As CEO of Border Magic and Boulder Designs, Mogavero Transformed Struggling Franchises into Industry Leaders
Passionate, down-to-earth, authentic and likable are just some of the words that describe Butch Mogavero, CEO of Boulder Designs and Border Magic. His enthusiasm for both of these unique specialty franchise concepts is contagious. Boulder Designs’ decorative boulders look like stone but are made of sand. They run the gamut from large-scale monuments to gateway signs, memorials and outdoor decor such as fire pits, entry stands, planters and benches. The Border Magic franchise creates decorative landscape edging made of concrete.
Mogavero saw great possibilities in both concepts and acquired the two brands in 2016. They were struggling at the time he bought them, but he knew he could turn them around. “They needed some TLC,” he says. His turnaround plan included giving extra support to franchisees who needed it and, in some cases, he asked some of the existing franchise owners to sell back their businesses to him. “Some of our owners were just not a good fit. Not everyone is made for franchise ownership. If you don’t want to follow the proven system, you shouldn’t own a franchise. It doesn’t make sense,” he says.
Mogavero rolled up his sleeves and helped franchisees in any way he could. “They could call me any time — I always answer. I would fly out to help a franchisee work a home show or go on a sales call, whatever it took.” Mogavero spent years getting the franchise operation where he wanted it, but it was worth the effort, he says. Now thriving franchises, Boulder Designs has more than 83 locations and Border Magic has 37. But Mogavero’s true measure for success is not in the number of units; it’s in the quality of franchise partners. “I learned firsthand that franchisees can make or break a system, so we are extremely careful about who we partner with,” he says.
You get what you put in. Take accountability for yourself.
Q&A: Butch Mogavero, Boulder Designs and Border Magic
In the following section, Mogavero shares his insights on leadership, the essential qualities he looks for in franchise partners, and why he believes franchising is a powerful business model. Here, he opens up about his personal motivations, his approach to business challenges, and his vision for the future of his franchises.
1. What does leadership mean to you?
Leading by example; leading and inspiring others to go from good to great!
2. What qualities are a must for your franchisees?
I look for franchisees with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
3. What do you love about franchising?
There is a system already in place; you just need to follow it. It’s like baking a cake; if you follow the instructions, you will get a cake, if you miss one step, it won’t be correct.
4. Please share your favorite mantra or motto in business.
You get out what you put in. Take accountability for yourself.
5. Why is home services a great area in franchising?
There will always be a need for it.
6. Who do you admire in franchising and why?
I admire John Appel who works on our corporate team and has a long history in franchising. He treats people with the utmost respect, honesty and integrity. He is the best of the best!
For more information, visit https://www.boulderdesigns.net/.
