The Daily Edition of Franchise Business News

Allegra today announced that it will transform The Hancock Leadership Program's Class of 2011's marketing and graphic communications into a dream come true.

Kumon, the world's largest after-school math and reading enrichment company, seeks candidates to join its fast-growing franchise system of 45 centers in Houston which grew by 12 percent last year. Candidates who register for the April 15th franchise...

It takes more than just two-by-fours, hammers and nails to build a Ronald McDonald House. It takes the helping hands of a dedicated community. Glass Doctor of Charlotte, N.C., joined hands with the community to make the "home-away-from-home" more...

You don't need to search for it online. It's true. Ben & Jerry's gives away free ice cream! The annual event is a way to say thanks to those who have supported the company since the beginning. To continue the tradition, Ben & Jerry's outlets...

E-commerce gives businesses the opportunity to sell products and services on the Internet. WSI WEBICS is currently offering e-commerce solutions at a reasonable price. Joseph Davila, a WSI WEBICS Internet Marketing Consultant says, "In today's...

Petland is proud to announce the growing success of its national Adopt-A-PetSM program, a community service initiative to help find homes for abandoned or unwanted pets.

Mr. Transmission, a prominent name in the automotive care industry, is bringing quality service and competitive prices to the Roseville area and is announcing the opening of its newest location on the west coast at 801 Riverside Ave, Suite 135,...

easyhome Ltd. (TSX:EH), Canada's largest merchandise leasing company and a growing provider of financial services, announced today the promotion of two key executives - Charley Hamill to Senior Vice President of easyhome Leasing Operations and Jason...

For the last five weeks, Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) has wrapped its signature burritos in gold foil to call attention to the premium quality ingredients it uses to make all of its food. Now, the company is calling on customers to wrap what...

Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen, a division of AFC Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: AFCE), announced today the launch of an aggressive growth plan to increase its presence in Tampa and Orlando, Fla. With the company's dollar share of chicken QSR sales at a...

Red Mango, the country's fastest-growing retailer of all-natural probiotic frozen yogurt and fresh fruit smoothies, is now a corporate partner with Baylor University's Department of Athletics.

Aaron's Outdoors, the family outdoors show produced by lease-to-own retailer Aaron's, Inc. (NYSE: AAN), will premiere its 2011 programming Thursday, April 7, at 12:30 p.m. ET on VERSUS reaching 77 million homes. The 2011 show will also launch on Fox...

The traditional divorce process can tear families apart, leave couples in financial ruin, and cause lasting emotional scars – Fairway Divorce Solutions is on a mission to educate Americans that there is a "better way."

Menchie's, the nation's fastest growing self-serve frozen yogurt franchise, also renowned for its commitment to giving back to the community today announced a nationwide fundraiser that will support disaster relief efforts in Japan. This Saturday,...

While nearly 76 percent of taxpayers received tax refunds last year averaging more than $3,000 (1), there were still many who found themselves facing a balance due. So what happens if taxpayers can't pay their tax bills?

The franchise experts agree that the Liberty Tax Service (www.libertytax.com) business model is appealing to a diverse America, and comes with an affordable price tag. Liberty Tax Service's franchise opportunity represents the only tax service to be...

Tasti D-Lite, the great-tasting, better-for-you frozen dessert chain with a cult following among celebrities and other health-conscious consumers in the United States, will soon be expanding into Central America. The company has signed an agreement...

Jenny Craig, Inc., one of the nation's leading authorities on weight management, announced today celebrity spokesperson Sara Rue will be featured in a national marketing campaign baring her bikini body for the first time after her incredible...

Tampa-based Beef 'O' Brady's announced today that the company has signed a three-year agreement with ESPN Regional Television to continue as the title sponsor for the Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL.

ShopRunner (www.shoprunner.com), a members-only shopping program that offers consumers unlimited, free two-day shipping, and Domino's Pizza (NYSE: DPZ), the recognized world leader in pizza delivery, have launched a sweepstakes that will award the...

Yogen Früz Master Franchisees Michael Geonnotti and Ron Perruzza were all smiles as they introduced their innovative frozen yogurt kiosks during a chilly home opener at Citizen's Bank Park in Philadelphia on April 1, 2011. The brisk weather...

Häagen-Dazs Shops makes it easy for ice cream lovers to transition into the warm days of spring with refreshing new treats that are sure to leave the thought of winter far behind.

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc., (NASDAQ: RRGB) today announced the appointment of David Makula, the Managing Member and Chief Investment Officer of Oak Street Capital Management, LLC ("Oak Street"), to its Board of Directors. The Company also...

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announced plans to open W Mumbai, marking the debut of W Hotels Worldwide in India.

Las Vegas is headed for a cool down as more than 100 frozen yogurt franchisees travel to the city April 11 – 13 to attend the first Red Mango National Conference.

The Greene Turtle announced today that it has completed a four-unit franchise deal that will add three locations in Delaware and put the popular sports bar and grille on the map for the first time in Pennsylvania, in Chester County.

Pizza Inn, Inc. (NASDAQ:PZZI), an international pizza chain recognized for serving a variety of fresh, popular traditional and specialty pizzas, is now available in Saraland, Ala.

Joshua Burton grew up minutes away from the Cherry Hill Mall in Southern New Jersey. In the late 90s, he used to hang out in the food court, where the first-ever Saladworks location still operates today. Burton identified with the Saladworks concept...

Del Taco today announced a major growth initiative for Utah with the signing of a development agreement with franchisees Paul and Jane Hitzelberger of Utah Del, which will result in the addition of 13 new Del Taco locations in the state that already...

InComm, the leading provider of stored-value gift and prepaid products, has been chosen by Choice Hotels International, Inc. as their gift card provider for the Choice Privileges® rewards program. As one of the world's largest lodging chains...

Wingstop announced today that same store sales for the first quarter are up 2.5 percent over the same quarter last year.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) today announces the debut of the first St. Regis hotel in Thailand: The St. Regis Bangkok. The new hotel, developed by Rajadamri Lodging Limited, an affiliate of Minor International Public...

With the change from cold air and snowflakes to sunshine and budding flowers, now is the time to celebrate the flavors of Spring. HuHot Mongolian Grills across the United States launch the newest Sauce of the Season, Thai Lemon Basil, and it will...

The Melting Pot Restaurants, a fondue franchise (http://www.meltingpot.com), is spicing things up with a new Latin America Big Night Out feature menu (offered for a limited time) that began rolling out system-wide March 28 and will be in all...

While it may seem odd at first to find vegetables in vending machines, the country is about to see this not only become a trend, but find out it's here to stay! This food revolution comes as a result of the vending machine make-over by a San...

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE: IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, announced today the openings of three new Staybridge Suites hotels, all featuring the new innovative design created by Savannah...

Express Employment Professionals, one of the largest privately held staffing firms was recently recognized by three separate entities designating it a world-class franchise for the sixth year in a row, best staffing firm to work for finalist, and in...

Gatti's Pizza returns to Lafayatte after 13 years when Foodservice Management Systems (FMS) opens a new GattiTown family entertainment center on April 4, 2011. The 45,000 sq. ft. GattiTown includes an All You Care-to-Eat buffet, an expansive Midway...

Beef 'O' Brady's, the 220-unit franchise of family sports pubs & restaurants, announced today the signing of a franchise agreement in Kingsport, TN. Best known for its great food and the ties it builds with its communities, Beef 'O' Brady's will...

GNC Franchising today announced a new financing program that includes up to 75% financing for conversions of select corporate locations as well as new store openings. Plus, candidates are also eligible for special discounts including $10,000 off the...

For the first time in the restaurant's 25-year history, Charley's Grilled Subs, the international Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich franchise, has hired a Chief Operating Officer to guide the brand into the future.

DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar and IHOP Restaurants, today announced that it will release first quarter 2011 financial results on Tuesday, May 3, 2011 before the market opens. The Company...

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) today announced that it will report first quarter 2011 results on Thursday, April 28, 2011. The company will hold a conference call to discuss its first quarter 2011 earnings at 10:00 a.m. EDT on Friday,...

With the birds chirping and the sun shining, one thing is for sure – Spring is finally here! In celebration, Flip Flop Shops has teamed up with Sanuk to give consumers free swag when they purchase the latest styles from Sanuk.

A new Four Points by Sheraton in Tallahassee is expected to become the brand's first LEED-certified property, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announced.

Foot Solutions of Estero announces it will be participating as a sponsor for the "Fast & Furriest" 5K Run/1-Mile Walk to benefit the Gulfcoast Humane Society, including the donation of $25 gift certificates to every runner and a $50 gift...

Straw Hat Pizza, the original 'California Pizza' since 1959, announced it has earned the 185th spot on the "2011 Franchises in Social Media Ranking: Franchises on Facebook" by franchisehelp.com. According to the ranking, Straw Hat Pizza is named as...

Primrose Schools, The Leader in Educational Child Care®, announces the Gumz family of the Primrose School of Bear Creek in Lakewood, Co. as the grand prize winner of the Family Dance-off, a national video contest that encourages families to step...

More than 10 million taxpayers applied for a tax filing extension last year, avoiding the 5-percent, monthly penalty for failure to file. This year, participating H&R Block offices are offering free tax extension filing April 1 through the April...

Original Joe's (Joe's) is ready to welcome spring, and to celebrate, is launching the $250,000 Big Wing Giveaway, exclusive to Joe's locations in the lower mainland area. To thank customers for their ongoing patronage, Joe's will be giving away free...

Instead of Super Heroes®, maybe they should be called Slurpee® heroes. When the first Super Hero® movie of the year hits the big screen, you can be sure a 7-Eleven® fun-filled Slurpee promotion, with collectible cups, straws and a...

Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh-fruit arrangements, announced today the opening of a new west coast design and distribution center located at 14540 Innovation Drive in Riverside, California. The new facility...

Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: DTG) today announced that the Board of Directors has approved the following slate of nominees for election as directors at the Company's 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders: Thomas P. Capo, Maryann N....

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation invites Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Apex and surrounding communities to celebrate the opening of its newest Neighborhood shop located at 728 N. Judd Parkway in Fuquay-Varina. Grand opening activities are scheduled...

Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ GS: BNHN, BNHNA), operator of the nation's largest chain of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, today reported total restaurant sales and comparable restaurant sales for the third four-week period (February 28, 2011 - March...

For the third consecutive year, Comfort Keepers has jumped in rank on the AllBusiness AllStar Franchise Ranking.

When a person decides to become an ActionCOACH, they are looking for a role that brings satisfaction and fulfillment by helping small and medium sized business achieve their potential. That is exactly what Paul Whitfield was looking for and with his...

Pizza Inn's (Nasdaq:PZZI) popular traditional and signature pizzas are now available in Pikeville, N.C.! Franchise owner Tom Vail has opened the first Pikeville location at 110 South Goldsboro St., and soon he will serve Pizza Inn's specialty...

GNC Acquisition Holdings Inc. (to be renamed GNC Holdings, Inc.) (the "Company" or "GNC") announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 22.5 million shares of its Class A common stock at a public offering price of $16.00 per share. GNC's...

Accelerating growth in Latin America, W Hotels Worldwide today announced plans to open the second W Hotel in Mexico City, to be located within the bustling Santa Fe business district. Managed under an agreement between Starwood Hotels & Resorts,...

The traditional divorce process can tear families apart, leave couples in financial ruin, and cause lasting emotional scars – Fairway Divorce Solutions is on a mission to educate Americans that there is a "better way."

The iFranchise Group (www.ifranchisegroup.com), a leading franchise consulting firm based in the Chicago area, works closely with franchisors and their attorneys as they develop or modify their franchise systems and related legal documents. In a...

The cost of raising a child from birth to age 18 is $286,000 -- without the cost of college.(1) Adoptive parents can expect to spend another $30,000(2) for attorney fees, placement agencies and travel expenses. But, H&R Block is helping adoptive...

W Hotels Worldwide today announced plans to open W Retreat & Spa Kanai - Riviera Maya, located within an exclusive beachfront community surrounded by the natural beauty of the Mayan Rivera's lush lagoons and pristine mangroves. Nestled on the...

Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ: BNHNA; BNHN), the nation's leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, has announced the April Chef's Special, Hibachi Shrimp & Chicken for Two, a five-course feast for only $36.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into an agreement with Driftwood Maldives Private Ltd. to manage Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa Island in the Maldives. The hotel will commence operating as Park...

Launching a major development effort for one of its newest brand offerings, Wyndham Hotel Group, part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN) and the world's largest hotel company as measured by approximately 7,210 hotels, today...

On April 7th, Sarku Japan®, the largest and most successful Japanese Quick Service restaurant chain (QSR) in the United States, takes its sizzling Teriyaki and made-to-order sushi from mall food courts to the streets of Schaumburg, IL with the...

Villa Enterprises Management Ltd., Inc. (and its affiliates, Villa Enterprises), the global multi-concept restaurant franchisor, announced today the grand opening of its new Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen Sunrise, Fla., location.

Kumon, the world's largest after-school math and reading enrichment company, seeks franchise candidates in the Northwest, Southwest, Central, Southeast, Central East and Hawaii to support the boom in student enrollment. Qualified candidates who...