Northeast Ohio natives bring parking lot striping franchise back to hometown
Two Mahoning Valley natives want to help local business owners revamp their parking lots, the first impression customers will get before walking in for service.
Liam Wickwire and Ryan Clawson are bringing Appell Striping’s streamlined, systemized parking lot services to Ohio for the first time by becoming part of the business that started in New York.
The duo is the first to expand the franchise into Ohio, according to co-founder Bryan Appell.
“Liam and Ryan are a perfect fit for Appell, and we’re thrilled to have them bring Appell Striping to Ohio and see them grow,” Appell said.
Youngstown native Clawson worked in the automotive industry before being diagnosed with CLIPPERS& NMDA Receptor Encephalitis, which has life-altering neurological conditions.
“My journey has required a lot of resilience, grit and determination,” Clawson said.
He had to relearn how to walk and talk, but overcame.
“I’m ready and motivated to lead with purpose, and make a lasting contribution to my community,” Clawson said. “When I connected with the Appell leadership team, it felt like the right fit – they’re honest, direct, and relationship-driven, the same values I’ve built my career on.”
In May of 2024, Canfield native Wickwire graduated from Duquesne University with an economics degree.
He played Division I and Division II tennis and has a background in new home construction sales.
“Growing up in Canfield, I’ve always dreamed of starting a business in my hometown,” Wickwire said.
Wickwire and Clawson met through family and business ties. They thoroughly researched multiple franchise opportunities, and were drawn to Appell for its high-value opportunity and strong growth potential, as well as the transparency and communication from the leadership team.
“We wanted a venture we could grow locally and scale upwards, and Appell provides the tools and the trust to make that dream happen,” Wickwire said. “We’re excited to hit the ground running, and provide the highest quality of parking lot maintenance to our community.”
Appell Striping has six locations in the U.S. and is one of the leading providers for parking lot maintenance, like repairing cracks and adding new lines.
“Liam’s drive, energy, and commitment as a young entrepreneur, paired with Ryan’s resilience, determination, and leadership create a strong foundation, made even stronger by their deep ties to the community,” Appell said.
Wickwire and Clawson are starting with Mahoning, Stark and Summit counties in northeast Ohio, with goals to gradually expand westward into Cleveland and Columbus.
They’re aiming to expand across the state as a go-to provider for parking lot services in Ohio in the future.
Appell Striping is looking to partner with hands-on, motivated individuals with experience in home services, construction, or related industries to become part of the franchise.
Franchisees and customers can learn more information about Appell Striping Ohio online or call (330) 693-8153.
