For decades, traditional retail franchises followed a familiar playbook: open a storefront, stock products, rely on foot traffic, and compete on price or convenience. But as we move into 2026, that model is no longer enough. Consumers aren’t just shopping differently. They’re valuing differently. The franchises that are outperforming today, and will continue to outperform in the years ahead, aren’t …
Lighting the Way: Cork & Candles Expands to Pittsburgh
Bob and Mary Kirk are bringing Cork & Candles to Pittsburgh, blending creativity, connection, and community in an inspiring new chapter of franchising.
Understanding Franchise Fees and Royalties
When considering a franchise, it’s important to understand the fees involved and what they actually cover. The two primary fees are the royalty and the brand fund, sometimes called a marketing fund.
Montgomery County Business Owner Chris Holloway Needs Second Kidney Transplant
After three decades in the mortgage business, Chris Holloway, now a Cork & Candles franchise owner in Ardmore, is facing his toughest challenge yet, the need for a second kidney transplant. Holloway was first diagnosed with a rare disease, FSGS, and underwent a life-saving transplant in 2016. Sadly, the kidney began to fail in May 2024, forcing him to begin …
Cork & Candles featured in Beyond Fast Food: Uncovering Unique Franchise Opportunities | Built By Me Podcast Ep. 2
Think franchising is just for burger joints and sandwich shops? Think again. In the latest episode of the Built By Me Podcast (Ep. 2), hosts Taina and Mo sit down with franchise expert and CEO of Milestone Franchising, Lisa Linkowsky, and let’s just say, this conversation goes places. We’re talking everything from pet waste disposal franchises to million-dollar buildouts and …
Chris Holloway, Ardmore Franchisee, Needs a Kidney. Here’s How You Can Help!
If you’ve ever visited Cork & Candles in Ardmore, PA, chances are you’ve met the co-owner, Chris Holloway. Maybe he helped you pick out a scent that reminded you of home. Maybe he welcomed you with a smile and made you feel seen. That’s just who Chris is. He’s someone who shows up for people. Quietly. Consistently. With his whole …
Join David Straub at The Franchise Forum on March 11!
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own business but weren’t sure where to start, The Franchise Forum is the perfect place to begin. On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, David Straub, Co-Founder of Cork & Candles, will be speaking on a panel at Benetrends Financial in Lansdale, PA, to talk about entrepreneurship, franchising, and the journey of building Cork & …
Cork & Candles at the Bridal & Wedding Expo in Philadelphia
This past weekend, January 4th and 5th, Cork & Candles had the pleasure of participating in the Pennsylvania & South Jersey Bridal & Wedding Expo at the Philadelphia Convention Center located at 1101 Arch Street. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with attendees, including some familiar faces who’ve enjoyed candle-making at our corporate locations. Seeing the joy on everyone’s …