Leadership and Life Insights from a visionary entrepreneur

Learn more about Tariq Farid's inspirational story and journey from the projects to a CEO making a real impact.

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Edible franchisees prove that the comeback can be stronger than the setback

 2020-04-15
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Numbers never tell the whole story

 2020-02-27
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Special Memories for a Special Season

 2019-04-17
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Celebrating One Year in IFA’s Hall of Fame

 2019-02-28
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Reflecting on a turning point for me and Edible Arrangements

 2016-09-29
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Edible’s eCommerce evolution yesterday, today and tomorrow

It’s no secret to anyone in business that one of the most dramatic changes brought about by the pandemic has been the emergence of eCommerce as an essential tool for retailers that want to thrive in a post-pandemic world. As...

A company is nothing without its people

It’s hard to believe we are nearing the end of 2020 and, before we know it, the holidays will be over and we’ll be starting fresh with a new year. If nothing else, 2020 will leave us with plenty of...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • employment
  • growth
  • success

A Special Thank You to Somia

Business Woman magazine just announced its list of the 100 most influential women in franchising right now, and I must say what an impressive group of leaders they have there. To all of the women named to this prestigious ranking, I want...

Success Is Best When Shared

It is in giving that we receive. As an entrepreneur, I’ve witnessed this first-hand. My mother always told me that if I took care of my customers, they would take care of me. Not only was she right, but I’ve...

Planting the seed for exciting new directions

I cannot say enough about our entire Edible team and the way everyone has banded together to innovate during a pandemic to elevate our business and, most importantly, give our incredible customers what they need and desire in these uncertain...

Celebrating fathers AND father figures

With Father’s Day this weekend, I’ve been reflecting lately on how fortunate I am to have had an amazing father but also some amazing father figures to look up to in my lifetime. I’ve written about my father in the...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • father day

Real change demands real action

As I have watched events unfold over the past few weeks in response to the murder of George Floyd and other victims of racism, the question I found myself repeatedly asking is, “what can I do personally to make a...

  • Black Lives Matter
  • Change
  • racism

Recognizing those who are delivering joy and healing in difficult times 

One of the things that happens to entrepreneurs as their companies expand and responsibilities change, is that it is easy to lose track of what it was like when you were first starting out and working on the front lines of your business.  I’ve always tried to keep...

  • COVID-19
  • delivery
  • Edible team

Edible franchisees prove that the comeback can be stronger than the setback

This past Easter weekend reminded me of my very first Easter as a small business owner. I learned a valuable lesson then that remains as true today as it did over two decades ago — the comeback is always stronger...

  • Easter
  • small business

Now more than ever, it takes a village

These are difficult and confusing times for all of us, and my prayers and thoughts are with every family and loved one that has been impacted by the COVID-19 virus. (more…)

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • Edible Arrangements Franchises
  • Edible Arrangements Locations

Numbers never tell the whole story

One of the things I’ve learned over the years as an entrepreneur is that even when you think you know what it’s going to take to make a business successful, there are always unexpected surprises. I was reminded of that...

  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisees
  • Valentine's Day

Edible is making more sweet news today

This is a very exciting day for all of us at Edible Brands. We are joining forces with Colorado-based Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in what I consider to be a groundbreaking, long-term strategic partnership. This is not an acquisition or...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • partnerships
  • Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Welcoming New Leadership for a Brand Evolution

When I launched Edible Arrangements® in 1999, I was full of passion and ready to WOW our customers. I don’t mean that I just wanted them to be excited or impressed, I literally wanted them to say “WOW” when they received...

Venturing into the exciting and misunderstood CBD industry

One of my true joys as an entrepreneur is discovering a new opportunity and taking it from vision to reality, especially when it involves an emerging market that is ripe for development and provides true value to the public. (more…)

  • CBD
  • Hemp
  • Incredible Edibles

Turning a Mother’s Wise Words into a Celebration

Over the years, I have written a lot about the impact my mother had on my life and my business. No matter the situation, she always seemed to have the perfect words of wisdom. (more…)

  • Edible Arrangements
  • education
  • Philanthropy

Welcome Carissa Ganelli, Our New President of Edible.com

We recently announced that Carissa Ganelli has been named president of Edible.com, which is the largest operating division of Edible Arrangements.  In this position, she will oversee all of Edible’s e-commerce and technology by helping us understand how to take full...

  • Edible Arrangements

Special Memories for a Special Season

For many people, Easter is a time of celebration and remembrance. This year, as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Edible Arrangements®, I’ve found myself especially reflective as I think about how far we’ve come since our very first Easter....

  • celebration
  • Easter
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Holidays

Edible Franchisees Join Forces for a Common Cause

It has always been my philosophy that companies don’t just serve their customers, they have an obligation to serve their entire communities, as well. That’s why philanthropy plays an important role in all my companies, especially Edible Arrangements®. (more…)

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Philanthropy

Keeping a Brand Fresh Requires Constant Change

One of my core beliefs when it comes to business has always been that constant change is necessary to maintain a leadership position in any industry. It’s something I’ve written about in the past, and it remains a critical operating principal...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • franchising

Celebrating One Year in IFA’s Hall of Fame

This week, the International Franchise Association (IFA) held their annual conference and I marked one year since I was granted the honor of joining the IFA’s Hall of Fame. It was an incredibly humbling experience to be given this award...

  • awards
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Franchise
  • International Franchise Association
  • Tariq Farid

Happy Valentine’s Day!

At Edible Arrangements® Valentine’s Day kicks off a springtime season of giving, including Easter, Mother’s Day, graduations, and Father’s Day. (more…)

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • Holidays

Celebrating National Mentoring Month

January kicks off resolution season, the beginning of a new year, and time for a fresh start. It is also National Mentoring Month, something that is particularly special to me. I would not be where I am today without the...

Happy Holidays!

As we approach the holidays and the start of a New Year, I wanted to reflect on what an ncredible year of change and growth it has been for not only myself but for Edible Arrangements®. We began the process...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! As everyone prepares to gather with friends and family this week, I wanted to take a moment to share how very thankful I am for all that I have received in my life and celebrate this season of...

  • Edible Arrangements

Celebrating National Entrepreneurship Month

November is National Entrepreneurship Month- a month meant to celebrate the tenacious spirit of entrepreneurs and the positive and far-reaching impact they have on our economy. (more…)

Providing a Pathway to Business for America’s Veterans

As Veterans Day 2018 – the 100th anniversary of the end of “The Great War,” – approaches, I wanted to take a moment to honor the patriotism and honorable, selfless service to our country demonstrated by America’s veterans. The dedication...

  • American Dream
  • Veterans Day. VetFran
  • VetFran Program

Mike Rotondo Joins Edible as CEO

There have been quite a few exciting announcements here at Edible in the last few months – from our second headquarters in Atlanta to the delicious launch of our new granny smith apple donuts. These are just a few of...

  • Edible Arrangements

Honoring Veterans on Independence Day

Every year on the Fourth of July, in the middle of all the backyard celebrations and fireworks displays, I like to pause and take a moment to remember the great men and women who make holidays like this possible. When...

  • IFA
  • Military veterans
  • VetFran Program

Celebrating Dads This Father’s Day

As the years fly, it’s days like Father’s Day that make me realize how special our time is with those we love. It’s a day to celebrate the men in our lives who have spent their years out by the...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • family
  • Holidays

Celebrating National Police Week and National Donut Day with “Donut Boy”

When I was younger and creating Edible I never thought I’d be writing about a donut product! But here we are on National Donut Day, celebrating the launch of Edible’s brand new donuts. You might be wondering, how can fruit...

  • children
  • community
  • Edible Arrangements

Celebrating “Momible” Moments this Mother’s Day

I try to take every opportunity I get to honor my Mother. Throughout my life she was always an incredible supporter. No matter how big my dreams got, she was always there to not only share words of belief and...

It’s an Excitible time for Edible

After years of planning and hard work by the amazing Edible team, our franchisees and our agency partner Havas, I am very excited to announce that we have officially kicked off our transformation with a new “Edible is ❤ible” campaign....

  • advertising
  • Edible brand
  • marketing

Celebrating National Small Business Week

This week, as the country celebrates National Small Business Week, I’d like to look back and reflect on the beginnings of Edible®, when we were just a small store in Connecticut. Looking back on these memories makes me eternally grateful...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • entrepreneurs
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • franchisees
  • franchising

Celebrating remarkable Connecticut women

In my opinion, there are few things more inspiring than the stories of those who have overcome obstacles or objections to achieve success in whatever walk of life they are pursuing. That's why I was so excited that Edible® employees recently...

  • Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame

Edible® and Junior Achievement – a partnership driving results

As I have written in the past, few things give me as much pleasure as seeing our Edible® team take time to give back to our community. That was the case on Friday, April 13, when 27 incredible members of...

  • Charity
  • children
  • Edible
  • Non-profit support

Big News! Edible is expanding and opening a second HQ in Atlanta

This has been a month of incredible change at Edible! We recently announced that we are opening a second headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. This new office marks a huge step in our next phase of growth and I’m very excited to see...

  • Edible Arrangements

Thank You! to all who made this journey possible

There have been many high points over the course of my entrepreneurial journey, but I can’t think of any that compare to this past Sunday when I was honored with the International Franchise Association’s Hall of Fame Award. To receive...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • family
  • Hall of Fame
  • IFA
  • Mentors

Giving back to the community she calls home

Two years ago, Junior Achievement of Southwest New England inducted me into their Business Hall of Fame. It was a wonderful honor and made special because my children were there to see me accept the award. It’s no secret that...

My interview with Tyler Mathisen

Media interviews are important and have really helped to spread the story and brand of Edible Arrangements. The interview I did with Tyler Mathisen of the “Nightly Business Report” was a thrill. My oldest daughter Somia was also part of...

Giving Back to the Community

This month, Edible Arrangement employees from the home office in Wallingford gave back to the local community. The team collected hats, scarfs and mittens for Manna Inc. Food Pantry & Resource Center in Wallingford (left.)   The team also donated...

  • Edible Arrangements

Providing Training & Support for Local Refugee Entrepreneurs

While the refugee crisis has captured news coverage, the state of Connecticut has received displaced people for several years.  This story is about how an investment from several community philanthropists, including the Tariq and Asma Farid Foundation, are giving inspiration to...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Teacher

Compassion & Generosity

The holiday season is upon us and I’m taking a moment to reflect and share how Edible and employees from my companies have supported our communities this year. Ten Edible employees – trained in Junior Achievement curriculum – volunteered for...

  • community
  • Edible Arrangements

The Value of Play

A school playground and recess are vitally important to children for their fun and relaxation as well as for their good health and well-being. That’s why I am so pleased to be part of a $240,000 funding effort that will...

  • Charity
  • Edible Arrangements

WorkinCT: Edible Arrangements had early roots in East Haven

Media interviews continue to help spread the story about Edible Arrangements. Being featured in segment about Connecticut companies took me back to where it began.  This has been way beyond what I ever dreamed. What a blessing. WorkinCT: My interview with...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Franchise

My Podcast interview with Guy Raz

Over the years I’ve found that media interviews are important and have really helped to spread the story and brand of Edible Arrangements. The interview I did with Guy Raz of “How I Built This” was a thrill.  I’m a...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • podcast

JULY CELEBRATIONS

  • celebration

Sharing Growth Strategies With Other Connecticut Business Leaders

I recently had the opportunity to attend an incredible gathering of like-minded individuals for a dynamic event called “90 ideas in 90 minutes!” The Hartford Business Journal brought together executives from the Hartford area to discuss how we grew our...

  • Connecticut Business Leaders

JUNE 2017 CELEBRATIONS

So many things to celebrate in June.  Birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations and of course Father’s Day. Edible Arrangements was there for those special occasions as well as the everyday fresh fruit treats. June was also filled with new store openings, and the...

  • celebration
  • Edible Arrangements

Celebrating the Global Expansion of Edible Arrangements

In the early days after creating Edible Arrangements, my goal was really pretty simple. I wanted to create a “WOW” moment for customers. Like all new entrepreneurs, I had dreams of growing the business and hoped that maybe someday our...

  • Edible Arrangements

Just in time for Father’s Day

As the country gets ready to celebrate Father’s Day, many fathers and sons still dream of working side by side.  Today, I turned my blog over to Eric Balcerzak, who shares his insights and memories of working alongside his father...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • father day

Foundation Donates to Fresh Air Fund to Give Kids Access to Summer Camps

The countdown to summer has begun.  Please join me in a countdown to summer and help give Greater New Haven children a summer full of adventures and opportunities.  Since 1905, the New Haven Register’s Fresh Air Fund, a non-profit, has...

  • community
  • New Haven Register Fresh Air Fund
  • summer camps
  • Youth

Honoring America’s Heroes on Memorial Day

With the approach of Memorial Day and all the summer kickoff backyard barbecues and pool parties, I once again want to take a moment to pause and reflect on the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country....

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • employment
  • Holidays
  • Memorial Day
  • Military veterans
  • Philanthropy
  • VetFran Program

Edible Arrangements volunteers for Junior Achievement Day

For second-grade students at Highland Elementary School in Wallingford, Connecticut, Friday May 19 was all about dollars and fruit. (more…)

  • children
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Junior Achievement
  • Youth

A sweet surprise for some special UPS moms

Growing up I saw my mother take on many roles: caregiver, friend, chef, cheerleader, tutor, the list could go on and on. I’ve found that there is no limit to what mothers can and will do for their children to...

  • Charity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • family
  • moms
  • Mother's Day

Honoring the hardest workers, mothers

I’ve found time and time again that mothers are truly some of the hardest working people on the planet, and many times the unsung heroes behind us all. I know this to be true of my own mother, Salma, as...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • family
  • Mother's Day

Celebrating the sweet life of the small business owners

I have often said that even though Edible Arrangements has more than 1,300 locations and 800 franchisees around the world, we are really just a big family of small business owners. And as we celebrate National Small Business Week, it provides...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • entrepreneurs
  • small business

Support the nonprofit important to you. Be part of the Great Give

On May 2 – nonprofits in New Haven county are participating in what is the largest national day of local giving to raise millions of dollars for important causes in our communities. These are the organizations that feed the hungry,...

  • Charity
  • children
  • Community Foundation for Greater New Haven
  • Connecticut Food Bank
  • GiveGreater
  • Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services
  • IRIS
  • Non-profit support
  • Philathropy

Reflecting on sweet Easter memories

Every year as Easter approaches I pause to think back and remember where this all started, and every year I’m taken back to memories of two special Easter seasons. That's because Easter is where the story of my entrepreneurial journey...

  • Easter
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship

Edible Arrangements celebrates women’s history with the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame

President Rob Price, Kathryn Gloor from The CT Women's Hall of Fame and Vice President of Netsolace, Inc. Asma Farid Earlier today, nearly 50 people at the Edible Arrangements office gathered to reflect on the trailblazing achievements of women at...

  • Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame
  • leadership
  • Women's History Month

Edible Arrangements celebrates the colors of Spring

The transition from winter into spring is one of my favorite times of year,  and I am happy to share that Edible Arrangements is celebrating this transition through a partnership with The Children’s Place, a children’s specialty retailer of clothing and accessories. Together,...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • promotion
  • The Children's Place
  • Youth

Believing in the power of literacy

Learning to read can be a challenge.  Two established literacy programs in the region, New Haven Reads and Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven, help children and adults improve literacy skills and empower them for success. And the Tariq Farid...

  • Charity
  • children
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

A chance to give back, and give the gift of life

As the home of my family and many of my businesses, Connecticut holds a special place in my heart. And one of the things that makes it so special to me is how many unsung heroes I have been fortunate...

Edible Arrangements delivers a summer of fun for area children

Summer always marked one of my favorite seasons as a child, and in less than 100 days it will officially be summer. For many kids across the country, that means it’s time to start packing for summer camp. For many children,...

  • children
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Youth

Edible Arrangements offers students fresh look at entrepreneurship

Growing up, both as an entrepreneur and young man, I had many mentors who played key roles into helping shape me into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for them, as they took time to give me...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • entrepreneurs
  • Entrepreneurship
  • small business
  • Youth

Edible Arrangements celebrates ranking in Franchise 500

For the 12th year in a row, Edible Arrangements has been ranked in the annual Franchise 500 by Entrepreneur magazine. This year we were ranked #42, marking the 10th year in a row for us to be among the Top 50. No matter how...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneur magazine
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Tariq Farid donations

Edible Arrangements celebrates a sweet collaboration with Mr. Chocolate

Known to enjoy some sweet treats myself, I am very excited about the recent announcement that Jacques Torres is sharing his incredible skills and craftsmanship with Edible Arrangements as we add a new Edible Chocolate brand to our product line. When we began...

  • chocolate
  • Christmas
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Hanukkah
  • Holidays
  • innovation
  • Tariq Farid

The holiday gift that keeps giving

As we enjoy the holiday season, I am excited to share news of a new line of Edible Arrangements gift baskets and custom swizzle colors. Once again our incredibly dynamic Edible Arrangements team has made us all say “Wow!” (more…)

Taking a moment to celebrate the entrepreneurial way of life

November is National Entrepreneurship Month and before it’s time to flip the page on the calendar, I’d like to take some time to reflect on the many great entrepreneurs that have taken the leap of business ownership with Edible Arrangements,...

  • Edible Arrangements

Saluting our Veterans

As Veterans Day arrives every year I am reminded of the incredible sacrifices the great veterans of our country have made and continue to make every day. Yet, I am also saddened to think of the many obstacles a large...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • entrepreneurs
  • Veterans Day. VetFran

How the “Uberization” of Business is Reshaping the Future of Franchising

Later this week I will be in Austin speaking to a gathering of franchise professionals about the impact of technology on the future of franchising during the annual FranTech conference, sponsored by the International Franchise Association. As a self-proclaimed tech...

More sweet news for Edible Arrangements

It seems that things just keep getting sweeter for Edible Arrangements in 2016 as we recently learned that Edible Arrangements has been named to the Franchise Times annual Top 200+ list. I’m always very grateful when the Edible Arrangements family...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • franchising

Reflecting on a turning point for me and Edible Arrangements

As an entrepreneur, it’s often very easy to get so caught up in the day-to-day whirlwind of business that there is little time for reflection. That’s why I so enjoyed my recent interview with Chris Beier of Inc. magazine. The interview...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • entrepreneurs
  • Entrepreneurship
  • growth
  • small business

Honoring Our Commitment To Giving Back

As I have said many times, I deeply believe that with success comes a responsibility to give back to your community. It is not just a personal value but a value that is shared by the entire Edible Arrangements family....

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Philanthropy

Need Edible Arrangements? There’s an app for that!

It’s an exciting time for Edible Arrangements. This week we released our own app and the response has exceeded all expectations as our fans have quickly embraced the technology. So much so, that iTunes had us featured as a favorite...

Tariq Farid Foundation Joins Fight Against Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is an issue that touches all parts of society, with the victims, especially women and children, often suffering alone and in silence. That’s why it gave all of us at the Tariq Farid Foundation such a tremendous feeling to be...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Recognizing the sweet success of Edible Arrangements’ franchisees

While reflecting again on my time at the recent Edible Arrangements convention I was overwhelmed when thinking of all our amazing franchisee partners and the relentless passion and hard work they put into their businesses every single day. That's why...

  • American Dream
  • awards
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • Entrepreneurship

Edible Arrangements joins Serving Our Kids effort to Change the world ONE Child at a time!

The Edible Arrangements convention this week in Las Vegas held many, many highlights for me. Few, however, matched the opportunity we had earlier in the week to join the passionate volunteers of the Serving Our Kids Foundation in Las Vegas...

  • children
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations

Tariq Farid Foundation lends support to New Haven Reads

Last week I visited New Haven Reads, a local nonprofit, and it brought back many memories from 1981, when my family arrived in the US from Pakistan. The space was filled with volunteers from the community providing one-on-one tutoring for...

  • Philanthropy

For all of us at Edible Arrangements, change begins at home

“Change begins at home,” as the saying goes, and that is certainly true at the Edible Arrangements headquarters in Wallingford. We recently celebrated the opening of our newest Edible Arrangements location, which can be found right in the entrance to...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • franchisees
  • growth
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Tariq Farid Foundation Aids Families Experiencing Temporary Financial Setbacks

Through the Tariq Farid Foundation, we have been able to support many different worthwhile organizations. Most recently, we have had the opportunity to team up with the Spanish Community of Wallingford (SCOW), which helps members of the Hispanic community who...

  • children
  • employment
  • HUBCAP Wallingford
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

Congratulations again to the tremendous Edible Arrangements family

Over a decade and a half later, it seems that things just keep getting sweeter at Edible Arrangements as we were recently recognized by both Entrepreneur magazine and Forbes as a top global franchise, a big win for both our...

  • awards
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Tariq Farid CEO

Taking inspiration from others pursuing their dreams

I recently had the honor of joining 49 other entrepreneurs and business leaders being recognized by the Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC) as part of their Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business Award gala. I am always honored to...

  • American Dream
  • Asian American Business Development Center
  • awards
  • Edible Arrangements
  • entrepreneurs
  • Philanthropy

A year later, a dream becomes reality

Last year the Tariq Farid Foundation was honored to contribute to the Cindy Lynn Sherwin Memorial Foundation to help create a playground at an elementary school in a needy area of New Haven, Connecticut. The playground was the idea of...

  • Charity
  • children
  • education
  • New Haven
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Mom, Small Businesses and the American Dream

This weekend represents the single biggest weekend of the year for Edible Arrangements as we celebrate Mother’s Day. It also marks the end of National Small Business Week. In my case, the two have been instrumental to my success in...

  • American Dream
  • Entrepreneurship
  • family
  • franchising
  • Mother's Day Gifts
  • small business
  • success
  • Tariq Farid CEO

A teacher’s gift

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week and today being National Teacher Appreciation Day, I always like to repost a blog that was written in 2012 to honor of one of the most important people in my life. I'm sure everyone...

  • American Dream
  • education
  • family
  • success
  • Youth

An honor from Junior Achievement that I share with many

On Thursday evening I was honored to be among a group of local businesspeople inducted into the Junior Achievement of Southwest New England’s Business Hall of Fame. One thing that made the evening so special was that my children were...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • entrepreneurs
  • family
  • Non-profit support
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

Tariq Farid Foundation renews support for families of children with cancer

Learning that a family member has cancer is heart-breaking, especially if that person is a child. I know this first-hand because it happened to my family shortly after we had moved to the United States. At the age of four,...

  • Cancer
  • Charity
  • children
  • family
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Smilow Cancer Hospital
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Tommy Fund
  • Yale-New Haven

Tariq Farid Foundation adds support for literacy volunteers of Greater New Haven

One of the most intimidating challenges of moving to a new country is learning a new language and customs. I know this from first-hand experience. Thanks to the help of caring teachers and new friends, however, I was able to...

  • Charity
  • education
  • family
  • Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven
  • Non-profit support
  • opportunity
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

An exciting opportunity to help shape the future of franchising

The past weekend was a very special one for several reasons. First, I was privileged to take my place as part of the International Franchise Association (IFA) board of directors at the organization’s annual convention in San Antonio. As I...

  • American Dream
  • board of directors
  • Edible Arrangements
  • entrepreneurs
  • Franchise
  • franchisees
  • franchising
  • IFA
  • NextGen

Tariq Farid Foundation lends its support to the fight against child hunger

Through the Tariq Farid Foundation, we have been blessed to be able to support many worthwhile organizations that are helping those in need. It is a sad fact of life that there are those who, through no fault of their...

  • Charity
  • children
  • Connecticut Food Bank
  • Edible Arrangements
  • families
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

Congratulations to Edible Arrangements team for highest Franchise 500 ranking ever

When I created Edible Arrangements in 1999, and again when the first franchise location opened in 2001, I was convinced the idea would be successful. I could never have imagined, however, that less than two decades later we would have...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • entrepreneurs
  • Franchise 500
  • franchisees
  • franchising
  • global
  • ranking
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur

“Bread for Life” continues the tradition of neighbors helping neighbors

Earlier this week I had the opportunity to participate as a speaker at the Southington Business Forum organized by the Southington Economic Development Department and the Southington Chamber of Commerce. (more…)

  • Bread For Life
  • Charity
  • family
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Southington
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

Tariq Farid Foundation Announces Challenge Grant To Help Young Refugee Women in Kenya

Sadly, hardly a day goes by when there is not a story about the plight of refugees trying to escape the horrors of conflict in some part of the world. The stories of desperation and fear will tear at your...

  • Charity
  • children
  • education
  • healthcare
  • Heshima Kenya
  • Non-profit support
  • opportunity
  • Refugees
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

It’s the time of year to think of the children

If, as the saying goes, the holidays are for the children, then this is the time of year that seems to heighten the tragedy that is a child in need. It is especially tragic when those needs are for the...

  • Charity
  • children
  • family
  • Holidays
  • New Haven
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Giving Thanks For Those Who Help Others

On the eve of the day in which we give thanks for the blessings in our lives, among the many things I am thankful for are the many people who make sure that our most vulnerable neighbors are cared for....

  • Charity
  • family
  • Liberty Community Services
  • New Haven
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Sunrise Cafe
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

Bringing hope through education

One of the truly wonderful benefits of living in this country is that everyone, regardless of their situation in life, has access to education. Sadly, that is not the case in many parts of the world. (more…)

  • Charity
  • children
  • education
  • Non-profit support
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

A special “Thank You!” to the Immigrant Heritage Hall of Fame

Over the years I have been fortunate to receive a number of awards and recognitions. Of course none of them would have been possible without the support of my family and friends as well as the valuable contributions of my...

  • American Dream
  • awards
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • family
  • honors
  • Immigrant Heritage Hall of Fame
  • success
  • Tariq Farid

An opportunity to advance franchising worldwide

For many years I’ve participated in numerous events sponsored by the International Franchise Association (IFA), the world’s premier organization for franchisors, franchisees and industry suppliers. It’s been an honor, as well as an education, to meet the brightest people in...

  • 1000 stores
  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Franchise
  • International Franchise Association
  • Military veterans
  • Tariq Farid
  • technology
  • Veterans Day. VetFran

A learning experience becomes a cause for good

Almost every day something happens that makes me very proud of the Edible Arrangements franchise owners and team members. One particular moment comes each month when new franchise owners arrive at our Corporate Headquarters in Wallingford, Connecticut for training. (more…)

  • Charity
  • children
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • Edible Cares
  • franchisees
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid

An Edible Arrangements franchisee shows us all how to handle a crisis

Bill Russ and his team at the downtown Baltimore Edible Arrangements are an example that a key to building a successful business is being able to deal with unexpected challenges. One of the things you quickly realize as the owner...

  • Baltimore
  • Edible Arrangements
  • facing challenges
  • franchisee
  • Mother's Day
  • Tariq Farid
  • Valentine's Day

Providing hope for refugee children is a cause worthy of our support

Because of my family history and my own personal experiences, there are two subjects that will immediately grab my attention when I hear about them — the plight of refugees and lack of access to education. As a child, I...

  • Al Salam School
  • donations
  • education
  • hope
  • Philanthropy
  • Refugees
  • schools
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Remembering a friend and mentor, Fred Deluca

Fred DeLuca, a friend and mentor. Yesterday the franchising world lost a friend and a great mentor, as did I. For me, Fred DeLuca was much more than the founder of Subway and a franchising icon. Fred was a true...

  • entrepreneur
  • franchising
  • Fred DeLuca
  • friend
  • mentor
  • Subway

Tyrese Sullivan is giving others the same chance he was given

Tyrese Sullivan (second from right), Kermit Carolina (far right) and Chazz Breland (far left) with the Sullivan Basketball Academy team. As I have written before, few things are as inspiring to me as coming across someone who is passionate about...

  • community
  • education
  • exercise
  • health
  • New Haven
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

Tony DiPippa is newest member of the amazing Edible Arrangements team

Tony DiPippa As the Edible Arrangements brand grows worldwide, I continue to be impressed by the talented professionals who join our team. The latest is our new CFO, Tony DiPippa. Tony brings a deep and diverse level of experience and...

  • CFO
  • Edible
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Expansion
  • finance
  • growth
  • Tony DiPippa

Jessica DaSilva shows us all what extreme passion can accomplish

Jessica (far left) with Cindy (second from left) along with sisters Lauren and Julie. When the Tariq Farid Foundation makes a contribution to support a worthwhile cause, I am often given an opportunity to meet the people behind the scenes....

  • children
  • Cindy Lynn Sherwin Foundation
  • New Haven
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

A turnaround worth celebrating — Again!

Ibrahim, in the center of the bottom row, celebrates another record Mother's Day sales performance with some of his Moreno Valley team members. Shortly after Mother's Day each year for the past four years I've received a phone call from...

  • California
  • Edible Arrangements
  • franchisees
  • Ibrahim Choudhry
  • leadership
  • Moreno Valley
  • Mother's Day
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur
  • turnaround

Doing our part to help others make a smooth transition to a new land

I recently had an opportunity to meet a few of the many refugees being helped by Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services (IRIS) in New Haven. As someone who moved to the United States as a child, I know that making...

  • IRIS
  • New Haven
  • Philanthropy
  • Refugees
  • Tariq Farid Donations Tariq Farid Foundation

Delivering a little joy to some very special moms this Mother’s Day

I have written many times about my mother and the tremendous influence she had on me throughout my life. Like most moms, no matter the situation or how tough things got, I always knew she was there for me and...

  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • illness and disease
  • moms
  • Mother's Day
  • Ronald McDonald House
  • Tariq Farid

A Teacher’s Gift

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, I always like to repost a blog that was written in 2012 to honor of one of the most important people in my life. I'm sure everyone had such a teacher who made a...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • encouragement
  • Gifts
  • Tariq Farid Teachers
  • Teacher
  • Teacher Appreciation Day

Edible Arrangements offers something new for Mother’s Day

When it comes to Edible Arrangements, it's not just the fruit that is always fresh. Our marketing and product development teams do a tremendous job of continually coming up with fresh new gift ideas. And they have done it again...

  • delivery
  • Edible Arrangements
  • fresh fruit
  • last-minute gifts
  • Mother's Day Gifts
  • unique gifts

Sometimes bad news leads to opportunity

As an entrepreneur, I am always interested in how others decided to take the leap and become the owner of a business. Because Edible Arrangements has so many successful franchisees, there is never a shortage of interesting stories. And I...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • New Hampshire
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid

Easter and its special memories

Easter bouquets played an important role in the start of Edible Arrangements. Each year as the Easter season arrives, I am reminded how truly blessed my family and I have been. For all of us, it is a time of...

  • Easter
  • Edible Arrangements
  • History
  • Holidays
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur

A second look leads to another success story

In franchising, nothing is more important than the success of the franchisees. If our franchisees are growing and are prospering, it means that all the hard work that has gone into building Edible Arrangements has been worthwhile. It means that...

  • Colorado
  • Edible Arrangements
  • family business
  • franchise renewal
  • franchisees
  • franchising
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur
  • teamwork

Meet Aislinn, another of our many inspiring franchisees

Aislinn with daughter Samantha. Today I would like to introduce you to Aislinn, an amazing woman who is truly an inspiration for many, including my very own daughters. Aislinn’s family owned a small business, an environmental laboratory in Hyde Park,...

  • Alzheimer's Association
  • American Red Cross
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • opportunity
  • Rhode Island
  • SPCA

An exciting look at the future of franchising . . . and business

I recently participated in an event that was not only inspiring but also left me excited about the future of business, in general, and specifically franchising. As a founding sponsor of the International Franchise Association’s NextGen program, I was invited...

  • economy
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Franchise
  • Farid Franchising
  • franchising
  • IFA
  • International Franchise Association
  • NextGen
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Franchise
  • technology
  • young entrepreneurs

Another reason Edible Arrangements is a successful company

There are many reasons that Edible Arrangements is a success. First, of course is the fact that our products feature fresh fruit and chocolate, that is beautifully arranged. They are both delicious and healthy! The sight of them continues to...

  • college students
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements canada
  • entrepreneur
  • franchisees
  • opportunity
  • WOW

The future of journalism is strong with programs like CPBN’s media lab!

The future of journalism is very bright with young interns such as these that are part of the Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network's Media Lab program. As in many states, Connecticut has a wonderful public broadcasting system that provides important and...

  • Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network
  • CPTV
  • Edible Arrangements
  • inteviews
  • Journalism
  • Media Lab
  • students
  • Tariq Farid
  • WNPR

An easy and fun way to support an important cause

Giving back is very important to me because, as I often say, with success comes responsibility. I adhere to this belief and am both honored and humbled to be able to support many organizations that help those in need, through...

  • BHCare
  • Bowl 2 Benefit
  • community
  • Connecticut
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services

Taking our story to The Street . . . and beyond

Valentine’s Day is the single biggest day of the year for Edible Arrangements and members of the news media are always fascinated to learn how our franchisees are able to deliver millions of pieces of fresh fruit nationwide in a...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Fortune
  • Fox Business
  • franchisees
  • interviews
  • The Street
  • Valentine's Day

How to become a small business owner

Just over ten years ago, Rory was a Pharmaceutical Sales Trainer and his wife Hillary was a 6th grade science and math teacher. They were happy with their careers and lives, but had an entrepreneurial itch and dreamed of being...

  • business success
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • growth
  • husband and wife team
  • New York
  • opportunity
  • WOW

Ten years later these franchisees are ready for more

I’ve been writing recently about some of our newer Edible Arrangements franchisees. It’s always exciting to watch the family of franchisees grow and meet the new entrepreneurs who are pursuing their own version of the American Dream. Equally dear to...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • multi-unit franchisee
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid

Family business and family fun with Edible Arrangements store ownership!

Franchisee congratulations this week goes to Michelle and Eddie, another husband wife team opening their first Edible Arrangements in Wilson, North Carolina. Michelle and Eddie, who have been happily married for 10 years, have the full support of their four...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • family
  • franchisee
  • North Carolina
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid

Tariq Farid Foundation Joins the United Nations Foundation to give children a Shot at Life!

One of the great advantages of living in the United States is the access we have to excellent healthcare. Unfortunately, in some parts of the world people still needlessly die because of lack of vaccines for diseases that have been...

  • Charity
  • children
  • disease prevention
  • healthcare
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Polio
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Chrysalis provides safety and support when it is needed most

Some of the amazing Chrysalis volunteers and staff. One of the aims of the Tariq Farid Foundation is to improve the lives of women and children. As a result, we support quite a few organizations that achieve this. One of...

  • Charity
  • Chrysalis
  • Farid Foundation
  • fighting abuse
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • safety
  • support
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Wallingford
  • women and children

Edible Arrangements makes more franchisee dreams come true

Yes, you can go home again! Just ask Malcolm and Lisa, two of our newest franchisees. They met while attending Texas A&M University and immediately realized they had a lot in common, having grown up in hometowns just 15 minutes...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangments Franchisees
  • Entrepreneurship
  • opportunity
  • Scott & White Hospital
  • Tariq Farid
  • Texas &AM
  • VA Hospital

Best Wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Wonderful New Year

As we come to the close of another year and reflect on what we’ve done and where we are going, I’d like to share my warmest wishes with you for a wonderful 2015. Over the past year, I’ve been fortunate...

  • celebrate
  • Charity
  • family
  • friends
  • loved ones
  • New Year
  • opportunity
  • relief
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Traditions Make The Holidays Special

One of the reasons this time of year is so special to me is that it is a time of family traditions. Ask someone the simple question “what are you going to do for the holidays?” and without hesitation you...

  • celebrate
  • Christmas
  • Edible Arrangements
  • family
  • Hanukkah
  • Holidays
  • Memories
  • traditions

Edible Arrangements again ranked among the best franchises in the world

Edible Arrangements received an early gift this week when we were ranked #40 in the annual Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 for 2015. Considered the most prestigious and comprehensive of the various franchise rankings, the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 is based on...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneur magazine
  • Franchise 500
  • honors
  • rankings
  • top franchises

Keeping the family in family business

Megan and Richard represent the growing number of husband-wife teams making up the Edible Arrangements franchise community. As I have written before, Edible Arrangements franchisees represent all walks of life and one group that I am happy to see steadily...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements franchisees
  • Entrepreneurship
  • family business
  • husband-wife teams
  • opportunity

A closer look at who we support and why

One of the unfortunate side effects of our digital age is that unfounded and hateful allegations can be easily spread to the public, even years after they have been dismissed as untrue. I have experienced this firsthand due to the...

  • Charity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Farid Foundation
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Now is the time to celebrate our diversity

At sundown today members of the Edible Arrangements corporate staff and franchise community that are of the Jewish faith will begin observing Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. And Christmas, of course, is less than two weeks away. At times like...

  • celebrate
  • Christmas
  • culture
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Festival of Lights
  • Hanukkah
  • race
  • religion

Solar Youth provides hope and opportunity where it is needed most

When I was young, my uncle used to tell me a story about a frog, and its lesson stays with me to this day. It went something like this: There was a frog living in a well. One day, a...

  • community service
  • Connecticut
  • Non-profit support
  • opportunity
  • Philanthropy
  • poverty
  • Solar Youth
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

The “rewarding” story of an Edible Arrangements franchisee

Who are our franchisees? We have long-term franchisees that have owned a store (or stores!) for a decade and then signed on for 10 more years. We have franchisees who always dreamed of being entrepreneurs and small business owners, and...

  • American Dream
  • careers
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid CEO
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur

Naranga will help your business unleash the true power of technology

From the day I opened my first flower shop as a teenager, technology has played a major role in the success of my businesses. Even at an early age I recognized that unleashing the power of technology could significantly enhance...

  • American Dream
  • business management
  • Edible Arrangements
  • eMaximation
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • Naranga
  • opportunity
  • software solutions
  • Tariq Farid
  • technology

Stepping off the corporate treadmill and onto the path of success at Edible Arrangements

Maurice Welton had dreams of no longer being stuck on the “corporate treadmill" when he discovered Edible Arrangements. Today he owns four successful stores with a fifth on the way! When I first met Maurice, who now owns multiple Edible...

  • American Dream
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • McAllen
  • multi-unit owner
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid
  • Texas

Today is #GivingTuesday!

In 2012 Henry Timms, executive director of the acclaimed cultural and community center 92nd Street Y, created #GivingTuesday as a way to harness the goodwill of the holiday season. His idea was to use the day as a time to...

  • Charity
  • Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen
  • GivingTuesday
  • Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association (IAVA).
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

There is so much for which to be thankful

Thanksgiving is one of the holidays that holds a special meaning for me. I was just a child when my family moved to the United States and we arrived knowing very little about our new home and its customs. We...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • franchisee
  • giving thanks
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Donations Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Thanksgiving

Easing the financial strain for low-income, working women battling serious illness

For many, few things cause more stress than the fear of missing a paycheck. Add the stress of a serious medical illness and you can understand the challenge facing many in our community on a daily basis. Fortunately, there are...

  • Bloom Again Foundation
  • Charity
  • Dr. Lois Frankel
  • Lunafest
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Work-Life Balance a perk of Edible Arrangements franchise ownership!

In 2004, Janine and her husband Jerry opened their first Edible Arrangements® store on Long Island, signing a 10-year franchise agreement. Things have gone so well that they have just signed on for another 10 years! Janine explained why she...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • family
  • franchisee
  • Long Island
  • opportunity
  • small business
  • Tariq Farid
  • work-life balance

Edible Arrangements is the Middle Market Center’s Company of the Month!

Middle market companies, defined as those with revenues of $10 million to $1 billion, are the backbone of the U.S. economy. They account for 70% of total private employment, and generate more than $9 trillion in combined revenues annually! Edible...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • National Center for the Middle Market
  • success
  • US economy

Community Soup Kitchen of New Haven provides food, dignity and more to those who need it most

With the arrival of November, my thoughts naturally turn to the holidays . . . and food. One of my true joys is celebrating with family and friends at a dinner table overflowing with good food and great conversation. For...

  • Charity
  • Farid Foundation
  • Holidays
  • meals
  • Non-profit support
  • nutrition
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • volunteers

An American hero comes out of retirement to open an Edible Arrangements store (and then, another!)

Meet Manny, one of Edible Arrangements'® amazing franchisees. Manny is a compassionate man with a big heart who seems to have non-stop energy! He also is one of the many military veterans who have become successful Edible Arrangements franchisees. Manny...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Veteran's Day
  • employment
  • entrepreneurs
  • franchisee
  • Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association (IAVA).
  • Military veterans
  • Tariq Farid Veterans
  • Veterans Day. VetFran

Sharing the love with our veterans

As I wrote about earlier this week, Edible Arrangements has forged a partnership with an amazing and esteemed organization that provides support and services to the 2.8 million veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan — the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Veteran's Day
  • employment
  • entrepreneurs
  • franchisee
  • Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association (IAVA).
  • Military veterans
  • Tariq Farid Veterans
  • VA
  • Veterans Day. VetFran

Edible Arrangements expands support of veterans

As we approach Veterans Day, we are reminded once again of the sacrifices veterans have made and the many obstacles they now, unfortunately, face. Whether it‘s health problems and painfully long waits to receive treatment, reduced financial support and benefits,...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Veteran's Day
  • employment
  • entrepreneurs
  • franchisee
  • Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association (IAVA).
  • Military veterans
  • Tariq Farid Veterans
  • Veterans Day. VetFran

How to turn a simple sales call into a business enterprise

Ron and Lori with their children, Mia and Eli, in Walt Disney World. I am always interested in how our franchisees find out about Edible Arrangements. Interestingly enough, it often is an unexpected encounter with one of our beautiful arrangements....

  • American Dream
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • Ohio
  • opportunity
  • Pennsylvania
  • Tariq Farid
  • West Virginia

Master’s Manna — Offering Support, And Dignity, To Those In Need

A food drive at Master’s Manna ensures that 400 local children in need will not go hungry. As I have written many times , I believe that with success comes a responsibility to help others. That is why the mission...

  • Charity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • food pantry
  • Master's Manna
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

The Middle Market and its importance to our economy

This week GE Capital and Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business are hosting the Middle Market Summit in Columbus, Ohio. What is the Middle Market? I consider the Middle Market the backbone of the US economy. It includes businesses...

  • business
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Fisher College of Business
  • GE Capital
  • Middle Market Summit
  • Ohio State
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid CEO
  • US economy

Your chance to show the world that You Can Do It, Too!

Are you between the ages of 18-35 with a great idea for a business but not sure how to get it off the ground? Do you know someone who is? This week the International Franchise Association (IFA) Education Fund launched...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • IFA Education Fund
  • International Franchise Association
  • NextGen
  • Non-profit support
  • opportunity
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

At Edible Arrangements, dreams do come true

Darlene and David Deberry Darlene Deberry always wanted to own her own business. She often dreamed of it, but was never sure how to make her dream a reality. Working as a portfolio manager for a micro loan enterprise program...

  • Charity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Farid Foundation
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation

Seizing a chance to Pay It Forward

There is nothing more devastating than learning that a family member has cancer; especially if that family member is a small child. I know this first-hand because it happened to my family shortly after we had moved to the United...

  • Charity
  • children
  • families
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • Smillow Cancer Hospital
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Tommy Fund
  • Yale-New Haven Hospital

Edible Arrangements again ranked among the top franchise companies!

For the sixth consecutive year, I am happy to announce that Edible Arrangements has made the Franchise Times Top 200 List! The Franchise Times Top 200 has become the “go to” list for rankings of franchise companies. Its annual rankings...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Franchise Times
  • franchisees
  • rankings

Sharing our stories on YouTube

Today, I am happy to announce that I am launching my own YouTube.com channel! Here I will share news about Edible Arrangements (and our amazing franchisees!), the work of the Tariq Farid Foundation and other fun and interesting topics. The...

  • education
  • Entrepreneurship
  • HUBCAP Wallingford
  • innovation
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • technology
  • YouTube

A salute to our newest franchisees and the road they took to get there

Laverna If you have been following my blog, you know that I have a soft spot in my heart for the men and women of our armed forces. The sacrifice they make on a daily basis is truly inspirational. It’s...

  • American Dream
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • franchisee
  • military
  • multi-unit franchisee
  • North Carolina
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid
  • VetFran Program

New South Dakota franchisees represent true spirit of America

New franchisees Michelle and Arnold Antone with their family represent the true spirit of the American entrepreneur. I wrote last week about how the Edible Arrangements® franchise community is a mosaic of global diversity, with franchisees representing nearly all walks...

  • American Dream
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • Michigan
  • Native American
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid

Celebrating the diversity of our franchise community

Gale, one of our newest franchisees, and her husband John are entrepreneurs at heart. From its beginning, America has been referred to as a melting pot, where people of different races, religions and cultures are welcomed with the hopes of...

  • American Dream
  • diversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • franchisee
  • Michigan
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid

Throw Back Thursday with the New York Times and Tariq Farid in 2009!

A friend of mine sent me this article from the New York Times for Throw Back Thursday —from five years ago! This article brings back great memories and reminds me how far we've come! Hard work and perseverance have led...

  • Adversity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • innovation
  • Memories
  • New York Times
  • opportunity
  • perseverance
  • Throw Back Thursday

Meet Rob Price, the new President of Edible Arrangements International

On May 18, I announced that Rob Price was joining the company as President of Edible Arrangements International. Rob brings more than two decades of marketing and brand building experience at some of America's most highly regarded organizations. Prior to...

  • Cornell
  • CVS/Pharmacy
  • Edible Arrangements
  • family
  • franchisees
  • Harvard
  • MBA
  • president
  • Robert Price

Saving thousands of lives with good ideas and technology

Among the many worthwhile causes that the Tariq Farid Foundation supports, some are more personal than others. A recent $10,000 contribution to the Life Foundation in Pakistan really hit close to home. When I learned that support was needed to...

  • Charity
  • Entrepreneurship
  • innovation
  • Life Foundation
  • Non-profit support
  • opportunity
  • Pakistan
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid donations
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • technology

The future of ideas, innovation and business start-ups is in good hands

Google does it. Major cities across the world do it. And now, thanks to a group of inspiring individuals, a small town of about 45,000 people in Connecticut is doing it — providing support for aspiring entrepreneurs with a small...

  • education
  • Entrepreneurship
  • HUBCAP Wallingford
  • innovation
  • opportunity
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • technology

Tariq Farid Foundation expands support to four new organizations

In keeping with the mission of the Tariq Farid Foundation to alleviate suffering by providing for the basic needs of food and healthcare, and to improve lives through the support of education and skill development opportunities that enable individuals to...

  • healthcare
  • Non-profit support
  • Philanthropy
  • shelters
  • Tariq Farid Charity

Recognizing exceptional Edible Arrangements franchisees

One of my great pleasures as the CEO of Edible Arrangements is the opportunity to recognize the outstanding achievements of our franchisees. Each year, as I join the management team in presenting the awards at our international convention, I continually...

  • awards
  • convention
  • franchisee success
  • franchisees
  • franchising

Celebrating our success with those who make it happen

The next few days are among my favorite each year. The annual Edible Arrangements® convention begins today in Nashville, Tenn., and for the next four days I will be surrounded by some of the most inspiring business people I know...

  • franchisees
  • franchising
  • growth
  • inspiration
  • success

Tariq Farid Foundation website launched

The new website for the Tariq Farid Foundation is now online at http://tariqfaridfoundation.org. The website offers more information on my new philanthropic, non-profit corporation whose mission is to alleviate suffering by providing for the basic needs of food and healthcare,...

  • education
  • healthcare
  • hunger relief
  • Philanthropy
  • skill development
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • website

Inspiration from others will help you build your brand

As part of a joint program by the International Franchise Association®, the Department of Veteran Affairs and the SMI Center For Business Acceleration, I was asked to share my thoughts on how we've been so successful in branding Edible Arrangements®...

  • branding
  • Department of Veteran Affairs
  • Edible Arrangements
  • IFA
  • marketing
  • SMI
  • training

Where there is need, there are those willing to help

Over the years I am constantly amazed at the number of organizations and dedicated individuals who are working on a daily basis to help others. Often these organizations are right in our own backyard. I had the opportunity to visit...

  • Charity
  • Edible Arrangements
  • HUBCAP Wallingford
  • Master's Manna
  • passion
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • volunteers

Want to build your business? Get out of the store

A few weeks ago, I wrote about Reva Enzminger, one of the most successful franchisees in the Edible Arrangements system. Reva is a former “Franchisee of the Year” who operates four stores in the Austin, Texas, area and another in...

  • entrepreneurs
  • Expansion
  • franchising
  • growth
  • risk
  • technology

In Celebration of the American Dream!

Every day in my work with Edible Arrangements®’ franchisees all across the US, I am reminded of the greatness of this country. As small business owners, Edible Arrangements franchisees are the embodiment of the American Dream. And their enthusiasm and...

  • American Dream
  • Edible Arrangements China
  • franchising
  • freedom
  • Independence
  • July 4th
  • opportunity

A small business by any other name is still a small business

One of the great rewards of creating a franchise such as Edible Arrangements® is that it has given so many people the opportunity to go into business for themselves, and chase their own version of the American Dream. In some...

  • entrepreneurs
  • Franchising and Franchisees
  • legislation
  • small business

Don’t let labels hold you back

Given my background, some might have considered me “least likely to succeed.” As an immigrant of Pakistani descent who moved to the United States as a child and worked a series of odd jobs to help my family make ends...

  • business success
  • college
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Entrepreneurship
  • passion
  • Products
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur

Lessons from a first job

Like many others before me and many since, the golden arches McDonald's provided me with one of my first jobs. Little did I know then, that it would provide me with lessons that years later would be critical to the...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • first job
  • McDonald's
  • success
  • systems

The Tariq Farid Foundation — hope for a better future

Since my family immigrated to the United States when I was just a child, I have had the opportunity to experience first-hand the many benefits and blessings this great country has to offer. And as I have written many times,...

  • Charity
  • education
  • hope
  • New Haven Register
  • opportunity
  • skill development
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth
  • Youth@Work

There is no substitute for opportunity

On Thursday I was reminded once again of the importance of opportunity. The Youth Services Department of New Haven has a terrific program called Youth@Work that provides paid summer employment and job experience for youths between the ages of 14...

  • jobs
  • opportunity
  • Philanthropy
  • Tariq Farid Charity
  • Tariq Farid Foundation
  • Youth

A lesson in perseverance, or how to get past “NO”

When I first started writing this blog, one of my primary goals was to create a forum where I could share my experiences as an entrepreneur with others. Often, when I talk to our new franchisees or other small business...

  • entrepreneurs
  • financing
  • franchisees
  • perseverance
  • start-up

Competing With Your Market Rivals

Recently I was given the great opportunity to write an article for Entrepreneur.com titled “How to Deal With Your No. 1 Nemesis”. In this article I explain the importance of monitoring and challenging your competitors as an entrepreneur. Businesses and...

  • Competitors
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Market Rivals
  • Tariq Farid

This weekend, take a moment to remember

As we prepare for the Memorial Day holiday, I am once again reminded how very fortunate we are to live in a land of freedom and opportunity. I strongly believe we are blessed to be living in America, where our...

  • American Dream
  • Memorial Day
  • sacrifice
  • Tariq Farid
  • veterans

Edible Arrangements welcomes Robert Price as new president

Today it is my pleasure to introduce Robert Price as the new President of Edible Arrangements®. This is an incredibly exciting time for the company. As we celebrate our 15th anniversary, we also are embarking on an era that promises...

  • Company Growth
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Franchise
  • president
  • Retail
  • Rob Price
  • Tariq Farid

Spotted: Edible Arrangements® featured on The Street

In this lively interview with Jill Malandrino of The Street, I discuss the importance of ongoing innovation and how we grew to 1,200 retail centers with sales of $500 million in just 15 years. We also talk about what has...

  • franchising
  • growth
  • innovation
  • The Street

In business, as in life, mom often knows best

I have written many times about my mother and the influence she had on my life and career as an entrepreneur. In honor of Mother’s Day, I want to share more about the important lessons she taught me at an...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Mother's Day
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid's Mother
  • Work Hard

A Teacher’s Gift

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Day, I am reposting a blog that was written in 2012 to honor of one of the most important people in my life. Originally posted June, 2012 The past few weeks across America many students...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Teachers
  • Teacher
  • Teacher Appreciation Day

Sometimes all you need is a focus group of one

The most successful entrepreneurs I have ever met all have one thing in common — they have not done it by themselves. They have all surrounded themselves with the most talented people they could find. As Edible Arrangements has grown,...

  • decision making
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Focus groups
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur

Easter and its special memories, 15 years later

Each year as the Easter season arrives, I am reminded how truly blessed my family and I have been. For all of us, it is a time of remembrance and celebration, and that is especially true this year as Edible...

  • Easter
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Holidays
  • Tariq Farid
  • Tariq Farid Entrepreneur

Spotted: Edible Arrangements® featured on Forbes.com

Edible Arrangements® has proven to be more than just a novelty, and Forbes.com is taking notice. In an article published on April 8th, Forbes writer Clare O'Connor looks at how Edible Arrangements® grew from a $500,000 system-wide sales year in...

  • Company Growth
  • Edible Arrangements
  • Forbes
  • Fruit Bouquets
  • Tariq Farid

Coming Soon to a Mall Near You: The Edible to Go Location Is Here!

This is a very exciting time for Edible Arrangements. It gives me great pride to announce the launch of the first Edible to Go Location. Designed to be kiosk-like installations that will reinforce our brand in the public eye and...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements Locations
  • Edible Arrangements Mall Locations
  • edible to go
  • Franchise
  • Tariq Farid

Fruit Summit: Getting Face Time with Franchisees

Without our franchisees, there would literally be no Edible Arrangements International franchise system. It’s so important to remember that, and always work with franchisees to make our company the best that it can be. They’re the lifeblood of what we...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Arrangements Franchises
  • Edible Arrangments Franchisees
  • Franchise System
  • Fruit Summit
  • Tariq Farid

A Decade of Excellence

A decade ago, Deb Kostisin signed a franchise agreement with us to open the first Edible Arrangements store in the state of Rhode Island. This was long before the brand had become the household name it is today. In other...

  • Deb Kostisin

Well-Deserved Recognition for an Exemplary Franchisee

At last year’s Edible Arrangements convention, it was my pleasure to bestow the President’s Award—the highest honor an EA franchisee can achieve—to Maurice Welton, a Texas-based owner in our system who has quite literally set the bar as far as...

  • Edible Arrangements

Doing Our Part to Fight a Terrible Disease

When deciding how best to apply the philanthropic powers of the Farid Foundation, which my brother Kamran and I founded as a way of giving back to the community, sometimes the challenge can be finding the right cause. And sometimes...

  • Dr. Gary Kupfer
  • Farid Foundation Donations
  • Kamran Farid
  • Tariq Farid donations

A Growing Staff for a Growing Company

One of the great joys of watching this company grow is knowing that we are able to provide so many people with rewarding careers. And here at Edible Arrangements International, we’re growing in leaps and bounds, which really gives us...

  • Edible Arrangements growing staff

The Hero’s Welcome Mission

I’m very thankful to the dedicated men and women who serve our country, as is the entire Edible Arrangements International organization. As I discussed a couple of weeks ago, we recognize the employment challenges some veterans may face upon returning...

  • Veterans Program
  • VetFran Program

The 53rd Annual IFA Convention

Last week, it was my privilege to be able to share with you some exciting information regarding Edible Cares’ new Hero’s Welcome program, as well as our contribution to the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program. Just a few days ago,...

  • IFA Convention

Helping Veterans Become Business Owners and Enter the Workplace

The brave men and women of our military are the ones who have made it possible for each of us to enjoy the American Dream. I believe it’s our obligation to help those who have sacrificed so much by doing...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • IFA
  • International Franchise Association
  • VetFran Program

Farid Foundation Gives Back to a Worthy Cause

One of the most gratifying things about the success of Edible Arrangements International is the fact that is has given me the ability to give back to the community, and to support worthwhile causes. My brother Kamran and I formed...

  • Farid Foundation Donations
  • Tariq Farid donations

Carrying on the Tradition of WOW

In the earliest days of Edible Arrangements, before it even became an official tag line, I set out with one simple goal in mind: To WOW my customers. And that’s why to this day, I find it so gratifying to...

The Adventure of Entrepreneurship

I never cease to be amazed and pleased by the passion and genuine dedication our franchisees bring to the table, and by the challenges they so cheerfully overcome. For example, taking on an existing store may seem simpler than starting...

Franchising Is a Family Affair

For the Goods, Franchising Is a Family Affair It can truly be said that a franchise is only as successful as its franchisees. I’ve always believed that hard work and dedication pay off—in fact, I’m living proof of that. So...

Deriving Inspiration from Franchisees Who Give Back

I never fail to be impressed and inspired by the interest so many of our franchisees take in their local communities. Giving back is so very important—it may sound cliché, but the reason it does is because it’s true. We...

Walking With a Purpose

In my last entry I spoke about the Detroit area Edible Arrangements franchisees who are passionately involved with charitable causes in their communities. This is not an anomaly. So many of our franchise owners across the country and world make...

Spreading a Little Happiness in Detroit

Last year, as part of our Edible Cares™ community outreach program, we launched a specific program called Random Acts of Happiness which recognized someone who had a positive impact on and made a difference in the lives of others. We...

Breaking Barriers – One Store at a Time

When I first started Edible Arrangements® in 1999 in a corner of my flower shop in East Haven, I never dreamed that we would have over 1,100 locations in the U.S. and around the world. Like many entrepreneurs just starting...

Community Connection

One of the things I love the most about our franchisees is their dedication and commitment to their communities. Over the years as Edible Arrangements® has grown some people still don’t realize that we have over 1,100 stores –actual storefronts-...

A Mission We All Believe In

A few years ago I decided that Edible Arrangements® needed a new mission statement. The mission statement had to be simple, easy to remember and more importantly, had to reflect the culture of Edible Arrangements and what I thought our...

Giving Back Puts You Ahead

Have you ever been so moved by a special person that you become so grateful that there are people like them in this world. People whose generosity of spirit and caring for others shines brightly on everyone they touch and...

The President’s Award Goes To…..

The Edible Arrangements® 7th annual international convention concluded last week in Orlando and I could not be more pleased as to how it went. I am always amazed at the energy and enthusiasm radiating from all the franchisees, vendors, corporate...

Edible Arrangements® 2012 Annual Convention

Well, I’m on my way to the 7th Annual Edible Arrangements Convention in Orlando, Florida. This is my favorite event of the year as it is the one time a majority of our franchisees get together to plan for the...

The American Opportunity- Part 2

This is a continuation of the blog entry I made yesterday on July 12 where I mentioned my discussion with hundreds of young adults at a conference in Washington, DC. In this entry I want to briefly mention some of...

The American Opportunity -Part 1

On Monday I was honored to be a guest speaker at a leadership conference for young adults, students ages 16-24, in Washington, D.C. Many of the attendees were children of families who immigrated to the United States, like me. The...

A Teacher’s Gift

The past few weeks across America many students were celebrating with their families graduation from or promotion to the next grade in school. It’s a time for new beginnings, excitement of what’s yet to come and accomplishment of obtaining, and...

Fruit Summit

A few weeks ago we held our very first Fruit Summit at our Edible Arrangements corporate headquarters in Wallingford, CT. What is a Fruit Summit? It’s the name we gave –our business is fruit after all – our in-person brainstorming...

Consumers on the Move: The Need for a Mobile Strategy

We’ve heard the warnings: Ignore the mobile space at your own peril. Simply put, any company that isn’t moving toward putting a mobile strategy in place has their head in the proverbial sand. And here at Edible Arrangements, we’ve never...

Becoming a Beloved Brand

What does it mean to be a beloved brand, and why is it important? What is it that makes some brands almost iconic in your eyes and earns your undivided loyalty?For quite some time I’ve been thinking about this question...

There is Nothing Small about Small Business

This week is a very special week for a special group of people. This week, May 20-26, is National Small Business Week, which recognizes the enormous contributions that small businesses, small business owners, make in our economy and in millions...

Managing Your Way To The Top

Ibrahim ad Hashim Choudhry What does it take to be number one – the top in business or field of expertise? Some may say it is luck. That successful people are just in the right place at the right time,...

Knowing Your Niche and Expertise

The other day I was reading my e-mails when I came across one from an amazing franchisee, Cathy, who owns the Edible Arrangements stores in Catonsville, MD and her latest store featuring the Edible To Go extended product line that...

Inspiration

Those of you who have read many of my previous blog entries know that I strongly believe that anyone can live their dreams so long as they work hard, stay true to themselves, treat others like they are family and...

Moving Your Brand Forward

Every company no matter the size or age needs to evaluate their ‘brand’ continuously to determine its customers’ and the publics’ perception of it. In the eyes of the consumer, what does your company stand for and is there an...

Edible Arrangements Blooms on Bloomberg TV

Yesterday, Wednesday, April 18, was a special day for Edible Arrangements and all our hardworking franchisees. On behalf of Edible Arrangements, I appeared on Taking Stock with Pimm Fox, a national investment program airing on Bloomberg TV. This was a...

Hat’s Off to Texas

As they say, everything is bigger in Texas, and now Edible Arrangements is getting bigger in the Lone Star state as well with 2 new stores opening soon. And the enterprise of one of our most talented franchisees, Reva Gartzke,...

The Sweet Taste of Success

I always feel so proud when one of our franchisees gets called upon to participate in an educational business event. I am a big believer in continually learning from your peers and other successful business owners, and strongly advocate that...

Love at First Sight

It was only 3 short years ago that Dr. Fausto Petruzziello approached my brother Kamran and I with a proposal to bring the Edible Arrangements brand to Italy. Since that time a lot has happened. The economies in both the...

1,000th Edible Arrangements Store Opens

Our company reached a huge milestone yesterday. We opened our 1,000th Edible Arrangements store yesterday, April 4, in Cranston, RI. Even though it was our 1,000th it felt like the very first franchise location that opened in Waltham, MA only...

Love, Marriage and Edible Arrangements

I always find it especially gratifying to see husbands and wives working together to start their own franchise business. In the case of Michael T., who just took over operations of the Whitby, Ontario Edible Arrangements location at the end...

Raising the WOW Factor in the Sunshine State

Jack and Rebecca After bringing one of our delicious, made-to-order Edible Arrangements bouquets to an event and instantly becoming the center of attention, Jack got an inkling that there might just be something special about this unique brand and its...

Taking the Short Road to Multi-Unit Ownership

Sathya and DJ Very often, the franchisees who are the most successful are the ones who allow their dedication and desire to lead the way, and insist on taking the greater challenge, rather than the easier path. For some, this...

Passion for the Product Is Where It All Begins

As I’ve said before, passion –intelligent passion - for everything you do is the name of the game if you want to be a successful franchisee, or successful in life. And sometimes, our franchisees are so passionate and enthusiastic that...

Orange Blossoms for a Cause

People often ask me what it’s like to be in the happiness business, and it’s a question I never get tired of answering. Edible Arrangements franchisees get the same question, and I know they have the same reaction. Each and...

Edible Arrangements in Good Hands in Saudi Arabia

Edible Arrangements International is just that—an international company. Over the past several years, I’ve taken pride in watching the robust growth the franchise has enjoyed, not just here in the United States, but all over the world as well. One...

Making the Multi-Unit Leap

Jeanne I have tremendous respect and admiration for those who take that momentous step to becoming multi-unit owners. Having been there myself, I understand the risks and rewards involved. And for some, it takes a certain amount of proven success...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Franchise

Living Up to Our Own Standards: A Special Valentine’s Day Message

Certified Happiness. It’s not just a catchy tagline, but rather a very real philosophy that is taken seriously as a corporate goal by all of us here at Edible Arrangements. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, and make superior...

ICFE – Never Stop Learning

I’ve just returned from a two-day special training session sponsored by the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives (ICFE). ICFE held this session right before the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) 52nd Annual Convention so franchise executives could attend both with only...

The Key to Success? For Rory and Hillary, It’s Enthusiasm

What makes for a successful franchisee? That’s certainly not an easy question to answer; in fact, there are many possible answers. But one of them is certainly enthusiasm. In order for your enterprise to work, you must be excited about...

Welcoming a Naval Veteran to the Edible Arrangements Franchise System

Here at Edible Arrangements, we hold those who serve our great nation in very high regard, and are honored whenever a former member of the military decides to join our franchise and become one of our Fruit Experts. It pleases...

Forbes names Edible Arrangements “Top 20 Franchises for the Buck”

I was honored to learn that Edible Arrangements has been named by Forbes as one of the “Top 20 Franchises for the Buck.” It is a privilege to be recognized for this prominent publication whose reputation as an expert on...

Franchising: A Family Affair

I never cease to be amazed by the ways in which peoples’ lives are positively impacted by becoming part of the Edible Arrangements franchise. This is especially true, I find, of families. The Skidmores would be a fine example of...

A California Success Story

Franchisees like Larry help make the Edible Arrangements franchise a success. Bringing decades of knowledge and experience to the table, Larry is someone who “gets it”—and because of that, his growing San Diego-area enterprise continues to be a successful business...

Setting Goals

One of my favorite topics to write about is the incredible franchisees who own Edible Arrangements stores. I get so inspired when I speak to these independent business owners and I feel the privileged to be able to tell their...

The Immigrant Learning Center’s Immigrant Entrepreneur Hall of Fame

The Immigrant Learning Center in Malden, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston, assists immigrants and refugees by providing free English classes. The center recognizes that a working knowledge of English is the key that unlocks opportunities for immigrants in the United...

Newest Store in UAE: Al Ain

I still get energized every time a new store opens anywhere, but there’s a particular thrill that comes with opening a new store in a whole new area of a country. The excitement of bringing Edible Arrangements to a new...

EA Award Winners Expand Their Opportunities for Success with Additional Stores

Samir and Madhvi have owned the Edible Arrangements store in Bellevue, WA since June of 2009, so when the store in nearby Kirkland became available, they were eager to expand their enterprise to a second store. I was thrilled to...

Entrepreneurs Buy First Two Stores in Southern California

Timothy and Deborah recently acquired two Edible Arrangements locations in Southern California. One is located at 29881 Aventura in Rancho Santa Margarita and the other is at 305 S. El Camino Real in San Clemente. Deborah is the Director of...

Edible Arrangements Coming to Vancouver, BC

Leanne’s sister in Ontario first learned about Edible Arrangements when she drove by a store She decided to stop in and bought an arrangement. She knew that Leanne and her husband Marshall were looking for a business to buy, and...

Edible Arrangements Again Ranked as One of the Top Franchises

I just looked over Entrepreneur.com’s 2012 “Franchise 500” rankings, the 33rd version of their annual list. The rankings of the top franchise companies show which industries are popular with both consumers and investors, and trends in franchising: what types of...

Colbert Reports: Send Edible Arrangements

There are milestones in the life of any business and we have seen our share of them. . . . we opened our first franchise after only two years of operation, and in 12 short years we have agreements for...

China Grand Opening Gala

What an incredible beginning for the first Edible Arrangements in China. I thoroughly enjoyed the grand opening event this past Thursday in one of the most impressive markets in the world. The entire Edible Arrangements team in China was simply...

Edible Arrangements Opens in India, China next week

Edible Arrangements’ first location in the Republic of India opened its doors on November 10, 2011. Partners Hiten and Avinash signed a Master Franchisee agreement for the development of 20 units throughout India. In partnership with Ishna, Hiten and Avinash...

Support our Veterans

As more and more troops are –thankfully – returning home to their families they are finding that the welcome mat does not always extend to an employer’s door. We want to give back to those who gave so unselfishly so...

Growing His Enterprise

Fred has taken ownership of his second Edible Arrangements store in Mississauga, Ontario in Canada. He opened his first location, also in Mississauga in April of 2010. It was obviously the right choice. In July of 2011, Fred was awarded...

Finding His True Calling -Edible Arrangements

One of the most frequent answers we get when we ask franchisees and prospective franchisees how they first heard about Edible Arrangements is one of the simplest: they received an arrangement as a gift. And that is the case with...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • Edible Franchise

Adding “Pizzazz” to Edible Arrangements

Spouses Ted and Katrina along with Ted’ sister Penny, have just signed an agreement to open two stores in Calgary, Alberta in Canada. Ted has extensive franchise experience, having started working in 1998 as a server with the Boston Pizza...

  • Edible Arrangements

Georgia on Their Mind

Husband and wife Kevin and Vanessa have just signed an agreement to open their third Edible Arrangements store. They already have stores in Aiken, South Carolina, and Evans, Georgia, and this new store will be located in Augusta, GA. Kevin...

I have Just Returned From Muscat,Oman

I have just returned from Muscat, the capital city of Oman where I met AlShaima our franchisee in the newest country to introduce Edible Arrangements. It’s always exciting to add another country to the growing lists of places where Edible...

I Never Expected It to Turn Out This Way

I never expected it to turn out this way. I never expected Edible Arrangements to become an international brand with over 1,000 stores across the world in only ten short years. I didn’t know that by fulfilling my own dream...

  • Edible Arrangements
  • small businesses

Faith in Franchising

In 2010 Faith joined the Edible Arrangements Franchise System with the Anaheim, CA store. She has a genuine passion for business and recognizes the strong support she receives from her team of Fruit Experts, Roger, Justine and Kyle. Faith has...

On the Road with Franchisees

People love to watch the TV show “Undercover Boss” and see how CEOs act when they are out in the field incognito. I could never be a part of that show, because I’m never undercover – I go on the...

Dream it, Do it!

How many people in life actually fulfill their dreams? I don’t have a number, but I have an idea that those who do are the ones who don’t just dream about what they want – they take action to get...

Husband and Wife Open their Sixth Store in Colorado

Husband and wife, Tony and Jennifer, have opened their sixth Edible Arrangements store in Colorado Springs . Tony and Jennifer's five other stores are located in Arvada, Aurora, Colorado Springs, Denver and Parker, Colorado. They have expanded their enterprise rapidly...

Sisters Expand their Enterprise to Minneapolis, MN

Sisters Claudine and Laurie, owners of the Roseville, MN store have just signed an agreement to open an Edible Arrangements store in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They brought a combination of business experience, talent and enthusiasm to their first store, opened in...

  • Enterprise

Making a Mission Statement Come to Life: Edible Arrangements Sixth Annual Convention

Two weeks ago Edible Arrangements® held its sixth annual convention in Las Vegas, NV, our first one since we simplified our mission statement. Like many companies, we used to have one of those lofty run-on sentences full of buzzwords that...

  • annual convension
  • Edible Arrangements Annual Convention

Pledge of Health & Happiness

This week Edible Arrangements is inviting people everywhere to take the "Pledge of Health & Happiness." This pledge is our way of promoting healthier lifestyles – supporting First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative to fight childhood obesity and the...

  • Health & Happiness
  • lifestyles

Wowing China with Edible Arrangements!

Three months ago I made a return visit to Beijing after being away for eight years. As soon as I stepped off the plane I was amazed at the difference. I remembered many of the sights I saw along the...

  • Edible Arrangements China
  • franchise opportunities

Encouraging People to Donate Blood to the American Red Cross

Summer is the season for spending time outdoors, enjoying our families, and taking much needed vacations. Unfortunately, the need for blood donations never takes a vacation. When we learned that summer is a typically slow time for blood donations we...

  • blood donations
  • Edible Arrangements
  • red cross

Inc. Fruit Bouquets in Every Time Zone

By Nicole Carter July 14, 2011 How do you keep a smooth supply chain when you sell perishable goods on an international scale? Edible Arrangements's co-founder and COO Kamran Farid shares his secret. (Edible Arrangements's co-founder and COO Kamran Farid...

Edible Arrangements® Celebrates National Dipped Fruit Week – July 10th – 17th, 2011

WALLINGFORD, Conn., July 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Edible Arrangements®, the pioneer and leader in artistically designed fresh-fruit displays and chocolate dipped fruit, is celebrating its third National Dipped Fruit Week beginning today. Customers are invited to visit their nearest Edible...

Couple to retrace Lewis and Clark route to promote fitness

By Tony LaRussa, PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW When Tom and Nancy Caruso leave Pittsburgh for a trip to Oregon, they'll not only be taking a longer-than-usual route, but also relying on unorthodox transportation. On Saturday, the Southern California couple will launch from...

Edible Arrangements Named to Inc. Magazine’s “10 Promising Franchises for 2011”!

What an honor that Edible Arrangements has been named to Inc. Magazine’s “10 Promising Franchises for 2011”! I feel genuinely privileged to be able to work with the fine people who make Edible Arrangements work so well for so many....

Amazing Store Owners In Batons Rouge, LA

Two days ago I was in Louisiana visiting some of our stores. After I left New Orleans I made my way to Baton Rouge; what a great experience visiting some of our most amazing store owners. But I want to...

  • franchising

Edible Arrangements launches ‘To Go’ concept

Alicia Kelso @www.qsrweb.com Edible Arrangements has been recognizable for its fresh fruit creations since its inception in 1999. Now, the brand is adding a layer with the launch of a quick-service concept called Edible To Go. Edible To Go was...

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New Edible Arrangements Coming to Midland Michigan

Leigh and Luis own the Edible Arrangements store at 2910 Tittabawassee Rd in Saginaw, Michigan (989-497-1002), and have just signed an agreement to open a second store in Midland. Leigh will manage the second location with assistance from Luis who...

Franchise Agreement to open an Edible Arrangements store in Burlington, CT

Serena and Michael , and Serena’s mother Veronica, have signed a franchise agreement to open an Edible Arrangements store in Burlington, CT. Michael is an Executive Chef at the New Britain Hospital for Special Care, so he is no stranger...

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  • CT
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Hany and Adita stores in Irvine and Santa Ana, California

Husband and wife Hany and Adita have signed franchisee agreements to open two stores in California – one in Irvine, and one in Santa Ana. They became interested in Edible Arrangements because of the healthy products offered. Hany is an...

  • California
  • Irvine and Santa Ana

Edible Arrangements store in Edina Minnesota

Brenda and Jeffrey own an Edible Arrangements store at 5824 Lincoln Drive (952-935-2852) in Edina Minnesota, and have just signed a franchise agreement to open their second store in Burnsville. Previously Brenda worked in IT Management and Jeff still works...

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Edible Arrangements stores in Nevada, in Reno and Sparks

Husband and wife team Cameron and Kristine have signed franchise agreements to open their fourth and fifth Edible Arrangements stores in Nevada, in Reno and Sparks. They also own a store at 213 North Stephanie in Henderson (702-434-8334) and two...

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  • Reno and Sparks

Second Edible Arrangements Store in Laredo

Claudia one of the owners of the Edible Arrangements store that is coming soon to Laredo Texas, received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1999. After working as a Special Education Teacher in Texas she decided in 200 to venture...

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First Edible Arrangements Store

Tana opened her first store at 5501 N 7th Avenue in Phoenix (602-265-8600) after learning about Edible Arrangements through a relative in California. She has just signed an agreement to open a second store in Phoenix. Tana previously worked for...

Franchise Expansion Goals Announced for 2011 & 2012

I am excited to tell everyone that yesterday we officially announced plans for expansion. This aggressive plan of expansion includes 150 stores opening in 2011 at new locations, followed by 200+ stores in 2012.” To learn more about this expansion...

Edible Arrangements According to Forbes.com

Edible Arrangements International, Inc. is the leading supplier of high quality, delicious, artistically designed fresh fruit arrangements in form of bouquets or baskets. These provisions are practical and healthy for every day occasions and events gifting purpose. Edible Arrangements specializes...

Jude and Gwendolyn Signed An Agreement to Expand their business

Jude and Gwendolyn, EA franchisees since August of 2007 currently own two Edible Arrangements stores, one at 20669 West Lake Houston Parkway, Suite E in Humble, Texas (281-852-1335) and another at 225 Main St in Houston (713-247-0700). They have recently...

  • 1000 stores
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Bob and Michelle Opened Their First Edible Arrangements® Store

Bob and Michelle opened their first Edible Arrangements® store at 110-8700 200 Street in Langley, British Columbia (604-888-3434) in March 2010, and they have just signed an agreement to open a second location in Surrey. Bob and Michelle are no...

Edible Arrangements® Coming Soon to Johnson City

A new Edible Arrangements® store is coming soon to Johnson City, Tennessee! The new owners are Melissa and Nicholas . Melissa is a personal finance manager and Nicholas is a sales manager with a pharmaceutical company. Congratulations on signing on...

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Edible Arrangements® in Phoenix, Arizona

In April 2011, Edible Arrangements® franchisees Brandon and Marci took ownership of the store located at 2824 East Indian School Road, Suite 15 in Phoenix, Arizona (602-522-9990). They now own five Edible Arrangements stores in the area: 420 East Bell...

Ignatius and Kimberly with Edible Arrangements®

Father and daughter team Ignatius and Kimberly have recently signed an agreement to open their third Edible Arrangements store. This new location will be in Douglasville, Georgia. Franchisees since August of 2006, they currently own stores at 8651 Hiram-Acworth Hwy,...

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Now Edible Arrangements at Northbrook, Illinois

Husband and wife Chan (Darren) and Bonnie, along with Darren’s brother Yi (Sunny) signed an agreement to open their second Edible Arrangements store to be located in Northbrook Illinois. The three purchased their first store, located at 2045 Milwaukee Avenue...

  • Chicago
  • Edible Arrangements

New Edible Arrangements® Store Opening in Burlington, Ontario

Edible Arrangements®, the fresh fruit festive franchise, is expanding in the Burlington area. April 2011, Terry and Kathleen and their daughter Kristen took on their third Edible Arrangements location. The Jenkins took ownership of the Edible Arrangements store located at...

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  • Edible Arrangements
  • Ontario

Edible Arrangements Announces New Riverside, CA Design & Distribution Center

Local Economy Benefits As Facility Opens Serving Over 900 Retail Locations in the US and Canada - WALLINGFORD, Conn., April 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh-fruit arrangements, announced today the opening of a...

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Edible Arrangements to Open 1,000th Store

WALLINGFORD — Edible Arrangements, which specializes in “floral” arrangements made of fresh fruit, has signed its 1,000th franchise agreement, company officials announced. The company said it is not yet known where the 1,000th franchise will open, but the agreement with...

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  • Edible Arrangements

Edible Arrangements® Announces Partnership With geoVue

WALLINGFORD, CT -- 08/03/10 -- Edible Arrangements®, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh-fruit arrangements, has partnered with geoVue, a leading provider of site selection, market optimization and sales forecasting solutions for retailers and restaurants. Edible Arrangements® will use geoVue's...

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The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) ‘Brands’ Hotest Retailer

BusinessWire - The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) has announced the winner of its 2010 "Hot Retailer" award, which recognizes innovative retail concepts that are driving consumers into shopping centers around the world. Based on a survey of ICSC's...

Edible Arrangements Relishes Rosy Outlook

NEW YORK (AdAge.com) -- What do you do when you're a purveyor known for pricey, if unique, gifts during a recession? You spend more on advertising -- and debunk brand myths. Leveraging a combination of a national campaign, a unified...

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Edible Arrangements Launches First National Television Campaign Targeting Men

Fresh Fruit Retail Leader Launches 2010 National Advertising Campaign With Exclusive on ESPN WALLINGFORD, CT--(Marketwire - 01/27/10) - Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh-fruit arrangements, announced today the launch of its 2010 national advertising campaign on January...

The Boss-Bouquets That Bear Fruit

I WAS born in Pakistan and came to the United States in 1981, when I was 11. My grandfather owned a farm in Pakistan and we had been fairly well-to-do. We started at the bottom when we came here. My...

Edible Arrangements Partners With Direct Capital to Fuel U.S. Expansion

WALLINGFORD, Conn., Oct. 8-- Edible Arrangements®, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh fruit arrangements, has selected Direct Capital®, a national direct lender, as the exclusive preferred finance company for the brand. The expanded lending program was developed in response...

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Edible Arrangements Signs Master Franchisee Agreement in Turkey

New Franchisee to Open 15 Locations Throughout Turkey in Next Five Years WALLINGFORD, Conn., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh fruit arrangements, announced today the signing of a Master Franchisee agreement with Kemal...

Netsolace and Michael H.Seid & Associates Announce Strategic Alliance

Technology Solution Provider and Leading Industry Consultant Team Up to Better Serve the Needs of Franchise Community - HAMDEN, Conn. Netsolace, the premier provider of customizable technology solutions for franchisors, announced today a strategic alliance with Michael H. Seid &...

Edible Arrangements Signs Master Franchisee Agreements in Rome & Hong Kong

Pioneer in Fresh-Fruit Arrangements Expands International Presence to Eight Countries WALLINGFORD, Conn., July 13 Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh fruit arrangements, announced today the signing of two Master Franchisee agreements in Rome, Italy and Hong Kong....

Edible Arrangements Experiences Double Digit Franchise Sales Growth In 2009

Pioneer in Fresh-Fruit Arrangements Also Sees Record Increase in Same-Store Sales for Father's Day WALLINGFORD, Conn., July 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh fruit arrangements, is rapidly expanding its national footprint with today's announcement...

  • Double Digit Franchise Sales

Let’s Meet The IFA’s 2009 Entreprenuer Of The Year, Tariq Farid!

Tariq Farid was honored by the International Franchise Association as its "Entrepreneur of the Year" during its 49th annual convention being held in San Diego, recently. IFA's Entrepreneur of the Year Award is presented to an individual who is currently...

A Unique Franchise Concept Bears Fruit

Succeeding in business in this tough economy is a challenge for most business owners. Entrepreneur Tariq Farid is tackling this head on, not just for himself, but on behalf of the nearly 900 franchisees in his Edible Arrangements franchise system....

Fruit business catches the upside of a down market

Derek Sankey, Financial Post Published: Friday, March 27, 2009 Todd Korol/National PostStefani Williamson of Edible Arrangements at her store in Calgary Call it resilient franchising: While some large franchise chains have been busy closing stores, cutting staff and otherwise suffering...

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Tariq Farid Named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year(R) 2009 Award Winner

Award Recognizes Entrepreneurial Excellence in Retail & Consumer Products Category Edible Arrangements, the pioneer and leader in hand-sculpted, fresh fruit arrangements, today announced that its CEO and Founder Tariq Farid received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2009...

  • Entrepreneurship

About Netsolace

Netsolace is a technology company that provides groundbreaking technology solutions for the franchise industry. For franchisors seeking the ultimate control over their businesses, both in terms of relationship management and operational efficiency, Netsolace offers a suite of proven software solutions...

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