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Siblings Kamal and Krushna Panda, with the help of their niece, Shantadeepa Pani, are forging a family pact inspired by their parents in India. After spending over 25 years building success in the U.S., the sting of their inability to care for their aging parents abroad started to feel all too familiar. Losing their father to COVID-19 was the final heartbreaking revelation—it was time for a new chapter rooted in service.Like many care industry franchisees, Kamal says his family came in with a plan: senior care or bust. They vetted a number of legacy brands, but it was Griswold, a leading in-home care franchise, that stood out for its culture of compassion and leadership that felt like “an extension of family.” By combining Kamal’s business savvy, Krushna’s community networking skills and Shantadeepa’s background in marketing, this joint family is now building a legacy befitting of their roots in Farmington, Michigan. Kamal, Krushna and Shantadeepa took the time to chat with 1851 Franchise to discuss their transition into entrepreneurship and why home care is more than just a business for them.1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Kamal Panda: I have been in the United States for 25-plus years working in the banking and financial sector, but because of that, I've really been away from my parents. That gap of being able to serve and being available for taking care of the elderly has always been in my head. I lost my dad to COVID. In a personal way, I really felt connected to this concept of being a Caregiver or being in that industry as a transitional career choice for me.Krushna Panda:&nbsp;I am a very social person and an active member of a community here of about 200 Indian families. My husband and I lead the society; we do volunteering and social work because we love people. I have been in the U.S. for 26 years working in the IT industry, but serving older people has always been my passion. I have a happy family here, and my husband is also very active and curious about our new journey.Shantadeepa Pani: As for me, I received my bachelor's degree in science and my master’s in business with HR and marketing. I have eight and a half years of experience together in both sales and marketing. We grew up in a traditional joint family in India, so it has instilled in me a profound respect for elders and a strong sense of caring for family members and fostering an environment of love, affection, and respect.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Shantadeepa: I entered the United States in 2012, but at that time I didn't have my work authorization. From 2021, I started working, but all of a sudden I realized that having something of my own would be more fruitful for me. I am more inclined towards health and home care... We all decided this will be a good venture for us. We can all be together.&nbsp;Krushna: I worked in the IT industry for 26 years. While that profession is very different, I developed very good networking and relationship skills. I decided franchising made sense because I wanted to be independent, survive on my own, and no longer plan to work for someone else. I felt I could utilize my social skills and my network to prosper in a business that allows me to serve people. Everyone gets old and will eventually need service, so this has much more demand in the long run.Kamal:&nbsp;We felt going through a franchise will give us a jump start, provide the resources and know-how to get up to speed quickly, and get past a lot of the regulatory and compliance angles quickly — even the tools, technologies, marketing, all of that.&nbsp;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?Krushna:&nbsp;A few years ago, I actually considered partnering with friends in an Indian restaurant. However, I saw that some of those businesses were unsuccessful because they had too many partners or the market was too crowded. Now that I am in this, I want people to know that it is more than just a typical business. You are dealing with lives and people who really need your affection and service. It is a way to fulfill a passion while also building a stable, business-oriented future.Shantadeepa: For me, I didn't know we had to create an LLC or DBA — all the technical stuff. I just thought you have to create your company, one LLC. There are other requirements that aren’t widely known, particularly for the home care industry, like NPI (National Provider Identifier). We discussed with many people who are the business owners in different locations, and they’ve been really helpful in catching us up to speed.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Kamal:&nbsp;We actually looked at three of them, and we connected with Griswold more than the others because of the personal connections we built. Starting from the franchise development officer to the COO, meeting with all the staff — it felt a little bit more connected versus just a pure business model. The biggest thing is it feels like you could ask a question either to the head office or to a franchise owner and there is a desire to share, coach and make somebody more effective... It feels a lot more connected and positive and not as competitive.Krushna:&nbsp;Exactly. While there wasn't a huge difference between this and other franchises on paper, the thing I loved most was the people. From the way they approach you to the way they help, I felt like I was communicating with a family member. That was the main interest that led me to join.&nbsp;Shantadeepa: Learning about the founding story of Griswold created an immediate connection. It reminded me of how my parents care for my grandmother and how my grandparents cared for us growing up. The core values we grew up with in our family are the things we need in this particular business. We are going to spend more and more time with the elderly people who need affection just like their own people and the support for their daily living.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Kamal:&nbsp;Do whatever it takes to reach the break-even number of clients as well as Caregivers in the first year. And then year two and three, we would like to expand to another territory next to it.Krushna: The initial plan was to take a couple of territories together, but since this is new for me, I didn't want to start alone. We decided to start with one to gain experience. Simultaneously, the plan is to grow, take more territories and expand so that my niece and brother can start on their own in Ohio and California. We want to capture more territories so we can expand our business and serve more people.1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Kamal:&nbsp;We are a family. We grew up in a joint family, so this is something we saw in our childhood. That piece was a common theme amongst the three of us. And since my niece and sister were both looking for work, they are really trying to leverage this as a full-time thing. They’re not just involved casually; they’re committed to making this their career moving forward.Krushna: This business is very personal for me. My mother-in-law, father-in-law and my father have all passed away, and I could not be there to serve them. I really missed that. Now, I want to treat my customers just like my own family members. There are many ways to earn money, but I opted for this because it is my passion. I am in my 50s, and I don't think I could find anything better than this. With my nature and my skills, I know I will do well.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Kamal: If you're on the fence, you should jump. There is a lot of help and, if you want to do something in the space, a lot of the franchise companies are very organized and get you up to speed quickly. We spent a lot of time just thinking, mulling over and analyzing. You should jump because it's better than I thought.Krushna: Everybody wants to do a business to be independent and survive, but I feel everyone should focus on the quality of the service provided. Don’t just do it to get money; you are dealing with lives. You are dealing with older people who really need your affection. Focus on providing quality service rather than just money-making. If you focus on the quality, the business will ultimately be there.Shantadeepa: I believe home care will grow, and it will not have any lack of demand in the future. The older population in the U.S. is rising. If somebody wants to come to this business, they should absolutely consider it.ABOUT GRISWOLD:With over 200 locations across 30 states, Griswold is one of the country’s top home care companies, providing and referring professional, compassionate Caregivers around the clock. Griswold’s “Live Assured” promise gives both clients and their loved ones peace of mind, so they can live without the weight of worry. Griswold helps adults maintain quality of life despite advanced age, onset of illness, or post-surgery recovery through services including companion care, home services, personal care, and respite care. Founded by the late Jean Griswold in 1982, the company has maintained its founder’s profound sense of empathy for older and disabled adults and those living with chronic conditions. Griswold has been recognized as one of the top 500 franchises in Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500® and named a 2023, 2024 and 2025 Best of Home Care® Endorsed National Provider. For more information, visit<a href="http://www.griswoldcare.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=griswold-panda-pani-family-franchise-story-2731575" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">&nbsp;www.GriswoldCare.com</a> or call 215.402.0200.

1851 Franchisee Spotlight graphic with photos of Kamal and Krushna Panda, Shantadeepa Pani, Griswold

Griswold Franchise Story: Kamal and Krushna Panda and Shantadeepa Pani

1851 Franchise

Inspired by a personal loss during COVID-19, the Panda and Pani families are weaving their collective business acumen into a cause that counts.

Culture Over Capital: Why the Panda and Pani Families Chose Griswold for Their Transition Into Franchising

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KidStrong Franchising, LLC

A 61-Unit Development Agreement Puts Joe Pedatella at the Top of KidStrong’s Development Ranks

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Right at Home

Right at Home Targets Providence, Warwick and Nearby Communities for In-Home Care Growth

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Caring Transitions

What Territories Are Available for Caring Transitions Franchises in 2026?

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New U Women's Clinic & Aesthetics

Why New U is Targeting Spokane for Franchise Growth

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Dillas Quesadillas

Big Flavor, Zero Meat. The $9.99 Big Beanie Meal Brings Protein Power to Dillas Primos Quesadillas

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Yum! Brands Pizza Hut Sale - 1851 Franchise

Possible Pizza Hut Sale Signals Shift in Yum! Brands’ Franchise Strategy

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Restaurants Stand Out in 2025 Hiring as Consumers Look for Simple Treats

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Photo of SONIC franchise logo against blue sky backdrop

KBP Brands Acquires 78 SONIC Locations Across Five States

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IFA Releases 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook Report, Predicting Over 12,000 New Franchised Businesses This Year

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Restaurants Eye $1.55 Trillion in 2026 Sales as Value and Cost Pressures Define the Year

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Family has always been at the heart of everything for sisters&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/griswold-franchise-oklahoma-city-north-manar-landis-maha-zirn-kashoor-2730454">Manar Landis and Maha Zirn-Kashoor,</a> so when they began looking for a new business venture, it only made sense that they’d do it together. Today, the pair are proud&nbsp;<a href="https://griswoldhomecarefranchise.com/">Griswold</a> franchisees, combining their complementary skills and shared compassion to make a difference in the lives of seniors and&nbsp; families in their community. For Zirn-Kashoor and Landis, the decision to go into business together was as natural as their lifelong connection.“The short answer,” Zirn-Kashoor said, “is that it’s always the right time as a family to be together. We were both in the right place to start that one.”Though life had taken them in different directions — with families, careers and homes of their own — the sisters never lost touch. “We were always in contact,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “Almost every year we saw each other. So when the idea of the business came, it was only natural that we were both ready for it and said, ‘Let’s go for it.’”That shared readiness made the decision simple: it was time to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/griswold/how-griswold-home-care-provided-a-more-meaningful-career-for-these-franchisees-amid-the-pandemic-2715838">build something meaningful together</a>.<h2>From Sisters to Business Partners</h2>Transitioning from family members to business partners came smoothly for the pair. “Because we know each other quite well, it came very naturally,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “We recognized my strength, her strength, where we can complement each other — and it’s working so far.”The two sisters developed a natural division of responsibilities, allowing each to focus on what she does best. That balance has only strengthened their bond. “It brought us even closer to each other,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “Usually, when you have family, each one goes to their business or work and then maybe you meet at dinner or on weekends. Now we are combining all this — we see each other even more now. It added positively to the dynamic.”<h2>Why Griswold?</h2>When it came time to choose a brand, Landis led the research — and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/griswold/info">Griswold</a> quickly stood out. “She asked around, looked into different franchises, and it was the reputation of Griswold,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “From the first moment we spoke with them, it felt like we were joining a family.”That sense of belonging only deepened as they met other franchisees. “They are very professional, but there is also a warm environment,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “When we met other franchisees at a couple of events, it felt like family. It just enhanced our feeling that this is the right company we want to join.”<h2>A Family-Owned Business With a Human Mission</h2>As sisters and co-owners, Zirn-Kashoor and Landis believe their family connection adds real value to how they lead their business and care for their clients. “It’s an added value to be family working together,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “We know how to divide the work, who’s responsible for what, and sometimes we combine our efforts on certain areas where we can bring an even better outcome.”That collaboration is rooted in shared purpose. For the sisters, Griswold’s mission resonated deeply. “The story of Jean Griswold is very touching and impressive,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “It’s not money-oriented — it’s very human and people-oriented. That’s what really drove us. Otherwise, any business you can start somewhere and think about profit. This is not the easiest one, but we chose it on purpose because we can relate to it … When you think about it, we are helping vulnerable people — people in need — and that’s something we are already proud of.”<h2>Building a Legacy of Care and Connection</h2>More than just a business, Zirn-Kashoor and Landis see their Griswold franchise as a legacy — one rooted in compassion and community. “We are certain that our hard work will bring very fruitful income,” Zirn-Kashoor said, “and we hope that this is the legacy we can keep as a name for us, for our children and for our family later on. There cannot be a better legacy than helping people in need and caring for the community.”Even amid the challenges of launching a business, the sisters have found unexpected joy in the journey. “The most surprising part is how much fun we are having,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “We knew we would enjoy it, but we didn’t know it would start from day one. We keep reminding each other not to forget to have fun and enjoy the journey.”

With complementary strengths and a shared commitment to compassion, Manar Landis and Maha Zirn-Kashoor turned the right moment — and the right mission — into a meaningful family enterprise.

Why Two Sisters Chose Now to Build a Purpose-Driven Home Care Business With Griswold

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For&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-these-tenured-franchisees-continue-to-grow-with-trublue-2726985">Tim and Kay Diemont</a>, owning a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trubluefranchise.com/">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a> franchise in Yorktown, Virginia, is a shared purpose. Over the past decade, the couple has built one of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue’s</a> most successful and enduring operations, all while strengthening their marriage, deepening their community connections and setting an example for what family-owned franchising can achieve.By the time TruBlue came into their lives, both Tim and Kay were ready for a new chapter.“Tim was working as a regional director of stores and in charge of the East Coast. I had been with the same architectural firm for 20 years,” Kay said. “Tim was tired of the corporate demands, traveling and wanted to be home more. He also wanted to be doing something that would be rewarding and help in our community — the community where we raised our two sons. My employer was getting ready to retire and, since [Tim and I] had always wanted to work together, the timing seemed perfect for both of us.”The couple’s shared vision aligned perfectly with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-trublue-is-a-strong-franchise-choice-in-the-growing-senior-industry-2728519">TruBlue’s mission of helping seniors and busy families maintain their homes with ease and peace of mind</a>.<h2>From Marriage Partners to Business Partners</h2>Transitioning from life partners to business partners came naturally to the Diemonts.“Since we were already partners, this new partnership was an easy transition,” Kay said. “Tim knew how to manage people and had been in a leadership position for many years. I was already trained administratively and had worked in marketing for both the architectural firm and for a local mayor. So, my community connections were very strong in this area.”Their complementary skill sets have proven invaluable. A U.S. Air Force veteran originally from Michigan, Tim brought strong operational and leadership experience from his years managing retail teams. Kay, who has lived in the Yorktown area her entire life, leveraged her local relationships and administrative background to handle marketing and office management.The couple’s oldest son, Derrick, is a systems engineer who has contributed to the business over the years. “His expertise with setting up our computer needs and just his overall help with the business was and continues to be a huge plus,” Kay said.The Diemonts say that working together has improved their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/strategicfranchising/work-life-balance-as-a-franchise-owner-is-it-possible-2728825">work-life balance</a> rather than complicating it. “Since we work together, our schedules are the same,” Kay said. “We can take as much time off as we want or need, and we enjoy traveling extensively every year.”<h2>Choosing TruBlue for Their Family’s Next Chapter</h2>When the Diemonts first began exploring franchise ownership, they were drawn to opportunities that allowed them to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-top-25-franchise-brands-committed-to-serving-their-communities-2724335">serve their community</a>.“Tim was looking into a senior care franchise and at the time the one he was interested in pursuing was already taken in our area,” Kay said. “The person he was speaking with at&nbsp;<a href="https://strategicfranchising.com/">Strategic Franchising</a> mentioned a new franchise they were developing. It sounded like a perfect fit for someone who already knew managerial and handyman skills. We were one of the first to open a TruBlue, and we have been the proud owners since 2013.”The TruBlue model — focused on home maintenance, handyman services and senior safety — felt like the right blend of purpose and practicality. “Tim always had faith and knew we would be a success,” Kay said. “The model for TruBlue was perfect! Our co-workers, family and friends loved the concept, and we had customers lined up before we ever purchased our territory.”<h2>Family Ownership in Action</h2>As business partners, the Diemonts run their franchise with the same&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-a-franchisor-can-cultivate-a-strong-franchise-community-2722789">teamwork and communication</a> that have defined their marriage for nearly five decades.“We have great partners, who are like-minded to bounce ideas through,” Kay said. “All our employees know they can come to either one of us with a question or a problem and 98% of the time, they will get the exact response from us. The other small percentage is only due to Tim’s knowledge of certain handyman jobs and mine would be administrative questions regarding invoicing or payroll.”That united front has helped them build a loyal team and a strong reputation throughout Yorktown and the surrounding Peninsula communities. “Our client base is strong because we provide our customers with a good service at a great value, and it is continually growing,” Kay said. “Our employees are happy to be a part of our team and we are sure all of them would stay with or continue with any new owner, whether it be family or someone new.”<h2>Building a Family Legacy</h2>After more than 10 years in business, the Diemonts have watched TruBlue grow from a small emerging concept into a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/trublue-accelerates-growth-in-2025-with-record-breaking-midyear-momentum-2730055">nationally recognized brand</a>. But for them, the most important growth has been personal — and local.“Hopefully, we have built a business that either one of our sons would be proud to carry on in the future,” Kay said. “Our client base is strong because we provide our customers with a good service, at a great value and it is continually growing.”The couple takes special pride in supporting local seniors, veterans and busy families. “Making our customers and employees happy and doing something good within our community for our seniors and veterans has been the most rewarding,” Kay said. “As a veteran and family-owned business, we take great pride in providing a service to those who have served our country and to their families. For our seniors and busy adults, providing them with peace of mind and someone they can trust in their homes is a very big deal to us as a company and as a family. Everyone’s home is their castle, and we always hope TruBlue of Yorktown makes them feel that way.”<h2>The Rewards of Working Together</h2>When asked about the hardest or most surprising part of running a family business, Kay didn’t hesitate: “Probably how easy it has been to work together. Nothing has been hard about it for us personally. Our skill sets matched pretty good.”For Tim and Kay, the past decade has been defined by collaboration, connection and community — and the next one promises more of the same.“Overall, everything we dreamed about running our own business has come true,” Tim said. “This is a great way of life.”

Discover how Tim and Kay Diemont leveraged their personal partnership to create a thriving, lasting legacy in the home maintenance franchise space.

Why This Couple Left Corporate America to Build a Community-Focused TruBlue Business in the Town Where They Raised Their Sons

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After more than a decade spent auditing government agencies and defense contractors, Kevin Lewis reached a breaking point, not because he disliked the work but because he rarely saw its impact. Franchising with&nbsp;<a href="https://freshcoatfranchise.com/">Fresh Coat Painters</a> would soon give him a different perspective.Kevin, a U.S. Army veteran, built a career in public-sector auditing after returning from Afghanistan in 2012, first at a CPA firm and later with both the Tennessee National Guard and the Defense Contract Audit Agency. The work was steady but slow-moving, with long timelines, distant outcomes and limited control over his schedule. Still, what pushed him to make a change was more immediate: When telework ended, his job began to require a four-hour daily commute, and the grind became impossible to ignore.&nbsp;Looking for a career that offered both professional independence and tangible results, Kevin began to explore the idea of franchising. Through a career ownership coaching company, he was introduced to franchise concepts outside the usual nationally marketed big-name chains he once assumed were the only franchising options.&nbsp;Founded in 2004, the&nbsp;<a href="https://strategicfranchising.com/">Strategic Franchising Systems</a> painting franchise has tweaked its system for more than 20 years. Systems and structure tend to appeal to veterans considering entrepreneurship. But the business also stood out to Kevin thanks to the built-in resilience of its model. For Kevin,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info">Fresh Coat Painters</a> represented more than a business opportunity: it presented the chance to apply his disciplined, systems-driven background to a model with visible outcomes.Now a&nbsp;<a href="https://freshcoatpainters.com/locations/davenport/">Fresh Coat Painters franchisee in Davenport, Florida</a>, Kevin is focused on growth, delegation and building a business that delivers both financial security and personal freedom.1851 Franchise sat down with Kevin to discuss his franchising pivot to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info">Fresh Coat Painters</a>, why it’s a fit and why the model appeals to veterans. Here’s what he had to say:1851 Franchise: Can you frame your personal story for us? What do you want us to know about your journey into franchising?Kevin Lewis: My journey to franchising really started when I moved to Florida. I moved from Tennessee. I’ve been auditing since I got back from Afghanistan in 2012. I went to work for a CPA firm and have been auditing ever since.In Tennessee, I oversaw internal audits for the Tennessee National Guard. When I came down to Florida, I started working for the Defense Contract Audit Agency. When they did away with telework, I had to go into the office every day, which was a four-hour round trip. So, I was really looking for a career change. I came across a company on LinkedIn called&nbsp;<a href="https://entrepreneurssource.com/">The Entrepreneur’s Source</a>. They’re the ones who started leading me down the franchise track. They presented different options and Fresh Coat jumped out at me. One thing that was taught to us is that home improvement tends to be resistant to economic downturns. And that’s one thing that drew me in.Another thing I found intriguing is that when I was auditing, I would send an audit report out to whatever defense company I was auditing. But you would never see the results of your work. It was probably years in the making because any findings could be adjudicated five or 10 years down the road (depending on when the contract closed). So, one thing I like about painting and home improvement is you can always see the fruits of your work. You can see the end effort. It gives a sense of accomplishment.1851: What was your perception of franchising before you became a franchisee and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you’re in it?Kevin: One, that it was too expensive to get into. Because when you think of franchising, you think of the major chain brands. You don’t really realize that the cost of entry is there for somebody who’s just wanting to break the surface. I got a better impression when one of my friends, one of my lieutenants from Afghanistan actually, got into franchising. It was a lot of hard work at the beginning but the amount of independence he has now and the financial security he has now was appealing. When the opportunity came up and was presented to me, that’s what piqued my interest.1851: What excites you most about Fresh Coat Painters?Kevin: One thing I like about Fresh Coat is the expertise they bring in. One of their main executives came from Sherwin-Williams. There’s just years of experience there. They’ve got business coaches. You’ve just got plenty of experience behind the brand.&nbsp;I also liked Fresh Coat because of the franchise developer I was in contact with. The amount of support and attentiveness she gave showed what type of brand it is. I ran into other franchise developers who were hard to get in touch with and weren’t really selling the brand. Well, if the person trying to sell you isn’t passionate about it, then maybe the company isn’t passionate about it.&nbsp;I just felt Fresh Coat had my best interests in mind and was making sure we were a good fit for each other.1851: What are you hoping to achieve with the business? Is there a plan for growth?Kevin: I’d like to open at least two more territories and manage it that way. My goal is to get project managers who can help manage each territory so that I can oversee all of them. I didn’t get into business for myself to be doing day-to-day operations like going out and doing quotes. I want to manage a business. I don’t want to run every aspect of it. You don’t get into business for yourself to work it as a job. You work it as a business. As an owner.1851: What advice do you have for people who might be thinking about becoming franchise owners?Kevin: One piece of advice is to try to get over your fear of the financial investment it may take. What’s your peace of mind worth? What’s your freedom worth to you? You can continue in a safe, routine job. But you’re always going to be dependent on other people as to when you can take off and what you can do. If you really want that freedom, I would say, although it’s hard work at the beginning, franchising has a great payoff.If you’re good at following a system, then franchising is probably for you. They like to recruit military because we train, from private up to officer, to be able to do the next person’s job. We do it through repetition and SOPs. There’s no magic way.&nbsp;In franchising, the path has already been set for you. You just have to be able to follow it and listen to the people who are coaching you.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info">https://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info</a>.ABOUT FRESH COAT PAINTERS:Fresh Coat Painters, the residential and commercial painting franchise under the Strategic Franchising Systems umbrella, offers a low-cost, high-margin business model that gives entrepreneurs from all walks of life the chance to become successful business owners in the communities they serve. Since starting in 2004, Fresh Coat has expanded to over 190 franchise locations nationwide. Thanks to its unparalleled professionalism and affordable business model, it has become one of the leading concepts in the booming residential and commercial painting segment. With continued year-over-year growth, Fresh Coat is well on its way to achieving its overall goal of becoming a truly iconic painting brand.&nbsp;

image of kevin lewis from fresh coat painters of davenport franchisee story

After feeling stuck in government auditing, Kevin chose a structured franchise model that offered flexibility, stability and room to grow in Davenport, Florida.

Veteran Kevin Lewis Found a Better Fit in Business Ownership With Fresh Coat Painters

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For&nbsp;Sandeep KesiReddy and his business partner,&nbsp;Siddhartha “Sid” Parepally, the decision to enter the franchise world was less about a career change than the fulfillment of a 20-year-old promise. Having known each other since their teens, the duo always envisioned building a business together.While life momentarily interrupted their plans — sending KesiReddy into the world of Bay Area tech startups, and Parepally into high-level operations — the desire to build something for themselves never faded. When they finally got serious about scouting for the right opportunity, they found&nbsp;<a href="https://ownaparisbaguette.com/">Paris Baguette</a> in a sea of process-heavy legacy brands.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/parisbaguette/info">Paris Baguette</a> resonated with their own generation and offered an attractive approach to operational strategy.&nbsp;Now, KesiReddy and Parepally are looking to lead the brand’s growth in the Seattle market. Despite being told by corporate and construction teams that a store build-out would take six to eight months, the duo utilized their business and operations backgrounds to navigate permits and construction in just under three months. Starting with their flagship location in Bellevue, the partners are already looking to expand the brand’s footprint across Washington.&nbsp;KesiReddy took the time to chat with 1851 Franchise to discuss all of this and more. Here’s what he had to say:1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Sandeep KesiReddy:&nbsp;My business partner Sid and I go back a long, long time. We have known each other for 15 plus years.We went to college together and always had this thing about opening a business together. Then, our paths diverged for a while; I went into entrepreneurship, running a startup in the Bay Area, and Sid became a head of operations for a global company on the West Coast. We were scouting for what we could do, and then came Paris Baguette. They just lined up so well for us as a rising brand that resonates with the current generation.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?KesiReddy: I run a startup in the Bay Area and Sid manages operations for a global company. We realized Paris Baguette vibes very well with our synergies. They are an “ops-ish” restaurant rather than “ops-heavy.” You bake in the morning and sell in the afternoon, so it boils down more to a numbers and strategy problem rather than a time-efficiency problem that most restaurants have. That made it much more comfortable for us to jump into.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?KesiReddy:&nbsp;Before entering this, we were not keen on looking at franchising or the food business at all. Typically, our perception was that franchising involved a lot of red tape and processes that take away freedom from the owner to add their own flavor. Now, I want people to know that franchising can be very attractive if you find a brand that plays to your strengths. Seldom do you find a concept that has processes that actually empower you, help you run it right, and push towards higher revenues and profit margins. Paris Baguette has a unique combination of making the kitchen and the front of the store run as two independent operations, taking away most of the complexity of a restaurant.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?KesiReddy:&nbsp;They were not one of those old-school brands stuck with lots of processes; they were flexible and quick in responding. What excites me most is the branding and the presence the brand has with Gen Z and millennials. Also, the flexibility the team had to understand our unique location was nice to have. I could just text my construction manager and have her fly in to help us out; I don’t see that happening often with other franchise brands.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?KesiReddy:&nbsp;We want it to be one of the top-performing stores. Our goal is to make Bellevue a top-quartile store for Paris Baguette. We are already looking at expansion in the next fiscal year. You’ll see another store open in the Bothell/Woodinville region, and there is more to come.&nbsp;1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?KesiReddy:&nbsp;Having a brand that has an appetite to grow is very important when you have similar ambitions. Most brands look at their franchisees through a single lens, but there are a thousand variables that make every location unique. Having an ear to listen to the story and being flexible while working toward a common goal is very important, and that is what Paris Baguette gave us. We navigated through the curveballs of construction and permits to launch our first store in three months, which the corporate team challenged us on, saying it would take six to eight. We’re excited to keep that momentum going.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?KesiReddy:&nbsp;The power of a franchise is the process, the setup, and the safety net that comes with it. For a first-time business owner, there are very few things to figure out because there is always someone you can call and ask a question. There are many other franchisees who have been through similar situations. That mentorship is very important. Anyone trying to get into franchising should look at a brand that is ready to mentor them rather than just having them open a restaurant.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ownaparisbaguette.com">https://ownaparisbaguette.com</a> or&nbsp; <a href="https://1851franchise.com/parisbaguette">https://1851franchise.com/parisbaguette</a>.ABOUT PARIS BAGUETTE:&nbsp;With a projected 1,000 bakery cafés in North America by 2030, Paris Baguette is on a mission to reestablish the neighborhood bakery café as the heart of the community. Paris Baguette serves craveable baked and brewed treats and creates warm and welcoming experiences through a blend of gracious service, expert craftsmanship and community connections. From decisions made behind a desk to smiles offered behind a counter, the desire to spread joy and make the world a happier place drives everything we do. Being a neighborhood bakery café means caring about those around us and finding ways to make a real impact. We do so through our "Love Baked In" programs that bring to life our commitment to serving local communities through various charitable programs and initiatives. Paris Baguette is a leader in the hospitality industry with its commitment to creating unique consumer experiences and a network of successful franchisee relationships. For information and to find the Paris Baguette location closest to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.parisbaguette.com">www.parisbaguette.com</a>.

image of Sandeep KesiReddy and Siddhartha Parepally, paris baguette franchise owners

By leveraging backgrounds in tech and operations, Sandeep KesiReddy and Siddhartha Parepally bypassed industry timelines to bring the global bakery brand to Bellevue.

Meet the Two Best Friends Opening a Paris Baguette Franchise in Record Time

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How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How much can franchisees make? This guide explains what drives franchise earnings and how to manage costs, with expert tips from multi-unit owner Mangesh Patel on maximizing your franchise income.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

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Sparkle Dog Care Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: Sparkle Dog Care is a membership-based pet grooming franchise that blends wellness-focused hygiene services with small-box retail and community engagement.

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No-H2O Franchise Deep Dive - Costs, Fees, Profit and Data - 1851 Franchise

Franchise Opportunity Deep Dive: No-H2O is a waterless, app-driven car-care model with mobile, pop-up or static formats, low infrastructure, quick ramp-up, matched marketing and systemwide accounts.

No-H2O Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data for 2025

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As the health and wellness business in America continues to fill out, the fitness industry is growing alongside it. The industry now generates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/gym-fitness-franchises/5599/">over $7 billion</a> in annual revenue, with a revenue increase of nearly 3% in 2023 alone.Rebounding since COVID, both big box and boutique franchises have shown&nbsp;<a href="https://athletechnews.com/fitness-franchising-by-the-numbers-10-key-stats/">membership growth</a>, with premium establishments up 21% compared to a whopping enrollment bump of almost 70% on the budget gym side.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>The Pros And Cons Of Big Box Gyms</h3>When it comes to choosing the right fitness franchise, there are pros and cons to each.Big box gyms are able to cast a wider net, attracting a clientele ranging anywhere from newbie to seasoned veteran, with a lower cost of entry potentially attracting even the marginally curious to the idea of a well-established, properly marketed brand.&nbsp;Big box and other low-cost fitness franchises are also able to capitalize on services like personal training and retail amenities, increasing revenue.Driven by recurring membership fees, big box gyms generally cost less. However, the wider net cast in terms of building a clientele, tends to require more equipment in a bigger space, increasing costs like rent. And with a wider array of workout machines to both service and maintain, additional costs tend to follow.<h3>The Pros And Cons Of Boutique Fitness Concepts</h3>On the boutique side, franchises are typically able to offer a more personalized fitness experience, catering to niche markets with an eye on community, quality and loyalty. However, a more hands on approach to management and day-to-day operations may also be necessary to deliver the more customized, immersive experience often demanded of the more boutique environment.As a result, boutique fitness concepts are typically able to capitalize on a more premium pricing model driven by the idea of exclusivity.But, while less equipment in a smaller space can help rein in expenses, it can also be difficult to build the more specific clientele required by the boutique experience, rendering selection of proper location crucial.<h3>Finding The Right Fit</h3>As potential franchisees assess the available opportunities in the fitness franchise realm, it’s important to ponder a number of factors which can impact the bottom line.In terms of budgeting, a full understanding of both initial investment and ongoing operational costs is crucial.&nbsp;Getting to know the customer and surrounding area can help franchisees assess just how much the consumer is looking to pay for a gym membership, helping clarify the big box versus boutique decision when it comes to the question of how to buy a franchise.There’s also market saturation, with big box gyms in particular becoming an increasingly crowded marketplace.On the management side, it’s important for franchisees to seize upon a specific approach, whether it’s applying a more hands on style to the level of personal interaction required on the boutique side or focusing on the moving parts in play in the larger, more complex big box environment.&nbsp;When it comes to buying a fitness franchise, an understanding of the consumer, proper assessment of the marketplace and specific approach to management can go a long way towards avoiding potential risk, helping franchisees find success as they ponder entrepreneurship via fitness franchises.For more info on fitness franchises, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/fitness-franchises-2025-trends-opportunities-2729600">The Rise of Fitness Franchises in 2025: Trends, Opportunities and What to Expect</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/top-health-and-wellness-franchises-2729821">Top 15 Health and Wellness Franchises Opportunities for 2025</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/fitness-wellness-franchise-guide-2729443">How To Choose the Right Fitness or Wellness Franchise for You</a></li></ul>

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As the fitness industry continues to grow fast, the decision for potential franchisees lies in whether to invest in big box or boutique gym franchise opportunities.

Culture Over Capital: Why the Panda and Pani Families Chose Griswold for Their Transition Into Franchising

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