JULY 28, 2025
July 28, 2025 – Littleton, CO – Payroll Vault’s Cindy Thompson was honored by franchise research firm, Franchise Business Review, as one of 2025’s Franchise Rock Stars.
Thompson 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.”
After 40 years in corporate America, Cindy Thompson found her true calling as a Payroll Vault franchisee, bringing meaningful support to her local community. As a Payroll Vault franchisee, she found a way to empower small business owners with the tools and support they need to thrive. “Helping small business owners get organized with their payroll process and enabling them to grow by freeing up their time” - is what Cindy says is the most rewarding part of her role. By simplifying payroll and compliance, she helps business owners shift their focus from paperwork to growth, making her an invaluable partner in their success.
Cindy is passionate about encouraging other women to consider the path of entrepreneurship through franchising. Her advice is honest and insightful: “While not for the faint of heart, or for those looking to work less, the fulfillment of being an entrepreneur far exceeds the challenges and provides an opportunity to stretch myself and learn new things.” Her experience is proof that with dedication and the right support, women can thrive as franchise owners - no matter when they start.
One of the biggest surprises Cindy discovered at Payroll Vault was the strong network of like-minded professionals. “The fabulous support system and friendships with like-minded owners” are what she cherishes most about being part of the Payroll Vault family. From business resources to genuine camaraderie, the franchise model offers more than operational support, it builds community.
Cindy Thompson’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to find meaningful work and make a difference. Through Payroll Vault, she’s doing just that, one payroll at a time.
Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full list of 2025 Franchise Rock Stars.
About Payroll Vault Franchising
Payroll and Workforce Management services are growing requirements for small businesses. Payroll Vault Franchising offers the opportunity to own a boutique-style full-service payroll company supported by a team of experts and a nationally recognized brand. Franchisees are trained in business best practices and provided systems and strategies to operate a payroll business in an increasingly in-demand industry. From the 2012 franchise launch, Payroll Vault Franchising has rapidly grown due to exemplary client service and is an industry leader receiving many accolades and awards nationally. For more information, visit PayrollVault.com/Franchise.
About Franchise Business Review
Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures the satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,300 leading franchise companies. FBR publishes free and unbiased franchisee satisfaction research reports throughout the year online at http://www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com. To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/publications/.
Media Contacts:
Payroll Vault
Jessica Martin
Chief Marketing Officer
Payroll Vault
jessica.martin@payrollvault.com
Franchise Business Review
Mariah Morgan
VP of Marketing
603.501.1977
mariah@franchisebusinessreview.com