Veterans Bring a Mission-Focused Mindset to Franchise Success
Updated November 12, 2024
Each Veterans Day, vets and active-duty military members take center stage for their service to the country. But, in the franchising world, these highly trained individuals are celebrated every day. Although they make up only about 7% of the U.S. population, veterans account for an impressive 14% of all franchisees, according to the International Franchise Association (IFA).
Veterans bring discipline, strategy, and teamwork to franchising, making them strong leaders and successful franchise owners. Several veteran-founded franchises have used these military strengths to create thriving, supportive networks that empower veterans and civilians alike. These businesses reflect a commitment to service, offering unique support and opportunities for veterans to succeed in business and give back to their communities.
Here’s a look at inspiring veteran-founded franchises making a meaningful impact.
Veteran-Founded Franchises
Allan Young, Art of Drawers
Founded by U.S. Army veteran Allan Young (above), Art of Drawers is built on the efficiency and simplicity you’d expect from a military mindset. With a zero-employee model and a streamlined, hands-off system, franchisees can focus on growing their business without the usual payroll and staffing headaches. Franchisees hire skilled freelance designers and installers, ensuring smooth operations while keeping costs in check. Art of Drawers helps homeowners transform their space, offering a service as practical as it is popular, with a business model that marches forward with military precision.
Tanner Harris, Blue Nose Aerial Imaging
In 2019, U.S. Navy veteran Tanner Harris (above) established Blue Nose Aerial Imaging, a leading provider of full-scale commercial drone services. Blue Nose uses cutting-edge technology and software to deliver high-quality drone photography, aerial inspections and mapping for diverse industries and projects. The brand’s turnkey, low-cost package removes common barriers to entry for veterans and civilian entrepreneurs, setting owners up for success with top-tier support and training. Blue Nose combines technology, expertise, and passion to innovate in the growing Drones-as-a-Service sector.
Thomas A. Carvel, Carvel
The Carvel story began on Memorial Day in 1934 when Thomas A. Carvel (above), a WWII veteran, had a flat tire with his ice cream truck. After pulling over, he decided to sell the slightly melted ice cream — and to his surprise, customers loved the softer texture. Since then, the ice cream franchise’s cakes, ice cream, sundaes and more have delighted countess people at birthday parties, anniversaries and other celebrations. Today, Carvel franchisees enjoy comprehensive training at Carvel College, as well as real estate and marketing support. Carvel, which is a member of the International Franchise Association’s VetFran Program, incentivizes veteran ownership with a $10,000 discount on the initial franchise fee.
Jack Child, G-Force Franchise Group
Founded by U.S. Air Force veteran Jack Child (above), G-Force Franchise Group is a veteran-only franchise network that specializes in parking lot striping, pavement marking, sign installation and more. With a deep sense of camaraderie, this vets-only model allows franchise owners to connect through shared military experiences, fostering a supportive and understanding community. Its offerings feature strong support, affordable startup costs, and a home-based model that makes it easier to get started.
The franchisor offers access to national accounts ranging from restaurants and hotels to box stores, hospitals, parking garages and more. In true military spirit, G-Force Franchise Group pays it forward by hiring fellow veterans and contributing to organizations that support veterans, military members and their families.
Dustin Ingle, Insulation Commandos
U.S. Army veteran Dustin Ingle (above) is the CEO and co-founder of Insulation Commandos, an insulation franchise on a mission to fortify homes and businesses with military-like dedication and precision. The brand’s strategy revolves around sustainable solutions that save energy, reduce carbon footprints and elevate indoor living quality for clients.
Franchise owners have access to the franchisor’s inspection protocols, strategic material partnerships, marketing assets and more. The corporate culture revolves around a commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction and driving positive change.
Dave Linger, RE/MAX
RE/MAX, a Denver-based global real estate company, was co-founded by Air Force veteran Dave Linger and his wife, Gail (above), in 1973. Franchise owners are trained in how to best leverage and adopt the brand’s technology at RE/MAX University, and the franchisor helps entrepreneurs enhance their business by developing a partnership with other brokerage owners or creating an exit strategy. True to his military roots, Linger remains devoted to life-long learning and leadership, currently serving as RE/MAX’s Chairman of the Board.
Gordon Logan, Sport Clips
Sport Clips was founded in 1993 by Air Force veteran Gordon Logan (above) to fill a void in the men’s and boys’ haircut market. Just as precision is valued in the military, Sport Clips prides itself on offering clients expert haircuts, along with hot steam towels, massaging shampoos, and an immersive sports-viewing environment. Franchisees can keep their corporate job and hire managers to run daily operations. No prior experience is required, and Sport Clips’ family-friendly culture empowers franchise success. True to its mission of service, Sport Clips established the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW) “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” to support the educational goals of service members.
