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New Program Helps Veterans with Franchises
Owning a
franchise operation is now more affordable for British veterans, thanks
to a program recently introduced by a British Franchisor who on
expanding in to the USA noticed that the IFA VetFran Programme would
benefit British Veterans if introduced over here.
The British
Veterans Transition Franchise Initiative, commonly known as "VetFran
(GB)," allows veterans to acquire a franchise with a much reduced down
payment of the initial franchise cost, which generally ranges from
£25,000 to £100,000 for a small business.
It is
generally known that Veterans are self-starters who possess an excellent
work ethic. They are leaders who know how to manage others. The VetFran
(GB) program provides veterans who want to be in business for themselves
a wonderful opportunity to get their feet in the door.
Business
leaders are convinced that the partnership the programme is embarking on
is a win-win collaboration. It represents confidence in our nation's
veterans, benefits to our economy, and an investment in the future of
Great Britain.
The IFA first
introduced VetFran in the USA in early 1990s as a way for Franchisors to
express gratitude to military members for their service during the Gulf
War. In the last several years, the program had all but been forgotten.
The current war against terrorism has rekindled interest in extending
franchise opportunities to military veterans.
A regular
veteran recently became the first to acquire a franchise under the newly
introduced VetFran (GB) program, obtaining a franchise for The Wheelie
Bin Cleaning Service, a mobile bin cleaning service with headquarters in
Wales. He paid £11,720 instead of the £19,945 he would have paid without
VetFran (GB).
So far, only a few franchisors are participating.
However, more are expected to 'Join Up' as the initiative marches
forward. VetFran (GB) is looking to recruit only those Franchisors who
belong to either the British Franchise Association, or the International
Franchise Association as this ensures the franchise being offered to
veterans have complied with stringent checks on the credibility and
delivery.
In the words
of one veteran, "When they one day put aside their uniforms, today's
servicemen and women must know that they will have real means and
opportunities to pursue a career, and make a living for themselves and
their families. This initiative helps provide that."
VetFran (GB)
is a non profit making organisation and all profits will be donated to
SSAFA to help members of the armed forces and their families.
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