ORMOND BEACH, Fla. — United Water Restoration Group (UWRG), the 50-plus-unit restoration franchise, is carrying strong momentum into the second half of 2026 as the restoration franchise continues investing in franchise growth, brand development and systemwide collaboration. The first half of the year included three new franchise signings, the rollout of a refreshed brand strategy centered around its "Plan for the Unplanned" campaign and one of the company's most collaborative annual conferences to date.
"We have traction," said Bob Moore, president of UWRG. "We're becoming more consistent in where we want to go with a clear message around 'Plan for the Unplanned' and delivering it with an unreasonable level of hospitality. Our Franchise Owners are excited, they're engaged and we're building continuity that will continue carrying into next year."
While franchise development remained steady through the first six months of the year, UWRG leadership believes the groundwork laid through new initiatives and increased franchise involvement positions the brand for long-term growth.
During the first half of 2026, UWRG awarded three new franchise territories in Staten Island, New York; Ascension Parish, Louisiana; and Tulsa, Oklahoma. The new owners include a mix of experienced restoration professionals and entrepreneurs entering the industry, reflecting the brand's ability to attract operators from different backgrounds.
"We're making refinements in our development process, who we're targeting and the markets we're wanting to grow in," Moore said. "We're excited about what that means for the second half of the year."
Annual Conference Strengthens Franchise Collaboration
One of the biggest milestones of the first half was UWRG's annual franchise conference, which emphasized collaboration between corporate leadership and franchise owners. Rather than relying primarily on corporate presenters, the conference featured Franchise Owners leading breakout sessions and presenting alongside the support team. The event also included a keynote presentation from digital marketing expert Neil Patel, who remained throughout much of the conference to answer questions and meet with franchise owners.
"One of the biggest benefits of being part of a franchise system is the relationships you build with other Franchise Owners," Moore said. "Many of our newer owners told us that meeting people in person made them much more comfortable reaching out afterward to ask questions and share ideas."
The conference also celebrated Franchise Owners who demonstrated consistent operational excellence during a challenging year for the restoration industry. Moore noted that many award winners continued growing despite historically low insurance claims across the industry in 2025, reinforcing the strength of the franchise model.
Brand Refresh Centers Around 'Plan for the Unplanned'
A major focus for UWRG this year has been expanding its "Plan for the Unplanned" brand positioning. After being in the works for several years, the initiative officially rolled out across the system with new marketing materials, franchise training and customer-facing content unveiled during the annual conference.
The campaign highlights UWRG's role in helping homeowners and businesses navigate unexpected disasters with confidence while introducing more engaging storytelling through animated restoration stories inspired by real franchise experiences.
"We're becoming more of a sales and marketing company that happens to do restoration," Moore said. "That's changing how we think about supporting Franchise Owners and growing their businesses."
Greater Franchise Involvement Drives Future Innovation
Another milestone emerging from the conference was increased franchise participation in shaping the brand's future. Following the success of a franchise committee that helped develop the "Plan for the Unplanned" initiative, UWRG is launching new franchise-led committees focused on AI, marketing and operations. Each committee will work alongside the franchise advisory board to help guide future initiatives and provide direct input into system improvements.
The company also previewed its proprietary AI platform, which integrates with franchise operating systems to help owners access information faster, improve decision-making and streamline daily operations.
"When Franchise Owners are helping build the tools, training and direction for the brand, it creates more engagement across the entire system," he said. "That's something we're very excited about."
Looking Ahead to the Second Half of 2026
As UWRG enters the remainder of 2026, leadership remains focused on accelerating franchise development while continuing to invest in technology, marketing and franchise support. The company also expects many of its newest franchise owners to play increasingly active leadership roles throughout the system, bringing fresh perspectives as they continue building their businesses.
"I'm excited to see the energy our newer Franchise Owners continue bringing to the brand," Moore said. "Many are already leading committees and contributing ideas. That's creating momentum that will continue well beyond this year."
About United Water Restoration Group
Since 2008, United Water Restoration Group (UWRG) has helped thousands of home and business owners restore properties to pre-loss condition. Through a commitment to excellence and a focus on personal attention, clients’ expectations are exceeded every time, without exception. Today, with a philosophy of hiring the best staff to provide professional restoration services, UWRG has grown to more than 50 locations and maintains a level of customer service rarely seen in the industry. Although UWRG assists those experiencing disasters, this growing, recession-proof industry is also supported by fundamental infrastructure issues like aging systems and reconstruction.
The initial investment to open and begin operation ranges from $300,000 - $700,000. For more information on franchising, visit https://uwrgfranchise.com/investment-opportunities/.