How Franchising Can Help Fuel the American Dream

Motivated by a desire for rapid growth, Nick Friedman, CEO of College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, saw an opportunity to expand his business and create more jobs through franchising. Today, the business is a prime example of this model, boasting over 250 independent franchise owners nationwide and over $300 million in annual sales.

At the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s State of American Business 2024 event, Friedman joined International Franchise Association President and CEO Matthew Haller to discuss the franchise business model and its role in the wider free enterprise system, along with John Bates, a franchisee of College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving in Annapolis, Maryland.

Turning Employees Into Leaders Is a Core Value for Friedman

Friedman’s business aims to build leaders out of employees — whether they’re employed for three months or three years — and help them pursue their dreams of business ownership. Bates represents one of the numerous employees who began working on the trucks at College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving and gradually advanced their roles, eventually embracing the business model to become a franchise owner. 

Owning a Franchise Can Lead to the American Dream

While being a franchise owner comes with many rewards, one of the highlights for Friedman has been watching his employees — such as Bates — grow with his company, turning jobs into careers. Friedman has watched Bates’ journey in real-time, watching his transformation as he became a homeowner, sent his kids to college, and continues to achieve success in life. 

Free Enterprise Is Crucial to Success Across the United States

Friedman is adamant that the American Dream of limitless, equal opportunities for all Americans is alive and well. Free enterprise is a cornerstone of this dream, sparking ambitions from an early age and being crucial for its realization.