Stratus Building Solutions’ Michele Nichols Recognized as a 2025 Franchise Rock Star by Franchise Business Review

By: Stratus Building Solutions | 0 Shares 37 Reads

July 10, 2025 // Franchising.com // Grand Rapids, MI – Stratus Building Solutions’ Michele Nichols was honored by franchise research firm, Franchise Business Review, as one of 2025’s Franchise Rock Stars.

Michele was selected from hundreds of nominations from brands that participated in Franchise Business Review’s franchisee satisfaction research.

The Franchise Rock Stars were nominated by their franchise brand’s leadership in one of eight categories as franchisees who set admirable examples when it comes to leadership, business acumen, financial and professional success, and contributing to their community. Categories included: Giving Back, Women, Millennials, Veterans, Family-Owned, “Freshmen”, Top-Performers, and Multi-Unit Owners.

“There are so many stories of inspiring franchise owners who are living their dreams of successful business ownership. Each franchisee brings unique abilities, values, and skills to their franchise brand,” said Eric Stites, founder & CEO of Franchise Business Review. “We’ve seen that most successful franchise owners demonstrate an incredibly strong work ethic, a deep passion for their businesses, and a real commitment to their communities. Our Franchise Rock Star Awards are for those who truly go above and beyond in some special way. We’re thrilled to recognize these Rock Stars as exceptional examples of achieving success within the franchise model.”

When Michele opened the Stratus Building Solutions territory as a Master Franchisee in Grand Rapids in 2020, she wasn’t just launching a business – she was laying the foundation for a legacy. As the heart of this family-run operation, she emerged as a true rockstar in the Stratus system, proving to be a dynamic leader, an organized operator, and a shining example of what it means to be a Master Franchisee.

Michele’s journey into franchising was inspired by the desire to pursue something she and her family could really make their own, creating a legacy for years to come. As such, Michele always intended for this to be a family business – after years of being located separately across the U.S., she was thrilled to have the whole family reunited by Stratus in the Grand Rapids area.

Since opening, Michele has played a central role in every facet of the business. While her sons, Cole and Chase, focus on sales and brand compliance, Michele is the day-to-day leader and heads up the charge in operations, human resources, franchise development, and organizational leadership. She’s the glue that holds the Grand Rapids territory together, building systems, maintaining relationships, and ensuring every franchisee and client feels supported and valued.

SOURCE Stratus Building Solutions

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