1851

Franchising is tough. Good thing there are so many professionals who have been fighting the good franchise fight to figure out the best practices for franchisors and ‘zees in every industry.Whether buying a franchise, franchising your business, growing your franchise or looking for general information on franchising, tapping into the franchise world’s thriving community is vital to your journey. So, with the help of <a href="https://www.seosamba.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">SeoSamba</a> we’ve curated a list of the most influential people in franchising.No, these are not rankings, simply our collection of 100 influencers you should know, and frankly, who you should be connected to (good thing we’ve provided their LinkedIn links).Throughout February, we will release the entire list so you can get busy getting connected.<figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614192431_david bloom.jpg"></figure><h4>David Bloom</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: Capriotti's</li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.ownacapriottis.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.ownacapriottis.com/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bloom-6671a012/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bloom-6671a012/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote>Leading with a passion to be extraordinary! Combining the ability to strategically develop and operate at an accelerated pace according to the specific goals of the organization. Organizing the appropriate resources, leading and executing against those goals in an accelerated manner, on a consistent basis, in a wide variety of industries and environments. Including strategic planning, implementation and execution of all phases of national &amp; International brand expansion and operations including the achievement of all financial benchmarks and performance goals. C-Level leadership of numerous national and international brands, private equity investments &amp; start ups. Additional experience includes the financing of real estate and acquisitions along with international supply chain, logistics, intellectual property law and government relations. Global responsibilities have included international supply chain management to include (procurement, warehousing, and logistics), large scale international call center support services, global field operations and security management, operational audit &amp; compliance teams, large scale centralized employee recruiting &amp; training programs. Specialties: Establishing high performance strategies, teams and processes accelerating brand and business development and operational performance in a wide variety of challenging environments.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614192988_erik herrmann.jpg"></figure><h4>Erik Herrmann</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: CapitalSpring</li><li>Website: <a href="http://www.capitalspring.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.capitalspring.com/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-herrmann-205aa624/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-herrmann-205aa624/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:</li></ul><blockquote>Investment professional with over 15 years experience in evaluating, executing, and managing private equity &amp; credit investments across multiple industries, but with a focus in the consumer products, retail / restaurant, and franchise sectors.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193115_kevin wilson.jpg"></figure><h4>Kevin Wilson</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: Buzz Franchise Brands</li><li>Website: <a href="https://buzzfranchisebrands.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://buzzfranchisebrands.com/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwilsonbfb/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwilsonbfb/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote>With over 25 years of experience in business that has included time as a consultant, entrepreneur, executive of a large company and venture capital investor, I found my passion lies in leading a strong team of people to create a great company. Today this passion is being realized every day as the CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, a multi-brand franchising company with the well recognized brands, Pool Scouts* (www.poolscouts.com), Home Clean Heroes* (www.homecleanheroes.com), The British Swim School (www.britishswimschool.com) and previously included Mosquito Joe (www.mosquitojoe.com). After just six years, Mosquito Joe grew to 290+ open locations with a further 60 under development. In 2016, Pool Scouts was launched with the intention of professionalizing the pool cleaning and maintenance industry and now has several locations open across the country. Home Clean Heroes offers a new and fresh look for residential home cleaning. This company began franchising in 2019. Our most recent company, The British Swim School, the leader in swim lessons for children, was acquired in April of 2019, and has over 100 locations across 22 states.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193129_thomas flaherty.jpg"></figure><h4>Thomas Flaherty</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: Buffalo Wings and Rings*</li><li>Website: <a href="https://ownabuffalo.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://ownabuffalo.com/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasflaherty/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasflaherty/</a></li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193144_nader masadeh.jpg"></figure><h4>Nader Masadeh</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings</li><li>Website: <a href="https://ownabuffalo.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://ownabuffalo.com/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nader-masadeh-55a6a9a/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/nader-masadeh-55a6a9a/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:</li></ul><blockquote>As CEO of Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings, Nader Masadeh strives to spread his passion for providing the best “club level” sports restaurant and bar experience in the industry to all levels of the franchise system.&nbsp;As evidenced when he went undercover during the season premiere of Undercover Boss’s 7th season, Masadeh believes in a servant-leadership philosophy, which he has used to guide the corporate team and has ingrained into the franchise system. Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings has enjoyed 20 consecutive quarters of positive same store sales growth under Masadeh’s leadership, with 13 percent growth of year-over-year annual unit volume since 2006. In 2015, the brand reached a record high AUV of $2 million and the brand projects reaching 120 locations by 2028. By establishing a franchise support model that is second-to-none in the industry, Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings has provided the tools for nearly half of single-unit franchisees who have entered the system to expand to multi-unit ownership.&nbsp;Masadeh was born into a family of restaurant owners and managers. After earning a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Cincinnati, Masadeh earned his MBA in international business and negotiations from Xavier University. But his family’s businesses instilled a passion for the restaurant industry which led to his purchase of Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings in 2005 with business partners Philip Schram (Chief Development Officer) and Haytham David (International CEO).&nbsp;Upon purchase of the company, Masadeh helped engineer a revival of the brand, making improvements to all elements of the Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings experience including a chef-inspired menu, redesigned restaurant model that appeals more to families, and a focus on increasing the efficiency of the brand’s operations. Masadeh’s goal is to make Buffalo Wings &amp; Rings a household name in even more markets in the U.S.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193157_rita patel.jpg"></figure><h4>Rita Patel</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: Buffalo Wild Wings</li><li>Website: <a href="https://buffalowildwingsfranchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://buffalowildwingsfranchising.com/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritampatel/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritampatel/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:</li></ul><blockquote>I am a passionate and innovative marketing executive and I let curiosity lead me toward innovative solutions to marketing’s complex challenges. As a CPG and retail expert, I have a knack for launching new brands and taking established ones to new heights. I take pride in having built amazing teams and implementing award winning marketing campaigns around the world. My work at Wrigley took me to Barcelona, Spain where I was part of the marketing and product development team. During my time at MillerCoors, I helped launch the Peroni beer brand in Australia and managed the brand strategy and equity for Coors Light when it overtook the competition for the #2 spot in market-share. While at Target, I launched the Good &amp; Gather and Everspring brands, among others, by building a new capability for the organization leveraging consumer insights and a strong understanding of brand purpose. With drive and an empathetic leadership style, I motivate high performing teams to deliver transformational results. Diversity of thought, integrity and purpose are my guiding values. Along with having worked on major marketing campaigns both domestically and abroad, family, community and culture influence my thinking. I’m a proud native of Chicago currently living in Atlanta, Georgia with my husband and daughter.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193168_jocelyn olive.jpg"></figure><h4>Jocelyn Olive</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: Buffalo Grill</li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.buffalo-grill.fr/devenir-franchise?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.buffalo-grill.fr/devenir-franchise</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-olive-35bb5a65/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-olive-35bb5a65/</a></li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193183_pip wilkins.jpg"></figure><h4>Pip Wilkins</h4><ul><li>Type: Supplier</li><li>Company: British Franchise Association</li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.thebfa.org/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.thebfa.org/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/pip-wilkins-qfp-8a68059/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/pip-wilkins-qfp-8a68059/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:</li></ul><blockquote>A confident, dynamic and resourceful Chief Executive who enjoys helping others to expand their skills. Proven ability to initiate, develop and launch new initiatives for the greater good of the franchise industry. Passionate about standards and ensuring people have the right information to make the right decisions.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193194_shelly sun.jpg"></figure><h4>Shelly Sun</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: BrightStar Care</li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.brightstarfranchising.com/home-care/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.brightstarfranchising.com/home-care/</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brightstarshellysun/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/brightstarshellysun/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:</li></ul><blockquote>BrightStar Care Ranked #1 Franchise in Investment Level by Forbes&nbsp;Went ""undercover"" with BrightStar caregivers on CBS' ""Undercover Boss"" (featured April 17, 2011)&nbsp;Top 10 on the American Express Top 50 Fastest-Growing Women-Led Companies each year 2011-2015, and 2009 IFA Entrepreneur of the Year.&nbsp;Member of YPO Windy City chapter.&nbsp;Grew BrightStar brand to over $300 million in system-wide sales in under 10 years since launching franchise early 2006 with OVER 300 locations throughout the U.S.</blockquote><figure class="image"><img src="https://1851-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/story/editor/1614193206_florence soubeyran.jpg"></figure><h4>Florence Soubeyran</h4><ul><li>Type: Franchisor</li><li>Company: BPCE</li><li>Website: <a href="https://groupebpce.com/en?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://groupebpce.com/en</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/florence-soubeyran-8a38a582/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=top-franchise-influencers-30-21-2715089" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/in/florence-soubeyran-8a38a582/</a></li><li>LinkedIn Bio:</li></ul><blockquote>@FlorenceSoub&nbsp;Ruban d’Or de la Franchise dans la catégorie « Partenaires » remis par la Fédération Française de la Franchise et le Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances en nov 2019.Remporte le 2° Hackathon Banque Populaire en dec 2015Ruban d'Argent de la Franchise remis par le Ministère de l'Economie, de l'Industrie et du Numérique et la Fédération française de la franchise en nov 2015Membre du Jury des Enseignes d'Or des 23 et 24èmes éditions</blockquote>

Top Franchise Influencers (30-21) | 1851 Franchise

1851 Franchise

After reviewing more than 100 nominations, 1851 Franchise and SeoSamba have broken down our list of franchise influencers you should know.

Top Franchise Influencers: 30–21

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Happy Joe’s Franchising

Why Texas Is the Perfect State To Open a Happy Joe’s Franchise

why-texas-is-the-perfect-state-to-open-a-happy-joes-franchise

Seniors Helping Seniors®

Photo of two people, with white hair, sitting on couch, smiling at each other

Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Care Services Expands in Manassas and Fredericksburg, Virginia

seniors-helping-seniors-in-home-care-services-expands-in-manassas-and-fredericksburg-virginia

BooXkeeping

Tech-Driven Bookkeeping: How BooXkeeping Franchisees Are Embracing the Future

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Fitness Premier

Fitness Premier's State-of-the-Art Facilities and Multi-Discipline Approach Fuels Franchise Owner Success

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Melting Pot

Melting Pot 50th anniversary photo, featuring three people enjoying celebratory drinks and fondue

Melting Pot Celebrates 50 Years of Fondue Magic With a Year of Special Menus, New Offerings and Unforgettable Moments

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Yum! Brands CEO David Gibbs To Retire in 2026 After 36 Years With the Company

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Hooters Bankruptcy - Chapter 11 - April 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Hooters Files for Bankruptcy, Sells Restaurants to Franchisee Group

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Fly Dance Fitness Expands With First Franchise Location in Georgia

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&pizza Embraces Franchising To Fuel Bold New Growth Strategy

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CFOs See Recession as Likely in ’25; Why Now Is the Time To Water the Franchise Buyer Seeds

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Franchise Real Estate Services | Locate AI — Emerging Leaders in Franchise Support

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Emerging Leaders in Franchise Support: 1851 Supplier Highlights

Emerging Leaders in Franchise Support: List of Franchise Suppliers

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Coffee and Analytics: Franchising and AI — Future-Proofing Your Business in an Uncertain Economy

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Coffee & Analytics: The Secret to Attracting Multi-Unit Franchisees

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Paris Baguette Ranks Among Top Franchises on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for 2025 - 1851 Franchise

Paris Baguette Ranks Among Top Franchises on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® for 2025

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Florida Franchisee Reflects on Success and Growth with Sylvan Learning

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Franchise Deep Dive: Studio Pilates Franchise Costs, Fees, Profit and Data

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Military Veteran and Craft Beer Enthusiast to Bring Voodoo Brewing Co. to Toledo, Ohio

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Top Franchise Influencers: 30–21

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