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OUT OF OFFICE ALERT: Work Anywhere in the World Courtesy of Velocity Global

Velocity Global

Nationwide contest sends three winners to live anywhere in the world for a full year and keep their current job Velocity Global to showcase the positive impact of remote work by supporting the winners at no cost to their employers Velocity Global, the leading provider of global talent solutions, today announced its Out of Office Year TM contest, which provides three winners the ability to work remotely in their current jobs from anywhere in the world, paid for by Velocity Global. "In this new world of work, you can be the CEO of your own career. Talent can move across the country or across the world on their own terms and their employer can benefit,” said Ben Wright, Velocity Global founder, and CEO. “The ‘Out of Office Year’ demonstrates to employers and employees how simple it is to work from anywhere, all while gaining new life experiences and a broader world view.” Workplace flexibility remains top of mind for workers. According to an August 2021 survey from FlexJobs, 58% of employees reported they wanted to be full-time remote post-pandemic. It’s a desire among business leaders as well. In the 2022 Velocity Global Work in Progress report, 63% of the more than 1,000 tech leaders surveyed said they would prefer to work from a new location such as closer to family or overseas. As employers continue to institute policies around different workplace concepts – remote, in-office, or hybrid – employees are evaluating if those policies align with their priorities. “The ability to work remotely is one of the most important conversations employers can have with their current and potential employees,” said Robert Herjavec, founder and CEO of Herjavec Group and Velocity Global brand ambassador. “I grew a leading cybersecurity company by committing to hire top talent from anywhere. I know the benefits that ‘work anywhere’ brings to a business, but now employees know the benefits it brings to their lives. There’s no turning back and Velocity Global’s Out of Office Year sheds light on how simple it can be to make this benefit a reality.” Out of Office Year Contest Details The contest is open to all U.S. residents interested in moving to another location while keeping their current job. At OOOyear.com, applicants submit up to a 60-second video explaining where and why they want to work remotely. Velocity Global will select three applicants and fulfill their dreams of working anywhere. Velocity Global will facilitate the conversation between the employees and their employers regarding worry-free compliance, payroll, and employee support. Velocity Global will support that employee through its global work platform in any of more than 185 countries for one year at no cost to the employer. The employer simply continues to pay the salary, benefits, and other regulatory requirements just as they do now for that employee. The winners and their stories will be chronicled through Velocity Global’s social media channels to inspire other employees and employers to enter the future of work. For more information about the contest or to submit an entry, please visit OOOyear.com. Applications are now open until January 31, 2022. About Velocity Global Velocity Global accelerates the future of work beyond borders. Its global work platform simplifies the employer and employee experience to employ any talent anywhere with just a click through its proprietary cloud-based workforce management technology, backed by personalized expertise and unmatched global scale. As the largest global Employer of Record (also known as International PEO) in 185 countries and all 50 United States, more than 1,000 brands rely on Velocity Global to build global teams without the cost or complexity of setting up foreign legal entities or state registrations. The company offers additional services including Independent Contractor Compliance to assess a workforce, and Agent of Record (AoR) to streamline payments to contractors. Velocity Global was named a “Leader” in Global Employer of Record services by prominent analyst firm NelsonHall. Founded in 2014, the company has hundreds of employees across six continents. For more information visit velocityglobal.com. Contact Details Velocity Global Eli Rice +1 720-650-4348 news@velocityglobal.com Company Website https://velocityglobal.com/

December 15, 2021 07:01 AM Mountain Standard Time

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Chief Compliance Officers find U.S. Department of Justice’s Recent Guidance Documents on Effective Corporate Compliance Programs are Helpful but Need More Detail

Ethics & Compliance Initiative

Today the Ethics & Compliance Initiative ( ECI ™) released the report of findings from a survey of nearly 250 chief compliance officers (CCOs) on the value and impact of several guidance documents issued by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) since 2019. The Corporate Compliance Program (CCP) and DOJ Enforcement Policies survey inquired about CCOs’ views of four primary DOJ policy or guidance documents that communicate the criteria used by the DOJ to evaluate the effectiveness of corporate compliance programs in enforcement decisions. The survey further sought CCO input about ways the DOJ could further incentivize corporate compliance and encourage corporate self-disclosure and cooperation in the event of violations. ECI surveyed ethics & compliance (E&C) leaders about the DOJ’s: Evaluation of Corporate Compliance Programs (CCP), updated June 2020; Guidelines for Taking Disclosure, Cooperation, and Remediation into Account in False Claims Act Matters (FCA-related policies), issued March 2019; Resource Guide to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), 2nd edition, July 2020 (this guide discusses the FCPA Corporate Enforcement Policy (CEP) contained in the Justice Manual [CEP as explained in the FCPA resources guide]); Evaluation of Corporate Compliance Programs in Criminal Antitrust Investigations, issued July 2019 (antitrust compliance program guidance); and Incentivizing effective programs and compliance in organizations. ECI found that the majority of CCOs – on average 68% – were familiar with the DOJ’s four guidance documents. CCOs were most familiar with the DOJ’s Evaluation of Corporate Compliance Programs guidance document. ECI also asked about the helpfulness of DOJ’s policies and found that E&C leaders overwhelmingly agreed they are helpful. CCOs said that they have been able to educate stakeholders about the DOJ’s perspective in order to promote the importance of compliance and to strengthen the cultures of their organizations. The extent to which CCOs briefed various stakeholder groups about the DOJ’s issuance of guidelines varied by the policy document. Company efforts to adjust their programs in light of DOJ’s criteria also varied, in part due to the extent to which companies felt that their programs already sufficiently addressed the DOJ’s standard, or to the extent that the policy area (such as FCPA, FCA or Antitrust) was identified as a key risk for the corporation. In terms of corporate willingness to self-disclose violations, particularly with regard to FCPA, FCA and Antitrust violations, CCOs indicated that their organizations would be more willing to self-disclose and cooperate if they were aware that the DOJ is consistently giving credit to other organizations for doing so. The challenge, however, is that an average 63% of CCOs indicated that they are unsure whether the DOJ is consistently declining prosecutions, awarding credit or negotiating plea agreements in alignment with its guidance. Through the survey, CCOs offered suggestions as to how the DOJ could further incentivize corporate compliance programs. These included: Providing illustrative examples of E&C program practices that were influential in DOJ’s declination decisions; Providing more details of enforcement actions, improving its guidance documents, and engaging more with companies; Providing credit for company efforts to build a strong ethical culture; Dismissal of a qui tam action if the company maintains an effective compliance program in a situation where an employee failed to report internally before filing suit; and Elimination of the threat of debarment or exclusion for companies with effective E&C programs. ECI will hold a Best Practice Forum – The Impact of DOJ Guidance on Corporate Compliance Programs – from 2 pm to 3:30 pm EST on Wednesday, December 15, to discuss and consider: The value of DOJ enforcement guidelines and resources to E&C functions; How DOJ guidance is being applied in organizations and why it is not being applied in some cases; The information and guidance E&C leaders are looking for from the DOJ; and The October 2021 DOJ memorandum on corporate criminal enforcement policies in the context of ECI’s survey findings. “It is clear from the study that the Department of Justice has a significant impact on corporate compliance practices,” said Patricia J. Harned, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of ECI. “Respondents overwhelmingly agree that reforms demonstrative of a cooperative approach rather than a punitive approach by DOJ would incentivize improved corporate compliance in organizations. “It is our hope that ECI will have an opportunity to speak further about these results with the DOJ, on behalf of the ethics & compliance profession.” The Corporate Compliance Program (CCP) and DOJ Enforcement Policies Summary of Findings is available here. About ECI Established in 1922, the Ethics & Compliance Initiative™ ( ECI ™) comprises the two oldest nonprofits in the ethics & compliance industry; the Ethics Resource Center® (d.b.a. the Ethics Research Center) and the Ethics & Compliance Officer Association (d.b.a. the Ethics & Compliance Association). Through its research, ECI identifies the practices that improve ethics & compliance program effectiveness and build institutional culture strength. As an association, ECI brings together ethics & compliance professionals and academics from all over the world to share techniques, resources and exciting new ideas. ECI also has an established track record of providing support to organizations seeking to transform their cultures, often in the wake of significant challenges with noncompliance. Contact Details Florence Sumaray +1 301-717-9063 florence@ethics.org Company Website https://www.ethics.org

December 14, 2021 03:05 PM Eastern Standard Time

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College of DuPage Paralegal Alumna One of Seven Certified Russian Court Interpreters in Illinois

College of DuPage

In federal courthouses across the U.S., access to justice requires the use of languages spoken around the globe. As one of only seven Certified Court Interpreters in Illinois for the Russian language, College of DuPage alumna Olga Bronovytska plays an integral role in helping a defendant with limited English proficiency or who is deaf or hard-of-hearing understand legal proceedings and assist in their case from beginning to end. “Regardless of the outcome of a case, the bottom line is that meaningful access to the process is provided to the defendant,” Bronovytska said. A 2020 COD Paralegal Studies graduate, Bronovytska said the College provided her a solid foundation to learning the intricacies that take place in a courtroom. “Without completing the Paralegal Studies program at COD, I would not have been comfortable interpreting hearings, depositions, arbitrations and other cases,” she said. “Without specific education in the legal field, it is just impossible to embrace and be fluent in legal proceedings. I decided I needed to go through the entire program to obtain a solid foundation.” Because she was working and raising two young children, Bronovytska took only one or two classes per semester. She was thrilled with the encouragement she received from both faculty and peers, including Paralegal Professor Sally Fairbank. “Professor Fairbank made me realize how many more professional opportunities would open up if I completed the program,” she said. “I was also amazed with the support that faculty provided. It was immediate.” Fairbank credits Bronovytska’s tenacity during her time in the program and has enjoyed seeing her flourish in the field. “Olga was the consummate professional from the first day she started our program,” she said. “She was poised, prepared and courteous, and her work product was superior. She was continuously focused on learning and self-improvement, and I am thrilled that our program assisted her in reaching this prestigious accomplishment. Court interpreters play such a vital role in the constitutional process, and they allow everyone, no matter their background, a fair trial.” During the next few years, Bronovytska—who also interprets Ukrainian, is advanced in French and is conversational in Mandarin Chinese—plans to continue working as a court interpreter while looking for additional courses to take at COD, including corporate law. She then would like to find employment with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, where she can use her multilingual skills, or with corporations where she could use both linguistic skills and knowledge obtained during her time in the Paralegal Studies program. “My COD professors provided me with consistent support throughout the program, and to them I must give a sincere ‘thank you.’” Learn more about the Paralegal Studies program at College of DuPage ### Contact Details Angela Mennecke +1 630-942-3134 menneckea@cod.edu

December 13, 2021 05:00 PM Central Standard Time

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Velocity Global hires Colin McDonagh from Facebook to expand contractor management expertise

Velocity Global

Velocity Global, the leading provider of global talent solutions, today announced it welcomed Colin McDonagh as its vice president of Emerging Business. McDonagh applies more than a decade of experience innovating programs to source top contractor talent for global companies. McDonagh is a frequent expert speaker and contributor on the Future of Work and was the architect for Meta’s (formerly Facebook) highly respected Direct Source program. “We help companies work with anyone, anywhere, anyhow. Colin is an expert on all three,” said Eric Schroeder, Velocity Global chief operating officer. “Colin built a world-class contractor program at one of the largest companies on the planet and solved the complexities that stand between flexible talent and getting work done. He’ll apply that knowledge for our clients and our own triple-digit growth.” Velocity Global’s work platform combines the company’s proprietary cloud-based talent management technology, personalized expertise, and unmatched global scale to build globally distributed teams. More than 1,000 clients rely on Velocity Global’s platform in 185 countries and all 50 United States without the need to set up their own legal entities or state registrations. “There’s no such thing as a company that relies solely on internal employees. Companies like Meta can’t execute big ideas without a diverse workforce from every corner of the globe,” said McDonagh. “I chose to join Velocity Global to contribute proven methods to simplify the process to work with anyone, anywhere, anyhow and honestly change the future of work at incredible scale,” said McDonagh. McDonagh is based in Dublin, Ireland, and is building a global team to deliver products and solutions for contractors and freelancers. Those positions are posted with other Velocity Global opportunities at https://velocityglobal.com/about-us/careers/. About Velocity Global Velocity Global accelerates the future of work beyond borders. Its global work platform simplifies the employer and employee experience to employ any talent anywhere with just a click through its proprietary cloud-based workforce management technology, backed by personalized expertise and unmatched global scale. As the largest global Employer of Record (also known as International PEO) in 185 countries and all 50 United States, more than 1,000 brands rely on Velocity Global to build global teams without the cost or complexity of setting up foreign legal entities or state registrations. The company offers additional services including Independent Contractor Compliance to assess a workforce, and Agent of Record (AoR) to streamline payments to contractors. Velocity Global was named a “Leader” in Global Employer of Record services by prominent analyst firm NelsonHall. Founded in 2014, the company has hundreds of employees across five continents. For more information visit velocityglobal.com. Contact Details Velocity Global John Hall +1 720-650-4348 johnhall@velocityglobal.com Company Website https://velocityglobal.com/

December 13, 2021 07:01 AM Mountain Standard Time

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Simpay Adds Michael Hervis as Senior Vice President of Enterprise Sales

Simpay

Simpay, a full-service payments, payroll, and POS provider, is continuing to expand their executive leadership team with the appointment of Michael Hervis as Senior Vice President of Enterprise Sales. “We're thrilled to announce that Michael is heading Simpay’s Enterprise Sales Division. With his extensive industry background, he'll drive our expansion in alignment with the Simpay roadmap”, said Lazaros Kalemis, Simpay’s Founder and CEO. “Traditionally we have focused on boarding customers transactionally, one at a time. With Michael’s help we are now offering our platform, and our unique customer experience, to multi-layered companies, financial institutions, and software providers with specific market concentration. In his role, Hervis will focus on building a sustainable and profitable International Channel of large scale clients, partners, and ISVs. “Servicing Enterprise level accounts requires a sound infrastructure, exemplary responsiveness, and a superior technology stack to get the job done efficiently. Simpay has all three, along with the vision to keep finding ways to improve our programs”, says Hervis. There is a very natural fit, both personally and professionally, with Simpay, and I am excited to bring my 20 years of experience and proven track record of building high-performing business units, growing emerging markets and successfully turning around underperforming sectors to Simpay”. About Simpay: Simpay, a Trevose, PA-based company, provides payment acceptance, employee management solutions, POS systems, and growth tools for businesses across North America. Since our very beginnings in 2000, our commitment to quality and transparency has been the basis of everything we do. To learn more, visit simpay.net Contact Details For more information contact +1 866-253-2227 info@simpay.net Company Website https://www.simpay.net

December 13, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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NCMA’s Entry-level Certification Achieves ANSI Accreditation

National Contract Management Association

The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) announced today they have been granted accreditation from The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for the Certified Contract Management Associate™ (CCMA™) certification. “This is a critical milestone for our entry-level certification, the second NCMA certification to receive this honor,” said Kraig Conrad, CEO. “Accreditation from an internationally-recognized third-party solidifies the quality of the CCMA™ and reinforces our community’s journey to represent global best practices in everything we do.” The ANSI accreditation process, based on the ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 standard, provides a global benchmark for certification programs to ensure they operate in a consistent, comparable, and reliable manner worldwide. ANSI accreditation signifies that the holder has attained a certification designed to the highest industry requirements and that NCMA has met, and continues to meet standards for quality, emphasizing the validity and integrity of the CCMA™ program as the entry-level contract management certification. The CCMA™ assess knowledge of the ANSI-Approved Contract Management Standard™ (CMS™) that is recognized as the basis for common language for contract management and the processes created through integration and interaction of job tasks. For more information about the CCMA™ certification visit www.ncmahq.org/certification. ### The National Contract Management Association (NCMA), which was founded in 1959 and is the world’s leading association in the field of contract management. The organization, which has over 18,000 members, is dedicated to the professional growth and educational advancement of procurement and acquisition personnel worldwide. NCMA strives to serve and inform the profession and industry it represents and to offer opportunities for the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. To find out more, please visit www.ncmahq.org. Contact Details Jennifer Knowlton +1 571-382-1127 jennifer.knowlton@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org/

December 08, 2021 04:00 PM Eastern Standard Time

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a360inc Chooses Provana to Bring Expanded e-Filing and Enhanced Data Analytics Solutions to Mortgage Default Servicing Industry

Provana

Provana, provider of the industry's first unified platform for compliance and performance management, today announced a new partnership with a360inc, to enhance and expand technology-enabled solutions to default servicing law firms. Building on both companies' extensive expertise in the legal and financial services industries, a360inc clients will benefit from expanded e-filing capabilities and advanced data analytics tools. Scott Brinkley, Chief Executive Officer of a360inc, noted, “We’re excited to partner with Provana to offer our technology clients enhanced e-filing and BI reporting capabilities. With Provana’s nationwide e-filing solutions now accessible through all a360inc applications, our clients will have seamless access to services that better position their businesses to navigate the unpredictability of the current mortgage servicing market.” “The partnership comes at a critical time for foreclosure firms, when scale and flexibility are primary concerns, given the rapidly changing economic and regulatory landscape,” said Provana Chief Executive Officer Sandeep Bhargava. “Formalizing this relationship between a360inc and Provana builds on our promise to work with SMBs to help them overcome process-intensive challenges for higher productivity and profit.” “After working with both Provana and a360inc for many years, I’m excited to see the two companies join forces,” said Jim Ward, Chief Executive Officer of ProVest. “Together, Provana and a360inc deliver a powerful combination of technology and services that can help mortgage default servicing law firms focus on their core competencies and maximize productivity and profitability.” For up-to-date information about specific implementations, contact us. Clients can also learn more about the benefits of these unique technology solutions, schedule custom demos and meet representatives from both companies during the MBA Servicing Conference in February. About Provana Provana’s SaaS-based digital operating platform is the first of its kind, giving leaders control over process-intensive operations. We serve law firms, insurance companies, accounts receivable agencies and networked enterprises in the US market that are tightly regulated by the CFPB and other authorities. Built on decades of experience in machine learning, natural language processing and business process management, Provana helps customers manage sensitive interactions, analyze unstructured data, process personal information and ensure compliance. Provana is backed by a NYC-based Fintech PE, most recently raising funds in November 2020. Learn more at www.provana.com. About a360inc a360inc is a leading technology and outsourcing services provider to the financial services, real estate, and legal industries. Based in Addison, TX, a360inc provides case management system technology and outsourcing services to law firms, title agencies, underwriters, mortgage companies and investors. Learn more about a360inc and its suite of products and services online at www.a360inc.com. About Provana Provana is a SaaS platform that gives leaders control over process-intensive operations. We serve law firms, insurance companies, accounts receivable agencies and networked enterprises in the US market that are tightly regulated by the CFPB and other authorities. Provana is built on decades of experience in machine learning and natural language processing and helps customers manage sensitive interactions, analyze unstructured data, process personal information and ensure compliance. Provana is backed by a NYC-based Fintech PE, most recently raising funds in November 2020. Learn more at www.provana.com. Contact Details Provana Britney Schaeffer +1 469-774-2409 britney.schaeffer@provana.com a360inc Amber Benson +1 469-640-0432 amber.benson@sqft.management Company Website https://www.provana.com/

December 08, 2021 11:54 AM Central Standard Time

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Politicians and Reformers Agree, Constitutional Reform is Coming Soon

Let Us Vote for a BBA

With the recent oral arguments surrounding Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, calls for constitutional reform have echoed around the country. A little-known passage in the U.S. Constitution allows the states to draft and the people to ratify amendments without Congress. Recently, both reformers and politicians have agreed a convention to propose amendments is no longer hypothetical, it’s happening. “…There are currently applications from 27 states requesting a convention on a Balanced Budget Amendment and six generic applications for a general convention,” said outgoing NJ Senate President Steve Sweeney. “Despite the differing reasons, that makes 33 states with pending applications, and only one more would be required to call for a constitutional convention.” "I wish to personally thank Sweeney for confirming in public what we have been saying in private all along,” said David Biddulph, founder of the Let us Vote for a Balanced Budget Amendment Citizen Campaign, “A national convention to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution is going to happen, not only in our lifetimes, but I predict it will happen in the next year or two.” "I am eagerly introducing a resolution this legislative session, which I hope will be number 34 and the final measure needed to compel a national convention," said State Senator Rex Rice (SC-2), "I am also introducing legislation to hold convention delegates to their oath of office as they serve the public in what will surely be one of the most interesting periods in American history. I encourage other legislators around the country to do the same." Recent Supreme Court decisions, such as Chiafalo v. Washington, have reaffirmed the safety of a convention process and allayed concerns about oath-taking delegates who would attempt to deviate from their original purpose. "The Supreme Court has said delegates must do the will of the people who send them to an assembly. That much is crystal clear from the recent Electoral College decision," said Mike Kapic, author of Conventions That Made America. "As a further safety check, the Assembly of State Legislatures recently negotiated bipartisan rules for an orderly and organized convention process. I am convinced that commissioners from the states assembled at a convention will behave much better than the members of Congress that we see on our television screens every day." At least 33 states currently have active certified resolutions calling for a convention, but historically, Congress has received many more calls on a variety of issues. Most amendments to the U.S. Constitution began with convention calls from the states and ended with Congress proposing the desired amendment, including the Bill of Rights. But on issues where Congress is the source of the problem, such as fiscal responsibility and election integrity, reformers are skeptical a solution will ever come out of Washington D.C. "Americans agree, Congress is stuck consistently in overspending and increasing taxes on American business and families. There is a genuine lack of political will for reform in the nation’s capital," said Bob Carlstrom of the Association of Mature American Citizens, "The people and the states must come together soon to propose a permanent fix for the nation's financial disorder, or the ship of state may sink due to the lack of stewardship and loose spending from our federal representatives. There exists a process in the Constitution to do just that. Let's use it." Not all politicians and reformers greeted this recent news of the imminent convention with fanfare. Some even reacted with alarm and began to immediately work to halt the number at 33 and possibly even rescind some of the currently active resolutions, a constitutionally questionable practice. For example, in New Jersey, SCR161 recently passed the New Jersey State Senate and its companion bill in the Assembly, ACR222, is scheduled for a vote this week. “Rather than focusing on issues important to voters, like getting kids back in school or reducing property taxes, New Jersey's lame duck session is being used to throttle the high hopes of reformers on both sides of the political aisle," said Tom Llewellyn of the Let Us Vote for a Balanced Budget Amendment Citizens Campaign, Inc. "Prior to voting this week, Sweeney’s counterparts in the Assembly may want to ask if it's wise to walk down that garden path with a proven loser when voters of both parties disagree with what you're doing. Political logic like that will get you beat by a trucker who spent less on his whole campaign than you did on the bar tab at Di Paulo’s." For more information, please visit: https://letusvoteforbba.org Contact Details Let Us Vote for a Balanced Budget Amendment Mae James +1 386-432-4744 info@LetUsVoteforBBA.org Company Website http://letusvoteforbba.org/

December 08, 2021 12:10 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Minuteman Press Highlights Year of Helping Independent Print Center Owners Sell Their Businesses

Minuteman Press International Inc

Minuteman Press International, the world’s leading design, marketing, and printing franchise, is proud to announce additional successful conversions of independent print shops to Minuteman Press franchises in 2021. Through the Minuteman Press International Conversion Program, independent printers are able to sell their printing business at no cost to them. Minuteman Press Franchise Conversion Program – 2021 Highlights Through this program, Minuteman Press International helps sellers of qualified printing businesses find qualified buyers within a reasonable time frame. All of the businesses highlighted below were listed for sale in mid-2020 and sold through 2021. Minuteman Press, Red Bank, New Jersey (formerly All American Print & Copy Center) Jason Carris is the new owner of Minuteman Press in Red Bank, NJ, which is part of the Middletown Township. He purchased All American Print & Copy Center, which was in business for 40 years, and took over the business in September 2021. Jason says, “ The biggest advantage of buying this business was having an established clientele. We did our research and made sure the owners were respected by their clients. There was also 40 years of history and track record as well.” He continues, “Minuteman Press and our Regional Vice President Jim Galasso guided us through the purchase of the business step by step. Jim made the process easier to manage and I couldn’t have done this on my own without the help from the team at Minuteman Press International.” Prior to franchising, Jason worked in medical publishing and digital marketing. He also ran a number of small consulting businesses in his career. He says, “A combination of things – including the pandemic and economic forces – made me decide to go fully into business ownership. My wife Renee has an entrepreneurial spirt as well.” Why Minuteman Press? Jason answers, “We did a lot of research and Minuteman Press jumped out to us on a number of levels. They were on a lot of top franchise lists, they appealed to people who hadn’t owned a business, and the business seemed easy to learn. In addition to being a highly respected franchise, Minuteman Press had a reasonable cost of entry and I appreciate their cap on royalties.” He adds, “The support has been wonderful. Because there is a 40-year history of the independent print shop we purchased, we have been transitioning the business. It’s great to have the training and support especially since I had not run a business of this scope before.” What is it like for Jason to be a business owner? He says, “Once you make that leap, it’s a very exciting experience to own your own business. We have a vibrant community here and I see the long-term growth potential. I am looking forward to making Minuteman Press a real pillar and trusted business partner in Red Bank / Middletown Township.” Jason further explains, “I think we have a tremendous opportunity to expand our wide format printing business with banners, posters, and signage remaining in high demand for our clients. I am also looking forward to bolstering our in-house mailing and direct mail services to help other local businesses reach their target audiences.” “I think the two biggest keys to owning a business are to really make sure you feel 100% comfortable with the business model, and to believe in your products and services. Also, it is important to be proactive but also have patience after buying the business. Think about growth potential, and understand there is a learning curve. That’s normal for everyone.” -Jason Carris, owner, Minuteman Press franchise, Red Bank, NJ (formerly All American Print & Copy Center) For more information on Minuteman Press in Red Bank, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/nj/red-bank. Minuteman Press, Longmont, Colorado (formerly Ron’s Printing Center) Avi Kumar has been part of the Minuteman Press franchise family since May 2016 as the owner of Minuteman Press in Greeley, CO. In February 2021, Avi had the opportunity to buy Ron’s Printing Center located in Longmont, CO, which was in business for 40 years. Avi converted Ron’s Printing Center into his second Minuteman Press franchise location in February 2021. Avi says, “Our Regional Vice President Jack Panzer told us about this established business for sale in Longmont, which is 40 minutes from us. The main advantage was to extend profitability and expand our business in Northern Colorado.” He continues, “Another advantage was that we did not have to spend a lot of extra effort in marketing this as a new business because Ron’s Printing Center had been established for a long time. The employees were all very hands-on and diligent and we were able to retain them all. Within the second month, we added mailings, promotional products, and apparel to their product lines. In fact, we just wrapped up a 30K mailer for a local non-profit organization and secured a large apparel order as well.” Prior to franchising in 2016, Avi worked in retail as a convenience store manager of several locations. “I used to manage some stores in Illinois for a big outfit out of Wisconsin. I finally got tired of answering to my boss and decided I wanted to own my own business. I moved on to better pastures and we decided as a family that Colorado was our calling.” Avi is thankful for being able to work with Minuteman Press and Jack Panzer over the past five years in Greeley and on the conversion in Longmont in 2021. He says, “Working with Jack is amazing as he is very thorough and helpful. Since I started my business in Greeley in 2016, he has been a huge resource for us and very supportive. As we start to build in Longmont, we are also expanding in Greeley to a new 5,000 sq. ft. facility – remodeling is under way as we speak. We started small and grew the business, and now we are building on that success at the right, consistent pace.” For more information on Minuteman Press in Longmont and Greeley, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/co/longmont or https://minuteman.com/us/locations/co/greeley. Minuteman Press, Missoula, Montana (formerly Advertiser Montana Printing) Rebecca and Kirk Treece are the new owners of Minuteman Press in Missoula, Montana. They purchased Advertiser Montana Printing, which has a 40-year history in Missoula, in January 2021. Rebecca says, “It is a real honor to become part of Missoula’s thriving business community. The Palmers (former owners) had a 40-year long relationship with this community and their loyal customers have welcomed us and trusted us with their service, which has given us a great start here in Missoula.” Prior to Minuteman Press, Rebecca and Kirk had varying careers. Rebecca shares, “Before owning my own business, I was utilizing my teaching degree as a vision therapist at an optometry office in Missoula, working with children and adults to improve their visual skills. My husband Kirk was previously a financial and operational manager for a large company. He and I also own a franchise of Fish Window Cleaning and Sunbelt Business Brokerage. We are familiar with business and the franchise concept, but were really drawn to the Minuteman Press structure, training, support and record of success.” While Rebecca and Kirk have experience owning a business, they had never been involved in the printing industry before. Rebecca says, “Advertiser Montana Printing was an independent print shop that had been in business for 40 years and they had a very loyal base of long-standing customers. An established customer base was the opportunity we were looking for when buying a new business. Our goal is 100% retention and we have worked diligently to meet and develop relationships with each customer. We hit the ground running and it gave us an opportunity to get experience across the board. Our local Minuteman Press field representatives were able to train us on every aspect of the business, which gave us the confidence to meet the demands of our customers.” Rebecca continues, “The support from Minuteman Press has been exceptional. The training was very comprehensive, and we felt like we were well-prepared for starting up and getting straight to work. We also know exactly who to call when we have a question or issue to manage. The network of Minuteman Press is amazing in the way that everyone is there for you at any time and in any capacity that you need. The expertise of the training and the continual mentoring are the powerful tools we need to succeed.” One of the ways Rebecca is looking to stand out as a new business owner is by expanding on the products and services offered by Minuteman Press and educating clients on what is in high demand right now. She explains, “Our high-demand products are business cards, menus, point of sale products like invoices and forms, and medical facility materials. As businesses open up, the demand for envelopes, letterhead, and other consumables has grown. Being part of Minuteman Press family has given us a huge opportunity to share with customers our expanded line of products like mailing, signage, apparel, promotional items. It has really given us the ability to help people promote their business.” As for Minuteman Press in Missoula, Rebecca and Kirk know exactly where they want to go. She says, “Our goal is to become the premier printing and advertising design company in Missoula and the Greater Northwestern Montana area. We want to develop the reputation for supplying the highest quality products and having superior customer service. We strive to make Minuteman Press in Missoula the place to go for all advice and services. The main lesson Minuteman Press impressed upon me is that if you do not like the current state of your business, change it! Get up, get out there, market, make connections, and grow your business. We have been given the tools and the support to create something great and that is extremely exciting for us.” For more information on Minuteman Press in Missoula, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/mt/missoula. Minuteman Press, Hove, England (formerly TJ’s Branding Solutions) Romi and Russell Pinsent are the new owners of Minuteman Press in Hove, England. They purchased TJ’s Branding Solutions, which operated for 30 years, in June 2021. Romi says, We are so excited to carry the legacy of TJ’s Branding Solutions and expand our products and services through Minuteman Press to benefit our local business clients and community.” TJ’s Branding Solutions laid a solid foundation for Romi and Russell as they look forward to continuing to build the business that was started by original owner Tony Jenner. Romi says, “The store that we have bought has predominantly been a sign writing store that already supports existing businesses and has a good customer base. The work done within the store already supports local businesses by assisting them to promote their own business by way of designing logos, shop fronts and vehicle livery.” On selling the printing and sign business through Minuteman Press, Tony Jenner says, “Minuteman Press Regional Vice President Mark Jones approached me at a good time and asked me if I was interested in selling my business. I have been running TJ’s Branding Solutions for over 30 years and was looking at a change of direction. I was looking to retire and enjoy what I have achieved and spend more time with family. This was a great opportunity to sell at a good price with no broker fees. What was there not to like? It was a smooth exchange and transfer that was done – I would recommend it.” Prior to franchising with Minuteman Press, Romi and Russell were no strangers to running their own business. Romi shares, “Before franchising, our background was and still is running care homes. It is an enjoyable business to run, supporting the more vulnerable people within society but it is riddled with legislation and we wanted to explore a new venture that was more creative and had an opportunity for growth. We wanted a change for us and a new business venture seemed the way forward.” Why Minuteman Press? Romi answers, “We have over 40 years of business experience between us however we were cautious about moving into a new industry as our experience is only in our other business. We visited a franchise show with the intention of looking at a hospitality franchise but quickly realized that this wasn’t something we wanted to explore due to having to work evenings and weekends.” Romi adds, “The intention at the start was to purchase a new store and grow it from the ground up however once we had decided on the franchise, [Regional Vice President] Mark Jones undertook some market research and found an existing independent print shop in TJ’s Branding Solutions where the owner wanted to retire. As a result, we began the process of purchasing the store.” “Throughout the whole process, Mark Jones supported us in liaising with the seller, solicitors, and accountants to make the process as easy as possible. There was never a question that couldn’t be answered! We secured the store on the 3 rd June 2021. Russell and I are both excited to work with the Minuteman Press franchise support team and to grow the business in the local area. Russ has lived in the city since he was 5-years-old and I have lived here all my life. We are proud to call Brighton and Hove our home, we love where we live and want to offer the best service to all local businesses here!” -Romi Pinsent, co-owner, Minuteman Press, Hove, England (formerly TJ’s Branding Solutions) Romi concludes, “Overall, As a local business ourselves, Minuteman Press in Hove is excited to work with other local businesses. We look forward to seeing where this incredible journey takes us as we build and grow together.” For more information on Minuteman Press in Hove, England, visit https://hove.minutemanpress.co.uk. International Minute Press, Nampa, Idaho (formerly Custom Printing) Sheryl and James Wisler are the new owners if International Minute Press in Nampa, Idaho. They purchased Custom Printing from Mike Cutler, who operated the independent printing business for 25 years. Seller’s Perspective from Mike Cutler, Retired Owner of Custom Printing Mike Cutler built up Custom Printing from a print shop out of his garage in 1996 to a successful printing business that averaged over $1 million in gross sales over the past 5 years. He tried to sell his printing business for six to eight months before realizing it was going to be harder than he thought. That is when he turned to Minuteman Press. Mike says, “I tried to sell the business that I worked so hard to build for six to eight months on my own. I was also preparing to let it go at a very undervalued price as I couldn’t find the right people to buy the business and I found many of them were time-wasters and tire-kickers. On top of that, when I consulted with a business broker, they were asking me for 10% off the top of the sale, and they also wanted a percentage of my lease agreement.” After experiencing these challenges on his own, Mike turned to Minuteman Press International to help sell his printing business. “One of the franchisees I knew locally in Idaho referred me to Chris Jutt, Minuteman Press International Regional Vice President. After our first phone call, I felt confident that Chris had the ability, drive and connections to make this dream a reality for me. Our meetings were always super easygoing and comfortable. Chris took all the pressure off of me and said to focus on my successful business and he would do the rest. That is just what he did.” “We set a price for my independent printing business that was significantly higher than I anticipated, and Chris Jutt recommended some terms. Within one week, I had several very interested parties. Chris found the perfect people to purchase my business – James and Sheryl Wisler – that will continue what I started some 25 years ago. Minuteman Press International knew that the most important things to me were my long-term employees, my clients, and the reputation I had worked so hard to build. Chris found buyers that valued the same things. He and the entire team at Minuteman Press International delivered on all of my expectations and exceeded in most of them. Looking back, if I knew this was going to be this easy, I would have contacted him years ago.” -Mike Cutler, retired owner, Custom Printing (now International Minute Press, Nampa, Idaho) After the sale of his business, Mike quickly realized how beneficial it was to have the team at Minuteman Press International assist with all aspects of the transition to the new owners. He shares, “At first, I was apprehensive about how the transition would go. I was immediately relieved when I saw how Minuteman Press International took the reins to teach and train James and Sheryl. We are only two and a half weeks into the transition phase, and already I feel like I am not needed as much as I thought I would be. My employees are in great hands, my clients are being taken care of, and James and Sheryl are doing a fantastic job.” He adds, “The entire team both here locally and at their corporate headquarters has been phenomenal. No matter who I’ve talked to or worked with during this entire process, everyone has been professional as well as instrumental in making this happen. It’s a win-win situation all around.” “The smooth transition has reassured me that it was the right move to sell my business with Minuteman Press International. They have the right plan, the right experience, and everyone has been incredible to the very last detail. In my acquisition experience, nothing has ever been as easy as this. I had everything to gain and nothing to lose, and there were absolutely no hiccups along the way. I would easily rate my experience as 10/10.” -Mike Cutler Advice to Other Sellers When asked what advice he would give to other print and sign shop owners looking to sell, Mike answers, “Don’t even waste your time trying to do this yourself. When you try to sell on your own, there are so many bottleneck issues and you will likely undervalue your business. I couldn’t find the right buyers on my own and I had to spend too much time to meet with people repeatedly while still running my own business.” Mike concludes, “Minuteman Press International alleviated the bottlenecks and came forward with qualified buyers who were ready to write the check for the right price. I am 100% satisfied beyond my expectations. This was a total team effort by everyone, and they all came through for me.” For more information on International Minute Press in Nampa, Idaho, visit https://minuteman.com/us/locations/id/nampa. For more information on how to sell your printing business or sign business through Minuteman Press International’s Conversion Program, visit https://bit.ly/minutemanpressconversions Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

December 06, 2021 09:10 AM Eastern Standard Time

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