History

AUGUST 1991

Apricot Lane retail boutiques are supported by our franchisor, Country Visions, Inc. This unique partnership—made up of Ken Petersen, Tom Brady, and Scott Jacobs—opened its first retail gift store in 1991 in Vacaville, California. Their operation was an instant success.

1993

In less than two years, the business partners opened a second and third store. Soon after, the partnership made plans to franchise their concept.

2007

After broadening their merchandise and reacting to economic changes, the partnership introduced the first Apricot Lane—a women’s fashion and gift boutique. Today, Country Visions, Inc. supports more than 75 franchise stores with plans to welcome 15-20 stores to the Apricot Lane family each year. Led by the founding partners and a dedicated staff, Country Visions, Inc. is committed to the support and success of every franchisee.

2008

In spring of 2008, the prestigious International Council of Shopping Centers Association (ICSC) awarded Apricot Lane as the Hot Retail Concept for Fashion. ICSC’s membership of more than 70,000 people cast their votes to give this award to Apricot Lane. That same year, Apricot Lane made Entrepreneur Magazine’s list of the Top 50 Hottest Franchises of the Year.

2009-2017

Starting in 2009—and every year through 2017—Apricot Lane has been ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine’s coveted annual Top 500 List, which ranks the best franchise opportunities in the United States.