What start as a personal search for a laptop battery has grown into a multi-million dollar business for Batteries Plus franchise owner Brenda Phipps. Nearly two decades into franchising with the leading specialty battery retailer, she now manages three Florida stores, generating over $3 million in annual sales. As she expands her leadership role, Phipps exemplifies how curiosity, dedication, and hands-on learning drive success in the battery industry, breaking barriers regardless of background or gender.
From Flight Attendant to Franchise Success:
Phipps left her career as a flight attendant shortly after September 11, 2001. Around that time, she met her husband, Rick Phipps, a multi-unit automotive franchisee who had recently sold his business. During a frustrating search for a new laptop battery, the couple discovered Batteries Plus. Intrigued by the retailer’s supply of essential products and specialized niche, the Phippses decided it was time for a new business opportunity, opening their first Batteries Plus store in Lake Worth, FL in 2006.
What started as a 50-50 partnership between the couple has since evolved, with Brenda now leading operations as Rick transitions into retirement.
“In the beginning, Rick and I worked side-by-side, but now I’ve taken on more responsibility as he’s taken a step back,” stated Phipps. “Running a business in a male-dominated industry was a challenge; I didn’t have a background in batteries or business ownership. But upon diving in, I quickly learned that developing the right team to support you can make all the difference in helping your business be successful, and I want other women to know they can do this, too.”
Achieving Sales Excellence:
Phipps’ stores have been recognized with Sales Achievement honors for two consecutive years, consistently hitting revenue milestones within the Batteries Plus franchise system.
While her stores serve a diverse customer base, Phipps holds a special expertise in commercial sales, particularly within the marine industry along Florida’s East Coast. In fact, one of her stores is just three miles from the ocean, serving as the go-to resource of specialty batteries to power everything from deep-sea fishing boats to luxurious yachts.
Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners
With nearly two decades in the business and a successful track record of growth, Phipps credits much of her success to a willingness to learn and adapt.
“Don’t miss out on an opportunity just because you don’t know anything yet,” stated Phipps. “When we started, I didn’t know much about batteries, but I learned one product at a time. First wheelchair batteries, and then light bulbs, device repairs, key fobs, you name it. It’s all about evolving with the business. The best way to learn is by doing.”
As she continues to grow her business, Phipps hopes her story will inspire more women to pursue entrepreneurship, especially in industries where they’re underrepresented.
