John Rotche is a Quadriplegic Who Made It in the Business World

He achieved success despite a spinal cord injury that rendered him quadriplegic, yet still managed to break into the business world. Nowadays, he assists franchisors such as Domino’s Pizza and Krispy Kreme in their growth initiatives; additionally, he recently sold his duct-cleaning company for a profit.

Rotche’s latest venture is Franworth, a company that assists emerging brands in expanding into franchise markets. Based in Ann Arbor, Franworth provides administration, legal and franchise sales services to these startups.

Early Life and Education

Early childhood education (ECE) is critical for children’s development from birth through age eight, as what they learn will shape who they become as adults and have a lasting effect on their future success. That is why UNESCO emphasizes the importance of ECE – early childhood education.

Early child development is greatly influenced by positive factors, especially stable and responsive relationships with caregivers and other adults. These environments create a sense of security and safety which can enhance a child’s well-being as well as academic success.

Rotche’s interest in early education began at an early age, when he realized its significance during his own childhood. Thus, he chose to pursue a degree in educational administration that would enable him to make an impact in his future career.

Professional Career

Rotche was raised in Chicago and had aspirations of playing college football at the University of Michigan. But an injury during a high school practice left him quadriplegic, forcing him to find success through business ventures.

After graduating from the University of Michigan, he worked at Domino’s Pizza in Ann Arbor and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Detroit. Following these positions, he launched Ductz International L.L.C. – a one-van duct cleaning business.

Rotche bought a small company with few clients, but quickly understood the significance of duct cleaning for children with asthma. That realization inspired him to leave Krispy Kreme and take Ductz national.

Achievements and Honors

Rotche has earned numerous accolades for his leadership abilities and business successes, most recently being named one of Crain’s Detroit Business’s 40 Under 40 Top Executives in 2007.

At Domino’s, Rotche ran six Ann Arbor stores that set national sales records. After Domino’s closed, he joined Krispy Kreme Donuts to expand their brand throughout the Midwest.

As a franchise entrepreneur, Rotche is an expert in the field of franchising. He was recently featured on Fox Business’s Small Business-Big Ideas segment as a mentor to emerging franchise executives and has helped grow several businesses to 100 units.

He recently released the book REACH, which shares the lessons he’s learned from his mentors and how these can be applied to growing a business. The guide offers practical advice for finding and following strong role models, setting goals beyond what seems achievable, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Personal Life

Rotche is an inspiring entrepreneur with a confidence and straightforwardness that radiates. As a dealmaker, he prioritizes people over profits and is always searching for new business ventures to expand his enterprise.

He began his franchising career in 1990 at Domino’s Pizza in Ann Arbor, Michigan. There he progressed from delivering pizzas to managing hundreds of stores throughout a large region. Ultimately, he was named Domino’s Worldwide Trainer of the Year and received various promotions throughout his tenure there.

After a decade at Domino’s, Rotche left to start DUCTZ in Ann Arbor – eventually growing it into the nation’s largest air duct cleaner before selling it to Belfor, a property restoration company.

Net Worth

In 1985, John Rotche was on track to make it big at the University of Michigan when he suffered a spinal cord injury that paralyzed him and rendered him quadriplegic.

Despite his injuries, Rotche never lost his passion for sports and has since run two marathons and earned a black belt in karate. Additionally, he serves as fitness coach at Title Boxing Club – which he founded and serves as president.

Rotche is an experienced franchise expert who draws upon both his personal and professional background to guide emerging brands. At Ann Arbor-based Franworth, his team assists brand owners in creating a solid foundation, managing rapid expansion, and maximizing their economic value.