Multi-Unit Spherion Franchisee Honored as a 2024 Franchise Rock Star by Franchise Business Review

31-Year-Old Millennial Spherion Franchise Owner Recognized for Impressive Sales Growth and Community Impact

MADISON, Wis. – Austin Kassner, a local business leader and multi-unit franchise owner with Spherion Staffing & Recruiting (Spherion), recently earned recognition from Franchise Business Review as a 2024 Franchise Rock Star. This trusted publication named Kassner to the ‘Millennial’ category for his significant contributions to the communities his offices serve in Madison, Wisconsin and Rockford, Illinois.

“It’s an honor to be featured by Franchise Business Review as a 2024 Franchise Rock Star. This award is recognition of the incredible service that our tenured team provides to both candidates and clients across our markets ,” said Kassner. “I strive to create an environment where everyone has a seat at the table and feels encouraged to share their perspectives. I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to do this as part of the Spherion organization with the support of their leadership team.”

Kassner was selected from more than 36,000 franchisees, representing 360 brands that participate in Franchise Business Review’s research. Notably, Kassner’s Spherion offices in Wisconsin and Illinois have grown significantly since he took over franchise ownership in 2022. Under his leadership, his teams have secured 28 new clients, expanded services for existing clients and increased revenue growth by more than 9%.

Beyond his business accomplishments, Kassner is committed to giving back to the communities that his businesses serve through organizations such as The River Food Pantry, United Way, YWCA,  and the Regional Access Mobilization Project Inc.

“I’ve had the pleasure of watching Austin grow and expand his business since joining us, and his innovative ideas have brought a fresh perspective to our brand,” said Kathy George, president of Spherion. “He has quickly emerged as a standout leader within our franchise system and is always willing to advise other business owners looking to capitalize on opportunities for growth in their local markets. On behalf of Spherion, we congratulate him and the entire team in Madison and Rockford for this well-deserved recognition.”

The Franchise Rock Stars were nominated by their franchise brand’s leadership in one of eight categories. They’re franchisees who set admirable examples when it comes to leadership, business acumen, financial and professional success, and contributing to their community.

Spherion brandishes the “power of local” through a network of independent and empowered franchisees. Each Spherion franchisee enriches their communities by connecting and facilitating employment opportunities every day—and when they’re successful together, their investments flow back into the neighborhoods where they live and work. The power of Spherion is in its local roots.

To learn more about Spherion’s franchising opportunity, visit spherion.com/franchising.

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full list of 2024 Franchise Rock Stars.

About Spherion – Madison, WI

Driving careers. Growing businesses. Bettering the community. These tenets have been at the core of Spherion Madison since its doors opened over 30 years ago. Locally owned, Spherion provides comprehensive staffing & recruiting services, including: flexible staffing, temp-to-hire, professional direct-hire placement, and workforce management solutions. The Spherion Madison team invests the time to develop relationships with everyone they work with to deliver differentiated results. Its tenured team understands the greater Madison market and has a proven history of matching the right candidates for the right role across a wide array of industries.

About Spherion

With more than 75 years of staffing and recruiting experience, Spherion stands out as a leader in the industry, leveraging the power of “local” to support its vast network of independent franchisees. True to its tagline, Let’s Get to Work, Spherion provides temporary, temp-to-hire, direct hire, and managed hiring services to more than 4,000 businesses nationwide across 200+ locations. With a 4.8/5 star Google review score and recognition as a Top 100 Staffing Company to Work for by World Staffing Awards, a Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review, and ranking #63 on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2024 Franchise 500 list, Spherion capably caters to the ever-changing demands of America’s workforce. Backed by the world’s most equitable and specialized talent company, Spherion provides superior staffing and recruiting solutions through its franchise model.

To learn more about Spherion, visit spherion.com.

About Franchise Business Review

Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,200 leading franchise companies. To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/digital-guides/. To learn more about FBR’s research, please visit www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com

McClone Insurance Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Menasha, WI — August 6, 2024 — McClone Insurance, a leader in risk management and insurance, proudly celebrates its 75th anniversary. What began in 1949 with Ralph “Cyclone” McClone selling life insurance from his kitchen table has evolved into a thriving business embodying people, passion, and purpose.

From its modest beginnings, McClone has grown to over 130 team members, serving clients nationwide and maintaining multiple locations throughout Wisconsin. Ralph McClone’s leadership laid the groundwork for a company culture centered on caring, empathy, and respect.

“When in doubt, do the right thing. The rest will take care of itself.” This guiding principle from former CEO Mike McClone, who ran the business from 1989 to 2018, is proudly displayed in the conference room as a daily reminder.

“Our journey over the past 75 years has been remarkable, and we owe our success to our dedicated team, loyal clients, and supportive community,” said Dustin McClone, president and CEO of McClone. “As we celebrate this milestone, we are excited about the future and our continued commitment to providing exceptional service and leveraging our tools, talent, and technology to drive growth.”

Building strong, connected communities is a cornerstone of McClone’s identity. Through the M.A.D.E. (Make A Difference Every Day) program, team members are encouraged to give back in meaningful ways, whether through donating their time, talents, or resources. Activities encompass a wide range of community support, from staffing a monthly shelter meal program and supporting an employee’s cancer foundation to providing staffing and services for non-profits to help them reopen after COVID. Additionally, the company takes pride in leading developments that contribute to the revitalization of communities and has made significant contributions to new facilities for various non-profit organizations, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing community infrastructure.

“Community support is essential for a thriving society. We aim to be a net giver in the communities where our team members live, work, and play. By investing in our communities, we enhance the quality of life and build a stronger foundation for future generations.” said McClone.

In addition to McClone’s passion for community support, the company has solidified its industry presence with its proprietary RiskMAP™ process. This proactive and systematic approach to risk management distinguishes McClone by prioritizing an understanding of each client’s unique needs to develop tailored solutions. RiskMAP™ has been a key driver of the company’s growth, safeguarding clients’ interests by ensuring strategies are customized to protect what matters most.

As McClone celebrates this milestone, the focus remains on the future. “Our success has been built on protecting our clients’ legacies,” McClone said. “As we look ahead, our vision is to continue that mission with passion and purpose, innovating to meet the changing needs of our clients while staying true to our core values.”

For more information, please contact:

Ashley Rothmann
pr@mcclone.com

About McClone Insurance

McClone Insurance is a leading provider of comprehensive risk management and insurance solutions. With headquarters in Menasha, Wisconsin, and regional offices in Madison, Milwaukee, Sheboygan, and Fond du Lac, McClone serves clients nationwide. The company offers a wide range of services including business insurance, employee benefits, HR outsourcing, 401(k) solutions, and personal insurance. Founded in 1949, McClone is driven by its commitment to people-oriented values, community involvement, and exceptional service. The company’s proprietary RiskMAP™ process ensures tailored, proactive protection for its clients, and through its M.A.D.E. program, McClone empowers team members to contribute to their communities, reinforcing its belief in making a meaningful impact.

Wegner CPAs Celebrates 75 Years of Client Success and Accounting Innovation

Madison, WI – July 30, 2024 – Wegner CPAs, a Top 200 accounting firm, is proud to announce its 75th anniversary this year. Since its founding in 1949 by Robert E. Wegner in Madison, Wisconsin, the firm has grown from a sole proprietorship to a multi-office, multi-state operation, serving clients across diverse industries.

Wegner CPAs’ timeline reflects a rich history of adaptation and growth alongside the accounting profession itself. From navigating the post-war economic boom and the rise of modern accounting in the 1950s to embracing technological advancements in the 1970s and the digital revolution of the 1990s, the firm has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of its clients.

Today, Wegner CPAs fosters a vibrant workplace culture that values collaboration, innovation, and work-life balance. Our commitment to our team is evident in our flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, and recognition as a Top Workplace. The firm’s core values, established in 2006, continue to guide its actions and behaviors, ensuring a people first approach, relationship driven service, and a commitment to unwavering integrity.

“We are incredibly proud of the legacy we have built over the past 75 years,” said Glenn Miller, Managing Partner of Wegner CPAs. “Our success is a testament to the dedication of our talented team and the trust our clients have placed in us. We look forward to many more years of providing exceptional service and helping our clients achieve their financial goals.”

As Wegner CPAs celebrates this significant anniversary, the firm is poised for continued growth and innovation. With 178 employees, including 17 partners, across seven office locations and 13 states, Wegner CPAs is well-equipped to meet its clients’ evolving needs.

About Wegner CPAs

Wegner CPAs is a full-service accounting firm offering a wide range of services, including advisory services, tax planning and preparation, audit and assurance, business consulting, and more. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and client-focused solutions, Wegner CPAs has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor to businesses, non-profits, and individuals.

For more information about Wegner CPAs and its 75th anniversary, please visit www.wegnercpas.com/about-us/75years.

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Media Contact

Christin Biermeier

Marketing Manager

christin.biermeier@wegnercpas.com

WPS revitalizes its business and brand

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
DeAnne Boegli
Corporate Communications
608-977-7343
deanne.boegli@wpsic.com

WPS revitalizes its business and brand
Commitment to doing things the right way will never change

MADISON, Wis.—Aug. 1, 2024—WPS, a health solutions company, is undergoing a brand and business transformation, unveiling a new look and logo to support the company’s aggressive growth goals. Building on its rich history of innovation and compassion, WPS has set a new course as it relentlessly pursues new and better solutions for active-duty and retired military members, senior citizens, employee groups, and all they serve.

“I’m energized by the future I see for WPS,” WPS President and CEO Wendy Perkins said. “We have a rich history, and we’ve been through many changes and challenges over the years. Through it all, one thing has stayed the same and will never change: doing things the right way and treating the people we serve with compassion. The updated brand and planned product innovations are part of our growth strategy to drive WPS successfully into the future and take WPS forward for years to come.”

WPS customers will begin seeing the new look on marketing materials this fall. Business partners, WPS-listed agents, health care providers, others who do business with WPS, and the public can expect to see the updated brand over the next few months as updates are rolled out across the company. The new look and logo were shared with employees in July.

About WPS^®

Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation (WPS) is a nationally regarded benefits administrator for a variety of U.S. government programs and a leading not-for-profit health insurer in Wisconsin. WPS serves employee groups in Wisconsin, senior citizens across the U.S., and active-duty and retired military members around the world. Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, WPS has more than 2,500 employees. For more information, please visit wpshealthsolutions.com.

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M3 Insurance Announces the Launch of Ethica Pharmacy Advisors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For Media Inquiries:
Angela Joyce, Director of Communications
M3 Insurance
Phone: 608.229.6409
Email: angela.joyce@m3ins.com

M3 Insurance Announces the Launch of Ethica Pharmacy Advisors

(Milwaukee, WI) – M3 Insurance is proud to announce the launch of Ethica Pharmacy Advisors, a pharmacy solutions consultancy created to bring a new level of expertise, specialization, transparency, and service to clients. Ethica Pharmacy Advisors will leverage M3’s extensive knowledge and resources to deliver unparalleled services in the pharmacy benefits consulting industry.

Ethica Pharmacy Advisors is a pharmacy benefits consultancy dedicated to helping plan sponsors manage prescription drug costs through advice, financial analysis, and clinical resources.

“M3 is proud to announce the establishment and launch of Ethica Pharmacy Advisors,” said Mike Victorson, CEO of M3 Insurance. “In the complex and often opaque universe of pharmacy benefit management, we are committed to being a trusted partner, continually finding innovative ways to manage risk and support our clients in running successful companies.”

Ethica Pharmacy Advisors will continue to uphold the values and standards that M3 Insurance is known for, ensuring a seamless experience for clients while expanding its reach and capabilities nationally.

“Our mission at Ethica is to prioritize patient care so our clients can confidently navigate the complex pharmaceutical landscape, achieving financial control and quality care.” said Connie Perry, PharmD, and Managing Director of Ethica Pharmacy Advisors. “We are excited about this important launch and are committed to delivering top-tier solutions clients have come to expect from M3’s risk and insurance advisory services.”

Ethica is set to redefine pharmacy benefit consulting by offering a comprehensive suite of services, including prescription (Rx) diagnostic assessments and Pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) contract management, custom pricing arrangements, transparent pharmacy procurements and negotiation advice, full-service Rx directorship, and in-house PBM audit capabilities.

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About M3

M3 is a top insurance broker and risk management firm in America. We’re leaders in the products we represent and the industries we serve. M3’s people are an extension of your team, providing world-class resources to help you manage risk, purchase insurance, and provide employee benefits. And our focus on community builds better places to live and work. For more information on M3, visit www.m3ins.com.

About Ethica Pharmacy Advisors

Ethica Pharmacy Advisors is an innovative pharmacy consulting firm. Using in-house expertise, 21st-century tech and real-time insights, Ethica empowers clients to see costs, understand usage and negotiate better terms by exploring beyond the typical vendors who dominate the marketplace. Learn more at m3ins.com/pharmacy-solutions/.