Trusted Swim School Husband and Wife Franchisee Duo Recognized for Exemplifying the Best in Franchising

The International Franchise Association (IFA) named Wendy and Erik Skaalerud, franchise partners of Big Blue Swim School in Centennial, Colorado, as 2023 Franchisees of the Year. The Skaaleruds were honored at the 64^th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, Ariz., for being outstanding franchise establishment owner-operators.

“From pioneering the way as our very first franchisees in a challenging market to nurturing a vibrant workforce rooted in shared values, Wendy and Erik truly exemplify entrepreneurial spirit at its finest,” says Chris DeJong, President and Founder of Big Blue Swim School. “Their commitment to fostering growth, both in their business and Big Blue’s corporate franchise program, has ultimately elevated our brand and paved the way for others to succeed. Through their collaborative approach and genuine care for others, Wendy and Erik inspire us to strive for excellence and make a positive difference in the world.”

Big Blue Swim School, one of the nation’s fastest-growing swim school franchises, offers an unparalleled swim lesson experience by providing premium peace of mind for families expecting support and confidence. Its staff and instructors are committed to trustworthy communication, personalized problem-solving, welcoming kids as kids, and providing a total product that is clearly distinguished. At Big Blue, its people make a big difference, and leaders like Wendy and Erik are crucial for serving as ambassadors of the brand’s mission and values in each of its communities.

“Franchisees of the Year exemplify what franchising is all about – providing opportunity, serving others, and fulfilling the American Dream,” said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “We are proud to recognize Wendy and Erik with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and I have no doubt their work is changing lives and making a lasting community impact.”

The Franchisee of the Year Award recognizes leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance, and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their involvement in their communities, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a strong and healthy culture with their workforce, and assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon.

About the International Franchise Association:

Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the approximately 806,270 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.7 million direct jobs, $858.5 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development.

About Big Blue Swim School

Big Blue Swim School is one of the nation's fastest-growing swim school franchises, offering best-in-class swim lessons for kids ages three months to 12 years. The franchise was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong, and with support from Level 5 Capital Partners, now has 30 pools open across 14 states. Big Blue continues to grow through franchising and plans to have a minimum of 265 pools sold by the end of 2024. Big Blue Swim School's real estate expertise, strong brand, proprietary technology, and leadership support, coupled with its unparalleled consumer offerings, position its franchise partners for long-term success. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Big Blue Swim School, visit http://YourBigMomentStartsHere.com.

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