Latest news with #BatteriesPlus
Business Insider
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Business Insider
A CEO explains the sourcing strategy that helped a battery chain lessen its China reliance amid the trade war
After Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods during his first term as president in 2018, Scott Williams had a problem. He was CEO of Batteries Plus, a retailer that imported around one-third of its inventory from China. The chain sells batteries that power cars and other electronics at about 740 mostly franchised locations across the US. Trump's 25% tariff on certain Chinese goods, which escalated the US-China trade war, raised costs for Williams. That's when Williams decided to make a long-term change: He started buying products from as many sources as possible other than China. Seven years later, he told Business Insider that he's lowered the share of materials his company buys from China from 32% down to 4%. As Trump's trade war continues in his second term, Williams said Batteries Plus' decreased reliance on products from China has prevented much of the scrambling that Trump's tariffs have caused at other companies this year. Batteries Plus turned to the US, Malaysia, and Vietnam While some companies and investors are fretting over Trump's latest August 1 deadline for hiking tariffs on imports from several countries, including China, Batteries Plus has a diversified supplier base that it said insulates it from some of these pressures. "That has obviously, in hindsight, proven to be a huge benefit for us," Williams said. Batteries Plus found factories in other countries to replace what it previously imported from China. One challenge was finding equivalents produced outside China that were of the same quality, Williams said. Car batteries that the retailer produces under its own X2 brand, for instance, now come from Malaysia and Vietnam because Batteries Plus was able to find suppliers in those countries that matched what their China-based suppliers could make. "You're very careful to ensure that, because quality is your reputation," Williams said. Batteries Plus didn't rely on a single country to replace what it used to import from China. Of the 32% that came from China in 2018, about 12 percentage points now come from Vietnam, 8 from US sources, 5 from Malaysia, and the rest from a handful of other countries. That distribution was deliberate, Williams said, so that the company could shift between suppliers in the future depending on which countries are hit by tariffs. "My strategy was, I'm going to diversify with key partners so that I can press the brake or the accelerator on different countries as this thing moves," he said. The 4% of Batteries Plus' supplies that still come from China use minerals that the company hasn't been able to find good sources for elsewhere, he said. The supply chain strategy has not completely shielded Batteries Plus from tariffs. The Trump administration is targeting a longer list of countries with duties than it did seven years ago. Earlier this month, for instance, Trump announced a trade deal with Vietnam that would subject imports from that country to a 20% tariff, up from the current 10%. Still, source diversification has helped Batteries Plus avoid some of the biggest tariff hikes during Trump's second term. Tariffs on imports from China briefly rose to 145% this spring, dinging profit at companies from Dollar Tree to Cracker Barrel. Williams said that Batteries Plus wants to pass less than half of the cost of new tariffs to customers — and, for some products, "none at all," he said. Batteries Plus has also used other cost-cutting options to minimize price increases. The company has increased automation at its warehouses to increase efficiency and negotiated with suppliers to minimize the cost of tariffs, Williams said.
Business Insider
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Business Insider
A CEO explains how he cut his battery chain's reliance on China and plans to offset the latest tariffs
After Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods during his first term as president in 2018, Scott Williams had a problem. He was CEO of Batteries Plus, a retailer that imported around one-third of its inventory from China. The chain sells batteries that power cars and other electronics at about 740 mostly franchised locations across the US. Trump's 25% tariff on certain Chinese goods, which escalated the US-China trade war, raised costs for Williams. That's when Williams decided to make a long-term change: He started buying products from as many sources as possible other than China. Seven years later, he told Business Insider that he's lowered the share of materials his company buys from China from 32% down to 4%. As Trump's trade war continues in his second term, Williams said Batteries Plus' decreased reliance on products from China has prevented much of the scrambling that Trump's tariffs have caused at other companies this year. Batteries Plus turned to the US, Malaysia, and Vietnam While some companies and investors are fretting over Trump's latest August 1 deadline for hiking tariffs on imports from several countries, including China, Batteries Plus has a diversified supplier base that it said insulates it from some of these pressures. "That has obviously, in hindsight, proven to be a huge benefit for us," Williams said. Batteries Plus found factories in other countries to replace what it previously imported from China. One challenge was finding equivalents produced outside China that were of the same quality, Williams said. Car batteries that the retailer produces under its own X2 brand, for instance, now come from Malaysia and Vietnam because Batteries Plus was able to find suppliers in those countries that matched what their China-based suppliers could make. "You're very careful to ensure that, because quality is your reputation," Williams said. Batteries Plus didn't rely on a single country to replace what it used to import from China. Of the 32% that came from China in 2018, about 12 percentage points now come from Vietnam, 8 from US sources, 5 from Malaysia, and the rest from a handful of other countries. That distribution was deliberate, Williams said, so that the company could shift between suppliers in the future depending on which countries are hit by tariffs. "My strategy was, I'm going to diversify with key partners so that I can press the brake or the accelerator on different countries as this thing moves," he said. The 4% of Batteries Plus' supplies that still come from China use minerals that the company hasn't been able to find good sources for elsewhere, he said. The supply chain strategy has not completely shielded Batteries Plus from tariffs. The Trump administration is targeting a longer list of countries with duties than it did seven years ago. Earlier this month, for instance, Trump announced a trade deal with Vietnam that would subject imports from that country to a 20% tariff, up from the current 10%. Still, source diversification has helped Batteries Plus avoid some of the biggest tariff hikes during Trump's second term. Tariffs on imports from China briefly rose to 145% this spring, dinging profit at companies from Dollar Tree to Cracker Barrel. Williams said that Batteries Plus wants to pass less than half of the cost of new tariffs to customers — and, for some products, "none at all," he said. Batteries Plus has also used other cost-cutting options to minimize price increases. The company has increased automation at its warehouses to increase efficiency and negotiated with suppliers to minimize the cost of tariffs, Williams said.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Batteries Plus Charges Into Q3 Following 37 New Franchise Deals Since Start of 2025
Leading Battery and Power Solutions Service Center Opens 11 New Stores, Expanding Local Access to Essential Services HARTLAND, Wis., July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Batteries Plus is leveraging significant momentum heading into the second half of the year after signing more than three dozen franchise agreements in the last six months. The leading battery and power solutions service center inked 37 new deals since the start of the year, including 20 in Q2. Future-Proof Model Drives ExpansionWith 13 new franchise owners joining the system this year, Batteries Plus continues to attract entrepreneurs seeking an essential, scalable, and future-focused investment. Batteries Plus also celebrated 11 new store openings in the first half of the year, including its debut store in Hawaii, bringing the franchise footprint to 48 U.S. states and underscoring the nationwide demand for accessible, reliable power solutions. "Franchise candidates are more selective than ever as they seek out concepts that are not only relevant, but built for the long run," said Victor Daher, Vice President of Global Franchise Development for Batteries Plus. "Batteries Plus offers owners a high-demand, tech-forward business with multiple revenue streams and the infrastructure to support sustained growth in both consumer and commercial markets. That model is exactly what's leading to one of our strongest years yet for franchise development." A Franchise Filled with Energy and ExpertiseAs Batteries Plus expands coast to coast, the brand is also reinforcing the culture behind its growth. PlusCon – the brand's innovative franchise convention – generated a notable buzz within the franchise system. At the forefront of PlusCon was the inaugural Plus Games – a spirited competition that celebrated the deep knowledge and problem-solving skills franchise owners and associates have to offer. In fact, that same expertise is the cornerstone of the latest Batteries Plus branding campaign, Experts in Charge, which positions Batteries Plus as the trusted resource for reliable power solutions. "Our franchisees wear many hats; in addition to business owners, they're also problem solvers, advisors, and power experts in their communities," said Joe Malmuth, Chief Development Officer of Batteries Plus. "That enhanced level of expertise is what makes us the go-to partner for critical industries – including hospitals, school systems, and municipalities – who rely on our teams to keep their operations running without interruption." Built around essential products and services, Batteries Plus continues to attract purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are passionate about delivering real solutions to their communities. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Batteries Plus, please visit ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS: Batteries Plus is the nation's leading battery and power solutions service center, offering a comprehensive selection of products, technical expertise, and customized services through a nationwide network of over 800 locations open and in development. Headquartered in Hartland, Wisconsin, and owned by Freeman Spogli, Batteries Plus is dedicated to providing reliable, commercial and residential power solutions – including batteries, lighting, and repair services – to help organizations and customers minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. For more information about Batteries Plus and its franchising opportunities visit MEDIA CONTACT: Meg Ryan, Fishman Public Relations, mryan@ or 847-945-1300 ext. 264 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Batteries Plus
Associated Press
02-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Glen Ellyn Team Wins Inaugural Plus Games at Batteries Plus's 2025 PlusCon
HARTLAND, Wis., July 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Batteries Plus is proud to announce Frank Meier and his Glen Ellyn, Ill. team as the winners of the brand's first-ever Plus Games, recognized during a spirited celebration at the 2025 PlusCon in Las Vegas. This achievement highlights Meier's dedication to operational excellence and his team's commitment to delivering top-tier service and expertise to their community. Meet the Winners Meier has been a valued member of the Batteries Plus franchise network since 2022, bringing a passion for customer service and a drive for innovation to his Glen Ellyn store. Under his leadership, the team has become known for their product knowledge, personalized solutions, and consistent sales growth. Meier's commitment to the Batteries Plus mission has made his store a model for franchise success and a trusted resource for both residential and commercial customers. 'Winning the first-ever Plus Games is an incredible honor for our Glen Ellyn team,' said Meier. 'This competition brought out the best in all of us, and I'm so proud of how our team pulled together, supported each other, and had fun along the way. We're grateful to be part of a brand that celebrates innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to serving our customers every day.' Inside the Plus Games The inaugural Plus Games, launched in November 2024, were designed to gamify franchisee engagement and drive performance across the Batteries Plus system. Over the course of several months, 295 franchise stores competed in a friendly but fierce contest, with teams evaluated on key metrics such as key fob sales, flashlight sales, and total sales. The competition culminated at PlusCon, where the Final Four stores faced off in a series of challenges that tested their knowledge, teamwork, and sales acumen. Frank Meier and his Glen Ellyn team emerged victorious, outpacing their peers and demonstrating excellence across all measured categories. Their win is a testament to the power of collaboration, training, and a customer-first mindset. Finishing in second was Richard and Kelli Epps and their store associates in Largo/Spring Hill, Fla. Significant Results Across the System The Plus Games delivered measurable impact, with top-performing stores seeing a median total sales growth of 5.9-7.4% during the competition period compared to the previous year. The top quartile of stores also achieved a 12.3% median increase in key fob sales, underscoring the effectiveness of the initiative in driving both engagement and results. As Batteries Plus continues to innovate in franchise operations and customer service, the success of the inaugural Plus Games sets a new standard for engagement and achievement across its network of stores nationwide. 'The energy and focus the Plus Games generated throughout our franchise system was inspiring,' said Jon Sica, Chief Operating Officer for Batteries Plus. 'Frank and his team truly exemplify what's possible when you combine expertise, passion, and a drive to succeed. Their win sets the bar for future competitions and reflects the bright future ahead for our entire network.' With nearly 40 years of operational experience and more than 800 stores open and in development, Batteries Plus continues to lead the specialty battery space by delivering unmatched value to consumers and businesses alike. To learn more about franchising with Batteries Plus or become a future member of the Plus Games, please visit ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS: Batteries Plus is the nation's leading battery and power solutions service center, offering a comprehensive selection of products, technical expertise, and customized services through a nationwide network of over 800 locations open and in development. Headquartered in Hartland, Wisconsin, and owned by Freeman Spogli, Batteries Plus is dedicated to providing reliable, commercial and residential power solutions – including batteries, lighting, and repair services – to help organizations and customers minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. For more information about Batteries Plus and its franchising opportunities visit Media Contact: Cole Koretos, Fishman Public Relations, [email protected] or 847.331.1190 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Batteries Plus
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Batteries Plus Concludes PlusCon with EmPOWERing Celebration of Plus Games Winners
Nation's leading battery services brand gamified its franchising convention with competition encouraging owner engagement Franchisee Frank Meier and his Glen Ellyn, IL team crowned winners of inaugural Plus Games Batteries Plus store owners achieved sizeable sales growth during Plus Games competition HARTLAND, Wis., June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In an innovative twist on a traditional franchising convention, Batteries Plus reimagined this year's gathering, creating PlusCon, featuring collaborative sessions, insightful speakers, and the culmination of its inaugural Plus Games. The Plus Games were designed as a year-long initiative to boost franchisee engagement in training and sales goals through friendly competition, ultimately driving store performance and team expertise. Redefining a ConventionWhile many franchisors host their own version of an annual franchising convention to spark a renewed inspiration amongst their owners, PlusCon took a unique approach with the creation of the Plus Games building up excitement and encouraging franchisee engagement well before the event. "We knew we had to break the mold of a typical franchise convention and spark some new excitement within our system, so we sought out an opportunity to shake things up and give our owners something different to look forward to attending," said Joe Malmuth, Chief Development Officer for Batteries Plus. "The result was franchisee and store engagement even beyond anything we expected. We're proud of our owners for their dedication to this new competition and we're incredibly grateful to all our corporate team for helping bring our vision to life." PlusCon additionally encouraged franchisee connection and collaboration through an energized general session and breakout sessions offering valuable insights on strategies to achieve success. During PlusCon, Batteries Plus executives also announced the launch of a new branding campaign, Experts In Charge, aiming to celebrate the expansive expertise store owners and associates offer to consumers and businesses seeking power solutions. Plus Games Finale: The Final FourSince launching in November, the Plus Games all came to a head during the brand's PlusCon in Las Vegas as the Final Four store owners battled it out to the finish. In the end, Frank Meier and his team at the Batteries Plus store in Glen Ellyn, Illinois were crowned the winners of the first-ever Plus Games, outplaying 294 other franchise stores throughout the competition. Close behind and finishing in second was Richard and Kelli Epps and their store associates in Largo/Spring Hill, Florida. Competition by the NumbersThe Plus Games not only saw a healthy competition amongst owners determined to push boundaries and further their success, but they also resulted in a noticeable difference in sales across the franchise system. During the games, stores were evaluated on performance across key metrics, including key fob sales, flashlight sales, and total sales. The top three quartile stores saw a median total sales growth of 5.9-7.4% between November 2024 and January 2025, compared to the same period the previous year. Stores in the top quartile also saw a 12.3% median increase in key fob sales during the Plus Games, compared to the same time in the previous year. "We had a vision to redefine what you could achieve with a franchise convention, and we knocked it out of the park," said Jon Sica, Chief Operating Officer for Batteries Plus. "The Plus Games lit a fire across our system, and the resulting sales lift we witnessed across our top-performing stores is a testament to what's possible with a motivated, aligned, and focused franchise system." With nearly 40 years of operational experience and more than 800 stores open and in development, Batteries Plus continues to lead the specialty battery space by delivering unmatched value to consumers and businesses alike. To learn more about franchising with Batteries Plus or become a future member of the Plus Games, please visit ABOUT BATTERIES PLUS:Batteries Plus is the nation's leading battery and power solutions service center, offering a comprehensive selection of products, technical expertise, and customized services through a nationwide network of over 800 locations open and in development. Headquartered in Hartland, Wisconsin, and owned by Freeman Spogli, Batteries Plus is dedicated to providing reliable, commercial and residential power solutions – including batteries, lighting, and repair services – to help organizations and customers minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. For more information about Batteries Plus and its franchising opportunities visit Media Contact: Meg Ryan, Fishman Public Relations, mryan@ or 847.945.1300 ext. 264 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Batteries Plus Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
