Featured Franchise: Kitchen Tune-Up Raleigh, NC

Did you know that if you visit the capital city of North Carolina, you are only two hours from the beach AND two hours from the mountains?  Mark Saltamartini has been Tuning-Up kitchens across Raleigh for fifteen years, and he filled us in about his city, his clients, and why he likes owning his own business. Thanks, Mark for the interview!

What was your career before becoming a Tunie?
I was a customer service account manager for a large telecommunications company.

What is your favorite part of owning your own business?
Having sight of my own destiny! I’m in control and my success is up to me.

Do you have a most memorable kitchen update? 
One of my favorite couples comes to mind.  They loved their kitchen update so much, they would repeatedly show up at our home shows throughout the year for a long time after we completed the project. They’d say hi and visit briefly, and tell anyone going by how much they love their kitchen, and how wonderful Kitchen Tune-Up was to work with. Customer referrals are the best!

Any advice for someone thinking about making the leap and buying their own franchise?
Be sure to have a sufficient marketing budget. It’s the investment that fuels your leads and your success. 

When you’re not working, what is your favorite hobby or pastime? 
I really enjoy hunting.

What’s something unique about your area? 
In Raleigh, we are only 2 hours from the mountains and two hours from the beach! It’s a great place to live.

We switch up our National Reunion location each year.  What has been your favorite city to visit or most memorable Reunion so far?
I really loved Nashville. Also, our family is close to Disney, so we always enjoy spending time in Florida.

Do you have a favorite cabinet door style?
No – I love whatever my clients choose.  In our area white, shaker/flat panel continues to be the hot ticket.

What was the biggest motivator to why you bought your own franchise?
Things are done on my terms and as I mentioned above.  I am responsible if it succeeds or fails, and I’m going to celebrate my 15th anniversary with Kitchen Tune-Up next month!

What have you found to be the biggest benefit to franchise ownership? 
You are not alone, you always have help when needed.  You can reach out to other franchises and the Home Office any time for advice or to talk things out.