Granite Transformations Eyes Latin America for Global Expansion

MIRAMAR, FL--(Marketwire - Jan 19, 2012) - Granite Transformations, a remodeling services company that has facilities and showrooms around the world, unveils today its plans to further expand the emerging franchise into a new region, Latin America. The company believes franchise development will be attractive in this region due to the proximity to franchise support and materials, the strong crossover from the multicultural Florida market, as well as an economic rebound faster than the United States, according to WorldCity.

"We have thought carefully about expanding into Latin America and believe the timing and social context are perfect for the introduction of our concept," explains Mark Johnson, CEO of Granite Transformations. "To support our move into this region, Granite Transformations has established a company base in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and expects franchise development in Brazil, Mexico and other key markets in 2012."

Granite Transformation's strategy for expansion will focus on securing Master Franchisees, who will have the development rights for significant territories in Latin America. These Master Franchisees will sell and provide services to individual franchises within their territories. John Brodrick, director of franchise development for Granite Transformations adds, "In addition to obvious language advantages, we are convinced that our Master Franchisee strategy is the best way to guarantee that the Granite Transformations concept and product presentation are correctly tailored for the local culture."

While a fresh concept to Latin America, the Granite Transformations franchise currently has a strong presence internationally. Founded in 1996, the concept began in Australia and New Zealand with more than 40 franchised locations. In 2001, the concept moved to the United States, where there are now more than 90 franchise units in North America and then expanded its presence into the United Kingdom in 2004. With Granite Transformations' international expansion now focused on Latin America, the company expects to add an additional 90 franchise outlets over the next five years.

A promising remodeling franchise, Granite Transformations offers unique product lines of Trend Stone, Trend Glass and Trend Mosaics, that are manufactured from the finest natural materials in the world. Granite Transformations countertop products are unique and feature a one-fourth inch slab of engineered stone or post-consumer recycled glass, manufactured to be both beautiful and highly durable, as well as scratch and stain resistance. The thinner material can be installed directly on top of existing surfaces without any demolition, eliminating weeks of disturbance and inconvenience. Granite Transformations is used by homeowners, commercial and domestic interior designers, architects, builders and developers worldwide and installation typically can be completed in one to three days.

For more information, including franchising information, visit www.granitetransformations.com.

ABOUT GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS
With U.S. offices based in Miramar, Fla., Granite Transformations, a remodeling services company, has facilities and showrooms around the world offering new and exciting alternatives to traditional countertops, backsplashes, floors and more. The first Granite Transformations franchise opened in 1996 in Perth, Australia. Consumer response to the revolutionary resurfacing process was overwhelming resulting in growth across Australia and New Zealand. With the first U.S. offices opening in 2001, Granite Transformations now has nearly 90 showrooms across North America with more showrooms opening every year. In 2004, the company began UK operations and is now also growing throughout Europe. In addition to easy installation and beautiful surfaces, the company also offers its customers the convenience of quality cabinet refacing and acrylic tub liners.