Franchising Industry Insights

With over 25+ years of experience in the franchising industry, Wes Snyder has become a wily veteran in the FASTSIGNS network. He’s quick to credit the franchisor for providing him with the infrastructure and support necessary to run a successful multi-unit operation – now up to six locations with 60 total employees in four different U.S. states. In addition to racking up a “Franchisee of the Year” award in 2023 from the IFA, he was also singled out by his corporate backers with the prestigious FASTSIGNS Award – the highest recognition you can achieve in the franchise network.

The magic happens when a franchisor and franchisee candidate’s core values, culture, and background align. These shared characteristics build a strong foundation for franchisee success. Meet Fatema Kapasi, one of the newest franchisees in the A Place at Home franchise network. With her care, compassion, and commitment to running a successful business, the good people of Dublin, Ohio, have one amazing senior care advocate looking after them.

Each franchisee, with their unique blend of skills, values, and contributions, has an opportunity to become a beacon of inspiration to their brand, community, and franchise family. But what sets those who achieve the status of Franchise Rock Star apart? FBR’s Franchise Rock Star Awards are a testament to franchise owners who excel in their business and set a shining example of success and philanthropy.

Kyle Nichols’ natural passion for travel and exploring the unknown has served him well as a Cruise Planners franchise owner with a reputation for delivering bespoke vacations of a lifetime. He is so adept at his profession that his franchisor has selected him as their 2024 Franchise Rock Star in the Millennial category. His tireless service with Cruise Planners goes above and beyond by focusing on a niche market of small-ship cruise getaways that often dock at exotic ports of call. His knack for researching, planning, and executing dream vacations has made him a Rock Star to his clients and franchisor.

Javier Sanchez worked for his father as an employee at his Snap-on Tools franchise, immersing himself in the business, before purchasing two territories of his own. Read Javier’s story of how embracing his heritage, the values instilled by his father, and the support provided by his franchisor have made him the well-deserved recipient of Snap-on Tools’ 2024 Multi-Unit Franchise Rock Star award.  

Derek Wachter and the PostNet franchise family are beyond lucky to have crossed paths. Born into the business, Derek learned the ropes from his father and later bought the PostNet franchise from him, allowing his dad to enjoy the golden years of retirement in peace and prosperity. Derek is a fiercely dedicated family man and the father of two young children who values work-life balance. Despite the rigors and time commitments involved in raising a young family, Derek is passionately dedicated to helping others wherever needed. Find out why the PostNet franchise says Dereck is the personification of a Rock Star franchise owner.