Ziebart, a global provider of vehicle appearance and protection services, is heading into the fourth quarter of 2026 with positive momentum following a series of industry honors that span franchisee excellence, brand strength and marketing innovation, company officials stated in a press release. These awards and accolades include:
- Bay City, Michigan, franchise owner Ben Rogers named one of the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) 2026 Franchisees of the Year
- Ziebart named to Entrepreneur’s list of Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners
- Three key marketing team members recognized for outstanding achievements by Franchise Assembly
Michigan Ziebart Owner Named an IFA 2026 Franchisee of the Year
Bay City Ziebart franchise owner Rogers was named among the International Franchise Association’s 2026 Franchisees of the Year. Rogers is dedicated to mentorship and guiding his team in a personal and professional manner, the company said.
“Ben is the ultimate example of what it means to be a human-first business leader,” said Larisa Walega, senior vice president and chief growth officer. “His motivation to lead with strong mentorship is apparent in how his team shows up for each other and for the customers every day. The recognition from the IFA is deserved and well-earned. We’re incredibly proud to have Ben represent Ziebart on a national stage.”
“Franchisees of the Year demonstrate what franchising is all about—individuals who have committed their lives and careers to the betterment of those around them, building something bigger than themselves,” said Matt Haller, president and CEO of the IFA. “Through their leadership, they give back to their communities and support other franchisees, all while exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of franchising. We are proud to recognize Rogers with IFA’s highest honor for individual franchisees and celebrate his commitment to making a difference both within his business and beyond.”
Ziebart Ranks No. 1 in Entrepreneur’s Automotive Appearance Category
Ziebart was recognized across three Entrepreneur 2026 rankings, highlighting Ziebart’s strong-performing franchise system, the release noted. These rankings included:
- No. 1 in Entrepreneur’s Automotive Appearance Services
- No. 78 on Entrepreneur’s 2026 Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owners list
- No. 144 on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500
“Our Entrepreneur Franchise 500 ranking is a testament of Ziebart’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing franchise industry,” said Thomas A. Wolfe, president and chief executive officer of Ziebart. “As a brand that has been in business for more than 65 years, we have learned to grow alongside the environment we operate in. Earning the position as the top brand in Entrepreneur’s Automotive Appearance Services category is something we do not take for granted.”
Ziebart Marketing Leaders Named Franchise Marketing Trailblazers
New this year was Franchise Assembly’s recognition of standout marketers in franchising. On the inaugural list were Larisa Walega, senior vice president and chief growth officer, and Michelle Wells, vice president of marketing, who were each named as Franchise Marketing Trailblazers for their respective tenured dedication to developing strong marketing strategies for Ziebart. Walega has spent 17 years blending Ziebart’s marketing and growth strategies, while Wells has quickly risen through the ranks with her recent promotion to vice president.
Franchise Assembly additionally recognized franchise development marketing manager Emily Davis on the list of Franchise Marketing Ones to Watch. In just seven years, Davis has forged her path and made her mark on the Ziebart brand, the company said.
“Marketing is often the foundation of what drives a brand’s overall success,” said Walega. “I’m proud of the strong marketing team we’ve built here at Ziebart, and I’m eager to continue propelling our brand forward using our curated skills and talents.”