News & Awards

Celebrate Boss’s Day by kicking your job to the curb and tackling a new career that puts you in charge of your future.

Boss’s Day is celebrated annually in October in both the United States and Canada. Traditionally, Boss’s Day was established to show appreciation and recognition for all the dedicated bosses. Creative Colors International Inc., the nation’s mobile leader in leather and vinyl repair, encourages hard-working Americans to use this day as an opportunity to take charge of their future and become their own boss.

“The Creative Colors International vinyl and leather repair franchise has been designed for entrepreneurs who want to enjoy the rewards of their efforts,” said Mark J. Bollman, president and co-owner of the Mokena, Illinois-based franchisor. “CCI puts tremendous growth potential at your fingertips and features modest start-up costs, complete training and on-going support. CCI is a great opportunity for a person to become their own boss.”

One of the primary causes of stress for many Americans is coping with their boss, according to the American Institute of Stress. At least 52 percent of corporate workers are not completely satisfied with their potential for promotion, and 65 percent experience on-the-job stress, according to a recent Gallup poll. They are hungry for a chance to venture out on their own. Three out of every five Americans want to open their own business, according to a recent study by Vistaprint, a small-business resource.

Fear of failure and financial concerns keep many people chained to their corporate desks, relying on their boss to map out their career trajectory. Entrepreneurship offers individuals the chance to be in control, work flexible schedules and unlock potential profits.

If being your own boss sounds ideal, the next step is to find an opportunity you can afford and enjoy. Starting a business from scratch gives you the autonomy and control you desire, but it’s a risky proposition. More than 20 percent of businesses fail during the first year, and 30 percent fail by the end of year two, according to Fundera, a financial resource for small businesses.

Franchising provides budding entrepreneurs with the chance to hop off the corporate hamster wheel by operating a proven business model with ample training and support. As a franchisee, you will have the backing of a parent company that wants you to succeed, as well as an entire system of franchisee peers offering knowledge and insights to help you generate profits and retain employees.

Mobile Leader in Leather and Vinyl Repairs

CCI performs on-site repairs to restore damaged items to like-new condition while providing your customer significant cost savings versus replacement; sometimes as much as a 90 percent savings. The company uses proprietary tools and methods to meticulously eliminate fading, tears, rips, scrapes, gouges, scratches and scuffs. In many cases, we can even successfully restore items that have been damaged by fire or water to a like-new condition. CCI provides top-quality leather, vinyl, fabric and upholstery repairs, as well as exceptional customer service. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, CCI started offering sanitizing and disinfecting services using a proprietary, hospital-grade cleaner and deodorizer.

State-of-the-Art Training Program

New CCI franchisees receive four weeks of intensive training to get them ready to operate their mobile business. The initial training includes two weeks of classroom and hands-on training to learn the basics. New franchisees are taught CCI’s technical, operations, sales and managerial skills. Next, they spend a week learning about the administrative side of the business. The last week is spent with a franchisee during their grand opening to help get their business up and running. But, training doesn’t end after a new franchisee takes the wheel. CCI offers ongoing assistance through advanced technical seminars, annual conferences, field visits, as well as online and phone support.

Promotional and Marketing Support

In addition to training and ongoing support, new franchisees receive promotional materials and access to CCI’s exclusive product line. CCI offers print ads, pamphlets and fliers, as well as vehicle graphics and uniforms by order. CCI’s home office exhibits at leading trade shows across the country to raise brand awareness for corporate accounts. They also offer booths and tools for franchise owners to exhibit at smaller shows in their local markets.

If you are interested in working for yourself and want to operate a business with a successful history, learn more about CCI by visiting: www.creativecolorsintl.com/franchise-opportunities/

Creative Colors International is featured in the May 11th, 2020 edition on www.insightsuccess.com

It’s one of the most fascinating and joyful moments for people when they buy the things they’ve really desired for a long time. It could be their first car with a scintillating interior, an appealing sofa with a smooth comforting fabric, a customized chair perfect for work, and many such crafted things, personalized as per their needs and taste.

However, just like everything else, these loved possessions lose their radiance, captivating features and applications as time passes by. They become dull, get torn and worn off from the natural grace that they once had. In such times, users or customers look for companies that can revive their belongings and bring back the newness. Though many companies in the market promise to repair and restore things to their original forms, we at Insights Success, believe Creative Color International can provide an unmatched service over most of them.

The original co-founders of the business Jim and JoAnn Foster, with their extensive industry experience and passion to start their venture, turned the ignition key of CCI’s first mobile van in 1980. Back then the company was known as J & J’s Creative Colors, Inc.

As growth continued through years, and additional mobile units were added in the Chicago area, customer demand spurred the necessity of opting to adopt a franchise model to fuel expansion. Hence, to serve its rising customer base and expand its footprint across the United States, the company was transformed and renamed Creative Colors International Inc.

Today, under the leadership of Mark J. Bollman, President of CCI, the franchisor continues to repair and restore damaged items back to their original grace.

“CCI values its team members and provides franchisees with ongoing support by staying tuned in to market conditions in each sector.”

Exhibiting Distinction

CCI’s certified technicians are equipped with the latest advanced equipment, products and repair processes in the industry. They eliminate scuffs, scratches, gouges, scrapes, rips, tears and color fading, which occurs over time due to normal wear and tear. This, in turn, helps its customers to save costs by repairing damaged items versus buying replacements.

The franchisees’ business has grown by providing customers with quality repairs, superior customer service and value. The business model has helped the franchise expand its footprint. For example, CCI has recently decided to promote leather apparel repair. Though it is an additional service in its wheelhouse, it is not a common request. A customer brought a family heirloom, a vintage Chicago Bears jacket that was faded and worn. The franchisee’s technician was able to restore it to its original form and help the company to start promoting its leather apparel repair skills.

Converting Challenges into Opportunities

CCI’s goal is to develop products and services that bring value to its customers. As the outbreak of COVID-19 has created hurdles for other companies to deliver their services, CCI has been developing solutions to protect and deliver quality services to its customers in such dire circumstances. The pandemic has promoted the franchise to work directly with its manufacturers. It has recently introduced a sanitizing and disinfecting solution that also eliminates odors. This new product can become a game-changer for many of its clients in the car rental business, healthcare and restaurants, as they grapple with customer safety during this epidemic.

CCI’s Franchisee Model

CCI makes it a priority to listen to its franchise owners and staff. It believes that people, if provided with the right tools, can become very successful under its business model. Thus, CCI’s initial training is followed up with periodic seminars and an ongoing support team to assist technicians and franchisees with any concerns. It ensures that its franchisees are aware of the latest trends in the market that can help to spark innovation and business growth.

As CCI is a service-based business, the franchisee is adaptable and flexible to resolve its customers’ problems. It aims to get the job done right the first time, at a fair price and with a smile.

Taking Care of the Environment

Apart from working with  EPA-approved products to sanitize workplaces during the COVID-19 pandemic, CCI regularly takes initiatives to preserve the environment. For the past 25 years, CCI has been an innovator and leader in using water-based products, which has less odor and is safe for the environment.

The franchise has switched from solvent products for the benefits of protecting its clients and customers’ environment. Its quality-controlled manufacturing processes ensure CCI products are clean, non-toxic, non-hazardous and biodegradable. Also, by offering repair and restoration services, the business model naturally reduces water and promotes recycling.

Setting New Benchmarks

Providing such remarkable products and services helped the franchisee gain incredible profits and nationwide recognition. Recently, CCI reached $20 million in its systemwide sales. In 2020, the franchisee has been featured in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list for the second consecutive year. The ranking recognizes CCI’s outstanding performance in areas such as franchise unit growth, financial strength, stability, and brand power.

Later this year, the company plans to expand its national footprint with its first franchise in Hawaii. The company strives to adapt and develop innovative approaches that will allow its customers to keep their beloved belongings with them for a long time.

To know more, visit: https://wecanfixthat.com/

Link to original feature article here on Insight Success

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Entrepreneur Magazine Names Nation’s Leading On-Site Repair and Restoration Franchise the #69 Bargain Buy in April 2020 Issue

 MOKENA, IL. – (May 06, 2020) – Creative Colors International, the nation’s leading on-site repair and restoration franchise, was recently recognized by Entrepreneur magazine on its prestigious list of the top franchises for under $100,000.

The news was announced in the magazine’s April 2020 issue. Creative Colors International (CCI) ranked #69 on the list. The list was based on scores received in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list earlier this year. CCI ranked #410 on the Franchise 500 list for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.

“So many people consider owning their own business but never take the steps to do so because they assume that it takes too much money,” said Mark J. Bollman, President of Creative Colors International. “Our mobile, home-based business model allows for low overhead and affordable startup costs, especially when you consider our financing options.”

“Business ownership gives many people the opportunity for greater control over their careers and their personal wealth,” added Bollman. “We make sure to provide our franchisees with all the support they need to be successful.  When you buy a Creative Colors International franchise, you go into business for yourself, not by yourself.”

That support includes initial and ongoing training, an established client base so the franchise begins generating revenues immediately, national accounts, and exclusive and protected territories.

“It is an honor to once again be recognized as a cost-conscious investment by such a prestigious magazine as Entrepreneur,” said Bollman. “It is the industry-leading resource for many people considering the purchase of a franchise.”

To learn more about Creative Colors International franchise opportunities, please visit 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 re-dyeing holes, cuts, tears, burns, scrapes, fading, and discoloration. For more information on CCI’s services and franchise opportunities, visit www.wecanfixthat.com.

Media Contact:

Kevin Behan

919-459-3595

kbehan@919marketing.com

Veteran Frank Earnest, a Creative Colors International franchisee, relies on lessons learned navigating war zones during his successful military career to help his Oklahoma-based business thrive.

“Owning my own business lets me be in charge of my own success,” Earnest said. “Each job is unique and requires us to think creatively to get the job done. In the military, quitting was not an option and I have the same view as a CCI franchisee.”

Attention to detail, dedication and leadership skills enabled Earnest to rise in the ranks of the military. Earnest enlisted in the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 1981 to help pay for college. After graduation, Earnest was commissioned as a second lieutenant and retired as a full colonel after 30 years of service. Early in his career, Earnest traveled to Germany with his young family, where he served as an infantry officer while his wife, Lena, taught classes in the Department of Defense Education Activity school system. Once he returned stateside, Earnest attended the U.S. Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, and his wife continued her career teaching children with special needs. With each promotion, Earnest was consistently tapped for posts in dangerous locations, including Bosnia, Iraq, Columbia and numerous stints in Central America. Earnest’s leadership skills were put to the test when he coordinated land operations with FEMA to evacuate civilians during Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita in Louisiana.

During his military career, Earnest spent more than 14 years deployed away from his family in some of the world’s most dangerous war zones. After his retirement, he searched for an opportunity that would keep him close to home. “Seeing utter poverty, slavery and lack of freedoms people have in other countries really makes you appreciate how lucky we are in America,” he said.

A CCI franchisee from Texas inspired Earnest to look at the mobile, on-site leather and vinyl repair service as an option for business ownership. “I grew up on a farm and was used to doing things myself and working with my hands. As you get promoted in the military you do less and less hands-on work and more paperwork. I thought working as a technician to make repairs sounded fun,” Earnest said.

CCI is the leader in the leather, vinyl and fabric repair business. Certified technicians come to your location and use proprietary tools and techniques to repair, restore or replace damaged vinyl, leather, fabric or plastic goods. They can make your furniture, car, RV or office look brand new. Hiring CCI’s mobile restoration service can save customers up to 90 percent in expenses by salvaging damaged items.

Currently, Earnest and Lena operate four CCI vans and have five employees. They own exclusive rights to the area north of Oklahoma City, but their vans operate throughout the state and also provide services in nearby Arkansas and Missouri. Earnest fills in as a technician when his employees take vacations and Lena does the company’s books. Placing a special focus on RVs has been a big money-maker for his company, Earnest said. “The military instilled discipline and focus in me,” Earnest added. “It teaches you to look at different options other people might not have considered, which is a great asset for a business owner.”

Owning his own business puts him in the driver’s seat but having the support of CCI’s corporate office has been invaluable to his success, according to Earnest. One day during a difficult job, Earnest called the company’s support line for advice. When they couldn’t find someone to help solve his problem, Mark J. Bollman, CCI’s president and co-owner came on the line to help out. “Nobody at headquarters has the attitude that they are too important to help you. Everyone gives you advice,” Earnest said. “The support they offer to new franchises is absolutely fantastic.”

Celebrate Veterans Day this month by supporting a company that prides itself on offering great careers to our nation’s military heroes. Get your quote today.

Make CCI’s Annual Conference Part of Your Game Plan

Starting a home-based business as a franchisee with Creative Colors International Inc. develops an ideal playing field for both high profits and flexibility. Tackle your competitors by adding our Creative Colors International Conference & Awards Gala to your annual schedule.

CCI starts entrepreneurs on a path to success by offering them a proven business model. As the leader in mobile leather and vinyl repair, we help new franchisees establish their client base in an exclusive territory and offer them ongoing training and support. New franchisees have access to CCI’s Slack collaboration hub and our annual sales and training conference.

Operating a home-based business has its perks. It’s convenient, affordable and provides great work-life balance. Yet, there is no substitute for in-person meetings. Eighty-five percent of participants believe face-to-face meetings build stronger and more meaningful relationships, according to a study conducted by Forbes Insights of 760 business executives. A whopping eight out of 10 surveyed prefer face-to-face meetings and many executives think they are essential to forming long-term business relationships.

In a world where conference calls, email and instant messaging are the norms, attending CCI’s annual conference will give your business a boost in the right direction. The company conference, most recently held in Minneapolis, provides dedicated franchisees with five important tools to win the game.

Educate: Learn the latest tricks of the trade to retain employees, increase profits and add customers. Part of the beauty of our brand is that we offer services to a wide range of clients in the automotive and service industry. As these industries evolve, we need to make sure to grow with them. Participating in our conference will keep you abreast of all the latest trends for the customers and employees you serve.

Recharge: Franchisees who are enthusiastic about the brand are better at retaining employees, according to the International Franchise Association, a trade association devoted to franchising. Spending time networking with your peers at our annual conference will increase your passion for the brand. Not only will meeting with other franchisees at our conference help build team unity, but it will also create renewed energy for your business.

 Share. Here is a chance to shine. Sharing your success stories with other franchisees at the conference is key. We are proud of your hard work and want to make sure everyone hears the unique ways you are succeeding. Sharing your triumphs will help solidify your status as a stellar CCI franchisee.

 Take home a winner. The conference showcases best practices you can implement in your own business. Make sure to take home a winner and implement at least one thing you learn at the conference. CCI advises franchisees to keep an open mind at the conference. Don’t dismiss new ideas for your business or your employees. Make sure to carefully analyze new information before deciding it isn’t useful. Keep an open mind and allow for change.

Fun. Successful franchisees take time to relax with family and friends, IFA contends. CCI knows being a franchisee can require an extensive time commitment. Spending time socializing with your fellow franchisees at our annual conference is a great way to unwind with people who share similar challenges and achievements.

Once you book your tickets to our annual conference, do your homework to make the most of the event. Make a list of how you’re hoping to improve your business. Think about who you want to see at the conference and develop a plan of attack before you arrive, to help you discover real solutions.

Learn more about how CCI supports its business owners by encouraging training, and franchise opportunities with CCI, here — www.wecanfixthat.com.