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Jim Amos - Tasti D-Lite, Mail Boxes Etc, UPS Store, Brice Foods
Jim Amos continues his path in franchising. His newest venture is “Tasti D-Lite.” Taking a cursory overview of Item 2 in the F.O.C. reveals:
James H Amos, Jr
- Sona Medspa (public lawsuits filed)
- Mail Boxes Etc. / The UPS Store (public lawsuits filed)
- Brice Foods / I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt (public lawsuits filed)
Peter D Holt
- 24Seven Vending (venture capitalist with former MBE executive and former Sona executive Kurt Schusterman)
- Mail Boxes Etc. / The UPS Store
- Brice Foods / I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt
Patrick B Fox
- Sona Medspa
Mark R Liebal
- I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt
Carlos J Martinez
*24Seven Vending eventually tried to get into the ATM business. If you were an MBE in the late '90s, you will recall that corporate was trying to push ATMs into the MBE Stores.
- 24Seven Vending
- Mail Boxes Etc. / The UPS Store
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| Brice Appeal.pdf | 86.04 KB |
"...It was definitely meant to be..." - Tasti D-Lite
Tasti D-Lite (as seen on Sex and the City) is coming to Arizona Tasti D-Lite, a frozen dairy dessert that claims the middle ground between ice cream and frozen yogurt, is coming to Arizona. The creamy treats that come in more than 100 flavors have developed a cult following among celebrities and devotees in New York City where it first appeared in 1987. Its popularity has been further bolstered by appearances in episodes of HBO’s Sex and the City and on NBC’s The Apprentice. Tasti D-Lite is significantly lower in fat, calories and carbohydrates than ice cream and contains none of the fermented cultures of frozen yogurt. The company was acquired in 2007 by New York private equity investor SPG Partners which announced plans last year to sell franchises. Rights to Arizona have been acquired by Jonathan and Jennifer Kaufman who have agreed to open at least 40 Tasti D-Lite stores across the state over the next 10 years. The first will open this summer at 15425 N. Scottsdale Road in The Shops at Zocallo. The Kaufman’s were introduced to Tasti D-Lite several years ago in New York and inquired about franchise rights. At the time they weren’t for sale. When Jonathan Kauffman was laid off from his non-profit fundraising job last year he checked back and was told that the company had just decided to franchise the concept and that he could be one of the first franchisees. “We knew it was definitely meant to be,” he said. Tasti D-Lite now currently about 50 locations and commitments to open 300 more over the next few years. “We’re extremely excited to be working with the Kaufmans and introducing Tasti D-Lite to the State of Arizona,” said Jim Amos, Tasti D-Lite’s chairman and CEO. “This will be among the first franchised locations outside the New York metro area.”Heather Elrod (Rose) Placecol usa
I thought the old hag was on to her 6th or 7th marriage. Stay away from this franchise pretender. Fake everything!
You guys are Toast at Tasti D-Lite
Tasti D-Lite Banks on Its Fanatical Fans for Growth
Low-Calorie Dessert With New York Roots Is Going International
By ELLEN BYRON July 29, 2008, WSJ, Page B7
Editor's note: Dear guest, I have taken out the complete WSJ article and provided a link. Please do not paste entire articles into Blue MauMau as this breaks copyright laws. Also, please see our posting guidelines.
WSJ Puff Piece
I read with horror the WSJ piece on Amos. I simply cannot imagine in these days how a reporter could put out such nonense, without even referring to this thread on Amos or this other thread on Amos.
I wrote the reporter to advise her that Amos has a very checkered background, at least from the franchisee's point of view.
But it is not acceptable for the WSJ to produce such puff pieces.
I shall write a letter to the Times. Oops, I already did.
Michael Webster PhD LLB
Franchise News
Re: WSJ Puff Piece
I just wrote the reporter also. I just emailed all of this to 4 friends to do the same. Everyone needs to write!WSJ Link
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121729652087692073.html?mod=googlenews_wsjPerspective and Due Diligence
I want to thank you for your comments posted here. While doing my own due diligence I am finding conflicting perspectives with the viewpoints on this site. While your personal experience and positions are well taken into consideration, it would be irresponsible of me to ignore the weight of the credible sources that I have found which are providing me additional information. The people quoted in this article have interesting things to say. http://www.leadernetwork.org/jim_amos_october_06.htm I don’t know if any of you served our country, but as a veteran myself, I found this interesting as well. http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=42373 Again I thank you as your postings have encouraged me to dig deeper and perhaps see a side of the story not represented here.Jim Amos
Just read any of the blogs concerning Sona, MBE, UPS or Brice foods. As I understand he is headed back to court with the MBE lawsuit that has multiple franchisees involved. I also know for a fact that SONA paid a judgement in the amount of $400,000 to a franchise while under Jim Amos's leadership. From what I have read there has been litigation in every franchise that he has been involved in. We also have the next generation in the form of Heather Rose (daughter) who was involved in the SONA suit and was the Vice President of MBE (H/R) with no experience other than jobs provided by her father. I have also heard that he was instrumental in getting her a spot on the board of directors of which she has since resigned. Why dont you call some of the MBE/SONA franchisees who operated under his regime. There is heaps of information concerning the law suits and what there outcomes and links provided with detailed data. As far as my opinion I am just a little cautious of anyone who is to eager to inform anyone of their military exploits. Most of the men I served with consider that a very private matter. He is surrounded by cronies that have been with him in his other ventures. He is also quick to inform franchisees of his religous beliefs and how they are incorporated in his business/leadership platform. I would only suggest that you do more than just due diligence before entering any business relationship with Amos and that you have a highly capable franchise lawyer review any UFOC docs. Where there is smoke there is somtimes a forest fire.The Exact Opposite of What is said!!
Having worked with Jim Amos directly in one of his many failed franchises. I can tell you what he says in terms of being an ethical, God fearing, Bible Thumping, Patriot is exactly the opposite of the way he acts towards franchisees. He lacks integrity, says what will serve his purposes only and often totally distorts or lies about the business matters at hand. Run the other way if he is involved with a franchise concept.Dear Perspective
All I can say is the man may have mastered the art of finding ways to glorify himself. Now give me a trash can so I can vomit.Run Michael and Paul, run...
All I can say is that you guys have rocked the franchise blog world, and I am hard to please.
Gump has nothing on either of you.
Nick Bibby is a franchise consultant and principal of the Bibby Group.
Heather Rose
This comment has been moved here.I'll be there
vomiting with you.Your are Kidding, Right
Guest writes: "While your personal experience and positions are well taken into consideration, it would be irresponsible of me to ignore the weight of the credible sources that I have found which are providing me additional information."
This is a joke, right. The word "credible" is ironic.
Michael Webster PhD LLB
Franchise News
I think
this is a prime example of what Richard, Michael, and Paul talk about when they tell a prospective franchisee that buying a certain franchise is a bad idea, but the prospective franchisee's mind is made up and they find reasons for justifying their purchase that has nothing to do with franchising.
The one above article has nothing to do with business, but it's helping this person justify that Amos is a good guy, and maybe he is to a lot of people, but what about the franchisees of his companies (past and present).
Wish you good luck in your future franchise purchase.
Amos' talents
If the Amos haigiography is indicative of his talents, let's just hope he doesn't make the marketing/advertising decisions.
On a related note, I have just been named one of Canada's "Most Incredibly Talented Franchise Attorneys" by LeaderNet Canada. I'm also in Who's Who in Brazilian Franchising (as soon as I send them the pre-publication price of $399.50 for the leatherbound set).
Have to go to church now, then it's off to the mosque and on to shabbos.
Paul Steinberg
Franchisee Attorney, New York City, Ph: 212-529-5400
Amos & Tasti D-Lite.....
It's Only A Matter Of Time Until We All See PUBLIC LAW SUITS FILED...Just Take A Look At Amos & Co's Incredible Record Of Being Sued By The Franchisee's Of The Companies They Are Involved With....At Least Jimbo Is Consistant When It Comes To Being Sued!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!The lawsuit that began them
The lawsuit that began them all resides in the Bexar County, TX court house.
It is open for public viewing :)
Jim Amos-Please Be Serious
Doing business with Amos ONCE was enough for me..NEVER NEVER WOULD I DO BUSINESS WITH AMOS OR HIS CRONIES EVER AGAIN>>>BUYER BEWARENeed Link To Amos Lawsuit
We are a lazy bunch here pouring through oodles of information. How about providing a link to the lawsuit? Or at least a path of where to get it.
What About Darling Heather Rose....
She learned very very well from dear ol Daddy Amos..Dont even get me started on her!!I am amazed!!!
How many people are getting hurt in the franchise world. The best thing people in our country could do is boy-cott all the companies that are hurting the people. I know the zee's will be hurt too. In my opinion they will eventually get hurt anyway. In our case I asked too many questions and the zor doesn't like people who ask too many questions. People who are out to buy a zee should ask many questions. Smart people do. That is why my zor didn't like me. Let alone pick up the phone when I called. If your prospective zor doesn't want to talk to you because of this do not sign. Don't get hurt like we did. Understand that crooks do not like being cornered. They just won't have anything to do with you. Once the trust is gone in any relationship it is gone for good. How can anyone promote the brand when they do not trust the company.double post
Sorry, double postOh Juan!
The lawsuit is not online.
It resides in the basement of the warehouse
of the courthouse on fische.
I only have a hard copy of it, not on computer.
I will see if I can locate the appeal. I did have that on the computer
Juan, I attached the
Juan,
I attached the appeal (with highlights for ease) to the original post.
Enjoy!
JIM AMOS ????
He's not even worth wasting my time typing about..Buyer Beware with this guyRe: What About Darling Heather Rose....
I am sure she will be along soon. She usually follows dear ole dad by about 6-12 Months!I Truely Feel Sorry For......
Every Tasti D-Lite Franchisee.Have You Tasti D-Lites hired your atty's yet???? REMEMBER YOU ARE DEALING WITH SOLDIER BOY AMOS..IF YOU FORGET THE PAST YOU ARE DOOMED TO RE-LIVE IT...CHECK OUT THE PAST FRANCHISE'S AMOS HAS BEEN SUED BY...HISTORY WLL REPEAT ITSELF WITH AMOS & CO..IT ALWAYS DOES...AND YES BUY BEWARE WITH THIS "FRANCHISOR"SOUNDS LIKE YOU KNOW AMOS
And his merry little band of associates...I Feel Your Pain Like Many Many Others.Amos is Master of Self Help Remedies to Help Himself
Yes, the MBE-UPS franchise agreement got the lowest rating from AAFD because they, as attorneys, could see the hidden terms in the contract in which the ZOR is premeditating taking over the business and the assets for nothing for second generation ZEES who might have a chance of getting to breakeven. There is no doubt that Jim Amos has survinved on the churning of the flesh of first-owners of his concepts. I think it was Jim Amos who tried to get liquidated damages from a failing or failed ZEE in I Can't Believe It's Yogurt, but the court wouldn't let him but the Amos contract always prevents any viable exit strategy for the failing ZEE who becomes his premeditated victim when the concept is unviable and the franchisee is still losing thousands of dollars a year when they have exhausted predicted "startup" costs and still can't service their existing debt. Talk to Mr. Coady of Sona Med Spa about Jim Amos. Think about all of the owners of The UPS Stores who lost their shirts, those UPS shirts, and their savings and their health and their houses. Think about the millions lost by professionals in the SonaMedSpa scam in which Mr. Amos was found guilty of just a little negligent misrepresentation, I believe. Mr. Amos is a highly respected member of the IFA. Does he still sit on their Board? Don't be a tasty delight for Mr. Amos and stay far away from this new concept he is selling to the public with immunity and impunity under the ineffective regulation of franchising that exists today. Let the buyer BEWARE!Amos' problems at Brice
Thanks for attaching the appeal, and to take the time to highlight the important parts. It looks like the court judged that there was a conspiracy among Amos and some executives against a master franchise.
Darling Heather Rose
I would bet that she follows Jim over to Tasti. The only positions that she has held with him. The others are all from the same team, MBE, Sona and so on.Heather Rose Elrod Placecol USA
She is now the CEO/President of Placecol USA. Name change and new company. Not bad. You can still find threads relating to SONA MedSPAs. Heather Elrod (Rose) was the CEO of SONA and was on the franchising Board. Just vanished after the SONA fallout. Lots of unhappy franchisees/unit closings under her watch.
Heather Rose Elrod Placecol USA
Sounds like she would be a good wedding planner!!!!
Heather Rose Elrod (wow)
when did she leave Avon? Sorry Avon no offense meant.
Heather Rose Elrod
I dont care how many times you have a name change. In the franchise business your name and reputation will follow you.
Heather Rose Elrod Placecol USA shes back
knew she would pop back up, some people just wont go away and stay
Heather Rose Elrod Placecol USA
Website looks like its just a store front. She changed names and teamed with a business from South Africa. Appears to just sell skin products saw a little bit of info concerning licensing from the Cosmo Board in TN. Looks like it is in the baby stage. Could run that from your home if your garage was big enough. Long way from the SONA MedSpa days. IMO it would be difficult for her to activily participate in the sale of franchises. All lawsuits would be required to be listed in the FOC? Glad there continues to be information posted here.
Heather Elrod Rose
Do some home work before joining any venture with Ms. Rose or Elrod? Good information concerning the subject on this site. Be prepared for for a high road sales spin with lots of attention on family, service to others and a strong christian message. Might even get an eagle pin to wear!
AMOS & FRANCHISING =
RUN IN THE OTHER DIRECTION AS FAST AS YOU CAN..THE OTHER POSTERS ARE CORRECT BUYER BEWARE WITH AMOS!!!!Not "soldier"
Not a soldier, a Marine.
But I agree with you about his past following him, which is why I'm surprised that anyone would put money into a venture in which he is involved.
Paul Steinberg
Franchisee Attorney, New York City, Ph: 212-529-5400
Wait a minute!
Amos is in NYC. Andy Pettitte is in NYC... I can see it now...a hair removal, yogurt and HgH injection spa...complete with bible study classes... Heck, Aikman represents WingStop...maybe Clemens can join this group? Ummph...just barfed in my mouth!Explain?
So explain Michael Seid's apparent devotion to Amos?
Michael Webster PhD LLB
Franchise News
Amos - True To His Character
It is refreshing to see the world of franchising is at long last awakening to Amos. He has remained true to his nature for decades. No amount of his persistent self-promotion can mask his demonstrated lack of performance and inability to effectively lead virtually any organization with which he has been involved. He has left a bow-wake of damage in numerous companies, as demonstrated in the internal dissent he invariably creates within his staff, as well as within the franchisee network of any company he touches. Litigation and controversy follow him like old familiar friends. They are virtual trademarks of his involvement and his so-called leadership throughout his checkered tenure in franchising...almost as if to say, "Amos was here". He is reminiscent of a televangelist who is attempting to masquerade as a businessman...in fact, he does neither very well. Beware of anyone who wraps themselves publicly in their religion and their country's flag. People of true character have nothing to do with such base behavior. Rather, they live out their lives quietly in line with their belief in God and country and with no regard whatsoever to using those beliefs as a platform to gain public credibility. This individual is controversial for good reason. He is about form over substance, rhetoric over hard-work, self-interest over the interest of others. In modern parlance, when it comes to Amos, "It is all about me (meaning Amos)". He is no leader in any sense of the word and has long over-stayed his worth and welcome in franchising. He needs to, at long last, finally and permanently leave franchising. Likely, the venture capital company (which owns the majority interest in Tasty-D-Lite) will soon figure him out, as well...and hopefully show him the door. It would unquestionably be the right thing for all involved, most importantly the unsuspecting and trusting franchisees.Amos a Marine
Amos was a Marine? Not in my Corps.I have never come into contact with a Marine Officer who did not display high character, honor and a sense of profound duty. It is hard for me to believe that a former Marine Officer would involve himself with anything that even had the scent of not being ethical or honest.re: Michael Seid
Most likely because Seid knows him personally and likes him. Seid wouldn't be the first person who defended a friend even though the friend was a scuzzbag.
Paul Steinberg
Franchisee Attorney, New York City, Ph: 212-529-5400
Semper Fidelis
You are competely correct. Unfortunately, this person has strayed very wide of the standards taught Marines and Marine officers, in particular. He long ago abandoned "Honor, Courage, Commitment" for personal gain and in particular, money...plain and simple. The true test of a Marine is whether or not after leaving active duty, he/she continues on living their lives (both public and private) to the Corps' high standard of personal conduct and accountability. Most do and sadly, some do not. Amos is a very sad, dramatic example of standards gone bad. For those who are Marines, we wince at the shame he has brought upon the Corps by his behavior. We particularly wish he would simply go away, never to be heard from again.This Jim Amos Post
Is Right On The Money About Amos. There Is Nothing More Foolish Than Amos In Court Reading His Bible....This Is S.O.P. With Amos & Yes Buyer Beware With Amos & CrewAmos --a Marine
I agree with your comment about Marines. I remember my brother, a Marine Raider, said that their officers really led them and got out and died with them on the battle fields and the beaches. Perhaps, James Amos, when he became a business man and entered the franchise industry hoped that all of his concepts that he franchised and sold would be highly successful for the franchisees. And then, he learned that the reality of franchising is that you have to throw lots of seeds out there to qrow your network gross sales quickly and this means that you have to overseed and not all your seeds will germinate. The Marines are about sacrifice and franchising is about sacrificing franchisees, when necessary, for profits for franchisors, and profits for franchisors stimulates the economy and helps the government. James Amos may rationalize that he is still serving his country.Michael Seid and James Amos are Spoon Buddies
They both eat out of the same pot? They both have an interest in bringing franchising to Africa out of charity? They attend the same prayer meetings at the IFA? They have both become wealthy because of the franchise industry?Post new comment