Batteries Plus Franchisee Builds Multi-Million Dollar Business, Leading the Charge in Battery Industry

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Former Flight Attendant Brenda Phipps Grows Three Successful Batteries Plus Stores in Florida to Over $3 Million in Sales

HARTLAND, Wis., (MARCH 18, 2025) – What started as a personal search for a particular laptop battery, has turned into a thriving, multi-million dollar business for Batteries Plus franchise owner Brenda Phipps. After nearly two decades of franchising with the world’s leading consumer and business specialty battery retailer, Phipps now oversees three Florida stores to exceed $3 million in annual sales. As she takes on a larger leadership role within her own business, Phipps is proving that curiosity, dedications, and hands-on learning are the keys to success in the battery industry, regardless of background or gender.

From Flight Attendant to Franchise Success

Phipps left her career as a flight attendant shortly after September 11, 2001. Around that time, she met her husband, Rick Phipps, a multi-unit automotive franchisee who had recently sold his business. During a frustrating search for a new laptop battery, the couple discovered Batteries Plus. Intrigued by the retailer’s supply of essential products and specialized niche, the Phippses decided it was time for a new business opportunity, opening their first Batteries Plus store in Lake Worth, FL in 2006.

What started as a 50-50 partnership between the couple has since evolved, with Brenda now leading operations as Rick transitions into retirement.

“In the beginning, Rick and I worked side-by-side, but now I’ve taken on more responsibility as he’s taken a step back,” said Phipps. “Running a business in a male-dominated industry was a challenge; I didn’t have a background in batteries or business ownership. But upon diving in, I quickly learned that developing the right team to support you can make all the difference in helping your business be successful, and I want other women to know they can do this, too.”

Achieving Sales Excellence

Phipps’ stores have been recognized with Sales Achievement honors for two consecutive years, consistently hitting revenue milestones within the Batteries Plus franchise system.

While her stores serve a diverse customer base, Phipps holds a special expertise in commercial sales, particularly within the marine industry along Florida’s East Coast. In fact, one of her stores is just three miles from the ocean, serving as the go-to resource of specialty batteries to power everything from deep-sea fishing boats to luxurious yachts.

Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners

With nearly two decades in the business and a successful track record of growth, Phipps credits much of her success to a willingness to learn and adapt.

“Don’t miss out on an opportunity just because you don’t know anything yet,” said Phipps. “When we started, I didn’t know much about batteries, but I learned one product at a time. First wheelchair batteries, and then light bulbs, device repairs, key fobs, you name it. It’s all about evolving with the business. The best way to learn is by doing.”

As she continues to grow her business, Phipps hopes her story will inspire more women to pursue entrepreneurship, especially in industries where they’re underrepresented.

To learn more about franchising with Batteries Plus, please visit batteriesplusfranchise.com.

ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS:

Batteries Plus, founded in 1988 and headquartered in Hartland, WI, is a leading omnichannel retailer of batteries, specialty light bulbs and phone repair services for the direct-to-consumer and commercial channels. The retailer also offers key programming, replacement and cutting services. Through a nationwide network of stores, the company offers a differentiated value proposition of unrivaled product selection, in-stock availability and customer service. Batteries Plus is owned by Freeman Spogli, a private equity firm based in Los Angeles and New York City. To learn more about one of Forbes®’ Best Franchises to Buy in America, visit https://www.batteriesplusfranchise.com.

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