Entrepreneur Brings Proven Custom Storage Solutions to Local Market, Driving Jobs and Home Organization Services

Virginia Beach, VA –  Closets by Design is expanding into Southeast Virginia with a new locally owned franchise that will create jobs and deliver custom home organization solutions to area homeowners. Led by former IT executive Aaron Frketich, the new location reflects the brand’s continued investment in community-driven growth as demand rises for functional, personalized living spaces.

Frketich brings nearly 25 years of leadership experience in the IT industry, having served as COO and partner of 360 IT Partners before selling the company in October 2024. After the sale, he explored opportunities that would allow him to own a business aligned with his personal and professional goals. Working with a franchise broker, he discovered Closets by Design and was drawn to the brand’s longevity, proven business model, and strong growth potential outside the tech sector.

As homeowners increasingly invest in efficient, customized storage solutions, U.S. home improvement and repair spending is projected to reach $522 billion by the end of 2026, positioning Closets by Design to meet growing consumer demand.

“I wanted a business where I could take full ownership, build a team, and provide a service that genuinely improves people’s day-to-day lives,” said Frketich. “Closets by Design is a well-established brand with a strong track record that speaks for itself. I’m excited to bring these solutions to homeowners in the Southeast Virginia area while contributing to the local economy.”

The Southeast Virginia location is expected to hire approximately 20 employees in its initial phase, with plans to grow the team to 30–50 as the business expands. In addition to serving local homeowners, Frketich is focused on long-term job creation and building a stable, community-oriented operation.

“Aaron’s extensive leadership experience and commitment to building a strong local business make him an excellent fit for our franchise system,” said Jerry Egner, President of Closets by Design. “We’re proud to support him as he brings our custom storage solutions to the Southeast Virginia community.”

Rated as the #1 franchise in its category by Entrepreneur Magazine, the brand ranked No. 252 on this year’s 2026 Franchise 500® list — the world’s most comprehensive ranking of franchise opportunities. Looking ahead, Closets by Design plans to expand its footprint further with strategic openings in key growth markets, supported by a robust pipeline of qualified franchise candidates and ongoing innovations in design and customer experience.

To learn more about the franchising opportunities with Closets by Design, visit closetsbydesign/franchising.com.

About Closets by Design

Closets by Design has been creating attractive and functional closets, garage organizers, in-home offices, and more since it was founded in 1982. Rated #1 Franchise in our category and one of America’s Top 50 New Franchises by Entrepreneur magazine, Closets by Design has also been listed as one of the Top 100 Up & Comers by Franchise Times and one of the Top 550 Remodeling Companies by Remodeling magazine. Closets by Design is a leader in the home improvement industry, and it has set the standard for customer satisfaction through dedication, quality, and service.

To find a Closets by Design location near you, visit www.closetsbydesign.com or call 1-800-By-Design.