We are so excited to share this with you!
From attendees (both broker and franchisor) of the Franchise Broker Conference and Expo, here are some of their thoughts on the conference and the Franchise Brokers Association.
It gives us chills! What do you think?
FBA's Newest Member!
The FBA is elated to welcome its newest “member”: Shane Wall.
Sabrina and Chris welcomed him into the world at 10:03 pm on July 28th. He was 7lbs 1oz and 20 inches long.
UPDATE:
With much enthusiasm for The Wall’s new bundle of joy, the FBA Staff wanted to do something special for the new parents. We thought a nice surprise for their home coming would be appropriate, and so we storked their lawn! It turned out to be a wonderful surprise for Sabrina and Chris, see the pictures below.
The FBA staff has officially settled into our new home. We are just 3.5 miles north of our former location, 37 N. Orange Ave. in the heart of downtown Orlando, at 1080 Woodcock Rd., Suite 295, Orlando, FL 32803.
After two years of tremendous growth (we have more than doubled our staff since 2009), we had exceeded the capacity of our last office. After a thorough search of local office spaces within the downtown Orlando area, we came across a beautiful office building that had the space we needed in the location we desired.
We got creative with our office space!
Packing up the old FBA office proved to be quite an undertaking, packing up four offices, storage space, nine desks and half a dozen book cases and cabinets.
The guys were super excited to pack
But, thanks to the FBA staff we were able to pack up and move with little interruption and minimal closure of the office. A lot of hard work went into packing up, moving, unpacking and setting up in the span of just a few days, and we could not have done it without our dedicated staff and their hard work.
Our very own Jonathan Flowers building shelves and a few lamps
We are also very fortunate to have an amazing decorator, who was able to design a very cool new space for us.
We are all very excited to be in our new home (if you can’t tell)!
We are also excited to welcome the first set of franchise consultants for our first franchise broker training course in the new offices and our beautiful “New York” boardroom!
Check out more pictures on our Facebook page here. What do you think of our new office space?
MAY 17, 2011 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ROSWELL, Ga. – During a 20-plus year military career, Lt. Col. Oz Hill (U.S. Army, ret.) learned the necessity and value of preparedness. As the newest Firestorm® Franchise Principal, he will be using those lessons to help business consulting clients reach their peak preparedness levels.
Lt. Col. Hill has extensive experience in security management, emergency preparedness and response, and continuity of operations planning. He said the value of Firestorm’s intellectual capital was evident during his franchise research.
“Two things resonated with me,’’ Hill said, “Firestorm’s extraordinary capacity to provide solutions tailored to meet the specific requirements of each client, as evidenced by its Online Resource Center of proprietary documents and materials; and the body of knowledge represented by Firestorm’s Expert Council, with leaders such as Gen. (Russel) Honor (U.S. Army, ret.) and former U.S. Surgeon General (David) Satcher.’’
Firestorm is a national leader in crisis management, vulnerability analysis/threat assessment, risk mitigation and business continuity. Its unique PREDICT. PLAN. PERFORM.® process is the foundation for a next-generation suite of consulting services, tools and software that create resilient, disaster-ready organizations. Franchisees utilize all capabilities of Firestorm (www.firestorm.com), including its name and trademark; operational methodology including plans, policies, procedures and training; and access to its staff, 100-member strategic Expert Council, 2000-member tactical Solutions Board, and Online Resource Center.
“Oz brings a dynamic perspective to Firestorm,’’ said Firestorm President/Co-Founder Jim Satterfield. “Oz’s ability to address business risks and challenges with trained military insight, analysis and efficiency will be invaluable to our clients.’’
Firestorm provided the on-site crisis management support at Virginia Tech, and has teamed with W.W. Grainger Inc. to offer business continuity and preparedness products and services. The implementation of Public Law 110-53, Title IX (PS-PREP), which mandates the U.S. Department of Homeland Security certify business continuity plans in the private sector, creates wide-ranging opportunities for the BCP industry. Other significant drivers include the emergence of new communicable illnesses; the increase in natural disasters related to climate change; and elevated exposure to mass violence/terrorism threats.
Hill’s franchise will operate in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and Denver.
The below is a post from FBA Member, Andy Lamedman. Andy joined the FBA in June of 2010 and has stood out as a true professional who upholds the integrity of the industry. Thank you Andy for your insight and for sharing your experience.
I have always believed in and heavily touted the power of networking. And still do… even more so now as you’re about to find out. For anyone that has ever wondered what the value of networking can mean to them, please continue reading.
Whether you go to a networking breakfast at 7:00 AM, or attend an evening cocktail mixer that starts at 6:30 PM, you’re investing extra time into your work day. So why do it? Here’s why:
A few months ago I attended an evening mixer and met a woman networking her business. We engaged in the obligatory chatter and exchanging of business cards. As is my custom, I followed up with a “nice to meet you email”, and my personal offer to learn more about her business in an effort to pass some referrals her way (I always start by giving). I then put her name on my monthly “drip system” distribution list to begin sending her my newsletters and other e-blasts.
One day, out of the blue, I received a call from her saying; “Hi, remember me?” Well, of course I do. She indicated she would like to learn more about what I do, and how I could possibly help her find the business of her dreams. Unfortunately, she hastened to say, that she did not have the requisite finances to invest in such a venture. However, she did say; she has a friend who might be interested in partnering with her as a financial investor to her “sweat equity” investment. And so we began the process…
Fast forward now to the close. We ultimately inked a deal where they are partnered in a Junk King franchise in Los Angeles, CA. And, I received a commission approaching $30,000 at first blush, with much more to come on the back end based on the structure of the deal.
Junk King had wide open territory in Los Angeles County. They sell their territories in blocks of 500,000 population sectors. My clients purchased four-blocks totaling Two Million population. We also negotiated the Right of First Refusal for the balance of Los Angeles County and the neighboring community Southeast of L.A. County known as the Inland Empire. As they exercise that right and purchase additional territories, the Franchisor will continue to pay me my broker fee referral commissions (yes, we have this in writing).
Additionally, my networking pal (now client and friend) subsequently referred me to her neighbor who is about to be laid off from corporate America and receive a sizable severance package. He too, is now looking to secure his future and we are taking him down the path to freedom, et cetera.
So, the moral to my story: Networking Pays… Big Commissions! I met someone that had interest but no money. She introduced me to someone with money. They formed a partnership and closed a deal that paid me a sizable commission, with additional commissions yet to come as they develop their business. Additionally, she introduced me to yet another lead that has potential to earn me more money yet again. All of this from someone that I did not pay a nickel for in terms of “lead cost”. This was a free lead… just from attending a networking event.
Further appreciation for closing this Junk King deal goes out to:
At the end of the day, all parties worked exceptionally well and in concert for the good of the ultimate result… putting a client in business!
Congratulations, Andy!
If you’d like to learn more about working with a franchise broker, click here
When we were contacted by Julie Bennett, a report for Franchise Times, we were excited to talk to her and help her educate readers on the franchise brokering industry. She asked some great questions delving into the state of the industry, as well as the support and successes of the brokers. Ms. Bennett also had the opportunity to speak with a few FBA Featured Franchisors, including ColorGlo International and Service Team of Professionals.
The article takes a hard look at franchise brokering, and we were honored to be included in such a noteworthy industry publication.
Here’s an excerpt:
“Brian Clark, head of franchise development for the Service Team of Professionals in Kansas City, Missouri, says, “Some broker groups are putting sales ahead of ethics. We joined the FBA to help change that.”
(Click to view full size)
The next call we had with the Franchisor, my client came into the office. He felt more comfortable with interactions in-person rather than over the telephone so I encouraged him to come back in. He was pleased that I took the time out to see him in the office. Once inside, we called the Franchisor for our final meeting. We discussed the territory in detail and the adjustments that we made. We went over the addendum changes again and confirmed that we were expecting the adjustments back from Eric Riess, our franchise attorney. At the end of this meeting, my client and I discussed the transfer of funds to attend the next training. The original training date was scheduled for October 11th 2010, however the Franchisor indicated his trainer had a challenge with that date and needed to move the training to October 25th, 2010. We understood, however my client was extremely excited to start learning the materials. He put in for the transfer and we made final arrangements to purchase his franchise.
Through the Neighborhood Excellence Initiative program Bank of America recognizes, nurtures, and rewards community-based organizations, local heroes and student leaders working to improve their communities.
This year’s event, which took place on the set of the Orlando Repertory Theatre’s production of “The House at Pooh Corner,” opened with a skit in which Pooh Corner’s Rabbit and Eeyore mistook the bank’s “money” for “honey.” Bank of America’s Central Florida President, John Moskos, presented $450,000 to two Central Florida nonprofit organizations, five community leaders and a group of high-achieving students in a Winnie-the-Pooh-themed ceremony at Orlando Repertory Theatre.
FBA Executive Director, Sabrina Carter, was announced as a recipient of the Central Florida Local Hero Award. Sabrina was recognized for her commitment and dedication to the Children’s Home Society‘s MODEL Mentor Program. “I was so surprised to hear that I had received the award! There are so many wonderful people in Central Florida who consistently give back to the community and I am honored to be selected out of such a prestigious group.”
The MODEL Program provides quality adult mentors to children and youth ages 4 to 18 years who have an incarcerated parent. Through this program, Sabrina was matched with a young lady named Danielle. She has helped Danielle find self esteem, self worth and improve her outlook on life and her own potential through this program. Sabrina helped Danielle through some difficult times by writing out personal affirmations in Danielle’s journal together; Sabrina encouraged her to write “I’m strong,” “I’m beautiful,” “I’m deserving,” “I’m worthy,” and to believe it.
Sabrina with Representatives of the MODEL Mentor Program
During Sabrina’s acceptance speech, she thanked Bank of America for their generous donation (each Hero was given $5,000 to donate to a charity in their honor, Sabrina chose the MODEL Mentor program) and her friends and family for their support. Sabrina moved the audience as she spoke of her time spent with Danielle, and how it has impacted her life as much as it has Danielle’s.
The selection committee was comprised of a group of recognized Florida individuals, including Former Orlando Mayor and Secretary of State Glenda Hood; Rollins College President, Emerita, Dr. Rita Bornstein; President & CEO of Community Foundation of Central Florida, Mr. Mark Brewer; V.P., Community Relations & Government Affairs for Orlando Magic, Linda Landman Gonzalez; and other prominent community members and leaders.
FBA Annual Convention HighlightsRecently, FBA held its annual convention near our headquarters in Downtown Orlando. Spanning three days, we welcomed to our event nearly 80 franchise brokers and consultants from across the country, and 30 franchise and business opportunity concepts.
We were joined by some outstanding industry professionals, including:
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Junk King |
Sport Clips |
Crestcom International |
|
Maui Wowi Hawaiian |
PuroClean |
Precision Tune Auto Care |
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Franchise and Business Opportunities Show |
The Senior’s Choice & |
Villa Enterprises |
|
Liquid Capital |
Color Glo International |
US Energy Solutions |
|
Pirtek USA |
MassageluXe |
ServiceMaster Clean |
|
Furniture Medic |
PowerHouse Franchising |
Interpreters Unlimited |
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Signworld |
Greensfelder Attorneys at Law |
Expedia Cruiseship Centers |
|
Partners in Sound Production |
Manny’s Neighborhood Grille |
Restoration 1 |
|
Link Staffing |
CertaPro Painters |
MFV Expo |
|
Service Team of Professionals |
HotShots Sports Bar & Grill |
Jantize |
|
Fran Radio |
The Franchise Council |
Gould2Gold |
The purpose of the event is to educate new and existing brokers, provide opportunities to network with other professionals and foster collaboration within the industry.
Events at our convention included:
Roundtable Discussions
Tradeshows
Panel Discussion
We received excellent feedback on the information provided, the events and the networking opportunities. We are pleased to be able to provide this event annually, not only for our members, but for members of the entire franchising industry: Franchisors, Franchisees, Business Brokers, Franchise Consultants, Franchise Funding Sources, and Potential Investors.
Look for recaps on individual events throughout the month of November.
Did you attend the FBA Annual Convention? What was your favorite part?
For additional details on the FBA and upcoming events, visit our website here
Andrew Aronson
Franchise Logistics
Franchise Logistic’s Mission:
The commit to ourselves and to our clients that we will provide the level of service and advice required to be in the top 10% of franchise consultants, known for our professionalism and the quality of our advice.
Company Philosophy for Success:
We will reach our goal through self-evaluation, constant education, networking, and bringing to bear the considerable power of a focused approach using the multi-discipline background of Investments, Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurialism, Coaching and Board Level experience.
· Choose clients wisely; be sure to define the scope of the engagement clearly and completely to the client.
· Bring to bear all my education and experience in Finance, Economics, Real Estate and Corporate Management.
· Have the client commit to the plan and the terms of engagement.
· Run each source of revenue as an independent profit center.
· Our success depends on a handshake, always be honest and forthright with Integrity in all your dealings.
· Success in not achieved in a vacuum, give credit to others.
· Share your knowledge not your feelings or assumptions.
· Enjoy life and laugh at yourself!
· No matter who you meet or their walk in life, we can always pick up a pearl of wisdom from sharing time with them.
Andrew’s Biography:
Graduated from the University of Denver with a degree in History, Economics and with the equivalent hours for another major in Finance, President of Iota Chapter of the ZBT Fraternity. Comtrac Inc., Columbus Ohio Project Manager, responsibilities included but were not limited to; Serving on the committee that managed the Profit and Pension fund, involved in the merger/acquisitions for the company, integrated the accounting and personnel policies for the parent and child business. Elected to the Board of Directors. Other Boards I have or currently sit include, Temple Emanuel, Temple Emanuel Executive Committee, TEPS Pre-School, Carolina Drug Distributors, Emporium Stores Ltd., Digital Lifestyles, Blumenthal Jewish Home for the Aged, BJH Foundation for Senior Services, Synermed Select Laboratories.
Companies that Andrew has started include:
O2Inc. We developed a portable emergency oxygen delivery system sold to non-medical institutions, Carolina Drug Distributors, Emporium Stores Ltd., Kiss & Make Up Cosmetics, The Aronson Group, Inc. Investments & Franchise Logistics, Inc.
Why Andrew became a Franchise Broker:
I became a franchise broker as a response to clients, family and friends that had been downsized asking for jobs or networking with me for employment. I felt that I was not able to do enough for them. I believe people are at their best when they can work for their self-interests and achieve their dreams on their own – with just a little help when needed. Selfishly it brings me pleasure to know that I helped others succeed in reaching their life’s goals.
Request to be connected with Andrew.
