Ziebart Franchise Owner Nick Lambie Named IFA Franchisee of the Year
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In the heart of Morgantown, West Virginia, a shining example of entrepreneurial success and community leadership stands tall. Nick Lambie, alongside his brother Mark Lambie, has not only transformed their Ziebart franchise into a top-performing establishment but has also been recognized as an International Franchise Association (IFA) 2023 Franchisee of the Year. This prestigious award, presented at the 64th IFA Annual Convention in Phoenix, AZ, celebrates Nick’s exceptional dedication to his franchise and his profound impact on the franchise business model.
Nick’s journey to franchise success is rooted in a rich tapestry of experiences. A former U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant, he transitioned into entrepreneurship with a vision to continue his passion for management, mentorship, and meticulous attention to detail. Since taking the helm of Ziebart of Morgantown in 2019, Nick’s leadership has propelled the store to extraordinary heights, earning it a well-deserved reputation as one of the brand's premier locations.
Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association, commended Nick's achievement, stating, "Franchisees of the Year exemplify what franchising is all about – providing opportunity, serving others, and fulfilling the American Dream." This sentiment echoes throughout Nick’s career, where his commitment to community engagement, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to fostering a positive work culture has set a benchmark for excellence within the franchise industry.
The Franchisee of the Year Award is a testament to Nick's outstanding contributions, not only to Ziebart but also to the broader franchising community. Nominated by Ziebart, Nick was selected for his active involvement in the community, embodiment of entrepreneurial values, promotion of a healthy work environment, and unwavering support for fellow franchisees.
As Ziebart celebrates its 65th year in business, the brand's commitment to excellence and innovation remains unwavering. With over 400 locations and 1,300 service centers across 19 states and 37 countries, Ziebart continues to redefine industry standards. The brand's recognition in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500® and as a Top Franchise for 2024 by Franchise Business Review underscores its status as a franchisor of choice, offering exceptional benefits to veteran owners like Lambie, including waived franchise fees.
Nick's success story extends beyond accolades; it embodies the ethos of entrepreneurship and community stewardship. His upcoming second location in Washington, PA, scheduled to open later this year, reflects his ongoing commitment to growth, innovation, and service excellence.
Reflecting on his journey, Nick shares, "If you take care of those around you, they'll take care of you in return." This ethos resonates not just within his franchise but also within the broader franchise ecosystem, where collaboration, support, and shared success define the landscape.
The impact of franchising extends far beyond economic metrics. With approximately 806,000 franchised businesses in the U.S., the industry plays a pivotal role in job creation, economic growth, and providing opportunities to diverse communities. Oxford Economics' findings highlight franchising's positive impact on wages, benefits, and entrepreneurial prospects, reaffirming its role as a driver of inclusive economic prosperity.
Nick's journey from military service to franchise excellence exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship. His story inspires aspiring franchisees, business leaders, and community advocates to strive for excellence, embrace innovation, and uphold the values of integrity, teamwork, and service.
As we celebrate Nick Lambie's remarkable achievement as the IFA Franchisee of the Year, we honor his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In his success, we find a blueprint for building thriving communities, empowering individuals, and shaping a brighter future for franchising and beyond.