Franchise News

Unprecedented Three-Year Growth Delivers Breakthrough Ranking for Nation’s Leading On-Site Repair and Restoration Franchise

(Mokena, IL – September 12, 2017) — Creative Colors International, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise, was named to the 2017 Inc. 5000 list.  Creative Colors placed #4697 on the 36^th annual Inc. 5000 list, which was released earlier this summer.

The Inc. 5000 list is the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment— its independent small and midsized businesses.

“Being named to the Inc. 5000 list is a tremendous honor for our company,” said Creative Colors International CEO Terri Sniegolski.  “It is a testament to our recent growth and development, and where Creative Colors is headed in the future.  Our company’s growth speaks to the demand for on-site repairs the quality of our services, and of course, the character of our franchise partners.”

The 2017 Inc. 5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2013 to 2016. To qualify, companies must be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit and independent, not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies.  Creative Colors International experienced a 49 percent revenue growth in the three-year period from 2013 to 2016.

“The Inc. 5000 is the most persuasive evidence I know that the American Dream is still alive,” says Inc. President and Editor-In-Chief Eric Schurenberg. “The founders and CEOs of the Inc. 5000 tell us they think determination, risk taking, and vision were the keys to their success, and I believe them.”

To view Creative Colors International in the full ranking, visit: https://www.inc.com/profile/creative-colors-international.

For more information on Creative Colors International repair and restoration services, please visit https://www.wecanfixthat.com/.

For more information on the Creative Colors International franchise opportunity, please visit http://www.creativecolorsintl.com/.

About Creative Colors International

Launched in 1991, the Creative Colors International (CCI) franchise system was created through its affiliate, J&J’s Creative Colors, the original industry leader in refurbishment techniques and systems.  Today, both companies continue to be family-owned and operated by the second generation. Catering to the abundance of upholstered items in every home, business and vehicle, CCI is the ultimate in on-site repair, restoration, cleaning, protection, and dyeing of leather, vinyl, plastic and fabric. Through proprietary technology, CCI restores damaged material at a fraction of replacement costs, saving customers up to 90 percent. CCI repairs are stronger than the original area and are nearly invisible to the naked eye. In the Automotive, Furniture and Commercial Markets, CCI offers on-site repair and restoration to all types of leather, vinyl, fabric, plastic and carpeting by repairing and redyeing holes, cuts, tears, burns, scrapes, fading and discoloration. For more information on CCI’s services and franchise opportunities, visit www.wecanfixthat.com.

When Joe Merrell joined Creative Colors International, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise, in August, 2016, he stepped into a role he felt was tailor-made for him.  Joe first started working with franchisees more than 20 years ago, providing business support and advice to maximize their profitability.  In the four years before coming to Creative Colors International (CCI), he owned a company that served as a business and life coach to help individuals achieve success.

As Business Operations Manager, Joe works with Creative Colors International’s franchisees to help them realize their full potential as business owners.  He provides them with guidance in nearly every aspect of business operations, from marketing to time management to staffing, recruiting to reviewing applications.  He assists owners in the overall process of running and growing their business, setting goals and maximizing their profitability.

“I consider this position the perfect fit for me,” said Joe.  “Creative Colors International was looking for someone to fill this role and I was able to immediately step in and apply many of the experiences I have used throughout my career.  I enjoy giving proper guidance to business owners and helping put them on the path to success.”

One of the things that drew Joe to Creative Colors International (CCI) was the strong relationships the company cultivates with its franchisees.  He mentioned that Creative Colors International (CCI) has won several awards for franchisee support, including a recent Top 200 Award from Franchise Business Review based on franchisee satisfaction, and he said he was attracted to the important role franchisees play in shaping the vision and future of the company.

“My passion is working with people,” said Joe.  “I love working with others to take a concept, follow a plan and help them become successful in their careers.  It’s much easier to follow that passion when I’m working for a company that’s this committed to the success of their franchisees.  I’m proud to work alongside Creative Colors International’s leadership team who treats all franchisees like family.”

Along with Joe’s guidance of Creative Colors International’s franchisees, his addition has made a big impact on the corporate side as well.  He plays a major role in the growth and development of the company while helping add many talented and motivated franchisees to the system (to connect with joe and learn more about the Creative Colors International franchise opportunity, click here).

Joe has several goals in mind for Creative Colors International (CCI) in the coming years.  In addition to his continued work with individual franchisees, he wants to increase their communication and involvement throughout the system.  He would like to increase the franchisee representation on the marketing committee, both in participation and solicitation of new ideas for company development.  He feels each of the franchisees can provide valuable insight and should play a role in the company’s decision making.  He believes increased involvement in company decisions will continue to keep franchisees satisfied and engaged.  He also plans on continuing to work with the franchisees and provide them with more autonomy for their daily operations.

While he has big plans for the growth and development of Creative Colors in the future, Joe couldn’t help but to reflect upon his first year with the company.

“It has been amazing,” said Joe.  “My wife said this is what I was born to do.  This kind of work is a passion of mine.  I love being able to work with others to grow their business.  I couldn’t have asked for better support from Creative Colors or relationships with the franchisees.  It has been fantastic.”

Are you interested in joining the Creative Colors International franchise family and working with in-touch executives like Joe who are committed to your entrepreneurial success?   If so, learn more at http://www.creativecolorsintl.com/.

Making the extraordinary look ordinary. You’ve done it your entire life, both professionally and personally. Quite often it goes unspoken, but you know the challenges of being a woman in a man’s world. You face them and power through them every day. Your tenacity is what drives you, sets you apart and sets you up for success. That same tenacity is a key attribute that separates Creative Colors International, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise, from the competition.

Creative Colors International is recognized as the nation’s leading repair, reconditioning, protection and color restorer. We service leather, vinyl, fabric, plastic and carpeting in the automotive, airplane, marine and furniture for both commercial and residential markets.

We’re a company that provides motivated entrepreneurs an opportunity to change their lives forever. Our proven business model provides immediate income and unlimited potential for growth. You’ll be in business for yourself, but definitely not by yourself.

What also sets us apart, in a male dominated industry, is that our franchise opportunity fits men and women equally well. Women within our company have been key catalysts for Creative Colors International’s growth and development. And it begins at the very top with Terri Sniegolski. Terri’s work ethic, vision and strong business acumen have guided Creative Colors International since the early years.

For Terri, the blue-collar repair and restoration industry hasn’t been without its challenges. But that hasn’t hindered her development nor her ability to help transform the company into the industry leader. She’s an excellent decision maker who evaluates and analyzes every situation put before her before reaching a conclusion. Terri also makes a point of emphasis to get to know her employees and franchisees on a personal level. She’s enthusiastic about working, while committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle away from the office.

“When I work on something, I want to finish it that day before starting something else,” said Terri. “I put 100% into my days. It’s funny, but when I am at the office, I don’t want to go home, and when I am at home I don’t want to go to the office. I clearly communicate my availability so I can honor my work commitments while also prioritizing my family. Work-life balance is important and I do what I can to set a good example for everyone else at the office!”

Creative Colors International is also responsible for contributing to the growing number of women business owners. Rebecca Preston is one such Creative Colors International franchise owner in Fort Worth, Texas. She launched her franchise location in 2014, after two decades as a successful engineer, another male-dominated industry. Rebecca’s franchise involves working with many RV dealers. She’s quite confident during her interactions with RV dealers in her territory and intelligently outlines how she and her team handles repair and restoration projects for all kinds of Fort Worth businesses.

Rebecca’s Creative Colors International business is going so well that she’s searching for new employees. It’s a testimony to the welcoming atmosphere always present at Creative Colors International. We have franchisees representing the best of America, from every educational background, professional background, and technical background.  That’s why we’re confident your previous experiences will fit snugly within our culture. Our accomplishments as a corporation are predicated on your success.

To learn more about Creative Colors International franchise opportunities, please visit www.creativecolorsintl.com or www.wecanfixthat.com.

 

Creative Colors International isn’t JUST the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise. It’s an American success story. It’s a story about triumph and perseverance. Empowering women. And it is a family affair. Creative Colors International’s founding began with a story many people are familiar with, out of necessity.

In 1975, Jim and JoAnn Foster worked together at an Illinois manufacturing plant in town outside of Chicago. JoAnn resigned when Jim received a promotion. One month later, in a stunning turn of events, Jim was fired, leaving both unemployed.

For five years, the couple took on odd jobs just to pay the bills and make ends meet to support the family. Miserable, overwhelmed and stressed, JoAnn made the bold and daring decision to invest in herself.

J&J Creative Colors was established in 1980 when JoAnn turned an ad she noticed in a newspaper into her own company. Within months, the company was creating so much business that Jim quit his 50-plus hour a week job to join his wife.

From day one, women have played a pivotal role in Creative Colors International and it’s always been a family affair. For Terri Sniegolski, who is an owner of Creative Colors International, she never imagined still being involved with the family business dozens of years ago. “I clearly remember my parents talking about business at the dinner table when I was in my late teens, and I HATED it,” says Sniegolski. “The first time I worked for them I still lived at home. The business dinner talks now went beyond the dinner table. I couldn’t get away from it.”

Little did she know her parents were planting seeds. Those seeds started to sprout in the mid 1980’s as she was pursuing a legal career that she felt a strong urge to get involved with the family business a second time, but she was concerned about her family’s inability to separate personal and business matters. It’s that experience, that shapes her current policies.

“I try to stay focused on what I am doing at the present time,” says Sniegolski. “When I am at the office, I try to stay focused on business and the task at hand. Once I leave the office, I try not to glance at my phone once I sit down to dinner with family. Business in the evening, and on weekends, always comes down to what the family is doing, my motto is ‘Family First.’”

It’s that perspective that helped Terri embrace working for her family’s business. And that’s when the company really started to blossom. In the early 1990’s Terri used her legal background and years of field experience to help create a franchise-model of her parents’ company, Creative Colors International. That decision gave other blue-collar entrepreneurs the ability to create their own million-dollar company. To date, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise has grown to 76 locations in 28 states.

“Women are visionaries,” says Sniegolski. “When we decide, we tend to come up with hundreds of different scenarios and how they will play out. We look at the whole picture rather than just what is in front of us. We are confident when we make decisions because we have played things out in our mind multiple times and know how we arrived at that conclusion.”

Sniegolski is fond of her past, but is always looking toward the future. And she is confident in Creative Colors upward trajectory, crediting, President Mark J. Bollman, her siblings, the entire corporate staff, and all franchisees for their consistent hard work.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am about where we are at Creative Colors International,” says Sniegolski. “We are in an extremely fast growth pattern right now – sales are up and our franchised territories have increased 33% the first six months of this year. And with the growth of the franchise owners, we have set new goals regarding the amount of national accounts we want to sign and employees we want to recruit around the country by the end of the year.”

After more than 25 years leading a multi-million-dollar empire, Sniegolski can pinpoint her success both in and out of the office, to one person.

“If I had to pick a specific mentor who has been the most powerful influence on my life from a personal and professional perspective, it would be my mom,” says Sniegolski. “She taught me how to think like an entrepreneur, to not be afraid of risk, and to value family and personal relationships above everything else. I can’t thank her enough for the role she’s played in my life and everything her and my father did to set Creative Colors International up for lasting success.”

Could you see yourself joining a family-based franchise lead by executives as open, honest, committed and transparent as Terri and the entire CCI corporate team?   If so, get started by visiting http://www.CreativeColorsIntl.com/ or give us a call at 708-478-1437.

Terri Sniegolski has always worked in industries traditionally dominated by men. At first, she pursued a legal career in downtown Chicago as she had always wanted to be a lawyer. However, as fate would have it, she left that career to come home to Mokena, IL to help her parents with the family business, J&J’s Creative Colors, when they were in a pinch. She didn’t intend to stay with J&J’s Creative Colors forever, but she realized just how much she loved the repair and restoration business and how much she loved working alongside her family. And today, 25 years later, she is the CEO of Creative Colors International – the national franchise company that was developed from the same business model her parents developed with J&J’s Creative Colors.

Today, Terri works alongside her sister, brother, brother in-law, husband and other family members. She has earned her position as CEO by building the Creative Colors International franchise model from the ground up. After returning to the family business and learning all aspects of the business model, Terri’s parents gave her the opportunity to turn J&J’s Creative Colors into a franchise system in 1980. So, Terri dug deep into franchise law, compliance and operations to build an effective and sustainable franchise business model that has since grown to 71 locations from coast to coast.

However, things haven’t always been easy for Terri in the blue-collar repair and restoration industry that’s been dominated by male executive leaders for decades.

“Look – let’s face it. There are some men in this line of business, and in society as a whole, who fit the old stereotype and continue to look down on women, regardless of proven results or ability,” said Terri. “However, while I have had some bad days, I’ve worked with so many great men AND women who make most of my days great.”

Terri also says that one of the key catalysts for her success as a proverbial “woman in a man’s world” is the different perspective she provides as a female executive.

“Most of the men I work with look at the here and now – they are looking to fix, change or alter something to get through today or this week,” said Terri. “I’m thinking of all the possible scenarios that can play out over the course of time so I can make a quality decision today that’s also best for our company’s future. I also work hard to get to know all our employees and franchisees personally. This allows me to get a good read on them so I can show genuine empathy and support them when they are overworked, tired and stressed.”

Mark J. Bollman, Creative Colors International’s President and Co-Owner, concurs with Terri’s thoughts and says her contributions as CEO are invaluable.

“All of the men, and women, who work with Terri truly appreciate that she is always willing to ‘get her hands dirty’ in the literal and metaphorical sense,” said Mark. “But it’s the empathy and compassion she exudes as a leader, paired with her dedication and work ethic, that truly sets her apart as a leader. She brings real balance and perspective to our company as a female CEO that’s driven the consistent and sustainable growth we continue to enjoy at Creative Colors International.”

Speaking of her work ethic, Terri says she tries to lead by example by being tenacious at the office but also drawing a clear line of demarcation between personal and work time.

“When I work on something, I want to finish it that day before starting something else,” said Terri. “I put 100% into my days. It’s funny, but when I am at the office, I don’t want to go home, and when I am at home I don’t want to go to the office. I clearly communicate my availability so I can honor my work commitments while also prioritizing my family. Work-life balance is important and I do what I can to set a good example for everyone else at the office!”

Lastly, Terri lights up when she is asked about the future. She has her eye on making Creative Colors, International and J&J’s Creative Colors world class companies that lead the textile industries in care for all upholstery and repair needs.

“We are going to be the company that reupholsters and/or repairs booths in all restaurant chains across the U.S.,” said Terri. “We are going to be the company that hospitals and exam table manufacturers know to call to take care of torn tables. We are going to be the company known for the upholstery in casinos, hotels, theatres, etc. My youngest girls, twins, are now juniors in high school. So I have more time on my hands and that increases every day. I plan to use that time to get our company to this level as soon as humanly possible!”

For more information on Terri and what Creative Colors International does for their clients, please visit www.wecanfixthat.com.

Industry Leading On-site Repair and Restoration Franchise Saves Local Customers 90% on Replacement Fees

(Seattle, WA – November 9^th, 2016) — Creative Colors International, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise, launched its newest location on October 31, 2016 in the Greater Seattle Area.  This is big news as more local business owners and cost-conscious residents than ever before are seeking out alternatives to astronomical upholstering charges and replacement fees associated with damaged possessions composed of leather, vinyl, plastic and fabric.

Jeff Cesta, a former supply chain manager, will be the man responsible for launching the newest Creative Colors International location right here in the Pacific Northwest.   Even before he was laid off by a local rocket company a few months ago, Jeff was feeling burned out and had been seeking out alternative careers.   Soon after he was let go, he followed the lead of a friend and was introduced to Creative Colors International.   Jeff quickly knew it was a perfect fit for him as someone who loves to use his head and his hands to complete projects.

Also, according to Jeff, Creative Colors International is an excellent fit for the local community as the company’s revolutionary products and restoration techniques will help local customers save up to 90% in replacement fees by repairing worn and/or damaged materials.

“This is not rocket science… it’s a whole lot better with its revolutionary products that restore damaged goods so well that you can hardly tell it’s been repaired. It’s about creating value for the customer,” said Jeff.  “It really appeals to me as a business owner to be able to offer such dramatic savings for the customer It makes me feel great to save people money by helping them repair instead of replace damaged items.”

As an avid enthusiast in boating, motorcycling and off-roading, Jeff realizes the benefits that his Creative Colors franchise would bring to so many other industries. “As I’ve started telling people about what I can do, my fellow enthusiasts are already lining up with their projects and my business is off to a great start, just through my personal contacts.”

The statistics suggest that repairing and restoring, as opposed to upholstering and replacing, can save local business owners and residents hundreds of dollars on any damaged item.   For example, the costs associated with upholstering any type of seat can be very steep, ranging anywhere from $120 to $450 per cushion.   And according to Terri Sniegolski, Creative Colors International’s CEO, the commitment shared by all franchisees to help customers save money, and deliver on the company’s “We Can Fix That” philosophy, has been the key catalyst for the company’s expansion to 71 locations in 24 states with 125+ mobile units since its initial inception in 1980.

“We’re excited to open our next Creative Colors location in Seattle, because we know Jeff Cesta shares the same ‘We Can Fix That’ attitude our other successful franchisees possess,” said Sniegolski.   “We are thrilled about our expansion in the Greater Seattle Area of Washington state because we know the local business owners and customers in the community will be eager to repair and restore their possessions at a fraction of the cost.”

Serving the automotive, commercial and furniture industries, Creative Colors International offers affordable solutions for tears, holes, scuffs, scratches and other types of damage found on leather, vinyl, plastic or fabric through on-site repair, restoration, cleaning, dyeing and protection.   For local residents, this means Creative Colors International can repair auto interiors, leather furniture, RV flooring, and boat vinyl, among other things.   Additionally, for business owners, Creative Colors International can repair any upholstery found in critical locations around the company, such as waiting rooms, examination rooms, restaurant booths, hotel rooms, and theater seating, among others.

For more information on Cesta and his Creative Colors International location, please visit http://www.WeCanFixThat.com/PNW.

About Creative Colors International

Launched in 1991, the Creative Colors International (CCI) franchise system was created through its affiliate, J&J’s Creative Colors, the original industry leader in refurbishment techniques and systems. Today, both companies continue to be family-owned and operated by the second generation. Catering to the abundance of upholstered items in every home, business and vehicle, CCI is the ultimate in on-site repair, restoration, cleaning, protection, and dyeing of leather, vinyl, plastic and fabric. Through proprietary technology, CCI restores damaged material at a fraction of replacement costs, saving customers up to 90 percent. CCI repairs are stronger than the original area and are nearly invisible to the naked eye. In the Automotive, Furniture and Commercial Markets, CCI offers on-site repair and restoration to all types of leather, vinyl, fabric, plastic and carpeting by repairing and redyeing holes, cuts, tears, burns, scrapes, fading and discoloration. For more information on CCI’s services and franchise opportunities, visit www.wecanfixthat.com.

Industry Leading On-site Repair and Restoration Franchise Saves Local Customers 90% on Replacement Fees

(Franklin, TN – November 8th, 2016) — Creative Colors International, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise, launched its newest location on October 31, 2016 in the Middle Tennessee area. This is big news as more local business owners and cost-conscious residents than ever before are seeking out alternatives to astronomical upholstering charges and replacement fees associated with damaged possessions composed of leather, vinyl, plastic and fabric.

The rising local demand for cost-effective repair and restoration services is what inspired Doug Rogers, 58, to open the newest Creative Colors International location right here in Middle Tennessee. Doug retired from a 30-year career with the Coca-Cola Company a few years ago but always knew he would be interested in a new challenge.   He’s found that challenge in Creative Colors International and will open the newest location for the repair and restoration franchise that will cover cities south of Nashville.

According to Doug, he’s thrilled to open his Creative Colors International location because the company’s revolutionary products and restoration techniques will help local customers save up to 90% in replacement fees by repairing worn and/or damaged materials.

“Customer satisfaction is important to me and offering a service that has such a high value is a good way to keep local customers satisfied,” said Doug. “It’s a simple business with a low start-up investment that offers a service almost everybody needs.   There are so many businesses in our surrounding communities, everything from medical practices to restaurants to auto dealerships, that can benefit from what we provide.   And with the backing of Creative Colors International’s experience and proprietary processes and products, I am more than confident the business model will thrive here.”

The statistics suggest that repairing and restoring, as opposed to upholstering and replacing, can save local business owners and residents hundreds of dollars on any damaged item.   For example, the costs associated with upholstering any type of seat can be very steep, ranging anywhere from $120 to $450 per cushion.   And according to Terri Sniegolski, Creative Colors International’s CEO, the commitment shared by all franchisees to help customers save money, and deliver on the company’s “We Can Fix That” philosophy, has been the key catalyst for the company’s expansion to 71 locations in 24 states with 125+ mobile units since its initial inception in 1980.

“We’re excited to open our next Creative Colors location in Middle Tennessee because we know Doug Rogers shares the same ‘We Can Fix That’ attitude our other successful franchisees possess,” said Sniegolski.   “We are thrilled about our expansion in the Nashville area because we know the local business owners and customers in the community will be eager to repair and restore their possessions at a fraction of the cost.”

Serving the automotive, commercial and furniture industries, Creative Colors International offers affordable solutions for tears, holes, scuffs, scratches and other types of damage found on leather, vinyl, plastic or fabric through on-site repair, restoration, cleaning, dyeing and protection.   For local residents, this means Creative Colors International can repair auto interiors, leather furniture, RV flooring, and boat vinyl, among other things.   Additionally, for business owners, Creative Colors International can repair any upholstery found in critical locations around the company, such as waiting rooms, examination rooms, restaurant booths, hotel rooms, and theater seating, among others.

For more information on Rogers and his Creative Colors International location, please visit http://www.WeCanFixThat.com/MiddleTN

About Creative Colors International

Launched in 1991, the Creative Colors International (CCI) franchise system was created through its affiliate, J&J’s Creative Colors, the original industry leader in refurbishment techniques and systems. Today, both companies continue to be family-owned and operated by the second generation. Catering to the abundance of upholstered items in every home, business and vehicle, CCI is the ultimate in on-site repair, restoration, cleaning, protection, and dyeing of leather, vinyl, plastic and fabric. Through proprietary technology, CCI restores damaged material at a fraction of replacement costs, saving customers up to 90 percent. CCI repairs are stronger than the original area and are nearly invisible to the naked eye. In the Automotive, Furniture and Commercial Markets, CCI offers on-site repair and restoration to all types of leather, vinyl, fabric, plastic and carpeting by repairing and redyeing holes, cuts, tears, burns, scrapes, fading and discoloration. For more information on CCI’s services and franchise opportunities, visit www.wecanfixthat.com.

Engineering Background Fuels Rebecca Preston’s Success with Creative Colors

Rebecca Preston knows what it’s like to be a woman in a man’s world.  The Fort Worth, TX Creative Colors International (CCI) franchise owner has worked in a field dominated by men for her whole career.  “Coming from an engineering background, I have mostly worked with men my entire career,” said Rebecca.  “So I can hold my own and have no problem getting my hands dirty.  But the thing that really helps me thrive as a CCI owner is I know the manufacturing process of an RV.”

As a career engineer, Rebecca has been working around RVs for decades.   She graduated from Purdue University in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and went on to obtain a Black Belt Certification in the rigorous Six Sigma manufacturing program.   She spent her early career working for Intel and Abbott Labs before taking a job with Raytheon.   She held multiple positions in her 13 years with Raytheon and often worked in and around recreational vehicle manufacturing facilities.

While she loved working for Raytheon, Rebecca began to feel restless, and desired a new challenge.  So, she hired a franchise consultant to investigate businesses that would be a good fit for her.  She was living in Indiana at the time, but was hoping to get back to her home state of Texas.   And crazy enough, she found the perfect solution at an R-V manufacturing facility.

“I remember seeing these people walking the floor in uniform wearing backpacks and they caught my attention,” said Rebecca.   “What they did blew me away.   They could repair linoleum floors and fix many other things that had gone wrong in the manufacturing process – things that would cost hundreds, potentially thousands, to replace or manufacture again.   So, I decided to speak with one of these folks and that ended up being my first introduction to the Creative Colors International process and franchise opportunity.”

Soon after, Rebecca found out that Creative Colors International was a family-focused franchise with dozens of female franchise owners and executive leaders.   Additionally, she did her homework and discovered Creative Colors International was a top 100 franchise with available franchise opportunities in central Texas.   She called her consultant and worked with her to conduct her full due diligence on the Creative Colors International franchise opportunity.

Two years later, on May 5^th, 2014, Rebecca launched her own Creative Colors International franchise location in Fort Worth, TX.   She believed Fort Worth was a perfect location for her as she knew she could establish a reliable revenue stream with the dozens of R-V dealers located in her community.  As someone who had spent years in R-V manufacturing plants, she knew R-V’s front to back and could speak intelligently to the owners and managers at these dealerships.

And today, more than two years later, Rebecca’s R-V knowledge and blue collar grit are paying dividends.   She introduces her services face to face and then shows clients how much money she can save them by repairing over replacing.   And while she makes R-V dealerships a priority, her and her team handle repair and restoration projects for all kinds of Fort Worth businesses.

Operating two trucks with two employees currently, Rebecca says the future for her business is bright.  “I am working at growing the business,” she said.  “There is definitely room for growth.  Only God knows, but I see another employee and a van soon.”  Rebecca says that knowing yourself and what drives your market, whether it’s RV’s boats, automobiles or some other industry, will help Creative Colors International franchise owners grow their own businesses.

For more success stories like Rebecca’s and to learn more about Creative Colors International franchise opportunities, please visit www.creativecolorsintl.com.

After a successful career in the software industry, Warren Perry is excited to fulfill a lifelong dream of building a business in his hometown. Learn more about Warren and his journey as a Creative Colors International franchisee.

Why did you decide to open a Creative Colors International franchise?

I was in software sales and sales management for 30 years, but have always dreamed of owning my own business. When my children were younger, it seemed too risky. As my children grew into adults, and I became tired of traveling, I was ready for a new challenge.

Why Creative Colors International specifically?

I have always loved working with my hands. I like fixing things, even remodeling houses. In fact, my first job in the computer industry was as a hardware technician, repairing complex systems. Creative Colors was a natural fit for me.

What has made you successful as a franchisee?

I was fortunate that my very first boss instilled in me the importance of customer focus and customer satisfaction. He helped me understand the importance of customer focus, and I credit much of my success in the software business to that philosophy. I found that the team at Creative Colors shares the same philosophy and my focus on the customer is fueling the growth of my business.

What goals do you have for your franchise?

The strategy behind my business plan was to focus on building a base of business in the automotive market, developing relationships with local dealerships. Hiring additional technicians to service the automotive market has allowed me to begin to focus on expanding into other markets such as healthcare, hospitality, fitness centers, and other commercial service applications.

What was the training program like for you as a new franchisee?

It’s a lot of information to consume, but very thorough. Creative Colors provided a very comprehensive training program that includes in-depth technical training and certification along with a structured approach to running the business. Fortunately, it’s all well documented, because it is a lot to digest.

And I can’t say enough about the support provided in the initial launch of the business. Opening week is very well planned and supported by a field manager who flies in to help get the business launched. That opening week instilled the confidence I needed to get the business rolling.

What would you say to someone who is considering the Creative Colors International franchise?

Make sure you really enjoy fixing things. Unless you plan to start hiring techs right from the start, you will be out in the field doing repairs every day!

I would also tell them that the support from the organization is outstanding. I enjoy the fact that it’s a family business, and I feel like they offer a perfect blend of formal processes and informal support that you need to grow a business.

Have you enjoyed owning your own business?

It has been everything I dreamed of. I wake up every day, happy and thankful to be developing customer relationships locally, and I am thrilled that I no longer live my life on planes and in hotels.  In my previous career, I had developed a large network of friends and colleagues that were scattered across the world. Now I have the opportunity to develop relationships closer to home.

What is the most unique item that you’ve fixed?

We have repaired everything from automobiles, purses, saddles, saddlebags, medical exam tables, restaurant booths, and fitness equipment. They are all interesting and rewarding in their own way.

 

Over 14 years ago, Jose & Daly del Llano opened Creative Colors International in Central Florida. What started as a quest for personal freedom quickly developed into a thriving business that supports four mobile repair and restoration units. We had the chance to talk with Jose and learn from his experiences.

 

 

What was the catalyst for deciding to own a Creative Colors International (CCI) franchise?

I was searching for something where my success or failure would be based on my own desire and ambition. I knew that owning a business meant that I would be able to create something that was driven by the amount of time and effort that I put into it.

What were the things that most attracted you to CCI? Why not a different franchise?

There were a few reasons. First was the break-even point on the investment. That was a big draw for me. Second, I truly felt like repair and restoration services are something that anyone can need, so I knew that I’d be able to build a business through Creative Colors.

On the personal side, I was excited about the fact that I’d be able to work indoors and outdoors depending on what the job was. The variety of work was appealing.

How did the decision impact your lifestyle?

It gave me freedom! Suddenly, I was able to choose my work hours. I had grown tired of having to get permission to go to the doctor or go on vacation, but as a business owner, I didn’t have to do that any longer.

How was the transition to working for yourself?

Much easier than I’d expected. Before this, I had always worked for someone else and was able to rely on getting a paycheck on a regular basis, so I was nervous about that change. Fortunately, that wasn’t ever an issue for me. In fact, I was able to earn $750 in my first week! Fourteen years later, I’ll say the investment has been better than any 401k!

Do you remember your first repair job?

I do! It was a door panel on a BMW. It was a great first challenge because it was a high-end vehicle and I really wanted to make sure it was perfect! Sure enough, the training paid off and it went flawlessly.

What experience or training was required to start your CCI franchise?

My background in the army taught me that, to be a good leader, you must be a good follower. I carried this idea into training with me. I knew that by following the leaders in the franchise system, I’d learn exactly what to do and how to do it well.

The training program is substantial. I spent two weeks at Creative Colors International headquarters in Mokena, Illinois, in a formal classroom setting where we had hands-on training for all of the repairs. In the third week, we learned about operations and business management. Then, in the fourth week, you actually have your opening and work in the field with a Field Manager who helps you get up and running.

What is it like working with other franchisees?

It’s a family-owned business, so right from the start it’s a very relaxed, but businesslike, atmosphere. That sets the tone for your whole experience. We meet annually at the seminar and everyone really gets to know one another. We call on one another for help and advice — this includes owners and technicians. We have some very skilled technicians in the field who are more than happy to help answer any technical question.

What tips can you offer to someone who is considering the Creative Colors franchise?

There are two paradigms that I rely on and share with my team all the time. First, “dreams and wishes are only that, unless you put them into action.” It’s my quote and to me it means that a lot of people envision being their own boss and dream of owning a business, but haven’t done anything to achieve that.

The second goes along with that — if you haven’t done one action item today to fulfill that wish, it will always be a wish.

Any last words?

Well, this is more personal to me, but I believe that I am happy to be me when I make other people happy. I encourage everyone to help others and see how that makes you feel. I am fortunate that, through Creative Colors, I’ve been able to build a lifestyle that allows me to be true to that sentiment.