by UFG Corp | Mar 6, 2019 | News
Brand Marketing Director Claims Second Prestigious Award in Three Months
WEST PALM BEACH, FL, March 05, 2019 /24-7PressRelease/ — Mary Mills, marketing director of United Franchise Group’s (UFG) flagship Signarama brand, has been named as one of the “Influential Business Women of 2019” by the South Florida Business Journal.
Chosen for leadership, overall performance, community involvement, and innovation in the industry, Mills will be profiled in an upcoming special section of South Florida Business Journal (SFBJ). She, and other top female executives in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, will be honored at the 12th annual SFBJ awards luncheon on Friday, March 15, at Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina in Fort Lauderdale.
Last November, Mills was honored in New York City at the 15th annual Stevie® Awards for Women in Business, where she earned a Bronze Award in the “Employee of the Year – Business” category.
The SFBJ signature luncheon will highlight the growing number of women excelling in business in South Florida, and how their individual efforts have improved local communities. Keeping with tradition, one of the event’s highlights will be when each honoree shares a “pearl of wisdom” about what helped them achieve success in their careers.
Mills has been in the position of brand marketing director at UFG since October 2008, defining marketing and messaging for Signarama, Transworld Business Advisors, Fully Promoted, Experimax, Venture X, Accurate Franchising, Jon Smith Subs, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, and SuperGreen Solutions. United Franchise Group has 1,600 franchise locations in 80 countries, and Mills is instrumental in creating comprehensive, impactful marketing programs that are targeted specifically for the franchise industry.
“Mary is very deserving of this prestigious award,” said Ray Titus, CEO of United Franchise Group. “She is exceptional in her role, leading our marketing programs and ensuring the success of each franchise location. She provides high-level creative solutions to marketing opportunities while serving as a valued mentor in a strong leadership position.”
Prior to joining UFG, Mills was president of Mills Media, a company that provided communications solutions for businesses in need of public relations and marketing campaigns. She was also a respected executive in the broadcast media, having served as executive news manager for WPBF-TV in Palm Beach County where she won the Edward R. Murrow Award for Best Newscast.
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by UFG Corp | Feb 11, 2019 | News
WESTMINSTER, CO – Bold flavors, fresh ingredients, healthy food options, and customer friendly service are just a few of the reasons why The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill is among the fastest growing and most popular fast-casual restaurant brands in the nation. The award-winning restaurant brand finished 2018 with more than 36 franchise locations in various stages of development. On February 12, its first franchise location will celebrate a Grand Opening at 14315 Orchard Parkway, Suite 400 in Westminster, under the ownership of franchisee Jack E. Jones, a local businessman and former defense contractor. The beautiful, new 1,828 square foot restaurant has the capacity to seat up to 49 guests.
Featuring many authentic Mediterranean-style favorites, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, a member of United Franchise Group, is one of the most popular dining concepts in the country. From savory skewers off the grill, refreshing salads or wraps, and mouth-watering appetizers, to palate-pleasing appetizers, tender gyros, and delicious desserts, The Great Greek is a contemporary take on timeless cuisine. The rapidly expanding fast-casual restaurant concept anticipates opening additional franchise locations in Frisco, TX; Troy, MI; The Colony; TX; and Port St. Lucie, FL early this year.
“I’m looking forward to bringing such a unique menu and fresh experience to restaurant patrons of Westminster,” said Jones. “The Great Greek has a strong reputation for quality—for both its food and the excellent in-restaurant experience. When you add the value and convenience made possible by The Great Greek, it’s a winning combination with a very broad market appeal.”
Brand co-founders Nick A. Della Penna and Trent Jones assumed ownership of The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill in Henderson, Nevada in 2016, and by the end of its first year of operation, gross revenue increased 18 percent—undeniable proof of the brand’s popular appeal and stability. With the success and popularity of the Henderson location, the co-founders opened a second restaurant in Las Vegas in 2017, and a third opened in the Las Vegas metropolitan area in December 2018.
“We’re living proof that quality ingredients, authentic Mediterranean recipes, and friendly hospitality still matters in the restaurant industry,” said Jim Butler, Leader of United Franchise Group’s Food Division. “We’re excited to celebrate the brand’s first franchise location in Westminster and for what is to come with this brand.”
About The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill is a fast-casual restaurant franchise concept featuring authentic Greek recipes, made to order, with only the highest quality ingredients, fresh products and outstanding hospitality. The original Great Greek locations were in Las Vegas, but the concept is now being franchised by The United Franchise Group and is quickly expanding across the U.S. and abroad. For franchise and area developer opportunities relating to The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, call 561-567-0258 or visit www.thegreatgreekgrillfranchise.com.
About United Franchise Group
Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to a variety of internationally recognized brands including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimax, Jon Smith Subs, Venture X, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Network Lead Exchange, and The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. With over three decades in the franchising industry and more than 1600 franchisees throughout the world, United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
by UFG Corp | Feb 8, 2019 | News
Entrepreneur Magazine Releases 40th Annual Franchise 500® List
Five Brands of United Franchise Group Selected
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – After three decades of franchising, United Franchise Group’s (UFG) brands continue to gain national recognition, from the oldest brands to the newest, as five of its brands were recently ranked in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500® list. Placement in the Franchise 500® is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry, as evidenced by the fact that Entrepreneur received more than 1,000 applications this year, making it one of the company’s most competitive rankings ever.
Named to the prestigious list were Transworld Business Advisors, selected No. 1 in the “Business Brokerages” category; Signarama®, a premier provider of sign products and services; Venture X®, a company reinventing the way people work by offering modern, co-working office spaces; Fully Promoted, a provider of custom apparel and promotional products; and Experimax®, a franchise that specializes in the sale and service of multiple certified pre-owned Apple® products.
To be among the ranking franchises is an extremely valuable resource for potential franchisees, as companies included in the Franchise 500® ranks are distinguished for outstanding performance in unit growth, costs and fees, financial strength and stability, and brand power.
Each franchise was given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores were ranked in order. The rankings of the UFG brands were Experimax at 170; Signarama at 212; Transworld Business Advisors at 257; Fully Promoted at 480, and Venture X at 499.
“To have five of our brands ranked in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list is a tremendous accomplishment, and for Venture X to have made the list after opening its first domestic franchised location only a year ago shows the value and popularity of that brand,” said Ray Titus, CEO of UFG. “From newer brands, like Venture X, to brands that are three decades old, like Signarama, being named to the Franchise 500® is a significant milestone. We are proud to continue our tradition of offering franchisees excellent opportunities for growth and success.”
“As we celebrate 40 years of producing the Franchise 500®, it’s a good opportunity to step back and look at how much has changed since that first ranking in 1980,” said Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur. “While the franchise business model has changed little, the strongest franchise brands are constantly evolving and innovating to keep up with changing trends and technology.”
Over four decades, the Franchise 500® has become a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchises. UFG brands earned recognition is a testament to the collective strength of those brands as prime franchise opportunities.
To view a complete ranking of the Franchise 500® list, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February issue of Entrepreneur Magazine on newsstands now.
About United Franchise Group
Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to a variety of internationally recognized brands including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimax, Jon Smith Subs, Network Lead Exchange, Venture X, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, and The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. With more than three decades in the franchising industry and 1,600 franchises in 80 countries throughout the world, United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
About Experimax
Experimax, formally Experimax, specializes in the sale of certified pre-owned Apple® products. Your local Experimax store can also repair, upgrade or buy your current device, and no appointment is necessary. The brand offers a one-year guarantee, which takes the risk out of buying pre-owned. Experimax was founded by Jim Muir in 2009, and began franchising as one of United Franchise Group’s affiliated companies and brands in 2014. Today, there are more than 100 locations across the globe. Experimax stores can be found in Australia, Mexico, Chile, South Africa, France, Nigeria, Canada, Uruguay, and Ireland. For more information, visit www.experimax.com.
About Signarama
Signarama, the world’s largest sign franchise, offers branding and messaging solutions in addition to comprehensive sign and graphic services to consumers and commercial customers – from business signs, vehicle wraps, and digital signs, to advertising and marketing services. Signarama is part of a successful group of affiliated companies and brands under the United Franchise Group (UFG). Signarama was recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as part of the Franchise 500 list and a Top Global Franchise list in 2018. With over 800 locations in 60 countries, the company expects to have more than 1,500 locations worldwide by the end of 2020. For more information, visit www.SignaramaFranchise.com.
About Transworld Business Advisors
Led by CEO, Andy Cagnetta, Transworld Business Advisors is a member of United Franchise Group, a successful group of franchise systems with 1,600 franchisees in 80 countries. Formerly Transworld Business Brokers, the company has 40 years of brokerage experience and represents acquisition-minded corporations and individuals interested in owning their own company, or in franchising. With more than 500 brokers in nearly 200 franchised offices worldwide, Transworld offers the professional services that successfully bring buyers and sellers together. From business brokerage to mergers and acquisitions, Transworld Business Advisors are business sale specialists. For more information on buying or selling, visit www.tworld.com and for owning a Transworld franchise, visit www.tworldfranchise.com.
About Fully Promoted
Fully Promoted has more than 300 locations across the globe and plans to have 400 by the end of 2019. Fully Promoted operates a full-service branded products and marketing services business and is the place to go to get customers. From promotional products and embroidery to expert printing services, we can help take your business to the next level. Most recently, Fully Promoted introduced an office-based model that will allow you to operate your business using a developed network of resources. To find the Fully Promoted nearest you, visit www.FullyPromoted.com and for franchising opportunities, visit www.FullyPromotedFranchise.com.
About Venture X
Venture X is a shared workspace and community that is a blend of boutique hotel and modern office styles with a high level of design that feels professional and welcoming. We are designing beautiful spaces and developing an environment and community that people love coming to work to every day. Venture X is part of a successful group of affiliated companies and brands under the United Franchise Group (UFG) and has been recognized by Inc. as one of the best co-working spaces in the United States. The brand anticipates having 100 locations operational by the end of 2019. For more information about locations visit www.VentureX.com and for information about franchise opportunities visit www.venturexfranchise.com
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by UFG | Dec 20, 2018 | News
WEST PALM BEACH, FL, November 20, 2018 /24-7PressRelease/ — United Franchise Group is proud to announce the addition of Network Lead Exchange to its family of franchise brands. Network Lead Exchange is an online network of businesses, the first networking organization of its kind. Network Lead Exchange is the newest member of United Franchise Group, a group of affiliated companies and brands that has more than 1,600 franchises in 80 countries.
Network Lead Exchange works differently than traditional networking groups. Segmented by local chapters, Network Lead Exchange offers chapter members the flexibility and convenience of passing leads virtually, saying farewell to demanding meetings and stiff rules and regulations.
“Networking is not a new concept, but the way we do it is,” states Network Lead Exchange President Scott Mast. “We wanted to create an improved platform for professionals to collaborate and do business. Network Lead Exchange eliminates the common pitfalls of networking groups and presents a new, better way to network.”
Chapter owners approve vetted members to join the group, ensuring only the best business owners get in. Members pass and receive leads in exchange for commissions and build strong relationships along the way. With this motivation, passing leads is just as beneficial as receiving leads.
“United Franchise Group’s foundation was built upon connecting and networking with others.” Weighs in United Franchise Group CEO Ray Titus. “By doing so for more than 30 years, Network Lead Exchange is a natural fit for our family of brands. We look forward to its rapid growth and success ahead.”
Network Lead Exchange will open its doors to chapter franchise opportunities in January 2019.
About Network Lead Exchange
Network Lead Exchange, a member of United Franchise Group, is the premier online network of businesses. With the intent of promoting new business referrals within each local chapter, Network Lead Exchange brings networking online, allowing members to pass and receive leads virtually. Network Lead Exchange puts convenience and results into networking, without the traditional demanding requirements and meetings.
With a state-of-the-art platform, organized by chapters, members exchange leads and ideas, share promotions and events, learn from pros and access a network of service providers that provide specific incentives to all members across Network Lead Exchange.
To learn more about Network Lead Exchange and available franchise opportunities, visit www.networkleadexchange.com.
About United Franchise Group
“The Global Leader for Entrepreneurs,” United Franchise Group is a group of affiliated companies and brands. Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to a variety of internationally recognized brands including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimax, Jon Smith Subs, Venture X, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, Network Lead Exchange and The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. With over three decades in the franchising industry and more than 1,600 franchises in 80 countries throughout the world, United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
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by UFG | Nov 26, 2018 | News
Teams up with Palm Beach County Food Bank and Keller Williams Realty
Thanksgiving is time for sharing, and as the national holiday approaches, the United Franchise Group (UFG) recently teamed with the Palm Beach County Food Bank and Keller Williams Realty to participate in the annual “Red Bag Initiative & Thanksgiving Offering,” an annual food drive to aid the less fortunate. A global leader for entrepreneurs and home to nine brands with 1,600 franchises in 80 countries, UFG has always been a significant civic-minded contributor, and this year was no different as the company helped to contribute an amazing 1,000 pounds of food for needy families.
“It is incredible to think that one in six children in Palm Beach County, and one in seven along the Treasure Coast won’t know where their next meal will be coming from,” said UFG Chief Executive Officer Ray Titus. “Our goal has always been to uphold our mission as a community leader and we were very pleased to have taken part in this year’s initiative to help serve needy families.” According to studies, nearly 64,000 children in Palm Beach County are at risk of going to bed hungry each night.
The shopping list of items deemed “most needed” by officials included rice, pasta, canned and dry soup, shelf-stable milk, canned fruits, peanut butter, canned tuna, chicken and salmon, canned tomato products, canned meals, canned vegetables, beans, oatmeal, cereal, and macaroni and cheese.
United Franchise Group is a family of brands, and this Thanksgiving, with the help of its partners in the food drive initiative, have given families throughout Palm Beach County the opportunity to come together at the table and give thanks.
United Franchise Group is a family of brands, and Thanksgiving is all about families. “We all come together and give thanks for our blessings, but perhaps the biggest blessing is our ability to help others,” said Titus. “We need to bring more awareness to the hunger issue in this county, and we pledge to do our part not only during the holiday season, but throughout the year.”
by UFG | Nov 15, 2018 | News
WEST PALM BEACH, FL, November 15, 2018 /24-7PressRelease/ — Mary Mills, Marketing Director at United Franchise Group (UFG), will be honored as one of the “Top Women in Business” at this year’s 15th annual Stevie® Awards Dinner at the Sheraton New York Hotel, New York City, NY on Friday November 16th.
Mills has been the Marketing Director for UFG since October 2008. In that time, she has overseen the marketing and messaging of nine brands included in the UFG family: Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimax, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, Jon Smith Subs, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, and Venture X. UFG has 1,600 locations in more than 80 countries, and Mills has been instrumental in creating comprehensive, impactful marketing programs targeted for the franchise industry.
“This is truly an honor well-deserved,” said Ray Titus, CEO of United Franchise Group. “Mary has been exceptional in her role, and is skilled not only in creating innovative marketing campaigns, but she’s also shown strength in the areas of business planning, retail, management, and leadership.”
Prior to joining UFG, Mills was president of Mills Media, a company that provided communications solutions for businesses in need of public relations and marketing campaigns. She was also a respected executive in the broadcast media, having served as Executive News Producer for WPBF-TV in Palm Beach County where she won the Edward R. Murrow Award for Best Newscast.
Created in 2002 to honor and generate public recognition of achievements and positive contributions made by organizations and working professionals worldwide, the Stevie® Awards has become one of the world’s premier business awards.
The Stevie® Awards for Women in Business recognizes the achievements of women executives and entrepreneurs. This year’s Stevie® Awards for Women in Business received more than 1550 entries from individuals and organizations in 33 nations.
About United Franchise Group
Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to a variety of internationally recognized brands including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimax, Jon Smith Subs, Venture X, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, and The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. With more than three decades in the franchising industry, and 1,600 franchisees in 80 countries throughout the world, United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
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