Barker Joins the Leadership Team as the Home Services Franchisor Marks 20th Anniversary
Home Franchise Concepts, a home services franchisor, has appointed Josh Barker chief development officer. Barker brings extensive franchising experience to the role, having previously led growth initiatives for Unleashed Brands, Neighborly and Christian Brothers Automotive. He now heads Home Franchise Concepts’ recruitment and development efforts.
“The leadership team’s approach to growth is thoughtful, disciplined and grounded in long-term value creation. That alignment in values mattered to me and stood out right away,” Barker said. “The opportunity in home services is also significant. When you look at macro trends — AI, cost of capital, shifting consumer behavior and one of the largest wealth transfers in history — the category is positioned for sustained growth. Home Franchise Concepts is in a strong position to capitalize on that, and I’m excited to be part of building what’s next.”
As the company marks its 20th anniversary, Megan Hoyt joins Barker on the leadership team as vice president and general counsel overseeing legal, regulatory, governance and compliance functions.
Corey Benish, president and CEO of Home Franchise Concepts, said Barker and Hoyt have the franchising expertise that will help drive the company’s sustainable growth. “As we enter our next chapter, investing in experienced leaders is essential to delivering long-term value for our franchise owners, associates and customers,” Benish said.
Barker said Home Franchise Concepts will continue its momentum — having sold more than 180 new territories and opened 177 across its portfolio in 2025 — by further professionalizing franchise development and leveraging data to align growth with franchisee success.
“What I’ve found is that sustainable growth comes from alignment, strong processes, the right people and a clear understanding of what success looks like for both the franchisee and the brand,” he said.
Knowing Your ‘Why’
Barker advises entrepreneurs considering franchising to first define their motivation and goals, which are critical to finding the right brand and opportunity. “Is it greater earning potential, better work-life balance, more control over your future, the ability to work on the business instead of in it or building generational wealth?” he explained.
“Knowing your ‘why’ is the fuel that drives everything forward. There will be highs and lows in any business, and the clearer your vision is, the better equipped you are to navigate both and build something that truly aligns with what you want long term. The best franchisees don’t just buy a business; they invest in a future they’ve clearly defined.”
He said franchisors can attract qualified candidates by making their operations as seamless and transparent as possible. “Beyond that, franchisors need to understand the metrics that drive development. It’s not just about total signings; it’s about lifetime value, conversion rates and how effectively you move candidates through the process. When you understand those levers, you can build a development engine that is both effective and efficient.”
Barker is based in Texas and lives with his wife of 20 years, Ashley, and their four children, who range in age from 5 to 16. He enjoys staying active and supporting Louisiana State University’s athletic teams.
About Home Franchise Concepts
While Home Franchise Concepts was founded in 2006, the Florida-based company’s franchising foundation dates back to 1992 with the launch of Budget Blinds, a leading window coverings franchise.
Other brands in the Home Franchise Concepts portfolio include Aussie Pet Mobile, Bath Tune-Up, Kitchen Tune-Up, Lightspeed Restoration, PremierGarage, The Tailored Closet and Two Maids. Home Franchise Concepts is backed by JM Family Enterprises, a privately held company with more than $24.7 billion in revenue and 5,500-plus associates.
