Press Release October 15, 2004

INNOVATIVE FRANCHISE ON OFFER AT L.A. CONVENTION

  SAN DIEGO , CA – A unique franchise opportunity that involves the explosive digital portrait photography industry and a first-of-its-kind proprietary system is being launched at the West Coast Franchise Expo to be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center from October 15-17, 2004 . Grins 2 Go^® integrates three business concepts – portrait photography, digital photo prints and custom framing – into a fresh, new “wow” experience for the consumer. “Instead of the dreaded photo sessions that are the typical experience for the family,” says Grins 2 Go^® President Harish Babla, “We wanted to create a remarkable and memorable experience. One in which people actually enjoy themselves.”

That “remarkable experience” has translated into what Babla calls the “White Glove Service” at the attractive and upscale Grins 2 Go^® Studio. Or, Grins 2 Go^® can come to you with a fully equipped state-of-the-art Grins 2 Go^® On Location unit. It’s perfect for location portraiture or event photography, including business functions, school events, youth sports, fundraising galas, private and family parties, and more. With a unique range of photographic styles, custom frames and frame designs, Grins 2 Go^® offers the consumer a highly rewarding and unforgettable experience in a comfortable, fashionable, friendly environment.

So how did the Grins 2 Go^® concept get started? “We were looking for an industry with a lot of fragmentation, one that was going through a lot of change,” explains Babla. “The multi-billion dollar portrait photography industry has been around for a long time and basically has been doing ‘the same ol’ thing.’ The quality of digital photography is now viable, hot and ready to go.” In the process, he adds that Grins 2 Go^® has orchestrated a technological first by bringing together independent software systems and creating a comprehensive, supportive, start-to-finish new proprietary operating system.

GRINS 2 GO^® LEVERAGES DIGITAL PHOTO INDUSTRY

This fresh approach to the typically “painful” family photo sessions emerged when Babla discovered a “big gap” in the portrait photography industry – that’s where Grins 2 Go^® will to do business. “What we discovered during our research and development phase were a lot of little players, specialty boutique-type portrait studios, that offered higher-end quality and service but with expensive fees and slow turnaround. On the other side of the spectrum, were the large players who provided low-end service and quality, slow turnaround and no style. We wanted to play in the middle, an obviously under-served area, offering a remarkable experience, unique style, quick turnaround, and higher quality and, here’s the clincher, at affordable prices.”

What emerged was a “High Tech / High Touch” way of capturing and recording life’s memorable moments. Consumers walking into the studio are taken to the “Grin Room,” where they get ready and the photographer meets with them to discuss creative ideas for their photo shoot. The stage is readied for one of the unique “Grins Photography” styles. With music in the background, an engaging photographer, and a relaxed, casual energy, a memorable moment is experienced. After the shoot, customers are taken to a viewing lounge to see their unique photos displayed on a large plasma screen. Favorite portraits are selected and the customer picks them up the next day. 

“It’s an hour-long session,” says Babla, “But it’s a ‘wow’ experience for the consumer, which is exactly what we have set out to provide.” 

Babla’s goal is to have 36 studios on board across the country a year from the franchise launch date in Los Angeles . “Franchisees do not need to have a background in photography in order to do this business,” he emphasizes. “We provide all of that training as well as day-to-day support. What we’re looking for are businesspeople who love people and who want to get in on the ground floor of this cutting-edge start-up with tremendous potential.” Three great opportunities are available: the Grins 2 Go^® Studio, the Grins 2 Go^® On Location unit, and the Grins 2 Go^® Regional Licensee. 

Interested potential franchisees should contact Grins 2 Go, Inc. toll free at 866-GoGrins; visit their website at Grins2Go.com; or, stop by the Grins 2 Go™ Booth (#239) at the West Coast Franchise Expo in Los Angeles from October 15 – 17, 2004 .