TEMPE, Ariz. (March 18, 2015) – People sell businesses for a variety of reasons—whether it be driven by retirement plans, pursuing a new opportunity, etc.— though rarely do entrepreneurs sell a business, only to rejoin it as a franchisee ten years later.
For Kurt Kittleson, this was precisely the case. Kittleson founded Re-Bath®, a custom bathroom remodeling franchise, in 1978 and transformed it into a franchise concept by 1993. In 2001, Kittleson opted to retire and sold the brand; however, following ten years of relaxing retirement, Re-Bath’s growth and success became something Kittleson’s entrepreneurial spirit could not ignore. Given his extensive history with the brand and passion for building businesses, Kittleson decided to reinvest in the company as a master Re-Bath franchisee in Phoenix in 2010.
After asserting exemplary customer service and leadership abilities while growing 25% this past year, Kittleson was honored as the recipient of the 2014 Franchise of the Year Award during Home Brands Group™ Reunion recently in Orlando, Fla.
“Kurt is the epitome of a strong leader and demonstrates how success stems from solid leadership roots,” said Marty Rasmussen, President of Re-Bath. “He’s been committed to developing his team and providing them with opportunities to excel, while ensuring an exceptional experience for the customer. We look forward to watching his future growth for years to come.”
The Franchise of the Year award is the most prestigious of any presented to franchises, as it acknowledges franchisees that represent the brand by embracing the Re-Bath® Code of Values and sales system at all times while growing their businesses with proper training, management, high sales, professionalism and customer service.
“When I started Re-Bath, my intentions were to create a simple, yet quality option for consumers to renovate their bathrooms with excellent customer service being a top priority,” stated Kittleson. “Under the leadership at Corporate, Re-Bath has surpassed my vision. Becoming a franchisee has been an incredible opportunity, allowing me to personally instill these core values through my own business. Having my efforts recognized system-wide as Franchise of the Year is truly rewarding for both myself and my Re-Bath team.”
About Re-Bath:
Founded in 1979, Re-Bath® is the nation’s premier full-service bathroom remodeling company, with hundreds of franchise locations worldwide. From simple bathtub replacements to full bathroom redesigns, Re-Bath makes bathroom remodeling stress-free, convenient and affordable, all with professional, friendly installation by factory-trained installers. Re-Bath manufactures its own exclusive line of products in Tempe, Ariz. and also offers the best national brands.