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January 21, 2005/Shevat 11 5765, Vol. 57, No. 21
Professional care business to move, expand
STEPHANIE N. HENSCHEL
Staff Writer
Affordable Home Care Solutions has seen a lot of growth in the last seven years.
The company, which provides care-giving services, started out in a renovated recreation room at the home of its founders Linda and Larry Esrick and, in May, will move into a new 3,500 square foot facility at the Loop 101 and Raintree Road.
The added room will benefit the company's next step: franchising.
About two years ago, the Esricks looked into franchising the company, and started the process about nine months ago. They hired Jim Ullman of Greenberg & Traurig, one of the country's top franchising lawyers, and secured the help of franchise consultant Mario Altiery.
According to Altiery, franchises work because the services offered can be duplicated and are needed in other markets. The franchiser offers training and other help getting the business started. Once the franchisee has opened its store, the franchiser benefits by receiving royalties.
"Arizona has been doing a push in the last year (for more franchises)" Altiery says. Other franchises based in Arizona include Wild Noodles and Massage Envy.
"What I see out there, if you can duplicate this, and be able to emphasize care, (that's good)," says Linda Esrick, president of the company.
Esrick, a licensed registered nurse for the past 25 years, says she is dedicated to providing care to those who are vulnerable, and will train others to provide care that is up to the standards of the company.
"We think we can teach our franchisees well," says her husband. "Our goal is quality care. We feel we've been successful in the Valley because quality care has always been our first consideration."
Those who franchise from the company - which will be available nationwide - also have the benefit of a call center, which will give franchisers one number to call for support.
"This business right now is really tough because you're on call all the time," says the president. She and her husband were completely focused on their business for the first five years, which didn't allow for much personal time. She says that new franchise holders should expect that to happen.
At this point, there are a few details to work out on the franchising end, mostly internal, according to Altiery.
"We've got it down good," Esrick says.
Visit www.choosehome.biz, or call (888) 203-0459.
Contact the writer here
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