Chris Volk – Streamlining the path from Army to Business

The franchise industry is known for welcoming and supporting former military personnel through resources, opportunities and guidance. According to the IFA’s Educational Foundation based on U.S. Census data, one out every seven franchise businesses are owned and operated by veterans of the military. The two system-based entities both require strong leadership skills, a steadfast dedication and the ability to work hard. Pita Pit franchisee Chris Volk experienced this first hand when he pursued franchising after leaving his post in the Army. Prior to joining the business world, and experiencing great success, Volk enlisted in the army at the age of 21 where he was stationed at Fort Drum in New York –near the first Pita Pit in Kingston, Ontario. After active duty, Volk began researching franchise options and found a list that offered special incentives or lower barriers of entry to military veterans. Pita Pit was one of the many brands part of the VetFran program, and offered the young entrepreneur 20 percent off the total franchise fee. “The franchise system has allowed me the opportunity to build my business without worrying about designing a business formula because the plan is already clearly laid-out,” said Volk. Since then, Volk has proven his strengths and business savvy in franchising. Just this past May, Volk opened his fourth Pita Pit location, located in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. His former three locations are in North Dakota and are situated in Bismarck, Dickinson and Minot. Currently, Volk is planning to develop two more Pita Pit restaurants in the booming oil towns of Stanley and Rockford City, North Dakota later this fall. These towns have experienced outrageous sales figures, which prompted him to pursue even greater personal and professional growth. “Pita Pit is an established brand with a proven track record for success so that was reassuring as I was making the initial investment.  As a military veteran, I place a high value on discipline, precision and following a set plan, which is how I have been able to succeed with Pita Pit,” he added.