Owning franchises that grow during market downturns help beat back recession

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March 30, 2009

Owning franchises that grow during market downturns help beat back recession
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is new, modern, innovative and growing

March 30, 2009, OAKVILLE – Buying a franchise, while a good idea during a recession, doesn’t in itself guarantee success. However, buying a franchise with market share that’s growing during economic unrest, is a step in the right direction.

Planet Beach Contempo® Spas are one such franchise. They’re the world’s first and only automated day spa – leaders in the multi-billion dollar wellness and beauty industry. They’re unique, new, innovative, and growing.

This isn’t surprising, as the beauty, health and wellness industries survive and even flourish in times of recession. Tough economic times bring on more stress, and as a result society searches for ways to get relief, uplift their mood and to feel better about themselves.

“People like to escape from the pressurized realities of life – some go to movies; others go to health and beauty spas,” says Ontario Master Franchisee, Nicole Matta. “What we’re currently experiencing is an extension of ‘lipstick theory’ that arose from previous economic downturns.”

The past shows us that the beauty and spa industry is nearly recession-proof. Not even today's economic weaknesses stop the public's insatiable demand for ways to relieve stress, look younger, feel sexier and live healthier lives.

The hottest health and beauty cravings are massage, facials, skincare, UV tanning, skin hydration, nutrition and teeth whitening, and Planet Beach Contempo® Spas offer all of them under one roof – a one-stop health and beauty centre.

“The reason for Planet Beach Contempo® Spas’ success is not only because we provide services and products that people want during tough economic times, but that we provide these services at an economical and affordable price,” says Nicole Matta. “After all, income’s tighter during a recession, making price a factor.”

When considering buying a franchise, searching for companies whose products and services are in growing demand during tough economic times is a good place to start – such as the beauty, health and wellness industry.

For more information about Planet Beach Contempo® Spas, go to www.planetbeach.ca.

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF PLANET BEACH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

An affordable spa getaway that's reshaping the industry

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March 16, 2009

An affordable spa getaway that’s reshaping the industry
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is new, modern and innovative

March 16, 2009, OAKVILLE –Planet Beach Contempo® Spas are unique, innovative, and reshaping the spa industry – welcome to the 21st century.

There are a number of ways in which Planet Beach accomplishes this, starting with affordability and convenience.

Typically, a spa getaway can involve a number of services ranging from a steam bath, body massage, seaweed wrap, facial massage, etc. – often costing upwards to $1 thousand per day – while a yearly Planet Beach membership includes unlimited access to all services for very little more.

“Members join for many different reasons, some for the convenience, others because they like a particular spa service, such as a shiatsu massage,” says Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “While they are content with the specific service they signed up for, the all-inclusive nature of their membership allows them to benefit from other services as well – services, which at your typical spa were expensive to try, just for the sake of curiosity.”

Since memberships allow spa-goers an all-inclusive experience for an affordable monthly fee, visitors can create a program that is entirely unique to their needs – using as many (or few) of the treatments as they want. Members can even experience new treatments with each visit.

“The affordability of our memberships combined with the most innovative of spa technologies is revolutionizing the industry because it makes spa services convenient and gives clients access to skin and body services they might not have otherwise tried,” says Nicole Matta. “But what our members are most happy about, are the results – both our men and women clients report feeling healthier, more relaxed, and that their skin is noticeably more attractive.”

Due to Planet Beach’s hi-tech spa services, an attendant is not required, and therefore massages, UV therapies, facials, etc. are done in the privacy of individual rooms making clients more comfortable. To a large degree they are in control of their own experience, as they are able to customize the machine settings – and if schedules are tight, they can easily adjust the timer to shorten a session.

With over 380 locations and 1.9 million members worldwide, members’ privileges extend around the world. So should a member be traveling, they won’t have to miss out on any regular visits.

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For further information or to arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF PLANET BEACH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Enjoy the benefits of relaxation and soaking up the sun without going south

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February 26, 2009

Enjoy the benefits of relaxation and soaking up the sun without going south
Planet Beach Contempo® Spa is like having a beach in your own backyard all year round

February 26, 2009, OAKVILLE – After four months of prolonged exposure to Canada’s dry, cold and dark winter, the human body is literally sun-starved and gasping for UV rays and some relaxation – and in only minutes at Planet Beach Contempo® Spa, a guest can experience the same health benefits of spending a day at the beach.

With spring break just around the corner, many families are busy planning their trip south, while many other families are merely wishing they were. But for those who don’t get to go or want to experience the benefits of a warm southern exposure all year round, visiting therapeutic spas that offer UV light therapy is the next best thing – now imagine a spa that offers the private massage in the cabana as well – things can’t get much better.

“It is no secret that light therapy treatments are known to have a number of health benefits,” says Planet Beach Contempo® Spa Master Franchisee Nicole Matta. “It’s proven effective in treating acne, psoriasis, seasonal affective disorder, and non-seasonal depression – not only does it improve skin conditions, it makes you feel better, brighter and more energetic.”

Planet Beach Contempo® Spa uses state-of-the-art spa technology and advanced light therapy enabling guests to enjoy, in the privacy of their own room, the best in UV and relaxation therapies.

“My doctor wanted to know how I fixed my “trapezius [muscle]”. She was astounded and said she would do anything I was doing to get her trapezius to feel like mine. My blood pressure is down, my mood is up – I come every day for my “wellness” time,” says one member of Oakville’s Planet Beach Contempo® Spa. “It’s the best thing anyone can do for themselves.”

Guests have the choice of relaxing and unwinding on a Hydro-Massage bed, target vital pressure points and invigorate tired muscles with the heated Therasage shiatsu massage bed, or just sit in a Japanese Executive massage chair where all you need to do is take off your suit jacket and shoes and let the chair ease the day’s tensions away.

“So whether you come for a tan, UV therapy, or just to relax with any one of our many massage therapy units, just put on a relaxation tune with the sound of waves hitting the shore, close your eyes, and you will not just think you’re at the beach, you’ll experience the benefits of a day at the beach like no other,” says Nicole Matta. “And should you decide to become a member and visit regularly, not only will you feel better, your skin will be noticeably healthier and more youthful-looking.”

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For further information or arrange an interview contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF PLANET BEACH
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Greener days ahead for Canadian golfers

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November 28, 2007

Parmaster’s indoor golf greens ideal for practicing year round

November 28, 2007, TORONTO -- The chip and putt are two of the most important strokes in golf which only get better with practice. Parmasters Golf Training Centers make it possible to practice these strokes year round in their indoor golf centres.

Just ask players such as Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and Mike Weir and they'll tell you that improvement only comes through consistent training and practice. Few ever imagine reaching their playing level, but concede that any improvement would be a step in the right direction.

Whether professional, experienced, casual or new, all golfers agree with the old adage, that "practice makes perfect." And yet, it's actually perfect practice that makes perfect. And that means training in the ideal conditions. What's challenging for the average golfer is finding the time and place to practice year round.

"It's no wonder that professionals putt well when many of them, such as Vijay Singh, have professionally designed golf greens right in their own backyard," says Parmasters Chief Golf Professional and Co-Founder, Scott Hazledine. "To have one of these would be any golfer's dream."

"Having a surface this good to practice on is incredible," says Vijay Singh, 2004 PGA champion. "[It]… performs like a tour green."

The putting greens are so realistic and play like real greens that a golfer can play the same stroke that's used on real grass. "We've found that pros and amateurs can greatly improve their putting strokes by being able to rely on consistent putts with a "true roll" from every position on the green," says Weston Weber, founder and owner of Southwest Putting Greens Technologies, Inc.

Over 25 PGA pros own these putting greens, and it is these same, quality greens that Parmasters are installing in each of their 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet golf centres, beginning with Canada's first Parmasters centre which opens early 2008 in Edmonton. Another 12 golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes will follow in the spring.

"Not only is Parmasters 'the ultimate golf training and practice facility,' they make learning, practicing and playing golf fun," says Andre Ferris, Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers. "As I speak with people across Canada about this opportunity, it's exciting to hear their enthusiasm and anticipation for the centres to open."

Parmasters is the world's first year-round indoor golf training centre franchise that literally guarantees results and is currently establishing itself in the Canadian market. And with over 30 franchises already awarded in Canada, and only opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, to be sold, finding a location close to home shouldn't be too difficult.

Visit www.parmastersfranchise.com for franchising opportunities and details.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF PARMASTERS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Studies show families that eat meals together are healthier eaters

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November 11, 2007

Adolescents choose fruits and vegetables over junk food

Studies, conducted by the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, September 2007, show that there are health benefits to eating frequently together as a family. Children who have three or more family meals per week:

• Have 50 per cent less risk for substance abuse
• Are less likely to smoke
• Are less likely to use alcohol
• Experience increased dietary quality leading to a healthier body
  

“The sharing of food at meals has been a symbol of family unity, love, connections and communication,” says Mary Story PhD, RD, Professor, University of Minnesota.

After surveying over 1500 students, once in high school and later at the age of 20, the researchers found that “…eating family meals together during adolescence resulted in adults who ate more fruit, dark-green and orange vegetables and key nutrients, and drank less soft drinks.”

These facts emphasize the importance of families taking time out of their busy schedules to share a meal. Hectic schedules and busy, active lives threaten to erode adolescent health when busy families choose one of several last-minute meal solutions such as fast food or processed meals.

This same study is adamant in encouraging nutrition professionals to exhort families to have meals together as often as reasonably possible. However, for many families, it seems difficult to balance the two. After all, it takes time to prepare and eat a meal. This explains why people choose meals that need little or no preparation.

Recognizing the importance of eating together as a family unit is not new to SupperWorks, Canada’s premiere meal preparation franchise; they also understand nutrition.

“We’ve been helping families have more time together since we opened our first store – and after opening our twelfth store the trend continues,” says Joni Lien, Co-founder of SupperWorks. “In fact ‘love great food and family time,’ is one of our core messages, and was a motivating factor for establishing SupperWorks.”

“I came in… [to SupperWorks] with my son Christopher and we both had a wonderful time. Best of all, Christopher can't wait to try out everything we made,” says Monika Moravan. “I cooked the BBQ Pulled Chicken in my rice cooker overnight, he tried it for breakfast and decided to have it in a thermos for his lunch today at school. This from a kid who wouldn't eat chicken in any form other than chicken fingers!”

In a busy world with hectic, conflicting schedules, the less time it takes to prepare meals, the more time there is available for family. The new TBS comedy series, The Bill Engvall Show, recognizes this fact and features the family gathering at the dinner table for mealtime.

“Supperworks is definitely the best option for families who have little time to prepare meals and who find themselves eating less healthy alternatives or dining out on a regular basis,” says a regular customer of SupperWorks’ Newmarket location. “They make cooking meals easy, as each meal comes with a pre-printed label for cooking instructions and suggestions for serving.”

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF SUPPERWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.0218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Charitable giving just got ‘tasty’

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October 4, 2007

SupperWorks offers a unique fundraising alternative

October 4, 2007, OAKVILLE - The need for charitable assistance is on the rise and, at the same time, charitable organizations are finding more and more competition for donor dollars. Creative fundraising is one of the few remaining alternatives.

Statistics Canada reports that donations were up 13.8 per cent in 2005 from 2004, and a median average of $240 per donor. Although there has been an increase in the actual dollars donated, the increase in the number of donors is less than 1 per cent. These statistics show that it's the same people doing the giving; they're just giving a little bit more each year.

If charitable organizations are to be successful in raising funds, it is important that they remain accountable and be wise in their choosing of a fundraiser. While events such as a polar bear dip are arduous at best, and chocolate bars and chocolate covered almonds seem to be reserved for sports teams and public schools, other worthwhile community causes seem to get lost in a moray of appeals with little or no new ideas to assist them in raising their much needed funds.

SupperWorks, Canada's premiere meal preparation franchise, recognizing that there are many worthwhile community activities and organizations which need financial support, introduced their own fundraising opportunity.

"We want to do our part in showing financial support for our community, so when groups come to SupperWorks to help them fundraise we donate four per cent of the purchase price of their meals to the charity of their choice," says Joni Lien, Co-founder of SupperWorks. "We encourage the organization members to participate with us by placing a SupperWorks order knowing that together, we will be supporting worthwhile causes."

"It's really simple -- we do all the prep, all the clean up and prepare all the menus," says Chris Wood, Co-founder of SupperWorks. "And in less than 2 hours an organization's member will have prepared 12 full-sized meals with each serving 4-6 people."

Getting involved in the SupperWorks plan doesn't cost the participant anything more than the cost of the meals.

"When you think about it, what a great way to give. (Testimonial) " Money I would've spent on fast food or store bought frozen dinners anyway, I spend at SupperWorks and for doing so, I get to support one of my favourite charities. What could be better?"

"SupperWorks is excited and honoured to join community members in supporting their favourite charitable cause," says Chris. As there are so many worthwhile causes, we can't just support one to the exclusion of all others. As with our meals, it's best to give our customers the choice."

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
ON BEHALF OF SUPPERWORKS
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca

Golf swing technology (system) is guaranteed to reduce a golfer’s score

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September 14, 2007

Parmasters’ training systems guarantee twenty-five per cent handicap reduction

September 14, 2007, TORONTO - Whether you're a casual golfer or a fanatic there is at least one common thread. Every golfer strives for a lower score each time out. Even new golfers want to improve, they want to learn and they want to look good on the fairway. Parmasters Golf Training Centers' training system makes sure this happens and guarantees a 25 per cent reduction in handicap.

Improving their game is what keeps a golfer from discouragement and quitting the game, according to a National Golf Foundation (NGF) study. With an average of 2 million new golfers entering the sport each year, making golf one of the most explosive sporting industries, Parmasters Golf Training Centers recognizes the importance of teaching sound fundamentals that will help a golfer improve each time out.

Parmasters believes they can help a golfer become better at hitting the ball straight and getting consistent and predictable results. In fact they guarantee it! Rather than teach the complicated basic physics of the golf swing, certified golf coaches develop each part of the swing from impact backwards. "The traditional golf swing is complex and extremely difficult to master, unless of course you are practicing five hours per day," says Scott Hazeldine, Master Player, Master Teacher and holder of 22 course records. "The good news is; there is a better way. It's the simplest and most accurate way to hit a golf ball. We call it "Straight Line Golf," This golf swing is so easy that everybody can learn to do it. Parmasters claim it can be learned in just eight hours using their Accelerated Learning Techniques?. This affordable, non-intimidating alternative to the traditional, typically expensive teaching method is a big hit with the golfing community.

A Parmasters Golf Training Center is typically 12,000 to 15,000 square-feet and is "the ultimate golf training and practice facility" offering a climate-controlled, indoor golfers haven. Facilities can include short game areas, a retail shop for equipment and golf apparel; a golf fitness area that focuses on strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance; and a training and events room that can be rented for corporate functions or family birthday parties. In addition there's the on-site Links Golf Café, offering gourmet organic coffee and clubhouse fare, as well as free wireless Internet.

Members enjoy specialized driving bays, realistic professionally designed rolling putting greens, a golf fitness center, state of the art golf simulators featuring world-class courses, sand traps and much more.

A 2006 Ipsos Reid poll indicated that Canadians spent a total of $11.23 billion in 2005 on green fees, membership, equipment and apparel and also indicated that 5.95 million Canadians participated in the sport in 2005, representing a 21.6 per cent increase from 2001.

Parmasters is evidence of this growing trend as it is set to open Canada's first Parmasters Golf Training Center early 2008, and another 12 golf training centers and 20 Links Golf Cafes beginning in the spring. Already in Canada, over 30 franchises have been awarded, leaving only opportunities in Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, yet to be sold. Further information on franchising opportunities can be found at www.parmasaters.com.

"I'm excited and the timing couldn't be better for opening a Parmasters Golf Center," says Stephen Southern, President, Parmasters Southern Ontario. "And with the support provided by Andre Ferris, the Canadian Regional Franchisor of Parmasters Golf Training Centers, we hope to pre-sell a target 750 Charter Memberships prior to opening." Charter memberships provide members with preferred access to the unparalleled indoor practice facilities and centre amenities.

Each full-size training center when in full operation is expected to average 2,000 members. The Halifax site sold 617 memberships before construction had even commenced.

Parmasters, out of 65,000 franchisees, earned its second consecutive ranking in the Top 50 Franchises in North America from Franchise Business Review. "This is further evidence of their desire to not just be the number one golf center, but to be the number one franchise," says Andre Ferris, Canadian Regional Franchisor for Parmasters.

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For further information contact:

Peter Turkington
Strategic Communications Solutions
Public Relations Specialists
ON BEHALF OF PARMASTERS CANADA
Direct Phone: 905.901.9218
Email: pturkington@stratcommsolutions.ca
Web: www.stratcommsolutions.ca