Franchisee of the Year: Growing a Multi-Million Dollar Business with CertaPro

At this year’s International Franchise Association (IFA) Meeting, the spotlight was firmly on CertaPro Painters®. Lance Graulich, franchise broker at ION Franchising, landed a powerful joint interview with CEO Mike Stone and Richard Webber, who was named the 2025 Franchisee of the Year for his exceptional leadership at CertaPro Painters of Morristown, NJ. The interview gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to succeed with the CertaPro brand — and why now may be the best time to invest.

A Proven Brand With Real Numbers

Few franchise systems in the home services category are performing at the level CertaPro Painters is today. The company recorded over $700 million in sales in 2024, with individual franchise owners often generating seven-figure revenue numbers. For aspiring entrepreneurs, this isn’t just a business opportunity — it’s a proven growth platform.

During the interview, CEO Mike Stone explained how the CertaPro model continues to scale without compromising quality. From residential painting services to commercial interior painting services, the brand is designed to serve a wide range of property owners — and franchisees are supported every step of the way. With a repeatable system, built-in vendor relationships (including Sherwin-Williams), and robust operational tools, owners have what they need to grow quickly and efficiently.

Richard Webber: A Real Franchise Success Story

Richard Webber didn’t come from a painting background. Like many CertaPro owners, he came from a completely different industry. What he brought to the table was leadership, a desire to scale, and the ability to follow a system. Within a short span, Webber turned his Morristown territory into a high-performing location, with a full team delivering both exterior painting services and commercial repaints year-round. His story highlights how the CertaPro model isn’t about doing the painting — it’s about running the business.

In the interview, Webber emphasized the importance of the culture within the franchise system, praising the leadership team and the support network he has access to daily. His advice for others considering a franchise? Do your due diligence — but if you want a scalable business in a stable industry, there’s nothing more practical than CertaPro.

Watch the Full Interview and See the Opportunity for Yourself

Whether you’re tired of corporate burnout or looking to transition from another industry, this interview is worth your time. Hear straight from the top — both the CEO and one of the most successful franchisees in the system — about what it takes to thrive, and how CertaPro has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs create thriving local businesses. You can watch the full interview here on YouTube.

Ready to Start Your Own Franchise With CertaPro Painters?

If you’re considering starting a painting business, CertaPro Painters offers the tools, brand power, and support to help you succeed. From commercial painting projects to residential interior and exterior painting services, you’ll be operating with a trusted name and a repeatable model that works. The market for professional painting continues to grow, and franchisees are positioned to capture long-term revenue and build real equity. Click here to learn more and start your franchise journey with CertaPro Painters® today.