Fresh Coat Painters, a residential and commercial painting franchise under the Strategic Franchising Systems umbrella, has announced two new franchise locations in Tennessee. Local residents Johnny Stephens and Brian Clark have signed on to open Fresh Coat Painters in Hermitage and Hendersonville, respectively.

The expansion aligns with Fresh Coat’s long-term growth strategy as it approaches the 200-unit mark. Launched in 2004, the franchise offers a low-cost, high-margin model that supports entrepreneurs in delivering professional painting services to both residential and commercial clients.

Stephens brings a background in Christian organizational leadership, having spent more than 30 years in publishing, production and marketing. He sees Fresh Coat as a way to apply his business acumen and service-oriented mindset in a new industry.

“This business allows me to take everything I’ve learned over the years and apply it in a way that still lets me serve the community,” Stephens said. “It’s not just about painting homes or offices. It’s about creating something that can give back and grow with purpose.”

Clark, a lifelong Tennessean and military veteran, brings 16 years of industry experience to his Hendersonville location. After beginning his career at Sherwin-Williams, he advanced to managing large-scale residential and commercial projects in the Nashville area.

“I realized that I had helped other people grow their businesses for years. Now it was time to invest in something for my own family and future,” Clark said. “This isn’t just about painting walls. It’s about creating something lasting in the place I’ve always called home.”

Fresh Coat serves a wide range of projects including homes, offices, apartments, schools and government buildings. With locations from coast to coast, it is also a partner for large-scale national accounts.

“Fresh Coat is uniquely positioned as a comprehensive solution for all painting needs, both interior and exterior,” said Lisa Hudson, brand president. “Johnny and Brian are fantastic additions to the brand, and we look forward to seeing the businesses they build in Hermitage and Hendersonville.”