News

Togo's waiving franchisee fees for vets

June 9, 2017

Togo’s is waiving franchisees fees for two military veterans in hopes of helping them succeed just as Franchisee and Vietnam Veteran Tony Hardin has with the store he bought in 2008 in Hollister, California. He discovered that many of the skills he picked up during his time in the army, like leadership and camaraderie, have helped him thrive as a business owner, according to a company press release.

Countless other veterans have similar stories, which is why Togo’s is waiving the initial franchise fees for two qualified veterans starting May 29, 2017 through Labor Day.

"I can reflect back to when I got out of the military. A lot of veterans aren’t sure what they want to do next," Hardin said in the release. "This is the exact opportunity they can use to guide them into the next chapter of their lives."

Today, nearly one in seven franchise businesses is veteran-owned. In the last five years, 5,100 veterans have become business owners, and to date, there are more than 66,000 veteran-owned franchises. Combined, these businesses directly provide jobs for 815,000 Americans, and generate more than $41 billion in GDP. And in the years to come, these numbers are only expected to grow. That's because, for many veterans, franchising is a career path that allows them to use the skills and traits they picked up while in the military — things like integrity, management and thinking under pressure. And because brands like Togo's offer incentives, it makes the transition a little easier once they return home and make their next move back into civilian life, said Glenn Lunde, president of Togo's.    

"We hope this offer will provide a compelling opportunity for a veteran to become the owner of their very own business," he said. "We value everything our military veterans have done for this country, and respect the vast skills they can bring to our business. We don’t require our franchisee candidates to have restaurant experience. We look for someone who is hard-working, understands the importance of team-building, demonstrates good leadership skills, and is passionate about guest satisfaction."

Veterans who join Togo’s also have the advantage of becoming part of a brand with a 45-year legacy, a growing fan base, and a track record of success that continues year after year, Lunde said.

"We take a lot of pride in being the West Coast sandwich leader for over 45 years," Lunde said. "We still have tremendous growth potential, and that’s why we’re seeking qualified candidates to join our franchisee team."