How This Canadian Is Following the American Dream With Her New Fresh Coat Painting Franchise in Sarasota, Florida

Amy Wasserman, a Canadian native with a background in education and business management, recently opened a Fresh Coat Painters franchise in Sarasota, Florida. After moving to the area, Wasserman recognized the demand for quality painting services. Also, the surge in demand for home services following the pandemic presented an ideal opportunity for Wasserman to combine her passion for entrepreneurship with a practical, service-oriented business.

Prior to becoming a franchisee, Wasserman had limited knowledge of franchising, initially believing that she would start her own business from scratch. However, she quickly realized the benefits of joining a franchise, such as being part of an established, recognized brand that offers a head start for new business owners. The Fresh Coat Painters brand appealed to Wasserman due to its commitment to quality, professionalism and the utilization of technology in its services. The company's strong relationships with vendors further solidified her decision to join the franchise. 

Wasserman is well on her way to realizing her own version of the American dream in sunny Sarasota, Florida, while establishing a reputation for providing exceptional painting services.

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Wasserman: I am Canadian originally, and I recently moved to Florida. I have a background in education and business management, directing operations and managing large groups of employees in customer service. But I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur. 

After moving to Florida, I saw that there was a big need for quality painting in this market. There has been a strong demand for home services ever since the pandemic. Homeowners want to make their spaces look better. People are spending more time at home than ever before. But being sort of new to the painting industry, I knew I wanted to go the franchise route because of the support and resources offered. I found out about Fresh Coat and thought it’d be a good match and a great opportunity 

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Wasserman: I didn’t know too much about franchising. I always thought I'd do a startup on my own. But I quickly reorganized the benefits of being part of a franchise and joining a brand that was already built and nationally recognized. I thought that’d give me a great head start. 

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Wasserman: The business model, the support that comes down from corporate and the ongoing support offered by the other franchisees as well. The quality of service that this brand offers is also really unparalleled. Fresh Coat prides itself on providing quality, professional painting. That really drew me into the franchise. Also, the use of technology and the quoting software they provide franchisees is impressive. Fresh Coat has a lot of great established relationships with vendors. 

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth? 

Wasserman: Overall, I am really excited to grow this business in our area, network with different people and build a respected reputation for offering excellent painting services. 

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming a franchise owner?

Wasserman: They really should consider it if they haven’t before. Whether you are an existing business owner or a first-time entrepreneur, the benefits that come with the franchise and the support that is offered is invaluable.