Learn About Exciting Franchising Opportunities in Ottawa
With booming sales in Canada, Express Employment Professionals is motivated to open new locations in Ottawa, Ontario. Express will be hosting a meet and greet on Wednesday, Sept. 28, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Residence Inn, at 161 Laurier Ave West, for individuals interested in Express franchise ownership in Ottawa.
Visitors and guests will have the opportunity to meet Fred Muse, senior director of franchising, who will present information on how Express owners can build income and equity. A local Express franchisee will also be there to discuss the opportunity to own a professional business that works with local industries that provide workforce solutions and allows for work and personal life balance with traditional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. work hours.
“It’s an exciting time to open an Express franchise, because the staffing industry is growing tremendously.” Muse said. In 2010, Express franchise locations in Canada averaged $3,377,419 in sales, with 17 successful franchise locations in Ontario alone. The company continues to grow as Express Employment Professionals’ sales totaled more than $1.9 billion in 2010, and has continuously seen a double-digit percentage increase in sales in 2011.
If you have questions about the Ottawa meet and greet, contact local owner Bruce Hine or corporate representative Fred Muse for further details.
Express Makes Staffing Industry Analysts’ 2011 Largest U.S. and Global Staffing Firms List
Last month, Staffing Industry Analysts, a global publication specializing in staffing industry news, data, and trends, placed Express Employment Professionals among the top largest U.S. and top global staffing firms.
In a list of 86 global firms with staffing revenues of more than $300 million, Express placed in the top 15, and in a list of 98 U.S. firms with staffing revenues of more than $100 million, Express placed in the top 10.
“Because of great sales increases, we’ve seen the success of our franchisee’s hard work recognized by industry experts,” said David Lewis, executive director of franchising.
From 2009 to July 2011, Express Employment Professionals has almost doubled in size with a sales increase of 92.3%. With sales up 31.85% in the first six months of 2011 compared to last year and the second quarter of 2011 marking the sixth consecutive quarter with double digit percentage growth, Express expects to place even higher on the Staffing Industry Analysts list next year.
We would like to thank our franchisees and their staff for their hard work and dedication to help Express Employment Professionals achieve such great success in sales and growth. Express continues its rapid expansion, focused on states including Florida, California, Ohio, Illinois and Massachusetts. In Canada, Ontario and British Columbia are key territories for expansion. Interested franchise owners should contact Express for details.
Franchisee Opens New Specialized Recruiting Group to Impact West Plano
Debbie Strain, owner of the Express Employment Professionals East Plano office for four years, accomplished great success working with Express. In 2010, she achieved Circle of Excellence in just three year’s after opening her first office, a recognition of high sales performance.
Debbie learned that Plano’s economic development group was targeting companies to recruit workers and job seekers in Plano for jobs with $84,000 salaries. So, she saw a great opportunity to expand her East Plano office into the west Plano territories of Texas by opening a Specialized Recruiting Group, which will solely focus on providing professional search and contract staffing.
“To not have access to the white-collar business in this growing county would have really limited my growth potential.”
Debbie is no stranger to what Express Employment Professionals has to offer. It’s the constant and strong support Express provides that helps her feel confident in opening Express franchises instead of starting her own business from scratch.
Strain hopes to utilize the quality of talent Express provides by making a positive impact on the community with a diverse business mix of commercial, administrative, and professional staffing.
“Our vision is to become the dominant staffing firm in the county,” said Debbie.
Listen to Debbie’s podcast to learn more about her mission to impact her community.
Community Leader Finds Fulfillment in New North Carolina Franchise
As an active member in his hometown of Sophia, NC, David Blalock wanted to make a difference by giving back to his community by helping people find jobs and business grow. So, when he was looking for a franchise, he found that opening an Express Employment Professionals office could be the perfect way to contribute to his community.
David learned about Express franchising through a business broker, who gave him several different franchise options. In the end, he decided to open the Asheboro office as a way to stay with his family and be a part of a reliable brand in his community.
David’s new business will be participating in civic and community groups like the Asheboro Chamber of Commerce and Civitan International, where he can impact his town and grow his business. His hope is to one day grow the business enough to match his long term goal, passing his franchise on to his children.
He found that opening a franchise is “Something that is fulfilling and fun to do. You feel excited about telling other people what you do, and obviously you make a little money at the end.” David said.
To find out more about David’s local involvement, business decisions, and confidence in Express, check out his podcast.
Wisconsin Franchisee Opens Third Express Employment Professionals Franchise
Jeff McKeown, Express franchisee of eleven years, is focused on creating more jobs, not only through the positions offered within client companies, but to also offer a career path for his internal staff.
Jeff opened his first Express franchise in 2000 in Racine, Wis., and then expanded last year into Kenosha, Wis. Not only has he seen his client count grow to 153 in Racine, he watched his business develop into ownership opportunities for his managers. By opening an office in south Milwaukee on July 5, 2011, he partnered in ownership with former manager Roger Krabel and Brian McKeown. Jeff said one of his goals in having multiple locations is, “Growing our people to be more successful and grow their career.”
As Jeff opens this third location he plans to have the staff become involved in the community, a marketing approach that has proven successful in developing the Racine and Kenosha locations. Jeff sees the biggest differentiator with Express to be the multi-faceted support system. “With one call you can resolve everything,” said Jeff speaking to the support offered by the franchisor in handling accounting and workers’ compensation questions, and offering sales coaching.
To hear more about Jeff’s exciting growth as a franchise owner, listen to his podcast.
New Franchisee in Ontario Looks Forward to Fulfilling Mission of Express
After 30 years in transportation operation and rising to the senior level, David Power began investigating franchise opportunities. David worked with The Entrepreneur’s Source, a franchise consultant firm, to help him find the right fit for business ownership.
David desired to own a franchise that would allow him more time with his family, while also allowing him to focus on developing personal and professional relationships. After managing employees for more than 30 years, David could see the immense value the staffing industry brings to the business world. With the economic makeup of the current marketplace, and being able to hire a contingent workforce and evaluate workers before hiring them full-time, David views staffing as a necessary business practice.
When learning about Express, David saw a “consistency in making franchisees successful” and a true process of “making the fit more than the franchise sale.” He believes the Express system provides a foundation to grow a business, and with all of the back office support provided, he can “focus on the fun part of taking the business to the public and customers.”
David wants to emulate the vision of Express in his Cambridge, Ontario franchise, “By providing jobs to people and being a part of the community.” To hear more about David’s plan to grow his franchise, check out his podcast.
From Staff to Part Owner: Meet Our Newest Franchisee
Posted on Thu, June 30, 2011 by Rachel Elwood
In the Express Employment Professionals’ Mishawaka, Indiana office, Norm and Cathy Robertson are not only interested in their success, but also the success of their staff. After seeing a specific staff member excel after only two years with Express, the Robertsons approached him with the idea of expansion.
“We saw the opportunity to help an incredible person on our team realize the same dream we realized; being a part owner of the franchise and enjoying all of the successes we’ve had,” Norm said.
That team member is Mike Stevens. He began his career with Express as a staffing consultant. After multiple promotions and months of proving himself, his passion for excellence and his associates is evident.
“There is no other job out there that I know of where you can reach so many people on the level that we do, and go home and feel so good about what you did,” Mike said.
Mike, along with Norm and Cathy, will open a new franchise location in Elkhart, IN. in the coming weeks. The expansion is a natural progression of the Mishawaka office’s legacy and market share. Norm credits the office’s 66% market share to his incredible staff and the Express model.
“We are able to play a large part of the new franchise going in and hold true to our core value of helping people succeed, which first and foremost includes our staff members,” he said. “Express offers a genuine support system from all of the staff at headquarters to all of the staff out in the field. We just have layers that are unmatched. In addition to that, we have a proven system to follow. Honestly, to open a second Express franchise was not a scary thing for me.”
Mike, Norm, and Cathy have set lofty yet attainable goals regarding their new office. The three owners plan to follow the proven Express model in hopes of gaining a quick, yet long-lasting success. They strive to create an Elkhart office that provides quality service to its staff, associates, and clients. The team’s heart for those they serve is evident throughout their goals and actions.
“We are helping the community and helping people reach their goals,” said Mike. "And by helping others reach their goals, myself, and my staff, and my office are reaching ours.”
To hear more from Mike and Norm, listen to their podcasts.
Top 5 Questions People Have About Buying a Franchise
Posted on Mon, June 27, 2011 by Rachel Elwood
In today’s uncertain economy, being your own boss and owning a business is an ideal way to avoid common pitfalls of corporate America including overwhelming schedules, and company politics . An Economic Impact Study conducted by the International Franchise Association (IFA) found there are more than 800,000 franchise establishments in the U.S. filling over 17 million jobs annually. With so many experiencing the benefits of franchised businesses, many are exploring the idea of buying a franchise. Common questions often arise from those considering franchising and at Express Employment Professionals, we hope to answer those questions with our proven system.
1. What kind of investment is necessary to buy a franchise?
Start-up costs for buying a franchise range from $20,000 or less to $1 million. Influencing factors in deciding which franchisor you are considering include initial franchise fee, and whether it is necessary to own or lease real estate to operate your business. Express’ start-up fee is known for being one of the most cost effective in the franchise world. Although an investment is required, it is one that is affordable and worthwhile.
2. How can I be sure I won’t lose money?
Unfortunately, no one is guaranteed success. Be wary of franchisors that promise profit, as your success ultimately depends on you. As a franchisee, your success comes through hard work, dedication, and finding the right franchise partner. However, before becoming a franchisee, it is important to research franchisors you are considering. Reach out to current franchisees to see if their investment was worth the reward, ask your potential franchisors tough questions, and truly research your potential franchise’s industry.
3. Won’t I have to work much harder when it’s my own business?
In the early stages of any business, whether it’s a franchise or not, owners are going to have to work hard. Your success depends on your commitment to the company and without 100% dedication you may not realize your desired results. All of Express’ top franchisees have had to work to achieve their success, but all consider the initial work worth it. And unlike owning a business independently, when you own a franchise you have a support system. Being part of a franchise gives you access to training, business coaching, and a peer network you wouldn’t have if you owned an independent business.
Ron and Judy Dubois own an Express franchise in Ft. Myers, Fla. Initially they spent long days establishing contacts and recruiting associates. Now, 12 years into their business endeavor, the married couple enjoys a comfortable work/life balance and financial success.
4. Can I really be independent as a franchisee?
In exchange for the security, training, and marketing power a franchise system offers, most franchisors require you follow their proven systems for success. With Express, we strive to find franchisees who agree with our values, beliefs, and implementation. Express franchisees often find that, although they are following a system, they are able to do so easily because they understand our motives and why we do the things we do.
At Express we truly believe that although you’re following our proven system, you are able to do so with independence, putting your own spin on things.
5. Should I be worried about encroachment?
Because nearly every franchisor reserves the right to operate anywhere it wants, one question many have when considering franchising is encroachment. Consider the ratio of corporate owned versus franchise owned locations. To focus solely on franchisees Express has made the decision to not grow by corporate locations and is 100% franchised. Express also offers exclusive territories to ensure the best environment for our franchisees. Express provides open communication with all of its franchisees through its assistance center and dedicated support teams at headquarters to ease any concerns franchisees may have.
Business ownership, although fulfilling, takes a substantial amount of work in the beginning phases. With franchising you are in business for yourself, but not by yourself. According to IFA, “It provides entrepreneurs with an affordable means of accelerating expansion and achieving development goals more quickly than might otherwise be the case, with far less risk.”
If you have any further questions about owning your own Express franchise, call our franchising department toll-free at (877) 652-6400 or email franchising@expresspros.com.
Franchisees’ Twelve Year Success Story Continues
Posted on Tue, June 21, 2011 by Rachel Elwood
Twelve years ago, Ron and Judy Dubois made the decision to go into business on their own. This husband and wife duo opened an Express Employment Professionals franchise in their home of Ft. Myers, Fla. Ron established contacts within the community while Judy handled internal operations at the office.
Looking back at the Dubois’ humble beginnings it’s impressive to know their Express franchise is now a top ranking business.
“The business grew so fast, it grew immensely fast,” said Ron.
Now 12 years in the business, the Dubois continue to see growth and success largely because they strive to provide the best possible customer service.
Ft. Myers resident and business owner, Bill Weaver, has utilized Express’ services for more than 10 years. He credits the Dubois’ franchise in making his appliance company more efficient in their applicant screening process.
“Express has saved us a tremendous amount of time, effort, and money over the years,” he said.
The Dubois continue to find passion, success, and enjoyment in business ownership. They work alongside their son, Thomas Jobin, who serves as the company’s general manager.
To read more about the Dubois and their success in Ft. Myers, read their feature story as seen recently in The News-Press.
Finding Fulfillment
Posted on Thu, June 16, 2011 by Rachel Elwood
After several years as a manager at a national retailer, Jason Carr faced a decision that would affect the rest of his career. He could choose to relocate from friends and family for the fourth time in three years for a promotion, or refuse and face the consequences. After much thought and consideration, Jason decided to pursue other opportunities.
“I found that I had come to an impasse in my career,” he said. “There were politics involved in the organization and as a 26-year-old, it was challenging to work with people who didn’t share my priorities of faith, family, and work.”
Soon, he found a sales representative position in Ocala, Fla. with Express Employment Professionals where he found his calling. Serving his community by helping good companies find good people was a mantra he could buy in to.
Now, four years after joining Express, Jason still finds passion and satisfaction in the staffing industry. So much so in fact, that he decided to dedicate himself even further to the business by becoming the newest Express franchisee, owning and operating the Gainesville, Fla. office.
“I’ve been looking for an opportunity where I could investment my money, time, and energy,” he said. “I’ve been working with Express for four years now and really found it to be an opportunity to work with great people, both job seekers and clients, and most importantly, it was something I felt passionate about. I felt like it was the right step for me and I’m excited to begin this new adventure.”
Jason credits Express’ sincere interest in its franchisees as one of the most inspiring and influential factors he noticed when considering which franchise to open.
“They are engaged in making sure that every franchisee that enters the Express system has a positive experience and is equipped with the knowledge and ability to be successful,” said Jason. “It’s a mixture of the information I received and the passion I saw in everyone at headquarters that set Express apart from any other company I’ve worked for or any other franchise opportunity that I looked at.”
Jason comes from a long line of successful entrepreneurs; many of his family members have gone into business for themselves over the years. Watching his family achieve success and fulfillment through business ownership continues to inspire and challenge him to do well in his new business venture with Express.
“It’s always been a goal of mine to build a business that I can put my stamp on,” he said. “A business that reflects the personal and professional commitments I have made to my family, my clients, and my associates. That’s something I’ve wanted for several years but never felt passionate about in my career until I found Express. I’ve found it to be challenging, different every day, and fulfilling. The Express franchise opportunity was the next logical career move for me.”
To hear more from Jason about his experience with Express, listen to his podcast here.
Simple Steps to Owning Your Own Business
Posted on Tue, June 14, 2011 by Rachel Elwood
With companies still hesitant to hire full-time employees and the national unemployment rate at 9.1%, job security feels like a thing of the past. As a result, many individuals are taking control of their professional livelihood, opting for business ownership versus corporate employment. Finding a business that meets your career goals, skills, and lifestyle can be as easy or as complicated as you make it out to be. When you know the most beneficial questions to ask, deciding on the type of business you want to own should be a relatively simple process.
Identify your goals.
It’s important to understand exactly what you’re looking for in a franchise opportunity before making any decisions. Meet Ed Smith, current Express Employment Professionals’ franchisee based in Sacramento, CA. Before joining Express, he worked as a corporate manager and entrepreneur for over 30 years. Ed’s largest motivator in owning a franchise is his ability to now, be his own boss.
“It’s really the best of both worlds in my opinion; you get the corporate support from a world-class organization, but you have the autonomy to run a business independently,” said Ed.
Ask yourself questions about every aspect of business, to best determine your goals:
• Why do I want to be a franchise owner?
• How often do I want to work each week?
• Do I want to sell a product or service?
• What industry do I want to be in?
• Do I have enough money to afford the franchise fees, in addition to personal expenses, while the business gets off the ground?
How you answer these questions will help you uncover the business that’s right for you.
Determine if the company is an established operation with a proven business model.
Express’ newest franchisee in Minnesota has been in the staffing business for several years. Prior to owning an Express office, Vanyo Moody owned an independent staffing office in Wisconsin. Vanyo watched Express offices around him grow into competitive territories with a steady amount of equity.
“I bought this franchise with Express because of the 25 years of success I watched other offices have,” said Vanyo.
If a franchisor’s system doesn’t seem strong, don’t waste your time or money. A reputable company will have successful franchise owners in their system that confirm the business model works when properly implemented. The franchisor will also have strong relationships with vendors and suppliers, and an established customer base, all which will help you in the long run.
Find out what resources are available to franchisees.
Look for a franchisor that supports franchisees with long-term training initiatives, as well as marketing, public relations, and advertising opportunities. It’s important that a franchisor is willing to listen and make changes where needed to help the franchisees grow their business.
Buying a franchise can be a big investment of your finances, time, and future. The relationship you have with your franchisor will play a pivotal role in the success of your business. So, make sure you do your due diligence and take steps to find the franchise that’s best suited for you.
