Business Observer: Former Lowe’s District Manager Turned Batteries Plus Bulbs Owner Brings Business Leadership Lessons to Franchising

Richard Epps, a former Lowe’s employee of 25 years who rose through the ranks to become a district manager for the brand, recently made a career change and is getting his first taste of business ownership as a Batteries Plus Bulbs franchisee. Epps currently owns seven stores across Florida—in Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, Largo and Tampa—and is looking to open an eighth location between Parrish and Sun City Center in the near future.

In a recent profile by the Business Observer Florida, Epps detailed how he has been able to harness his previous work experience in his new role as a multi-unit franchisee. When asked about his daily responsibilities as a Batteries Plus Bulbs owner, Epps said his love of being on the floor, helping customers alongside his employees, has proved most valuable thus far. “I did all of the things my employees did because I felt like I needed to do them first,” Epps said. “I couldn’t be effective in helping them if I didn’t know what they did on a day-to-day basis.”

Epps’ biggest focus in his transition from Lowe’s to franchise ownership with Batteries Plus Bulbs is on what he can do to help his employees thrive. He is proud to be a hands-on owner.