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Ronald Harrison – 2015

All Nominees (alpha order), Answers to all supporting documentation questions

Table of Contents

Ronald Harrison At A Glance…………………………………………….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………2

Question 1: Detail your professional achievements………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4

Question 2: How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?…..8

Question 2a: How have your achievements helped to promote diversity within your organization and/or the franchise industry? ………………..12

Question 3: List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held at IFA………………………………………………………..………………….16

Question 4: List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community………………………………………………………………………….17

Question 5: Detail your history of community involvement………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..18

Question 6: Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising…………………….22

Question 7: Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated………...............24

Question 8: Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree…………………..……..25

Question 9: Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? ……………………….27

2015 Ronald E. Harrison Award Documentation

Nominee Name

Rick Davidson Ferenz Feher Lowell Hawthorne Ed Krafchow

Title

President & CEO CEO President & CEO Chairman & CEO

Company Name Century 21 Real Estate Feher & Feher Golden Krust Caribbean

Bakery and Grill

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Mason McDuffie

Real Estate

Founder (Yes/No)

No Yes Yes No

Industry

Real Estate Services Management Consulting Food: Caribbean Real Estate Services

Units (number of units per brand)

3700 N/A - Supplier 117 72

Years in Franchising (company)

43 N/A - Supplier 19 7

IFA Leadership Positions:

None None None None

IFA Committees None Social Sector Task Force

None as of now

None

CFE (Yes/No) No Yes

No/ Omar Hawthorne my son and Franchise Development Manager graduated as a Certified Franchise

Executive

No

IFA Educational Foundation

N/A

Yes. Served as the only foreigner in the Franchise Education Committee

Program at NOVA University

No No

Nominated By:

Franchisor Supplier Franchisor Corporate Supplier Firm

2015 Ronald E. Harrison Award Documentation

Nominee Name

Anthony Lolli Ricardo L. Rivera-Badia Sue Thirlwall

Title Founder & CEO

President & Senior

Consultant

President & CEO

Company Name

Rapid Realty Franchise, LLC All Around Franchise & Business Consultants

MiniLuxe

Founder (Yes/No)

Yes Yes No

Industry

Real Estate Services

Franchise Consultants Health Aides Services

Units (number of units per brand)

60 N/A 3

Years in Franchising (person and company)

6 N/A 5

IFA Leadership Positions:

None None None

IFA Committees None

IFA Social Sector Task Force

IFA Advocate with local government

None

CFE (Yes/No)

No Yes Enrolled

IFA Educational Foundation

No No N/A

Nominated By:

Franchisor Supplier Franchisor

Nominee Affiliated Company

Questionnaire Response No. 1 Detail your professional achievements

Rick Davidson

Century 21 Real

Estate

Rick was appointed president and chief executive officer of Century 21 Real Estate LLC in February 2010. In his role, Davidson leads the world’s largest residential real estate sales organization of approximately 7,100 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 74 countries and territories worldwide with more than 100,000 sales professionals. He has served in franchise senior executive roles since 2006, and prior to that was a franchise owner of a Commercial company in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Prior to his current post, Rick served in a dual capacity as chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC (CB) and as president and chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the Coldwell Banker residential franchise operations on a global basis after having led the brand’s commercial operations since May 2006. Specifically, he was responsible for directing the operations, field services, education, and mortgage services programs across this global residential real estate network.

During his tenure with CB, Rick received several national awards, including Manager of the Year in 1994 and 1996, and the J. Frank Mahoney and James Didion Chairman’s Leadership Award for Real Estate Excellence in 1997, 1998 and 2000

Ferenz Feher Feher & Feher

I started in franchising over 25 years ago by launching the Steren Electronics franchise program. The network has now grown to over 350 units nationwide (Mexico) making it one of the strongest in the country. After working in a franchise system for a few years and learning and understanding of its benefits I was committed to making the model available to the entire business community in Mexico and decided to launch my consulting firm. I have successfully helped businesses create franchise networks for the past 17 years. I have been a member of the IFA for the past 9 years. I had the honor and privilege of serving as the President of the Mexican Franchise Association and continue to have an active role as a board member. I also served as Vice-Secretary of the World Franchise Council, General Secretariat for the Iberoamerican Franchise Federation (FIAF) and as Chairman of the International Franchise Consultants Network (IFCN). I serve in several Board of Directors (franchise systems) such as Prendamex, BCU, Merik, Nutrisa and LectoSystems. I am also a board member for Entrepreneur Magazine and participate in the Emerging Leader Network of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. These positions allow me to greatly influence the direction of franchising in the country. By most accounts I am recognized as one of the top experts on franchising in Mexico and recognized as such not only domestically but also internationally. This reputation has allowed me the opportunity to open offices in the United States and Guatemala.

Lowell Hawthorne

Golden Krust Caribbean

Bakery and Grill

Founder, President and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and its affiliates since 1989. Golden Krust is a world renowned baking empire engaged in the manufacture, wholesale and retail distribution of Jamaica style fresh breads, pastries, Jamaican Style Patties, Marinated Jerk Chicken, exotic seasoning, sauces and other Caribbean products. Transformed Golden Krust into a highly profitable brand to achieve revenue in excess of $100M annually; maintaining steady growth rate. In 1996 Golden Krust in its ambitious quest to carve out its own niche in the market place for Caribbean products sought and gained its license to franchise, becoming the first Caribbean food concept store to be granted a franchise license in the United States as well as the first Caribbean minority-owned franchise operation to offer immigrants the opportunity to accomplish their American dream of becoming business owners. Today, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill operates over 100 restaurants. Expanded product reach beyond franchising through rapid growth of hand held frozen food segment. Customers include club stores, retail chains (supermarkets) Institutions and alternate channel stores. Clients are located the Eastern, Western and Mid West United States and include , Costco, Sam’s Club. Pathmark, Dollar Tree: 7-Eleven, and Shop Rite.

Ed Krafchow

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate -

Mason McDuffie Real Estate

In 1984, I began my career as a part-time agent at the real estate agency, Mason-McDuffie. The company, which was always known for its pioneering spirit, was a great fit for me because I’ve always been one to thrive on challenges. When I bought the company in 1991 the industry was in the midst of an economic downturn and new newest technology that we are accustomed to today was just starting to reach the consumer market. I knew the biggest challenge for me was to look down the road and make the decisions that would affect the future of our business. In 2010, Mason-McDuffie aligned with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate to become the 19th largest real estate services firm in the nation, and fourth overall throughout the Bay Area. Under my guidance, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Mason-McDuffie has grown to over $3 billion in annual sales, with more than 1,200 agents and 30 offices. The success of my career has been highlighted by three specific accomplishments: growth of the company, technology innovation, and a focus on training agents to meet our consumer needs. I have been closely involved in the development of the company’s proprietary WebTop Intranet, a technology platform that has generated leads and created efficient business processes for our sales associates.

Anthony Lolli

Rapid Realty

Franchise, LLC

I started my own real estate company--the original Rapid Realty--in 1998 at the age of 21. The NYC real estate market at the time was entirely focused on Manhattan sales, but I chose to specialize in outer borough rentals, an underserved and overlooked market. Unlike the few other companies that even handled apartment rentals at that time, I put rentals front and center and worked at all ends of the

Anthony Lolli (cont.)

Rapid Realty Franchise, LLC

economic spectrum, not just the most expensive luxury properties. With just one location, Rapid Realty became Brooklyn’s top rental firm. And in 2009, I broke away from the rest of the industry once again. It was the height of the recession, and real estate companies were hurting. But because Rapid Realty specialized in rentals, the one sector of the real estate industry that booming, we were able to expand when competitors were closing down offices left and right. In NYC, most real estate companies expand by opening corporate-owned branches. But, after doing extensive research, I chose to expand by franchising. Today, Rapid Realty is a 100% franchise company, with 45 franchises up and running, and another 20 currently underway. We’re one of the largest real estate companies in New York, and we opened franchises in San Diego and Boston at the end of 2013. In 2013, I was named Entrepreneur of the Year in the Golden Bridge Awards and won the Silver Stevie in the Real Estate Executive of the Year category of the International Business Awards.

Ricardo L. Rivera-Badia

All Around Franchise &

Business Consultants

Dedicated 16 years of my professional career working in a franchise development family business and was part of the conception, development, and administration of several Puerto Rican franchise concepts.

On September 2013, founded my own professional services company, All Around Franchise & Business Consultants, devoted to provide consulting services to companies that are interested in growing up their businesses through the franchise model.

Was selected by the Puerto Rico Trade and Export Company to mentor and manage the first government initiative aimed at developing Puerto Rican brands. This initiative named Local Exportable Franchises Development Program, consisted in providing a monetary incentive to a group of companies with the purpose to develop their brand into a franchise model so they can export their concepts worldwide.

Entered into an agreement to provide consulting services in the Dominican Republic in order to organize and develop a franchise industry in this country.

Currently organizing Expo Franquicias Caribe, the first international franchise exposition in Puerto Rico to be held on August 8th. The purpose of the expo is to promote the franchise industry, showcase the newly developed Puerto Rican franchise concepts, and promote the introduction of international concepts in the local market.

Completed the Franchise Management Certification program from Georgetown University.

Sue Thirlwall

MiniLux

I won the “franchise lottery” at age 15 for an early pioneer franchisee of an iconic brand (Shakey’s Pizza). Working at Shakey’s was life altering as I spent most of my adult life focused primarily on franchisees and/or the franchisor.

Sue Thirlwall (cont.)

MiniLuxe

I graduated from USC in business (magna cum laude) while working 2-3 jobs year-round. After five years at the Chicago Tribune in key staff positions including Retail Sales Manager, I earned an MBA at Harvard Business School. After management consulting, I joined Pizza Hut for more than 17 years and helped them transform a company-owned brand to franchise. I was the first One System Restaurant Readiness Director who bridged the world of both company and franchise systems for excellence. I helped pioneer the WingStreet brand which has now expanded globally at YUM! Afterwards, I joined Dunkin’ as Brand Operating Officer of Baskin-Robbins which is 100% franchisees. Now, I am CEO of MiniLuxe (both company and franchise). Little did I know how fortunate it was to work my way up literally from a cook/dishwasher at Shakey’s, not only as the first female ever hired in 1975, but to begin a very rewarding and satisfying career in franchising. Even today, I am typically the only “franchise executive” or one most familiar with franchising whether as a Board member on a publically traded mutual fund company to Harvard Business School’s Global Alumni Board. Helping others achieve the American dream by becoming a franchisee has also been personally and professionally so gratifying and inspirational.


Questionnaire Response No. 2 How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility?

Rick Davidson

Century 21 Real

Estate

From day one, Rick set out to make his mark in a well established Franchise sales organization. To this day he emphasizes three key principles that he’s been using throughout his career: As an organization, we are measured by the professionals we associates, the companies we affiliate and the transactions we complete. Supporting diversity is integral to each of these principles; diversity in franchise operations and sales, recruitment, buyers and sellers, as well as staff. He staffed his executive team with experts in their respective roles with proven track records in franchising, real estate, operations and marketing. Domestically, he spearheaded the CENTURY 21 System’s “Recruiting America’s Heroes” campaign which offered our nation’s men and women, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our liberty, a more cost-effective and learning-based path to becoming real estate agents, and a great opportunity for our veterans who are also self-made entrepreneurs in their own right.

The company has also earned numerous marketing and consumer awareness awards, such as the 2013 AVA Digital Platinum Global Award for the company’s SimCity Social Facebook campaign. The company also received the won a Platinum Award from the Hermes Creative Award competition and the 2013 Bronze Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America. These awards helped franchisees reach a much sought after market, especially in real estate: the Millennials or the younger, ‘gamer’ audience, and provide a positive awareness and credibility with the Digital consumer.


Through my firm, I am responsible for the development of over 700 franchise networks in Mexico. This number represents close to 50% of the domestic brands operating as a franchise system in this country. I participated along government officials in the creation and subsequent revisions of the Mexican Franchise Law that is currently in effect. I have published 4 books on franchising and have a weekly radio program, tools which I use to promote the benefits of the franchise business model in an on-going basis. I have had the opportunity to be a franchisee, a franchisor and a consultant, so I am able to relate to all aspects of franchising through personal experience and influence key players in the sector for the benefit of the franchise model. I taught franchise related topics for 6 years at the Tecnologico de Monterrey, one of Mexico’s most prestigious private universities and I have been a member of the faculty of PROCEF for the past 15 years, which is the only Franchise Certification Program, offered by the Mexican Franchise Association in conjunction with Universidad Anahuac, also a renowned private university in the country. I am the first consultant in Mexico to address the topics of micro-franchising and Franchising for the Social Sector, not only on a theoretical plane by publishing the only book on social franchising in Mexico and Central America, but also on a practical aspect having created several micro-franchises and social franchises that are in operation today in Mexico and Guatemala.

Lowell Hawthorne


Bakery and Grill

Business success largely depends on identifying a viable opportunity, creating a profitable business model, and consistently mastering operational systems and processes. The Franchising model provides this opportunity for new comers to entrepreneurship or seasoned business operators. Golden Krust entered franchising when only few Caribbean immigrants were venturing into business; because of the complexities involved with starting a new business. It’s rapid growth and success led the company into becoming the first successful Caribbean food franchisor. As a result of this success I have had the opportunity to lead many enterprising African Americans into embracing franchising as a viable option. Leveraging this opportunity, Golden Krust has been repeatedly engaged in networking initiatives at expos, seminars, trade shows, and restaurant shows to reach minorities and to encourage and teach budding entrepreneurs how to fuel their entrepreneurial spirits and to try franchising as a preferred business model. The company’s positioning has also enabled it to work along side various organizations such as The Small Business Association, Caribbean American Chamber Of Commerce and Industry, Inc. and others, to provide access to information on new business development and to showcase and recognize successful small owners. Golden Krust has signed more than eighty franchisees of ethnic minority descent. Franchising provided the economic opportunity and empowerment for my family and the families of our franchisees and those who have established their own businesses as a result of the information shared. In addition, to the individual empowerment it brought us, its success has also contributed to the empowerment for the whole franchise industry.

Ed Krafchow



We have always had a strong legacy at Mason-McDuffie that dates back more than 120 years, with an unmatched reputation for quality and service in our market. We are proud of our legacy, which has been enhanced through our affiliation with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. We chose Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate as a national umbrella partner for its fresh approach and inventive mindset. The brand provides us with the tools and resources needed to maximize our efforts and thrive in this lifestyle market. Together, we acquire the right mix of marketing, technology and business model to take Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Mason-McDuffie to the next level.

Anthony Lolli

Rapid Realty

Franchise, LLC

As I mentioned above, real estate companies in NYC traditionally avoid franchising, preferring to open corporate branches and install top salespeople as branch managers. I’ll admit that I originally intended to follow that model myself. I even trained several of my best agents to be our first wave of managers. But just before construction on our first new branch was supposed to begin, all those managers I had trained quit to go form their own competing firms! That was when I decided to start delving into franchising. I quickly realized that franchising was actually a beautiful solution to an industry-wide problem. I was far from the first real estate broker to lose my best agents because they wanted their own companies. But by franchising, I could offer my best people the chance to own their own business (or even businesses) while keeping them in the Rapid Realty family. There’s no doubt in my mind that the decision to franchise is responsible for the success that Rapid Realty enjoys today. Today, I’m a walking ambassador for the franchising industry. I share that story everywhere I go, and constantly tell people how franchising was the smartest choice I ever made. I’ve told that story in countless interviews in newspapers and magazines, as well as on the radio and TV. For most of Rapid Realty’s current franchisees (including multi-unit owners and area developers), this is their first experience with franchising. And now they all believe in it just as much as I do.




I am a true believer that franchising is one of the economic development strategies that are going to help the reconstruction of the Puerto Rican economy. Every step that I have taken in this fascinating industry has confirmed it. Before I developed the Local Exportable Franchises Development Program for the government of Puerto Rico in 2014, there where less than 8 recognized franchise concepts in the Island. In the beginning, it was very hard to make the local companies understand and believe that they have the same possibilities to be successful in the franchise industry as the other international companies that have a presence in Puerto Rico. After the Program, and many other initiatives, we now have over 20 franchise concepts that comply with all of the FTC requirements. It is clear that the message is getting across and that local companies are understanding the powerful impact of franchising.

Sue Thirlwall

MiniLuxe

Franchising is an essential component to job creation and I am fortunate to have worked for large (Pepsico/Tricon/YUM! and Dunkin’ Brands) as well as smaller brands (especially my current role as CEO of MiniLuxe). My greatest achievement to date is WingStreet (created as a true boot strap concept with very limited resources although the concept was executed at Pizza Hut). We perfected the concept and all elements to become the world’s largest (chicken) wing delivery company in nine months and the largest wing company within 18 months. It’s already in 3600 locations and still growing.

Sue Thirlwall (cont.)

MiniLuxe

Truthfully in retrospect, I trained my whole life to advance the principles of franchising as a viable and differentiated business strategy as well as to create the foundation and unit economics necessary to expand both here in the US as well as the rest of the world.

My career in franchising has been extremely positive and vibrant as I strengthen business brands and concepts to expand points of distributions/locations as well as impact. In my lifetime, I have personally and professionally watched franchising grow dramatically. Thankfully, the US still has an enormous competitive advantage in this arena (and the essence of true entrepreneurial and innovation which is essential when developing a brand to franchise is alive and well).

Intellectually and personally, I have been atypical in following my heart with a career in franchising. I love helping others and allowing them to live the “American dream”. I am proud to be a specialist in franchising.


Questionnaire Response No. 2a How have your achievements helped to promote diversity within your organization and/or the franchise industry?

Rick Davidson

Century 21 Real

Estate

As mentioned, Rick fosters an inclusive environment while recognizing, appreciating and utilizing the

talents and contributions of his most valued assets, his employees, affiliates and organizations that

promote diversity and inclusion. Under Rick’s leadership, the CENTURY 21 System has strong associations

and relationships with organizations like the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals and

the Asia Real Estate Association of America. The success is evident in the number of CENTURY 21 agents

and brokers who are members and currently serve as directors of both organizations. In fact, this year Rick

served as a closing speak at the AREAA Global Summit in Honolulu, and, as a proud sponsor of the NAHREP

Platinum Mixer and the Gala Installation, helped to install Juan Martinez, Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21

Martinez and Associates as President of NAHREP. Rick is also committed to community outreach. Just

recently, he contributed to Public Service Announcements for iHeartRadio’s Show Your Stripes campaign,

because, as he put it, “iHeartRadio’s Show Your Stripes campaign” is uniquely American. It is a simple, yet

powerful way to recognize, honor and repay a portion of the tremendous debt we owe each and every

service man and service woman. For many, they have never held a civilian position before. This series will

hopefully help ease that transition. Hiring veteran workers is not charitable, it is good business. The

CENTURY 21 franchise system believes veterans are highly-skilled individuals with drive and determination

– qualities that any employer can directly benefit from.”


For a consulting firm to be successful, it is of paramount importance that its team of collaborators has a broad range of knowledge and experience and I am adamant about building diverse teams to meet the needs of all our clients. My team is formed with people with all different skills and backgrounds to reflect the true makeup of our society. As proud as I am of my team and its diversity, I am also extremely proud of the work I have lead as it relates to Franchising in the Social Sector. It is through this work that I am able to truly influence and promote diversity in the franchise industry by positively impacting the lives of at-risk or underprivileged populations and help integrate them into the mainstream. I have had the opportunity to touch many different and diverse groups and have found a common thread through Social Franchising. This model provides not only a platform to increase the visibility of these wonderful programs that go from creating sustainable housing to assisting children with cancer, but also a mechanism by which to expand throughout the country. I am also heavily involved in international franchising, assisting Mexican Franchisors to establish presence in the U.S., other markets and vice-versa, broadening the exposure of diverse concepts in international markets. I have presented different topics related to international franchising in all continents.

Lowell Hawthorne


Bakery and Grill

The Company has taken the following steps to promote diversity in the organization and by extension the franchise industry . Hiring Policy: We have incorporated diversity into our hiring policy and have always operated as an equal opportunity employer. Our staff complement comprises persons from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Our policies and procedures are documented in two languages and are explained through detailed orientation process. Franchise recruitment: Golden Krust fosters diversity by promoting its products and franchising opportunity to all ethnic groups. As a result, the company has evolved into a multi cultural and ethnically mixed group. Our franchising community is made up of several cultures. Product Development : Golden Krust has also diversified its product offering by adding Microwaveable , Halal Patties and ‘School’ Patties, exotic seasoning and sauces which are marketed globally. Hours of operations The nature of our manufacturing and franchising operations require us to provide flexible working hours, This is a more attractive working environment for persons who work and study. The company also sensitive to cultural differences. Community outreach: Golden Krust is proud to be a part of the communities it serves. The company’s involvement in local charities and events, education, seminars and conventions has set it apart. I have also had the opportunity to speak at several schools and colleges, on business development or growing a small business and have been the keynote speaker for several business ceremonies. Giving back is an essential part our of day to day operations. Festivities : Golden Krust’s savory food items are sought after for cultural events, festivities, food fairs. We have also participated in several “Taste of franchising” events.

Ed Krafchow



I have always been committed to positioning Better Homes and Gardens Mason-McDuffie Real Estate as a local leader of diversity. We embrace the different customs and values in our communities. As a Bay Area based company, I made it a priority to adjust our business model so that we continue to build cultural and business bridges that resonate with our consumers here and abroad. Better Homes and Gardens Mason-McDuffie Real Estate is one of the only real estate companies in our market with an established diversity initiative, which includes training agents to work with Asian investors. We have a diverse set of background and business experience reflecting the wonderful crossroads of cultures of the city we live in and serve. The diverse group of consumers in our market requires that our agents to be equipped with specialized knowledge of all groups. There is a sizeable Chinese population in our market, so we have agents who not only speak the language but to understand the needs of foreign

Ed Krafchow (cont.)

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate


nationals as well as potential foreign clients. Currently, in our company of more than 1200 agents and 20 offices, we speak more than 40 languages, including sign language. In 2012, to strengthen our dedicated stance towards diversity, I named Ellen Osmundson as our first ever Directory of Diversity. Ellen’s role is to enhance and bring a unique set of talent to our company that builds our collective work with foreign buyers. Since starting, Ellen has truly managed to take our initiatives to the next level. Our parent company Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate awarded us winner of the national Diversity award in 2012. Our affiliation and unique partnership with them provides us with the encouragement and support to embrace and build our business model around our diverse communities.

Anthony Lolli Rapid Realty

Franchise, LLC

When I was a young real estate agent, I wanted to work in the tony neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights. Even though I had been quite successful elsewhere in Brooklyn, I was turned down for a job by just about every brokerage in Brooklyn Heights. They told me I didn’t look or sound like what people in that neighborhood expected from a real estate agent. When I started my own company, I wanted it to be a place of inclusion and opportunity for all, regardless of how they looked or talked when they first walked through our doors. As a direct result, each Rapid Realty franchise location is wonderfully representative of its surrounding community, creating an incredibly diverse company culture. Franchising has allowed me to empower a new generation of minority and women business owners in the highly competitive—and all too often homogenous—world of New York City real estate. Well over 80% of our franchise owners are women and minorities, and the same is true for our agents. Many of our most successful agents and franchisees didn’t own a suit when they first came to us, or didn’t speak much English, or didn’t look like the stereotypical picture of a real estate professional. But we gave them a chance, and the results have been nothing short of phenomenal. Rapid Realty received the 2013 Special Achievement Award from the National Minority Business Council and was named one of the 2014 Champions of Diversity by the New York Urban League.




The development of Puerto Rican franchise concepts and their expansion to the United States and any other place in the world is going to provide the industry with a great cultural diversity with unique flavors, colors, sounds, and accents.

Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe

Great question especially since I am currently transforming the manicure, pedicure, waxing and eyebrow business into a strong wellness brand that provides an ultra-hygienic, high quality and affordable alternative to neighborhood nail salons as well as high end day spas. While today the vast majority of our team and clients are females, we have achieved so much and we are already helping advance women professionally as well as providing a strong brand that will attract savvy women and men to become franchisees. Being a women pioneer in numerous roles has allegedly been inspirational to many women throughout my career as I specialized in operation (which was typically very male dominant as I moved up in increasingly larger roles). Whether as one of the only female Director of Operations at Pizza Hut, a female President/COO of Baskin-Robbins (their title is Brand Operating Officer) or now as CEO/President of MiniLuxe, I am embarking in many new frontiers to help open opportunities for all talented people but especially women. As someone who came from 62 years of women in my family, I was heavily influenced by a very strong female world growing up. Since in kindergarten, I have always loved giving back to my school and community. With a lifelong record of mentorship, I would openly encourage you speak to anyone (with over 2000 LinkedIn connections, it may help identifying those you would like to verify my character, integrity and passion for mentoring talented people, especially women).


Questionnaire Response No. 3 List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA.

Rick Davidson

Century 21 Real Estate

None


Member of the Franchising in the Social Sector Task Force.

Lowell Hawthorne


Bakery and Grill

I have not had the privilege yet of serving on any committee in the IFA. However I would gladly welcome the opportunity to do so, especially as it relates to championing the cause of minority-owned franchises.

Ed Krafchow



None


Franchise, LLC

None as of yet.




IFA Social Sector Task Force

IFA Advocate with local government


None yet but I am very excited to serve in the future


Questionnaire Response No. 4 List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community.

Rick Davidson


None


I received the Juan Huerdo award, granted by the Mexican Franchise Association to the most influential personality in Mexico in the franchise industry, 2001

The Mexican Chamber of Restaurants and Food Products (CANIRAC) recognized my efforts of promoting food and beverage franchises, 2004

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico, through Mr. Earl Anthony Wayne, Ambassador recognized my support to the U.S. Commercial Service in the Franchise Sector, 2011

Ganar-Ganar, a Mexican publication devoted to Social Responsibility recognized my article “Social Franchising for Mexico” as the best opinion article, 2011

Lowell Hawthorne

Golden Krust

Caribbean Bakery and Grill

I have not had the privilege yet of serving on any committee in the IFA. However I would gladly welcome the opportunity to do so, especially as it relates to championing the cause of minority-owned franchises.

Ed Krafchow



None


Franchise, LLC

The Franchise Business Review gave Rapid Realty the Franchisee Satisfaction Award in 2013 and 2014 and named Rapid Realty one of the top 50 companies for franchisee satisfaction among companies with 99 or fewer units.




None


None yet but I am very excited to serve in the future


Questionnaire Response No. 5 Detail your history of community involvement.

Rick Davidson

Century 21 Real

Estate

Davidson currently serves on the international board of directors for Easter Seals as its first vice chairman. In 2012, the CENTURY 21® franchise system surpassed $106 million in lifetime contributions for Easter Seals, its sole philanthropic partner since 1979, exceeding the prior year’s totals by 11%.Contributing to the 2012 totals, Rick’s “Climb for Kids” raised more than $57,000 for the Easter Seals “Make the First Five Count” initiative. To raise these funds, Davidson led a seven-member team in November to the summit of two Mexican volcanoes, ascending more than 35,000 feet of elevation. Rick is also active in Big Brothers/Big Sisters. His “little” Robby is doing better in school and building relationships with his fellow students by joining a variety of clubs and organizations. He is also active on a number of other local and national charities, including the Boy Scouts of America.


My personal philosophy as an entrepreneur and businessman is to always give back and I have demonstrated this through my involvement in many community organizations and related activities. For example, through a non-profit organization I applied “Comercio Justo” (translated as Fair Commerce), a way to support indigenous communities by launching and distributing a brand of coffee produced by one of these communities into a national supermarket chain. I provide mentoring to different business entities such as Endeavor and Victoria 147; this last organization empowers businesswoman to accelerate their businesses and I assist in providing different strategies for their growth. Through World Vision International I have developed several micro-franchising programs in Guatemala allowing the community to have alternative options to low-cost franchises. In conjunction with the Universidad del Valle de Mexico (UVM) a member of Laureate International Universities I provided a training course on Franchising in the Social Sector to over 8,000 students in march 2015. I developed a micro-franchise for the MASISA system, which revolutionized the way small individual carpenters approach their business and provided a platform for organized, sustainable operation and growth. I am actively involved in the board of ORT University in Mexico, the only higher education institution that seeks to enhance and strengthen the social sector through trained professionals in Social Responsibility, Entrepreneurship and Social Leadership. We also support the education of 9 underprivileged children, which we have done for the past 10 years.

Lowell Hawthorne


Bakery and Grill

The Golden Krust’s name is synonymous with community involvement. Education: The company established the Mavis & Ephraim Hawthorne Golden Krust Foundation in honor of my late parents. The Foundation awards scholarships to needy college bound students annually. I have also established endowment funds with the Bronx Community College and the American Foundation of the University of the West

Lowell Hawthorne (cont.)


Bakery and Grill

Indies to cover the cost of tuition for twenty eight student. So far over one hundred and fifty scholarships have been awarded. Internships: The company provides internship to college students annually, allowing them to gain experience in marketing , business and office procedures. Health: Golden Krust and its franchisees have also participated in several community initiatives geared at raising awareness about health related issues such as prostate and breast cancer awareness. The company partners with the American Cancer Society to bring awareness and raise funds through a month of promotional activities each year. Non-Profit organizational support: Our franchise has also developed an enviable reputation within the community for its generosity towards non-profit and faith-based organizations with donations of food and monetary contributions to projects that raise the overall well-being of our neighbors surrounding all of our franchised locations. Back to School, Thanksgiving and Christmas Treats: These are special times for Golden Krust. Each year our corporate and franchising community pool our efforts to provide meals and packages for underprivileged community groups including the homeless, senior citizens and displaced children. Welfare to workforce : We have also actively participated in NYC welfare to workfare programs to provide employment opportunities for local residents in the Bronx New York the home of our corporate office and state of the art USDA manufacturing facility.

Ed Krafchow



Our offices and agents continue to be fully committed to giving back to our surrounding communities. Recently, we partnered with the World Transformation center and together, hosted a Charity Poker Tournament that raised over $27,000 for The Children’s Village of Sonoma County. In 1991, I created the Mason-McDuffie Education Foundation. I was a teacher prior to joining Mason-McDuffie, so I value the work that goes into the profession. The Foundation’s mission is to honor outstanding teachers in the public schools for their priceless contribution to the lives of our children and American’s future. Each winter, we encourage students, parents, peers, administrators and others to nominate exceptional public school teachers for an award and grant consideration. To date, our Foundation has awarded $818,000 to 1,365 special public school teachers throughout Northern California. Check back in January to nominate a teacher for our 2014 grants. This year we honored 15 outstanding teachers from the San Francisco communities served by its offices.

Ed Krafchow

(cont.)



In 2011, I wanted to take our community initiatives even further by dedicating one day to give back to our surrounding communities. The company’s “Giving Day” is one day out of the year where our thirty-five offices, including our joint ventures, donate time and resources to complete designated projects for some 25 charities in our local communities.

Anthony Lolli

Rapid Realty

Franchise, LLC

Since the day I founded Rapid Realty, I have always looked for ways to get involved with giving back to the community. When we were just starting out, with a small handful of agents, we’d all climb into a van and I’d take them to volunteer at a homeless shelter or a coat drive. When we got a little larger, we organized more elaborate activities, such as splitting up into groups and going out to low-income areas to hand out turkeys with all the trimmings on the night before Thanksgiving. Since becoming a franchisor, I have continued to find ways to get involved that suit the growing capabilities, manpower, and resources of the company at any given moment. For instance, in 2011, we organized a stand-up comedy benefit to raise money for the Red Cross, something we never could have done when we were still small. Since then, I have personally taken part in numerous charity fundraisers, particularly for organizations aimed at combating childhood illnesses, reducing inner city gun violence, and promoting equal educational and professional opportunities for minorities. I have also constantly encouraged every franchisee I mentor to get their own offices involved in charity, as well. I introduced a way for Rapid Realty agents to boost their commission split by participating in charity, and have since seen offices hold food, clothing, and toy drives, work on Habitat for Humanity builds, and much more. Find more information about Rapid Realty’s community involvement at http://www.rapidnyc.com/about/givingback




Group Leader – Support Group for Pulmonary Hypertension Patients in Puerto Rico (2009-2011)

President of the Franchise Committee of the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce (2007-2009)

Vice-President of the Small Business Committee of the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce (2014-2015)

Mentor of the 1 Million Cups entrepreneurial program (2014-present)

Member of the Board Directors of the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce (Elected on June, 2015)

President of the Small Business Committee of the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce (Appointed on July, 2015)

Speaker on Small Business and Franchise seminars in universities and communities.

http://www.rapidnyc.com/about/givingback


Since a child, I have had a long history of volunteer roles in both community and schools. I believe that as a corporate citizen it is my responsibility to involve my company in the community and the people it serves. MiniLuxe, for example, has worked on behalf of Dress for Success, Friends of Mel Breast Cancer organization and the Boston OneFund, formed following the Boston Marathon tragedy. I have been a very active volunteer, especially with Harvard Business School. I served for many years as a club officer and then five years on the global Alumni Board. I am currently helping plan my 25th reunion. I have also served on many Boards including Winners on Wheels (helping children that use wheelchairs for mobility) and Guerite Mutual Fund (publicly traded). I guest lecture at Boston University. I share what I know about franchising to help franchise candidates and franchisors to become stronger and better.


Questionnaire Response No. 6 Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising.

Rick Davidson

Century 21 Real

Estate

As the world’s largest residential real estate sales organization of approximately 7,100 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 74 countries and territories worldwide with more than 100,000 sales professionals, our Easter Seal’s campaign positively impacts the lives of children and their families in the U.S. and Canada. Our volunteerism is greatly appreciated by the consumers it touches, and those that hear of our efforts through events, social media and word-of-mouth. CENTURY 21 Agents and Brokers know that families have a choice when seeking real estate professionals and our support of Easter Seals is one way of saying, "Thanks" to our clients and their neighbors and friends.


Through my community involvement and the social franchises I have developed, we have been able to help hundreds if not thousands of people who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to be assisted. Franchising has been an invaluable vehicle by which these programs can not only be replicated and grown, but also as a mechanism to teach others about entrepreneurship and business. In the majority of the cases, this support has been given to diverse sections of the population such as underprivileged communities or people with special needs, women and children, etc. This is not only an outwardly position, but within my own firm, I have worked to obtain the designation of Socially Responsible Enterprise, extending this sense of commitment to the community to all of my team. We run races to benefit non-profit organizations, we provide treats to hospitalized children among many other socially conscious activities.

Lowell Hawthorne


Bakery and Grill

Not only has Golden Krust gained the respect of the communities it serves but has created a loyal following of customers which has contributed to our growth. The recognition received by our franchising community is also inspirational to others we hope will embrace franchising as a business option.

Ed Krafchow



Received Diversity Award in 2012 from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate

Named one of the real estate industry’s Most Influential People by Inman News

Awarded the RISMedia Real Estate Leadership Award in 2012

Frequent national speaker on several industry related topics

Identified by the California Association of Realtors as one of California’s top brokers

Recognized as a technological leader by the Employee Relocation Council

Anthony Lolli


Some companies are content to write a check and call that their charitable contribution for the year. There’s nothing wrong with that, of course, but I’ve always tried to get more involved than just being a signature and a bank account. I give my time and my voice to the organizations I support, and I encourage all of Rapid Realty’s franchisees and agents to do the same. And whether it’s an agent spending a couple hours helping out their favorite local organization before coming into work in the morning or the whole company coming together to support a single cause, I’ve always made it clear that whatever we do is only possible because of franchising. E.g.: In 2009, when Rapid Realty was just about to launch its franchising operations, I decided to start providing free real estate school tuition to anyone in need. The job market was abysmal at the time, and there were many people who wanted to get into real estate, but couldn’t afford the mandatory classes to get licensed. I paid for hundreds of people to attend classes that would normally cost upwards of $300. Many of those people became Rapid Realty agents, working out of our growing network of franchises. If we weren’t growing as fast as we were (thanks to franchising), I wouldn’t have been able to make that offer. But because of franchising, hundreds of people attended school, had jobs waiting for them, and some of those people even became Rapid Realty franchisees themselves.




When you do what you love and in the industry you love money is totally secondary. Been able to help local companies realize their capacities and potentials is very rewarding. Both in Puerto Rico and in the Dominican Republic we have been in contact with the franchise industry since the 60’s because of the arrival of fast food, gas stations, car dealerships, and many other concepts. But is now, after many years of preaching the franchise gospel, that both the Puerto Rican and Dominican companies are aware that they can compete head to head in quality, customer service, experience, and profits with any other concepts from the world.


We don’t forge these relationships to increase our bottom-line, we do it to raise money for worthy charities. It is simply the right thing to do. Additionally, I believe it is essential to give back in various ways.


Questionnaire Response No. 7 Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated.

Rick Davidson Century 21 Real

Estate

None

Lowell Hawthorne


Bakery and Grill

Not applicable


There have been no legal actions taken against any franchise system in which I am affiliated with personally.

Ed Krafchow



None

Anthony Lolli

Rapid Realty

Franchise, LLC

None


All Around

Franchise & Business

Consultants

None


None


Questionnaire Response No. 8 Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree.

Rick Davidson


N/A


Although most of my work has been related directly to franchising, a very important aspect of this business model that can’t be overlooked is entrepreneurship. I have made great efforts to not only support the franchising community, but also the entrepreneurial spirit in Mexico, proof of which is that my firm has been recognized as one of only 28 business incubators in the country. We assist entrepreneurs to develop their ideas into concrete businesses, which may later mature as a franchise system. I am also in the process of publishing my fifth book, which focuses on entrepreneurship. I have written several articles in IFA sponsored publications as well as in publications all around the world such as Russia, Greece, Israel, Brazil, Guatemala, Spain, Italy, etc. on different franchise related topics. We are privileged to be mentoring a non-profit organization based out of Michigan focused on creating self-sufficient residential environments for young adults with special needs. While serving in the executive committee of the World Franchise Council, I had the opportunity to participate in the creation of the strategic plan for the organization.

Lowell Hawthorne

Golden Krust


In addition to the answers provided above I have also included a copy of our company history, community initiatives and our most current Franchise Disclosure Document for your review.

Ed Krafchow



N/A

Anthony Lolli


I’m a guy who came from nothing. My father was a first generation Italian-American WWII veteran-turned-schoolteacher. My mother immigrated to the US from Ecuador with $40 to her name. My parents and I shared a tiny one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn throughout my entire childhood. I got my real estate license at 19 to try to provide for my parents, and when I started my own firm at 21, it was an extension of that same goal. I built my company from the ground up (literally—I couldn’t afford a proper construction crew, so I hired day laborers and worked alongside them to build out the space).

Anthony Lolli (cont.)


I tell you this so that when I say it was hard for me to make the decision to franchise, you’ll understand why. It took every penny I had to start my own company, and giving up control over the brand like that—having to put my trust into other people to run their own offices with the love and care I had put into the company for more than a decade—was the most difficult thing I’d ever done. But it also turned out to be the best. Today, I can’t believe I ever thought about growing my company in any other way. I’m a vocal advocate for franchising everywhere I go. I’ve written articles on the subject for numerous publications, including the Huffington Post. Franchising has become part of my DNA, as much as it’s a part of my company’s.




Local Exportable Franchise Development Program

Expo Franquicias Caribe is the first international franchise expo to be held in Puerto Rico

Expansion of our firm and franchising promotion to the Dominican Republic.


My leadership style is focused on helping others to succeed. Franchising has taught all of us to gain success through influencing others versus a corporate set-up where making and implementing decisions is easier. As a franchise executive, one must never fail to provide an environment of constant learning and self-improvement.

For those who know me, I have an incredible love for others and our team. I lean towards people-centric decisions (including the ability for our workforce to take good care of themselves and their families) while making profit goals set by the Board. This balance and constant challenge has improved me as a human being, person and executive of a growing franchise system.


Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe.

Rick Davidson Century 21 Real

Estate

None


None

Lowell Hawthorne Golden Krust


No

Ed Krafchow



No


Franchise, LLC

None


All Around

Franchise & Business

Consultants

None


None

ronald harrison 2015 all nominees (alpha order), answers ... · ronald harrison – 2015 all...

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