February 09, 2012
Franchise News Watch

Your Entertainment Franchise General Announcement News Source

Franchise News Watch brings you the latest in entertainment franchising general announcement news from around the web. As a news aggregator for the entertainment franchise industry, Franchise News Watch streams the latest ground breaking franchise articles, features, guides, blogs, news and more directly to your desktop.

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Entertainment Franchise General Announcement News

Private Party Giants Pump It Up and BounceU `Leap' into New Arenas with Children's Art and Structured Play Offerings

As many U.S. companies scale back on services, spending and workforces to meet slimmer 2009 budgets, the nation's largest multi-brand franchisor of indoor inflatable playgrounds announced today it has made significant investments to expand consumer...

Chuck E. Cheese's Celebrates 30 Years of Success

After 30 years of successfully evolving the place Where a Kid can be a Kid(R), fun-loving and ever-youthful Chuck E. Cheese, with his timeless staying power, is still the star of the show. To celebrate, the company is offering special 30th anniversary ...

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC Annual Financial Report 2009

In accordance with the Listing Rules, InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (the "Company") has submitted the following documents to the UK Listing Authority today. These will be available for inspection at the UK Listing Authority's Document Viewing...

Blockbuster Announces Sale of Ireland Entertainment Retailer Xtra-vision Limited to Birchhall Investments Limited

Blockbuster Inc. (NYSE: BBI) (NYSE: BBI.B), a leading global provider of media entertainment, today announced it has sold Xtra-vision Limited (Xtra-vision), its 186 store entertainment retailer in Ireland, to Birchhall Investments Limited...

BLOCKBUSTER(R) App for iPhone(TM) and iPod touch(R) Now Available from App StoreSM

Blockbuster Inc. (NYSE: BBI, BBI.B), a global leader in entertainment, today announced the availability of its BLOCKBUSTER App on the App Store. The free app was created in response to customer requests for easy access to Blockbuster services on...

Blockbuster Congratulates NCR Corporation on Acquisition of Movie Rental Kiosk Operator TNR Entertainment Corporation

Blockbuster Inc. offered congratulations today to NCR Corporation on its acquisition of TNR Entertainment Corporation, North America's second largest operator of movie-rental kiosks.

School Of Rock Presents "Live Aid Remade" All Stars Summer 2010 U.S. Tour

Watch out U2! Step aside Roger Daltrey! Channeling the music and energy from one of rock music history's biggest concert events ever, comes the next generation of talented rockers emerging from the acclaimed SCHOOL OF ROCK music program. The nationwide...

IHG Launches InnSupply - A Game-Changing Procurement Program for its Owners

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, with the endorsement of its owners' association, the IAHI, today announced the launch of InnSupply by IHG, a new innovative procurement program that capitalizes on th

DVDNow Kiosk

DVD Kiosk Customers Want Clear Solutions

Despite the popularity of DVD kiosks, consumers have taken to Facebook, Twitter, and the blogosphere to list their most common complaints. Consumers have expressed frustrations towards long line-ups, slow selection process, poor customer service, and...

Franchise Consulting - A Recession-Proof Business That Thrives in Any Economy

Despite the fact that the country continues to be mired in an economic downturn, Franchise Alliance founder and president, Dan Prechtel, finds himself in the enviable position of operating a business that continues to thrive.

Blockbuster Closes Offering of $675 Million of Senior Secured Notes Due 2014

Blockbuster Inc. (NYSE: BBI) (NYSE: BBI.B), a leading global provider of media entertainment, today announced it has closed its previously announced offering of $675 million aggregate principal amount of 11.75 percent Senior Secured Notes due 2014 at...

Blockbuster Franchise Comments Regarding Board Candidates

Blockbuster Inc. (NYSE: BBI, BBI.B) today released a statement following Gregory Meyer's announcement of his self-nomination to the company's Board of Directors.

Franchisor of Pump it Up and BounceU Names New VP of Marketing

PIU Management, LLC, the nation's largest multi-brand franchisor of indoor inflatable playgrounds Pump It Up and BounceU, announced today it has hired respected national marketing executive Joe Kendra as its new Vice President of Marketing.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas Continues Expansion

Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas will open its newest San Antonio location in the Villages at Stone Oak Shopping Center on November 5, 2010. Alamo Drafthouse Stone Oak is the third location in San Antonio and the tenth location for the Alamo Drafthouse system. Th

Gamer Doc(TM) Unveils New Video Game Store

Gamer Doc(TM), the retail video game store that delivers a new and interactive customer experience, unveils its new store prototypes at the International Franchise Expo, April 11-13, 2008.

School of Rock Franchise Experiences Domestic and International Growth as the Brand Leader in Music Education for Kids

SCHOOL OF ROCK, the national brand leader in music education for kids, is offering a chance to live one's rock and roll dreams as a franchisee. Channeling the energy of rock & roll, the SCHOOL OF ROCK music program is available to entrepreneurs who...

IHG Becomes First Global Hotel Franchise Company to Reward Loyalty Points for Geolocation Check-Ins

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms today announced that Priority Club® members who become Topguest members will now be awarded loyalty points with each geolocation check-in at any one of its more tha

World Tavern Poker And World Tavern Trivia Add Two New Franchises

World Tavern Entertainment®, an innovator in the business of driving more customers into bars and restaurants through its poker and trivia leagues, added two new franchisees to its growing franchise program.

IHG Franchise signs eighteen new hotels in Europe

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, has reported one of its most successful periods for hotel signings in Europe, adding 18 hotels to its European pipeline over the summer period.

Pump It Up Franchise 'Jumps' In to Help Combat Childhood Obesity in America

Pump It Up is taking action to help reverse childhood obesity in America with the new Jump It Up! Challenge, a nationwide program that promotes fitness and rewards children for 60 minutes of physical activity on the playgrounds' giant, colorful inflatable

Pump It Up Franchise Reaps the Profits of Enhanced Business Model

Bouncing, sliding and jumping is big business, and Pump it Up, the nation's largest franchise to pioneer the concept of indoor inflatable playgrounds, is proving it once again.

DVDNow Kiosk

Economic Downturn Proves Positive For DVD Rental Kiosk Operators

The state of the economy has society realizing that the times are changing, and DVD rental kiosks are offering a way for people to adapt to these changes.

Rapper 50 Cent Appearance At Manhattan Play N Trade Recap

Multi-platinum selling rap artist 50 Cent made an appearance at the Manhattan Play N Trade store on April 30, 2009 from 3:30-5:00 p.m to promote his new video game, 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand. 50 Cent, who has sold over 22 million records worldwide...

Krystal Franchise Breaks Ground On New Restaurant in Chattanooga, Eyes Expansion

The Krystal Company is setting its sights on growing its presence in Chattanooga and is starting with the opening of a brand new, company-owned Krystal restaurant in north downtown this summer. Situated at 3409 Amnicola Hwy, the new location will be the f

Games2u Unveils New, Unique Concept

Party planners looking to turn run-of-the-mill events, such as birthday parties and corporate events, into exciting extravaganzas need look no further than Games2U (www.G2U.com), a new mobile video game theater company designed to bring the hottest...

Low Cost, Alternative Ice Cream Franchise Brings Big Bucks to Community

Entrepreneurs across the country are finding out what makes a successful business in this economy: ties to the community, easy-to-execute business plans and mobility. That's why national frozen treat franchise Kona Ice expects the company to double in...

Play N Trade Franchise Clarksville, TN Celebrates Grand Opening with Tennessee Titans' Cortland Finnegan Autograph Signing

Play N Trade Franchise, Inc, the fastest growing video game franchise worldwide, is excited to announce the grand opening of its Clarksville, TN store on Saturday, March 24th featuring Tennessee Titans' cornerback Cortland Finnegan on hand to sign...

Games2U Franchise Cashes in on 'Rock Star' Parties for Average Kids

An emerging national franchise is allowing corporate America to trade their unsatisfying day jobs for a workweek of playing Guitar Hero, Halo 3 or laser tag, while entertaining children across the country – and it's taking off at rocket speed.

Play N Trade's New Layout a Smash Hit

After months of research and months more planning a new layout for Play N Trade stores, the big day finally arrived for the grand opening of the Hodgkins, Ill. Play N Trade store on May 29. The Hodgkins store was the first to use Play N Trade's new...

IHG Franchise Announces First Pilot of the Front Desk Bypass Cell Phone Solution: MobileKey

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE: IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, announces the hospitality industry's first pilot of a mobile-based front desk bypass solution that gives guests at the Holiday Inn &

Blockbuster Franchise Continues to Offer the Best, Most Convenient Access to Hot New Releases Through its 28-Day Advantage and Multi-Channel Platform

Blockbuster Inc. (Pink Sheets: BLOKA, BLOKB), a leading provider of media entertainment, is continuing to serve customers as usual as the Company takes action to become financially stronger to enhance its ability to provide the best, most convenient acces

PIU Management, Nation's Largest Inflatable Party Franchise, Names New CEO, Starts `New Era'

Staying true to his "get it done, generate results" leadership style, PIU Management's newly appointed President & CEO, Lee Knowlton, has already decided the top item on his proverbial "to-do" list: Increase store sales.

Super 8 China Exceeds Development Goal For Second Year

Super 8 Hotels (China) Co. Ltd. today announced that it has exceeded its 2006 development projection of 100 properties either open or signed by year end by 10 percent – the second consecutive year th...

Disc Replay Movies Music and Games, proved again its "The store everyone is talking about"

Disc Replay Movies Music and Games, proved again its "The store everyone is talking about" this past Saturday. The CBS affiliate in Indianapolis rolled their news trucks to an Indianapolis Disc Replay location, interviewing customers, and Disc Replay...

Secret to Success: Community, Customers

When Craig Ackerman took over a Play N Trade store in Comstock Park, Michigan, he didn't know all the specifics of how he planned to become successful. However, he did know a few things. Namely, success comes through hard work, great customer service...

Wheel Fun Franchise Rides The Love Affair With Nostalgia

If the words "Slingshot," "Deuce Coupe," and "Chopper" bring back memories of freedom, fun, and carefree days of youth, then Wheel Fun Rentals may be just what you're looking for.

IHG expands in coastal south, continuing Greater China leadership

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, signed four hotel contracts today in Hong Kong at the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP).

The 101 Best Reasons to Cruise: SeaMaster Cruises Franchise Network Surpasses Century Mark

Three years after the launch of SeaMaster Cruises, the franchise network is proudly announcing it has reached the milestone of welcoming its 100th and 101st franchise owners. Less than three percent of all travel-related franchise systems can boast...

Leading Kids Party Franchise Hires New VPs to Head Operations, Development

PIU Management, LLC, franchisor of the Pump It Up and BounceU brands, announced two new appointments to its senior management team, including Vice President of Operations Scott Keppel, and Vice President of Development and Real Estate Sean Bock.

Burlington Gamer Doc(TM) Video Game Store to Give Away a Wii(R) a Week During February Grand Opening

Gamer Doc™, the retail video game store that delivers a new and interactive customer experience, today announced that the Burlington store is celebrACating its grand opening, Feb. 2 – Feb. 28, 2009, and will be giving away a Wii® console e

Pump It Up Party Franchise Works with Maker of Fin Fin Friends(TM) to Expand Reach of Next Hot Toy

While the nation's largest retailers are stocking their shelves with a new virtual pet, Fin Fin Friends™, Pump It Up is offering families an opportunity to experience the highly anticipated interactive new toy for the upcoming holiday shopping seaso

The Goodie Bag Makeover: Pump It Up Franchise Cuts the Calories and Stress from Party Favors

A few weeks ago, most kids didn't know what a roto launcher was. Now, it's one of the hottest gadgets found exclusively in the new Goodie Bags from Pump It Up, the nation's largest franchise of indoor inflatable playgrounds committed to helping families a

IHG creates two new global sales and marketing roles

Joe Ferry appointed Senior Vice President, Global Guest Experience and Design David Anderson appointed Vice President, Brand Delivery Asia Australasia and Global Resorts

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is deeply saddened to announce the death of Mr Stevan Porter, President Americas Region

IHG announced on 14 July that Steve Porter, President of IHG's Americas region, had relinquished his responsibilities due to medical reasons.

EagleRider Pioneers 12-Month Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Lease Starting at $249 per Month

EagleRider launches an industry changing 12-Month Motorcycle Lease Program. Consumers now have peace-of-mind knowing they can still purchase an EagleRider Certified Pre-Owned Harley-Davidson without having to make a long-term and costly commitment.

IHG Launches Holiday Inn Express in India

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, has signed a series of contracts for the management of six new hotels with leading Delhi-based developer, Amrapali Group.

Pump It Up Leads Effort to Standardize Safety Practices in Inflatable Play Industry

As inflatable play structures become increasingly popular for children's parties and other events, Pump It Up, the nation's leader in the active children's party industry, is taking the lead on promoting legislation to create consistent safety...

IHG Launches the Hotel Indigo Brand in Asia-Pacific

Hotel Indigo, IHG's (InterContinental Hotels Group) upscale boutique brand, hosted a dramatic event in Shanghai, China today to celebrate its brand launch in Asia Pacific. To mark the brand launch, an innovative 3-D film about the hotel's historic neighbo

Alamo Drafthouse & Dogfish Head Craft Brewery Team up for 'Off-Centered Film Fest' Competition

The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and Dogfish Head Craft Brewery have teamed up for the "Off-Centered Film Fest" short film competition on April 15 & 16 in Austin, TX. Featuring off-centered films for off-centered people, the festival celebrates the DIY app

E3: Play N Trade's Perspective

As most gamers know, E3 has come and gone for another year. The technology continues to astound and impress and the innovation is off the charts. Many Play N Trade franchisees attended the event as did several members of the corporate team including...


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Features & Special Reports

"The Proven Match" for Finding Qualified Franchisees Debuts on Franchising.com Ad Portal

Proven Match has teamed up with Franchise Update Media Group (FUMG) to give results-driven franchisors a cost-saving profiling service that delivers pre-qualified candidates.

Restaurateur Extraordinaire: Sam Covelli Does It With More Than 200 Locations

Sam Covelli says he grew up in the restaurant business working in his father's McDonald's.

Running For Charity: Colortyme Franchisee Raises Money And Awareness For Children's Hospital

This April will mark the third year in a row that Al Coelho has run the 26-mile Boston Marathon. That's a significant achievement. But it's only a part of what Coelho will do that day.

Turning Up The Heat: Learning How To Handle Irate Customers And Look Like A Hero

Irate customers. No matter how good you are at what you do, what business you are in, or where it is located, you will at some point find yourself facing an irate customer.

Sustaining Business: Zane Tankel On Growing During Tough Times

As the economy continues to struggle through a slow recovery, business people everywhere are looking for any tools or techniques that will help them keep their businesses alive and thriving.

Creating a Cost-Effective Lead Generation Strategy

For many franchisors, the traditional advertising vehicles - portals, print advertising, PR, and broker networks - do not appear to be working as effectively as they were five years ago.

New Highlights from the 2012 AFDR

In the previous two issues of FUSR, we published (1) a high-level overview of the 2012 Annual Franchise Development Report (AFDR), followed by (2) a selection of highlights from the report.

Finding Your Optimal Buyer: Sellers Must Learn To Look Beyond Price

When sellers are contemplating a decision regarding the sale of their business, they overwhelmingly select the bidder with the highest price, only to find afterward that this might not have been the best decision for their circumstances.

The Four Steps to Lead Generation Success, Part 4: Wow 'Em!

This fourth installment builds on those ideas, showing how you can "wow" your candidates and the importance of how you present your concept to them.

The Winner's Column - February 2012

As savvy franchise companies continue to flourish in a volatile economy, FUSR continues to bring you good news each month, highlighting brands that are adding units, increasing comp store sales, striking deals with investors, innovating, and continuing to grow, whether domestically or overseas.

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