Most businesses have approached the COVID-19 era through the lens of simply surviving, but some found opportunities for optimism, even during some of the most challenging and difficult moments.

North American painting franchise more than doubles its Paint it Pink fundraising goal

As we all head into the Holiday season, I’ve got my eye on 2021 and all the opportunities it can bring, so that’s why I’ll be logging in to the IFA Ignite 2021 Virtual Annual Convention.

Each woman has in her own way served as a light in her community: fighting, championing for the cure and in some uplifting cases, beating breast cancer. After hearing their inspiring stories, national rent-to-own tire retail franchise, RNR Tire Express (RNR), wanted to give back in a small way to celebrate these strong women.

Do you remember conventions? Standing on carpeted floors, under high ceilings, the hum of people walking down aisles of booths and having meaningful conversations about their businesses — the energy was electric. Now, we’re engaging customers differently.

Have you ever imagined what opening a franchise during a pandemic looked like? COVID-19 has tested and challenged businesses in unprecedented ways and, while many industries may continue to struggle, franchising gives us an opportunity to not only survive, but thrive in 2021.

My business looks different today than how it looked a year ago. At the beginning of 2020, I had a thriving business, multiple locations, stable financial growth and plans to expand even further.

Ethics are everything in business, and particularly in franchising. Anyone who is part of this industry knows the impact it has on people’s lives. Franchising has helped countless entrepreneurs achieve their dreams of business ownership. Franchise consultants come in at the beginning of the process and play a pivotal role.

Businesses of all sizes are struggling amidst COVID-19. The pandemic has brought a weight of uncertainty for businesses, including forced closures, disrupted supply chains and lower consumer spending.

​​​​​​​Though they may seem few and far between, there are stories of success and new beginnings in this year when the unthinkable has become the new reality.