Country Visions is the name of the franchise company that established and supports the Apricot Lane retail stores.  Former firefighters and furniture retailers Ken Petersen and Tom Brady opened their first retail gift store in August 1991 in Vacaville, California under the name of Country Clutter. This unique gift store was built around traditional themes and a cozy home-like environment. It was a hit from the start and in less than two years, the Petersen-Brady partners established a second and third store and began plans to franchise the concept. It was at this time that Scott Jacobs joined the partnership.

“I believe strongly in the franchise system of supporting the franchisee with the tools necessary to be successful.”
-Ken Petersen, Founder, CEO

Over the years, Country Clutter broadened their merchandise mix well beyond “country”.  In 2004, Country Visions added the Apricot Lane store concept to the franchise to eliminate barriers associated with country and to combine the gift and fashion industry into a retail business format that adapts more easily to changing trends and styles.

Today there are over 55 Apricot Lane and Country Clutter stores represented in 27 States.  Led by the founding partners and its experienced staff, Country Visions is dedicated to the strength of its brands and to the success of every franchisee.

“As a result of our own hands-on experience, we have built the Country Visions franchise with a unique understanding of the tools necessary to run a successful business.”
-Scott Jacobs, President

Country Visions has been recognized in the franchise industry as the #1 Gift Store four years in a row by Entrepreneur Magazine, and was rated 21st in Franchisee Satisfaction by Success Magazine!  (See Press Releases)