Executives to Know: Eric Schmitt

In December 2015, Kitchen Solvers, a company specializing in custom and pre-built cabinetry, custom countertops, solid surfaces and kitchen accessories, welcomed a new member to their team—Eric Schmitt. Bringing with him more than 30 years of experience, he joins the rapidly-growing and recession-resistant franchise as its newest president.

“After we survived the recession, Kitchen Solvers began experiencing phenomenal growth. Today, we’re in a seller’s market, and kitchens are the most important element when determining your home’s value—it can ultimately make or break the selling of a house,” Schmitt said. “The business opportunity is there, and Kitchen Solvers has an incredible business model to support that. I’m thrilled to join this growing business, and I’m looking forward developing a greater presence for the brand than ever before in this very significant market.”

Schmitt isn’t new to the franchise industry. Prior to joining Kitchen Solvers, he spent four years as the director of franchise development for Marco’s Pizza, three years as the senior director of franchise development for the Atlanta Bread Company, eight years as the president of franchise development for Tossed Franchise Corporation and, most recently, he served as the market development manager for AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service a division of ServiceMaster.

To date, he has helped acquire, develop and award more than 700 franchises within the brand framework in multiple retail environments. Now, he’s hoping to utilize that same expertise to encourage continued development for Kitchen Solvers.

“Looking ahead, my goal is to focus on leads and sales. To do so, it’s important to put more emphasis on financial management training and how you’re going to be successful, starting with a franchise vision plan, your goals and how these can be supported with a detailed business plan,” Schmitt said. “Ultimately, we want to be able to ask our franchisees: ‘Are you making money?’ It seems like a no-brainer, but many potential franchisees might be surprised to find that such a thing isn’t standard practice at all companies.”

To make sure that every franchisee is well-equipped to succeed, the brand will create a roadmap that is designed to help each owner achieve their personal and business goals. Schmitt believes that this gives each of their franchisees an edge.

“Kitchen Solvers offers the platinum sales process, complete installation training, book keeping, marketing training and superior brand recognition. In the end this is helping to attract sales,” Schmitt said.

As Schmitt enters into his first year with the brand, he has his sights set on enhancing these strong suits to catapult continued growth. But in the end, he also recognizes that the brand’s focus on the customer experience is truly what makes Kitchen Solver’s stand out above the rest.

“What attracted me to Kitchen Solvers was the fact that they aren’t focused solely on product and price. Instead, customer satisfaction is a key component to our business philosophy. I think a mindset like that will carry this business far.”