Buy a Franchise
Brand President Lisa Hudson explains how the leadership-centric model and structured systems of the painting franchise empower service members to successfully lead teams and serve their communities.
For many veterans, the transition from active duty to civilian life is about a lot more than finding a job. It’s about finding purpose and a new mission. Moving from a world defined by structure, systems and rank to the unpredictability of small business ownership can be a difficult shift.
Fresh Coat* Painters has positioned itself as a strong fit for former service members by narrowing that gap. Brand President Lisa Hudson said the connection between military service and franchising comes down to a shared reliance on what works.
“I think that, as a veteran, you’ve probably spent much of your life following protocol,” Hudson said. “Everything has a system you follow. And that correlates really well to franchising. Franchising is full of proven systems and processes that, when followed, deliver a clear guideline for success.”
Unlike independent painting contractors who spend most of their time on job sites, the Fresh Coat Painters model is designed around leadership and management. Owners focus on building teams, overseeing operations and making strategic decisions rather than working on ladders.
Hudson said the brand provides detailed guidance not only for owners but for every role in the business, including estimators and project managers. That structure allows veterans to operate in a leadership-first role, overseeing both personnel and process.
“There’s no one better than someone who has lived and breathed life-and-death systems than a veteran,” Hudson said. “It’s a great correlation, and it also makes them feel comfortable and safe in that environment, knowing there aren’t a lot of decisions that have to be made. A lot of it is following the process, meeting with their coach, getting praised for doing so and seeing the success.”
Support is another area where the franchise model mirrors military experience. Fresh Coat Painters offers a network that includes Fresh Coat Academy, weekly webinars and a partnership with Sherwin-Williams. For owners without a background in painting, the system provides the technical foundation needed to operate with confidence.
Coaching plays a central role in that. Hudson said Fresh Coat Painters coaches are trained to review monthly profit and loss statements and identify early warning signs before labor or material costs become an issue. The regular check-ins reflect a level of accountability familiar to veterans.
“Our coaching is based on asking great questions and helping owners identify where challenges lie, whether it’s leadership, a team member not following processes or cash flow issues,” Hudson said.
As more veterans have joined the system, their influence has continually helped shape broader culture across the brand. At the 2026 national conference, Hudson observed a level of openness and peer accountability that stood out.
“They understand the consequences of not following a system. So, they’re vocal about accountability,” Hudson said. “They ask each other questions. ‘Are you holding team meetings?’ ‘Are you using your coach?’ They really embody that no-one-left-behind mentality. It was absolutely on full display at the conference.”
That mindset extends beyond daily operations. Through the Fresh Coat Cares program, the franchisor and Sherwin-Williams team up on a donation of labor and paint for local 501(c)(3) charitable organizations. Veteran owners often use that initiative to support VFW halls or other community spaces. It helps them sustain a connection to service close to home.
For veterans exploring the potential of franchise ownership, Hudson said the systems provide the framework. But, ultimately, it’s up to owners to define how the business delivers at the local level.
“You’ll find what you want to be known for in your community, whether that’s giving back via efforts like Fresh Coat Cares or something else that reflects who you are,” Hudson said. “You build on the foundation with your personality, your values and how you want to serve your community. And those efforts help people place their trust.”
By pairing disciplined systems with a culture defined by service, Fresh Coat Painters continues to attract veterans looking for structure, support and a renewed sense of purpose in entrepreneurship.
Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our Power Rankings to read more on brands making moves.
Sign up for the 1851 Franchise newsletter to get our biggest stories before everyone else
By signing up, you agree to our user agreement (including class action waiver and arbitration provisions), and acknowledge our privacy policy.
