Leather and Vinyl Repair Brand Helps Franchisees Grow With Strong Support
Canada is widely known for its welcoming and polite culture — so much so that it’s often ranked among the world’s friendliest countries. That Canadian charm is easy to spot when you meet Fibrenew President Jesse Johnstone and his team. The Alberta-based leather, plastic and vinyl repair franchise brand has grown to more than 300 locations across North America and beyond.
As president of Fibrenew, Johnstone radiates humility and positivity. He’s approachable, always smiling, and clearly loves leading the brand. Despite his success, he remains down-to-earth and focused on the people in the business. Fibrenew is a one-of-a-kind franchise that offers both flexibility and creativity. It serves both residential and commercial clients, so franchisees can run a solo operation or grow a larger team depending on their goals. “We’re more than just a company that repairs couches and car seats — we provide a needed service for so many people and businesses, and it’s profitable and enjoyable at the same time,” says Johnstone. “No two days are alike and there are dozens and dozens of like-minded people here who care about franchisee success.”
Unlike many other franchise opportunities, Fibrenew has a creative twist. The work often requires an eye for detail and a problem-solving mindset. That hands-on element adds a layer of satisfaction to the job that many owners value. At the heart of Fibrenew’s success is a strong, collaborative culture. “There’s a feeling that everyone is in this together,” Johnstone says. “Our support staff really cares about the success of our franchisees, and franchisees really care about the success of their peers. When you add all that up, it creates one big hive of happiness.”
To protect and nurture that culture, the company prioritizes constant, supportive communication. “Every live event, phone call, email, text and companywide bulletin is collaborative in tone and energy,” says Johnstone. “We never want to dictate direction; we’d rather guide and lead by example.” That connection continues through weekly Zoom workshops, company podcasts and regular outreach. “When there is communication, there is trust. When there is trust, there’s alignment.”
Q&A: Jesse Johnstone, Fibrenew
Do what’s right for the business and for our franchisees — even if it’s not the easiest path forward.
1. What do you love about franchising?
It’s about building something bigger than oneself and bigger than the company itself. It goes beyond the bounds of a business plan, an operations manual or a P&L statement, and positively affects so many people’s lives.
2. What qualities do you seek in your team?
It’s a rare combination of traits, including honesty, integrity, creativity and a strong work ethic. We look for and hire to these characteristics first, and know we can train the rest.
3. What values guide your decision-making as a leader in a franchise system?
Do what’s right for the business and for our franchisees — even if it’s not the easiest path forward.
4. Please share your favorite mantra or motto in business.
Choice
- Hard work is a choice.
- Attitude is a choice.
- Body language is a choice.
- Discipline is a choice.
- Doing extra is a choice.
- How you respond is a choice.
- Success is a choice.
Learn more about the Fibrenew franchise.
