Connor Groce

As a 19-year-old undergraduate at UNC Chapel Hill, I made my first franchise investment by walking from my fraternity house to the bank to wire $4,900. This was the beginning of my journey toward building wealth, creating freedom, and living the life I had always dreamed of through franchising. My first franchise found some early success and doubled the brand’s previous record for first-year revenue in holiday lighting. After 18 months as an owner-operator, I hired a manager and transitioned to a semi-absentee role, continuing to oversee the business. By then, I was hooked on franchising. I realized this was the perfect path for me to build wealth while also achieving the lifestyle flexibility I sought. In 2022, I relocated to Indiana to purchase two units of another brand in the waste management industry. While focusing on organic growth, I expanded my portfolio through new territories and acquisitions and saw first-hand how powerful strategic growth can be for long-term value creation. Franchising has provided me with opportunities that traditional employment or independent business ownership wouldn’t have offered at such an early stage in my career. I’m passionate about helping others leverage franchising as a way to build wealth, improve their lifestyles, and realize their dreams. Today, I live in Raleigh, NC with my two Great Danes, Marley and Scout. When I’m not working on my franchise portfolio or helping others grow theirs, you’ll often find me traveling the world, reading a good book, or cheering on the Tar Heels.