As we approach "Hire a Veteran Day" on July 25, it's important to highlight the unique opportunities that franchising presents, particularly for those veterans looking to transition from their military careers into successful entrepreneurship. Strategic Franchising Systems, a multi-brand leader in the franchising industry, offers a particularly compelling proposition for those “vet-repreneurs” looking to embark on their next mission.
“Entrepreneurship is a proven way to help lift people and communities up,” said Chris Seman, SFS President. “It allows anyone with a larger vision, drive, strong work ethic, grit and stamina to greatly improve their life and lifestyle. When we were building out our portfolio of franchise opportunities, we were really looking for businesses that would open that opportunity up to as many people as possible. Our goal is to allow average entrepreneurs, such as military veterans, to succeed by starting a proven business that falls into a unique niche that is not currently serviced.”
Shared Values and Skills for Veterans
One of the primary reasons why franchising aligns well with veterans is the shared values and skills that often underpin both the military and franchising —discipline, teamwork, leadership, attention to detail and a strong work ethic. These veteran attributes directly translate into the world of franchising, where adherence to established systems, effective management and dedication to excellence are essential for success.
Strategic Franchising recognizes the value of these attributes, which is why the organization actively seeks out veterans as franchisees. By leveraging their military experience, veterans can apply their skills to manage a Strategic Franchising System franchise effectively, contribute to the growth of their business and give back to the communities they are accustomed to serving.
“We want to find like-minded people who are highly invested in the concept and are driven to reach their goals,” said Seman. “Creating success isn’t focusing on making money. It’s about making a difference in your community and doing something that you love every day.”
Proven Business Models
Veterans can choose from a range of franchises within the Strategic Franchising portfolio — nationally recognized painting franchise Fresh Coat, senior home-relocation and estate sales concept Caring Transitions, business and sales coaching concept The Growth Coach, fast-growing natural pet food and pet grooming brand Pet Wants and the only national provider of total house care, inside and out, for seniors and busy families, TruBlue.
Just like the tried-and-true systems of the military, each of the Strategic Franchising concepts offer veterans a ready-made business model that has been proven across their respective industries. This eliminates much of the uncertainty and risk associated with starting a business from scratch and also allows veterans to focus on building a thriving business, rather than reinventing the wheel.
“The ideal franchisee has a passion for being in business for themselves but does not want to be by themselves,” said Pet Wants President DeNita Carani. “It is somebody that really has that entrepreneurial spirit and wants to be that pillar in their community as they are going to have to get out and meet a lot of people. They also need to be able to follow a proven model and engage with us as a true partner. If they do all that, they will be successful.”
Extensive Training and Support
Another major advantage of franchising, particularly with Strategic Franchising, is the comprehensive training and support provided to franchisees. Veterans transitioning into civilian life may not have experience in specific industries or business operations. However, franchisors like Strategic Franchising offer thorough training programs designed to bridge this gap.
“Franchisee support is one of our biggest areas of focus, and it starts as soon as a franchisee signs on to open their territory,” said James Stapleton, Vice President of Franchising Development for Caring Transitions. “We provide comprehensive training for every aspect of the business and ongoing, dedicated support after that. Any challenge or question a franchise owner runs into in the field, all they have to do is give us a call to get personal support.”
Strategic Franchising provides initial training to familiarize franchisees with the operational aspects of their chosen franchise. Additionally, ongoing support in areas such as marketing, technology, finance and human resources ensures that veterans have the necessary tools and guidance to succeed.
Access to Financing Opportunities
Financing a new business can be a significant obstacle for many entrepreneurs. However, veterans interested in franchising with Strategic Franchising may find it easier to secure funding. There are various loan programs, as well as franchise fee discounts, specifically designed for veterans, making it more accessible for them to invest in a franchise.
“Strategic Franchising recognizes the importance of financial assistance and actively supports veterans in navigating the financing process,” said Seman. “Our team assists veterans in accessing financing programs and works closely with financial institutions to help secure necessary funding.”
The Winner’s Circle
Even with all of the necessary support and resources, Strategic Franchising understands the unique challenges and opportunities veterans face when entering the civilian workforce. That's why they go the extra mile through their Winner's Circle Program. This program is specifically designed to equip veterans with the skills, knowledge and resources necessary to excel as franchise owners.
Through the Winner's Circle Program, veterans receive in-depth training on all aspects of their chosen franchise, including operations, marketing and management — all while having the opportunity to earn back their franchise fee in full.
“Our focus on franchisee success is probably best encapsulated by our Winners Circle program, which allows franchisees to earn their initial franchise fee back after hitting certain milestones within the first five years,” said Stapelton. “We want our franchisees to be able to reinvest in themselves and their business, so we do everything possible to encourage that, including returning the franchise fee for top performers. That’s not something you’ll find at many other franchise brands.”
Established Network and Brand Recognition
Similar to the family atmosphere that comes with joining the military, when veterans invest in a franchise, they become part of a larger network of support. With Strategic Franchising, this includes over 600 franchise locations and a community of fellow franchisees eager to share their experiences and best practices.
Additionally, being part of a national franchise network provides owners access to the advantages of an established brand, including customer trust and loyalty, collective marketing efforts and resources. Strategic Franchising leverages national advertising campaigns, digital marketing strategies and ongoing public relations to enhance brand visibility and customer acquisition, for example. Veterans benefit from these marketing initiatives, which can save them significant time and resources compared to starting an independent business.
“Remember, as a veteran, you possess the leadership, discipline and dedication needed to excel in the world of franchising,” said Seman. “With Strategic Franchising as your partner, you can leverage your military experience and embark on a fulfilling and prosperous business ownership journey. Join the ranks of successful veteran franchisees and experience the satisfaction of building a thriving business with the support of Strategic Franchising.”
The costs associated with starting a Strategic Franchising Systems brand will vary across the concepts, but all offer competitively low initial investment requirements:
- The total investment required to start a Fresh Coat franchise ranges from $53,850 to $76,750.
- The total investment required to start a Caring Transitions franchise ranges from $58,912 to $84,612.
- The total investment costs to open a Growth Coach franchise ranges from $42,000 to $63,900.
- The total investment necessary to begin the operation of a Pet Wants Scalable Storefront Model ranges from $131,350 to $202,500.
- The total investment estimate to begin operations for a TruBlue franchise ranges from $65,050 to $91,400.
For more information, visit: https://strategicfranchising.com/