Potter's House Wins Parable IFA Franchisee of the Year
(March 7, 2007) – Parable Christian Stores honored The Potter's House Parable Christian Store of Valdosta, Georgia, as 2007 Franchisee of the Year on February 24.
The annual International Franchise Association (IFA) Franchisee of the Year Award acknowledges franchise small-business operators for outstanding performance. Franchisees representing 50 different businesses were honored in front of an audience of more than 3,000 at the 47th annual IFA convention in Las Vegas last month.
"The Potter's House Parable Christian Store has always been cutting-edge in regards to merchandising in their store and the way they run the store," says Rod Huff, Parable vice president of franchise operations. "They're great team players."
Cherie Gregory, who owns the 30-year-old store with her husband, Tom, says: "It's an honor. We were very pleased to even be considered for it and surprised."
Gregory says she wanted to be a part of the Parable franchise from its inception last year.
"I wanted to help make some of the key decisions." She adds that stores and customers alike ask her why she and Tom chose to become part of a franchise.
"I don't understand why somebody wouldn't," counters Gregory. The Parable franchise has more than doubled from 24 stores in the beginning to currently 56 stores strong.
Gregory predicts that more stores will franchise in the coming years. "As time goes on, more and more stores will join and brand recognition will occur."
Parable isn't the only entity that thinks highly of The Potter's House Parable Christian Store. Last year, Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) named it Store of the Year.
The Potter's House Parable Christian Store is also garnering positive attention from potential franchisees. Gregory tells of a woman from Indiana who visited her and Tom's store and was so impressed she wants to start a Parable franchise of her own.
"That thrilled me," quips Gregory.
The International Franchise Association is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising, acting as a point of access for notable franchises such as McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts and ACE Hardware.
Parable helps Christian retail ministries succeed by making business better. A combination of marketing group, franchise and retail services provider, Parable offers Christian retailers a full range of marketing, merchandising and operational services. For more information contact Gary Weyel, Parable marketing and communications strategist, or visit www.parablegroup.com. The Parable Group is based in San Luis Obispo, Calif.
