Less than 18 months into its strategic franchise growth plan, Doc Popcorn awarded its 25th franchise agreement.

The fresh-popped, all-natural flavored popcorn franchise inked the agreement with Cherri Oglesby, a North Brunswick, New Jersey, resident who is transitioning into entrepreneurship with Doc Popcorn from corporate America where she held merchandising positions with well-known global brands such as L’Oréal and Toys “R” Us.

“As Cherri and others with similar high-level professional backgrounds choose to enter the next phase of their lives with Doc Popcorn, we understand how important it is for us to put them on a solid path towards self-sufficiency. And we’re excited to have this opportunity to work with such talented individuals who have quickly realized how easy it is to operate our business model,” says Rob Israel, cofounder and Big Pop of Doc Popcorn. “Whether out of work or trying to take greater control of their lives, transitioning professionals can enter into business ownership with a growing brand that is undeniably fun on so many levels.”

Like Oglesby, other career-minded individuals with long track records of success are becoming Doc Popcorn franchise owners. The concept has attracted budding entrepreneurs from the medical, financial services, consulting, technology, and automotive industries, to name a few. Since launching its franchise strategy, Doc Popcorn has awarded franchise agreements in 16 states and Washington D.C.

“The permanent smiles that appear on our ‘POPrietors’ faces as they shed past careers and get their Doc Popcorn up and running is priceless,” says Renée Israel, cofounder and Mama Pop. “Their smiles are infectious and embody our culture. Doc Popcorn’s customers can sense the good vibes and keep coming back for more.”

Doc Popcorn’s expansion plans call for continued growth with qualified franchisee candidates across the U.S. Openings with its franchisee base are scheduled throughout the balance of the first quarter of 2011 and into the remainder of the year and beyond.

Denise Lee Yohn: QSR's Marketing Guru, Growth, News, Doc Popcorn