “We are extremely excited about bringing our delicious...
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Caribou Coffee today proudly announced that all coffees and espresso are now sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms, making it the first major U.S. coffeehouse to reach this sustainable achievement. Rainforest Alliance Certified farms meet the comprehensive standards of the Sustainable Agricultural Network (SAN), which is a coalition of independent, nonprofit conservation groups. The...
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Sir Speedy, Inc., announces the availability of a new online design and print service available through participating Sir Speedy printing and marketing services locations. The new service allows business customers to custom design and order marketing materials online, 24/7, and have them printed by their local Sir Speedy. “In a time when doing more...
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Jake’s Wayback Burgers, with 42 locations, today announces that it will open its first location in California, first two locations in Oregon, and first location in Indiana, as well as its first locations in New Hampshire and Virginia, in 2012. Jake’s Wayback Burgers has expanded nationally, with more than 100 franchises sold. The new...
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On Thursday, January 13, PAWS Cat City is opening its new digs at 5200 Roosevelt Way N.E., SUITE B, in the University District. Our new location is a “colony” cat adoption center. Instead of cages, cats and kittens live in open rooms, where they’re free to lounge or roam to their hearts content! Not...
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The Wendy’s Company today announced the grand opening of the first joint venture Wendy’s restaurant in Japan, located in Tokyo’s Omotesando area. Starting with Tokyo, Wendy’s Japan LLC plans a national rollout of restaurants in the coming years. Wendy’s Japan plans to open approximately 100 Wendy’s restaurants within the next five years and estimates...
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HuHot Mongolian Grill will continue to stay focused on concept growth as the chain moves into 2012. Next year’s expansion plan includes the opening of units in North Carolina by Mike Treadwell of Treadwell Enterprises, one of HuHot’s newest franchisees. Treadwell plans to open his first North Carolina HuHot in Greenville this spring and...
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Penn Station East Coast Subs signed nine multiunit deals this year for a total of 62 new restaurants. The franchise agreements are for new and existing markets in Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, and North Carolina. The company will open in Columbia, Missouri; Bowling Green, Kentucky; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Lansing, Michigan,...
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Dollar Rent A Car, a subsidiary of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., is pleased to announce that its rental cars are now 100 percent smoke-free as a result of its new policy prohibiting smoking by renters at all U.S. corporate stores and participating franchise locations. “We’re extremely pleased to now offer a 100 percent...
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Barberitos Southwestern Grille and Cantina announced that franchise contracts have been secured for 10 upcoming locations, with multiple other locations on the horizon. Barberitos has 25 restaurants in five states, with 10 more restaurants that will be located in Tennessee, Georgia, North and South Carolina, and Florida. Barberitos’ recent growth spurt will push them...
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Texas-based fast casual Mama Fu’s Asian House is preparing to launch a secondary menu from which only customers in the know can order. The Black Market Menu, which is set to debut in late January, will feature a rotating collection of items that won’t be featured on the regular menuboard. “Historically we’ve had a...
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Villa Enterprises Management Ltd. Inc. (and its affiliates, Villa Enterprises), the global multiconcept restaurant franchisor, announced the grand opening and introduction of two of its brands to the Republic of Azerbaijan. The grand opening of this duo of quick-service restaurant concepts—Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen and Bananas—adds to Villa’s broad concept portfolio, which includes establishments...
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Licensees Danita and Sammy Bruce will open the doors to Fort Mill’s first Zaxby’s restaurant this Monday. The new restaurant is located at 1771 Pleasant Road, near the Baxter Community in the Harris Teeter Shopping Center. A Southeast favorite for chicken fingers and Buffalo wings, Zaxby’s will operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m....
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Spicy Pickle Franchising Inc., the Denver-based fast-casual restaurant franchising company, partnered with both Food Bank of the Rockies and Mix 100 FM to help fight hunger during the holidays. In September, local Denver deejay celebrities Dom Testa and Jane London selected one of their favorite Spicy Pickle sandwiches, the “Bandido” Panini, and then from...
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Oxi Fresh, an environmentally friendly carpet cleaning franchise, was recently ranked in the September issue of Inc. magazine’s annual “Inc. 500/5000″ list, earning the #80 spot on their list for Consumer Products and Services. The Inc. 500|5000 profiles businesses whose strategies and methods have lead to increased growth, revenue, and reputation. To qualify for...
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Cousins Subs® today announced that 47 of its stores in the Madison, Milwaukee and Fox Valley regions raised a total of $12,544 for the Wisconsin Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) through a coupon campaign. The money raised will help LLS serve more than 2,250 patients in Wisconsin this year by assisting...
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Applebee’s Services, Inc. announced today that Steve Layt has been named senior vice president, operations. In this role, Layt will provide strategic direction and focus on day-to-day management of domestic operations for the casual-dining brand. Layt will report directly to Applebee’s president, Mike Archer. As a 23-year veteran of the foodservice industry, Layt has...
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As the economy continues its long road to recovery, the industry of Business Coaching has become vitally important to thousands, if not millions, of business owners around the world, which is why it came as little surprise that the leader of that industry, ActionCOACH, was named number 87 in the Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500...
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More than 16 million children face hunger in America today, but help has proven to be a collective “good mood” away. With the generosity of Arby’s customers, employees and franchisees over the past several months, the Arby’s Foundation has contributed over $2 million to the No Kid Hungry Campaign, a national effort to end...
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Wendy’s continued its long-standing commitment to the Charity Newsies by buying a commemorative edition of The Columbus Dispatch at the annual Charity Newsies auction. The company purchased the Dave Thomas Memorial Edition for $30,000. The Charity Newsies provide new winter clothing to needy school children in Central Ohio, raising money through a newspaper sale...
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Chester’s International LLC, a leading fried chicken foodservice provider for the convenience store industry, has opened its 200th store of the year. The milestone was crossed with three recent openings: Sunmart Store in Fargo, N.D.; Bailey’s in Franklin Furnace, Ohio; and College Marathon in Indianapolis. ” Chester’s success can be attributed to our commitment...
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Tint World expands in North Carolina with a three new store license agreement with plans to open the new auto styling centers in Greenville, Fayetteville, and Wilmington, NC. The nation’s leading franchised provider of vehicle window tinting and auto accessories, Tint World, has recently awarded a new three-store franchise license, allowing the franchise to...
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Representatives from Pretzelmaker® and its parent company GFG Management, LLC joined VH1 Save The Music Foundation recently at the Boston Teachers Union School in Boston, Mass. to present a $30,000 donation to the Foundation. The donation was announced earlier this year as part of the brand’s annual Sing for Your Snack! National Pretzel Day...
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Swisher Hygiene Inc. a leading provider of essential hygiene and sanitation products and services, today announced it has acquired certain solid waste and recycling assets of FSR Transporting & Crane Services, Inc. (“FSR”). FSR provides solid waste management and recycling services to the South Florida region, which includes the collection, hauling and disposal of...
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This holiday season is bringing out the best in the five SYNERGY HomeCare franchise locations in the Twin Cities.  These independently owned and operated business are pooling their resources to help individuals and families in the community that stand in need of nutritional and emotional sustenance. SYNERGY HomeCare’s outreach program began at the Minnesota...
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Rita’s Franchise Company, concept owner of Rita’s Italian Ice, the nation’s largest Italian Ice concept with more than 550 locations in 18 states, today announced the appointment of Jonathan Fornaci as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Fornaci brings more than 20 years of operational, retail, franchise chain and brand experience to his...
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“BO Time” on the go has never been easier with Bojangles’ brand new iPhone app, which allows users to play digital cornhole, find the closest restaurant, set up alerts to invite their friends to join them at Bojangles’ and even set a “stomach growl alarm” for It’s Bo Time! The new app is available...
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TM Advertising, a Dallas-based agency, was chosen by Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen as its new agency of record. TM has been assigned to help Captain D’s reinvigorate its brand, and will work with the company’s leadership to develop brand positioning and communications strategy for Captain D’s restaurants, which total more than 500. What started...
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After 11 years of success in its popular Fort Lauderdale restaurant and its expansion to Plantation, Zona Fresca, a fresh Mexican grill, has opened a third South Florida location in Pompano Beach. Located at 800 North Federal Highway, the third restaurant by co-owners Oscar de Armas, Tim Dobravolskis, and Martin Diaz-Yabor serves high-quality Mexican...
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Fazoli’s is enjoying big same-store sales gains at the end of 2011, and CEO and president Carl Howard plans to carry that success into 2012 with a number of hospitality enhancements and new expansion strategies. The Italian quick-serve concept experienced a 6.6 percent increase in same-store sales in November, the best November since 1998....
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Joe Phraner has been named president and chief operating officer of bd’s Mongolian Grill, effective in January, the company said Wednesday. Phraner succeeds Rodger Head, who served as chief executive and president of the casual-dining chain. The company said Head is exiting day-to-day operations to focus on his family business. He will continue to...
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The Maids was recently recognized as one of the Top 50 Franchises for minorities by the National Minority Franchising Initiative (NMFI). The Maids was chosen as a result of its commitment to the recruitment and advancement of minorities within the company. “We are extremely honored to be one of the top 50 franchises for...
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Marietta has a new sub shop on Cobb Parkway that brings great service and tasty food. This week’s Bites Nearby is a little out of the ordinary, primarily because I didn’t have time this week to enjoy a sit-down meal but also because there is a new sub shop in Marietta. That being said...
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The BURGER KING® brand has always been known for its customized menu options. And now the same holds true for refreshing beverages. Guests at BURGER KING® restaurants will now be able to pair America’s favorite burger, the WHOPPER® Sandwich, with more than 100 different beverage brands. With the debut of Coca-Cola Freestyle® fountains in...
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Boston Pizza, Canada’s number one causal dining chain, announced a new partnership with industry-leading e-gift card provider Buyatab.com making it easier than ever to purchase Boston Pizza gift cards online directly from Bostonpizza.com. “Boston Pizza’s new e-card program gives our Guests a quick and convenient way to purchase gifts for family and friends this...
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SIGNARAMA, the world’s largest sign franchise, announces a new store at 601 Ryan Street, under the ownership of local residents Ken and Marcia Skarie. The store opened on Dec. 6. Before becoming a SIGNARAMA franchisee, Ken Skarie worked as the vice president of global accounts at The Nielsen Company. “SIGNARAMA offers me the opportunity...
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Barry and Debbie Goodin, owners of Paul Davis Restoration in Owensboro and Elizabethtown, KY, and Paul Davis Emergency Services in Hopkinsville, KY and Clarksville, TN have hired Kathy Wells as the company’s new contents associate in Owensboro. Wells will be responsible for managing the company’s contents cleaning division and daily activities where Paul Davis...
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The Dairy Queen® system’s newest, most exciting restaurant concept has opened its doors at 127 Altama Connector Road in Brunswick. The 3,400 square-foot DQ Grill & Chill® restaurant has added 40-45 new jobs in the area, contributing to Georgia’s employment growth. The new restaurant, which is the third to open in Glynn County, also...
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Like an elf in her new studio, newlywed Robin Anne Cooper of Walhalla, South Carolina has been busy at work creating 52 original 12×16 art pieces thanks to a holiday gift commission by international creative art education company Abrakadoodle. Robin Anne’s work caught the attention of Abrakadoodle staffer Kathy Armstrong and Abrakadoodle franchise owner...
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The Wild Bird Centers of America (www.wildbird.com) has targeted the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania metro area as a high-potential market for company expansion in 2012. The company now supports a Wild Bird Center franchise retail store in the Wayne/Valley Forge area and plans to add several other locations to meet increasing franchisee and retail customer demand....
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Anago Cleaning Systems has been recognized by the National Minority Franchising Initiative for the second year in a row. NMFI recognizes franchise organizations with exceptional minority participation. Over 450 franchise companies responded to the survey, and Anago was one of the top 50 selected. Franchises are ranked on percentage of minority owned units, as...
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BrightStar Group Holdings, Inc. announces the addition of Brian Schnell as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Legal Officer and Kevin Pignone as Vice President of Field Support. Schnell and Pignone join BrightStar as the company progresses toward becoming a multi-brand franchisor. BrightStar’s flagship, BrightStar Care®, a full-service healthcare staffing agency that provides medical and...
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Penn Station East Coast Subs has signed nine multi-unit deals this year for a total of 62 new restaurants. The franchise agreements are for new and existing markets in Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio and North Carolina. The company will open in Columbia, Mo.; Bowling Green, Ky.; Grand Rapids, Mich.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; and Lansing,...
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Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, today opened its 10,000th restaurant. The landmark 10,000th new restaurant is located in Xi’An, China. Several other Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants, which opened throughout the world over the past few days, vied for the honor of being the 10,000th location. These include three new...
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The Netherlands-based gourmet retail chain, with US headquarters in Seattle, un-veiled its 3rd evolution of the Oil & Vinegar specialty store concept, designed by the well-known Terry Moore Design from the UK, with their latest franchise location in the Clackamas Town Center located in Happy Valley, Oregon. “After a very successful introduction of the...
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The Subway submarine sandwich and salad chain announced that Joe Chaves will head up operations for the 35,500-plus-unit restaurant chain as director of operations, while Rebecca Audet has been named the brand’s director of worldwide training. Chaves, who has been with the Subway restaurant chain for five years, has 28 years experience in the...
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Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, a family legacy that began in a one-room location 70 years ago, opened its 200th location on December 17 in Abilene, Texas. “I never thought it would get to 200 stores. I remember when 100 was the goal and thinking to myself there is just no way. The Dickey family has...
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In honor of its third-year anniversary, Pizza Fusion in Ridgewood is passing down savings to its customers. The three-year old pizza restaurant is offering half off its personal organic cheese pizzas at only $3 dollars each. For large pizza orders, Pizza Fusion customers can enjoy another special, featuring buy any one (1) large pizza...
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Convinced that great tasting food requires slow, careful preparation, in 2008 Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, a division of AFC Enterprises Inc., embarked on a comprehensive brand transformation that emphasized its almost four decades of Louisiana-inspired home cooking. The initiative included a more contemporary logo, new brand advertising and tagline, distinctive new products, and a powerful...
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Swisher Hygiene Inc. a leading provider of essential hygiene and sanitation products and services, today announced that it has acquired the assets and certain liabilities of Bakewell Chemical Company, Inc. (“Bakewell”), an Arkansas and Oklahoma-based hygiene and chemicals company. Bakewell provides a complete range of specialty chemicals and service programs to the foodservice and...
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Freshens, the frozen yogurt and smoothie company, is redefining healthy food and treats with the launch of its new concept store at Western Kentucky University. The fully integrated design features handcrafted, savory dessert and breakfast crêpes, in addition to its signature frozen yogurt and smoothie platform. “We’re thrilled to be a leader in helping...
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Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh-fruit arrangements, has expanded its international presence to China with the opening of its first store in Beijing located at the new Galleria Shopping Center, ShuguangXili Jia5#, Chaoyang District. To celebrate this momentous occasion and unveil the brand in China, Master Franchisees Jianyi “Jack” Wang and...
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Pie Five Pizza Co. is celebrating the grand opening of its newest location at 6370 Camp Bowie Blvd. in Fort Worth, Texas. Pie Five has opened four locations across Dallas-Fort Worth in six months, offering customers the option of any sauce and topping combination or one of 11 specialty pies on the menu. Each...
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Toronto-based supplementary education provider, TutorBright, has announced the awarding of its first franchise. TutorBright provides its customers with in-home tutoring programs across a whole spectrum of subjects, catering to students of all ages, whilst delivering industry-leading expertise and guidance for their customers. Operating to the highest official Federal standards, Tutor Bright outshines its competitors...
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Pizza Patrón, America’s No. 1 Latino pizza brand, opened its first Fresno, California, store located at 3235 N. First St on December 12. This store is part of a development agreement with California Brand Development, I-99, LLC to bring 20 stores to the Highway 99 corridor of the Fresno area within the next 48...
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Ken LeBlanc, president of PropertyGuys.com Inc., is pleased to announce that Kevin Gaston has added a second franchise unit in Scarborough Southwest to expand his operations in Toronto. Mr. Gaston had built and managed several successful start-up companies before buying his first PropertyGuys.com franchise in downtown Toronto in 2009. “Kevin was quick to build...
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After insurmountable local success, Saladworks has spent the last few years introducing its chopped fresh daily fare to new markets across the country.  Now, with 100 locations in 12 states, Saladworks has franchise agreements signed for five new U.S. markets, including Louisiana, Washington, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington, D.C.  The company is on track...
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Burger lovers in Mansfield, Texas, have had to travel to get their MOOYAH fix, but now that the newest restaurant is officially open there, the drive is a quick one. The newest restaurant on 3300 East Broad Street at the intersection of Highway 360 and Broad Street has only been open for three weeks...
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Great Clips, the world’s largest hair salon brand, is again offering customers savings on EA SPORTS™ products this holiday season by distributing a special offer to all customers during the month of December. With every purchase at Great Clips, customers will receive a $10 off* coupon code at www.origin.com good on any EA SPORTS™...
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Australians can enjoy a new taste of frozen yogurt with the opening of the first international Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt location in Melbourne, Australia. Joe Rossi and Phil Lancaster, both based in Melbourne, opened the first international Orange Leaf location today, providing locals with a taste of the booming frozen yogurt sector and acting...
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The Zoo Health Club is now open for business in Winter Springs, Florida and the locals couldn’t be happier. After months of planning and construction, business is booming and word has spread fast. With a hugely successful pre sale now complete, the grand opening has begun. The Zoo Health Club Winter Springs is the...
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Fresh & Fast Burgers, a fast food burger joint in New York City’s Flatiron District, opened its doors in 2009 but is moving into 2012 with an even fresher approach and a variety of enhancements. The brand’s owner, Heath Wolfson, has implemented changes that he feels elevate Fresh & Fast to an establishment exceeding...
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Henry Ricco and his family have opened Fish Window Cleaning®.  The business provides services to commercial and residential customers in Midland and Odessa, Texas. Prior to opening their business Ricco, his wife, Sherry, and son and daughter, Joe and Jessica, completed four weeks of pre-training and eight days of hands-on training at Fish Window...
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Smashburger, is pleased to announce that it has been ranked No. 1 on Forbes first annual America’s Most Promising Companies list. The Forbes’ list of America’s Most Promising Companies features 100 privately held up-and-comers with compelling business models, strong management teams, notable customers, strategic partners and precious investment capital. “Sizing up younger, privately held...
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For the first time since it was acquired by parent company TRUFOODS LLC in 2007, Pudgie’s Famous Chicken launched a new food product, the BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich LTO. Gary Occhiogrosso, chief development officer for TRUFOODS, says there were more pressing needs for the company to address with Pudgie’s before introducing any new menu...
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TCBY recently expanded its footprint in three states.  The first is Colorado with a new store now open in Fort Collins — marking the 15th store in Colorado. The owner of the new location is Steve Lauer, a TCBY franchise area developer for northern Colorado. This is the first store to launch as part...
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Cartridge World, the world’s largest ink and toner refilling retail franchise, announced today new partnerships to help entrepreneurs gain greater access to bank financing and start-up capital to open a franchise. Through newly formed partnerships with BoeFly and Guidant, Cartridge World is streamlining the path to franchise ownership. Through the partnership with BoeFly, an...
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Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint, a growing pizza fast casual, announced store openings throughout Atlanta and in Louisville, Kentucky. The two-year-old, made-to-orderpizza franchise founded by Matt Andrew, one of five founding members and former president of Moe’s Southwest Grill, is on a path to unparalleled success with 60 units in development and a strategic plan...
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Bellevue-based Guidant Financial has announced that it plans to offer a dozen entrepreneurial scholarships over the next year, plus discounts for veterans with small businesses to use its services. The effort is coordinated with the International Franchise Association (IFA) and its goal to recruit or hire 80,000 veterans and their families by 2014. For...
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With Asian restaurant concepts popping up across the United States, HuHot Mongolian Grill continues to stay focused – and that means growth. During HuHot’s most recent planning session, the new restaurant count anticipated for 2012 landed in the double digits. Next year’s growth will include the conquering of North Carolina by Mike Treadwell, of...
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Brooklyn Water Enterprises Inc. hired David Ross, developer, former co-owner and operator of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Biloxi, Miss. and developer of the Ritz-Carlton San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino in Puerto Rico, as chief development officer and advisory board member. “David brings a wealth of experience in the planning, financing...
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SIGNARAMA, the world’s largest sign franchise, announces local residents Jim and Dolores Thorpe are the new owners of the Smithfield store at 721-5 North Brightleaf Boulevard. The store opened under their ownership on September 19. Before becoming a SIGNARAMA franchisee, Jim Thorpe was an IT specialist and worked in software development. He also has...
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This holiday season, charities will be offering savings to patrons through a special fundraising program while raising money for their organization, courtesy of Pollo Tropical. Local non-profits that are feeling the economic pinch in particular can take advantage of the Pollo Tropical Smart Card, a food discount card, to raise much-needed funds for their...
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Pizza Hut launched the Big Dinner Box, an “epic sized” box filled with two medium rectangular one-topping pizzas, eight wings and five breadsticks for only $19.99. The Big Dinner Box from Pizza Hut is one of the pizza category’s first ever value boxes offering a combination of pizza and side items in a single...
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TeamLogic IT is giving away up to 10 franchises to qualified military veterans by waiving the required $40,000 franchise fee. With more than 50 locations across the country, TeamLogic IT provides technology-related services— including computer repair, data backup and recovery, server installation and support and computer relocation and setup — to small and medium-size...
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QSR International, the Master Franchisee for Quiznos in Latin America and the Caribbean, is pleased to announce its continued expansion into the South American region with the opening of its third restaurant in Ecuador. This restaurant, located in City Mall in Guayaquil, Ecuador, is operated by QZ Delifastfood Ecuador S.A., and is the first...
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Chester’s International LLC is continuing its aggressive expansion with the opening of 17 more domestic convenience store locations. Its turnkey chicken program enables operators to continually adapt to customer needs, while consistently providing a quality product and exceptional customer service, the company said. Chester’s new locations can be found at: B-Kwik #3 in Natchez,...
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Edible Arrangements announced that it has opened its first store in Mumbai, India. Last year, Hiten Bajaj, Avinash Khemani, and Ishna Batra signed a Master Franchisee agreement for the development of 20 units throughout the Republic of India. With this opening, Edible Arrangements is now available to consumers in 14 countries outside the U.S....
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Schlotzsky’s announced that it has signed a history-making franchise deal to bring 30 new restaurants throughout the Philadelphia metro area that will also house Cinnabon and Carvel franchises inside the buildings. Schlotzsky’s, Carvel, and Cinnabon are all part of the parent company FOCUS Brands Inc. The three food franchises began partnering early last year...
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Whataburger is all about choices – this is a company, after all, that offers 36,864 ways to order its famous burger – and now customers have even more options with the addition of new healthy menu items available at all 729 restaurants starting Nov. 7 at 3 p.m. CST. Moms and dads will cheer...
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The Triple Steak Stack is a new product from Taco Bell that features triple the amount of a new flavorful and high quality steak. The tender, juicy steak is smothered in a real, three-cheese blend and served in a warm, toasted nine-inch Mexican-inspired bolillo flatbread – another first. The true hero of the sandwich:...
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Inkedibles ™ edible ink cartridges, edible papers and printing systems are now available at 123 Refills. This new line of edible ink printing supplies to be used in the cake decorating business have been a long time in development, and 123 Refills is proud to bring these amazing products to market. Inkedibles™ allow customers...
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Based on the success of its stores in Mexico City, Mexico, Wingstop today announced the company will add 120 restaurants across Mexico over the next seven years, thanks to a master franchise agreement with WIS Master S.A. de C.V. Franchise owners Antonio Ortiz Dominguez, Jose Francisco Cantu Quintero, and Jose Luis Serrato Villegas opened...
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Seattle’s Best Coffee, part of Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ: SBUX), is delivering a perk to those who will be hard at work this Black Friday: free coffee delivered straight to their mailbox. While many companies give their employees the day off after Thanksgiving, for those who work in retail and related fields, it’s far from...
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Leading Taiwanese tea brand Coco Fresh Tea & Juice has opened its newest teashop at Sky View Center, the 800,000-square-foot, multi-level regional mall in downtown Flushing, in the Queens district of New York City. The 600-square-foot teashop compliments its sister location on Main Street and further establishes the tea brand in one of the...
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For 20 years, Bonabeth Nishimuri worked in automotive training, development and administration. But her heart was in baking bread, something she first mastered as a child growing up on a farm in Knox County, Ind. Her career in the automotive industry included positions with Tier 1, a Honda America supplier in Greenfield, Ind., and...
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Impress your guests and celebrate this Thanksgiving with a famous Turkey Stuffing recipe that includes White Castle’s one-of-a-kind Original Sliders. A favorite among Cravers for 20 years, this recipe calls for 10 Original Sliders as the main ingredient. The recipe originated from a White Castle team member who substituted crumbled burgers for the breadcrumbs....
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City Wide, the country’s leading franchise opportunity designed for sales and management professionals, has awarded its first franchise in the state of Wisconsin. City Wide is proud to congratulate Christopher Washburn as the new franchisee for City Wide of Madison. This exclusive territory encompasses the entire Madison metropolitan area. With the addition of Madison,...
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From a humble beachhead established in Hollywood more than seven decades ago, the storied hot-dog institution Pink’s is slating a national expansion. “We are getting inquiries from licensees nationally. Typically, from operators in airports, amusement parks, casinos, cruise ships, stadiums, or open-air entertainment centers such as Universal City,” say Gloria Pink, Co-Owner. “We have...
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Coverall Health-Based Cleaning System®, a leading franchisor of commercial cleaning businesses, announced today that it has been named one of the “50 Top Franchises for Minorities” by the National Minority Franchising Initiative (NMFI). This is the fifth consecutive year that Coverall has been selected for the honor. The 2011 list of top franchises appeared...
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This winter, the state’s first Mooyah will give residents something to sink their teeth into. The award-winning better burger brand is “moo-ving” into Jefferson and Shelby counties, with more restaurants on the way soon after. Mooyah, while known for fast casual, friendly service, is famous for its high quality burgers, daily baked fresh buns,...
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The newest Buffalo Wings & Rings (BW&R) restaurant will open this Wednesday, November 14, 2011, in Naperville, located at 1279 Rickert Drive, thanks to successful local franchise group ABDN Grill, Inc. The new BW&R Naperville location is a 6,500-square-foot establishment, featuring 280 seats, as well as a covered outdoor patio. What makes this location...
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The Subway restaurant chain is proud to announce that it named Bob Grewal of Orange County, California, as the recipient of its 2011 Development Agent of the Year award for the chain’s Pacific region, during the company’s recent convention in San Francisco. Chiefly responsible for building and managing a geographical territory for the restaurant...
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AllOver Media, Inc., the leading provider of non-traditional out-of-home advertising solutions, today announced that it has acquired Intran Media Vehicles, Inc., a Minneapolis-based outdoor truckside advertising company. The acquisition of Intran Media, the nation’s premier truckside billboard company with coverage in more than 250 U.S. markets, significantly expands AllOver Media’s roster of advertising solutions,...
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After nearly a year of in-store testing, Saladworks’ updated catering options are ready for public debut. Beginning this month, the new, expanded menu rolls out in stores. The new catering menu offers all of the restaurant’s signature products in catering-sized portions, including signature salads, Fusion sandwiches, Panini, and signature wraps. In addition, three new...
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This Thanksgiving, turkey trotters will come together for bagels and a good cause. Einstein Bros. Bagels announced it will sponsor the 2011 Mile High United Way Turkey Trot race, which is Mile High United Way’s top fundraiser. Proceeds from the four-mile run/walk will support Mile High United Way’s School Readiness, Youth Success and Adult...
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Jake’s Wayback Burgers, with 40 open locations, announces its restaurants will be donating and serving its Turkey Dinner Burgers to local homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and religious establishments during the week before and the week of Thanksgiving. Donations will happen in the local communities where Jake’s Wayback Burgers operates. Each restaurant and its employees...
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To celebrate everyday heroes who exemplify hometown values by making a difference in their communities, Culver’s is launching the Hometown Hall of Fame Contest. Until December 5, guests are encouraged to share the story of their local hero for a chance for their nominee to win $5,000. “We’re proud to support our local communities...
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Appleton’s HuHot Mongolian Grill will open its doors from, 11am to 2pm, to families and individuals in need, this Thanksgiving Day, by offering them a free dinner, announced David Lindenstruth – CEO and President of Appetize, Inc., a HuHot Mongolian Grill franchisee. The meal will include HuHot’s famous unlimited stir-fry, rice and beverage. Invites...
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Wreaths Across America, a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, today announced that Jersey Mike’s, a sub sandwich franchise with hundreds of locations nationwide, has donated $100,000 to Wreaths Across America. All of the funds raised will help Wreaths Across America accomplish its mission to...
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Continuing their tradition of helping those in need, Jani-King International is proud to once again partner with Miami Rescue Mission/Broward Outreach Centers to provide meals for the homeless and hungry of South Florida. As the Gold Sponsor of the annual block party and Great Thanksgiving Banquet, Jani-King’s support helps provide food and entertainment at...
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Schlotzsky’s® announced today that it has signed a history-making franchise deal to bring 30 new restaurants throughout the Philadelphia metro area that would also house Cinnabon® and Carvel® franchises inside the buildings. Schlotzsky’s, Carvel, and Cinnabon are all part of the parent company FOCUS Brands Inc.®. The three iconic food franchises began partnering early...
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Russo’s Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen, renowned for taking its guests to Italy and back with its authentic Italian restaurant experience and homemade dishes, has been honored for the first time as a Top 30 Food Franchise by Franchise Business Review (FBR). The rankings for all 30 food franchises are determined by factors such as franchisee...
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For the first time, Great Clips salons will offer customers the chance to lock in significant savings on the price of their next haircut with a prepaid $9.99 Value Card. This offer is available at more than 3,000 Great Clips salons in the United States and Canada while supplies last. These Value Cards can...
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With its tantalizing taste, the new “W” cheeseburger is another winning addition to Wendy’s expanding menu … and its budget-friendly price may cause consumers to do a double take! The “W” – with emphasis on the DOUBLE – serves up two 2.25-ounce patties of sizzling, fresh, never-frozen North American* beef, with double the cheese,...
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9Round Franchising is proud to announce it’s latest franchise owner, Wendy Greer.  Wendy will be opening up her gym in Asheville, a market that Shannon “the Cannon” Hudson, Founder and CEO of 9Round always saw as a key market for development of a 9Round. Said Shannon, “Asheville is 1 hour north of Greenville and...
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Bartenders at Friday’s® celebrate that Friday feeling with their guests each and every day, and this year’s World Bartender Championship (WBC), is giving bartenders and guests alike even more reason to celebrate. WBC, which challenges 8,000 bartenders worldwide and culminates with the crowning of one, deemed the world’s greatest, is toasting its 21st birthday...
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With the food-truck trend thriving in the U.S., a decade-old, Australian mobile brand is ready to replicate its success in the States. Cafe2U, a mobile espresso brand with about 120 units in Australia and more than 50 units throughout the United Kingdom, rolled out its first U.S. unit in Bend, Oregon. The company hopes...
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As temperatures continue to tumble down, SONIC®, America’s Drive- In®, is keeping things toasty with the addition of two new TOASTER MELTTM Sandwiches to its menu during November and December. The new offerings are available for a limited time in two tasty varieties: the Bacon Cheddar TOASTER MELT™ and the Mushroom Swiss TOASTER MELT™....
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In less than five years, Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning® has become one of the nation’s fastest-growing environmentally-friendly carpet cleaning service franchises, growing to more than 235 locations across the United States with many more in development. And for the past three years, Oxi Fresh has earned top rankings in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 and...
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The Wendy’s Company (NYSE: WEN) announced today a change in its executive management team. David Karam, President of North America, will be leaving the Company, effective as of the end of 2011. Karam intends to return to his Cedar Enterprises business, which operates 151 Wendy’s® restaurants in six states. President and Chief Executive Officer...
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Amazing Spaces Storage Centers are named Top 100 Operator by Mini-Storage Messenger. Speakers on behalf of Amazing Spaces are honored and remain focused on continued company growth. Mini-Storage Messenger recently unveiled the 2011 Top Operators list, and Amazing Spaces® Storage Centers is excited to be listed alongside fellow industry leaders. Amazing Spaces is a...
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Last week Bojangles’ named company and franchise winners of its Master Biscuit Maker Challenge, an annual competition to put the company’s focus on one of its greatest passions – made-from-scratch, buttermilk biscuits. Winners of the 2011 Master Biscuit Maker title each earned $1,000, bragging rights and a commemorative Master Biscuit Maker plaque. Company winners...
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Popeyes Cajun Style Turkeys are Back! Create new holiday meal traditions this year by adding a little Cajun to your home cooking with Popeyes Cajun Style Turkeys. The limited time only offer is available at participating restaurants through December, or until supplies last. Popeyes Cajun Style Turkeys, approximately 9 to 11 pounds, are infused...
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Charley’s Grilled Subs named accomplished marketing veteran Mike Cassar as the company’s new vice president of marketing. Cassar, a leader in branding, digital marketing, and franchis