PostalAnnex+ Franchisee Thanks VetFran for Assistance with Civilian Life Transition
This Veteran's Day, Mike Turner will remember the opportunity that was given to him
San Diego, CA – "Everything you are taught in the military is very valuable to being a business owner," says Mike Turner, an Army veteran and current PostalAnnex+ pack and ship franchisee in Monument, Colorado.
Turner and many other military veterans are finding opportunities in starting and running their own business through a program called VetFran. Started by Don Dwyer, founder of the Dwyer Group of franchise companies, VetFran offers veterans substantial discounts from franchisors on initial fees. Turner received nearly $6,000.
"Getting a discount on the startup fee was sure helpful," said Turner. "But what really made an impact on me was the acknowledgment for all our servicemen and women. What a generous 'thank-you' gift."
VetFran is a voluntary program of member companies of the International Franchise Association (IFA), the nation's largest trade group for franchising. With nearly 400 franchisors offering discounts to military veterans, the VetFran program won the 2008 Summit Award from the American Society of Association Executives. To date, more than 1,400 military veterans have transitioned to civilian life in business for themselves using the program.
Former U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson said, "Two hundred thousand servicemen and women separate from military service annually, and it's up to all of us…whether in the public or private sector…to help them start…or re-start…their civilian careers."
In addition to the VetFran program, the IFA also has a Veterans Scholarship Fund which awards $2,500 annual scholarships to a qualified veteran of the U.S. military, to continue his or her study of entrepreneurship.
PostalAnnex+ has been a member of VetFran since 2004. According to Steve Goble, vice president of marketing communications for Annex Brands, franchisor of the PostalAnnex+, Handle With Care-Packaging Store and Sunshine Pack & Ship brands, the company chose to partner with VetFran because it helps those who have served in our country get back on track when they are looking for a successful career.
"We have many people who have gone through the VetFran program and have found our business formula to be a great match. From our tested methods of site selection to ongoing advertising and support, our veteran franchisees like Mike have found the experience to be very rewarding," Goble said. "With Veterans Day on November 11th, we offer our veterans not just the thanks of a nation, but also the resources to transition back to, and continue in, civilian life."
Turner spent 25 years in the Army before choosing PostalAnnex+. He said he chose the shipping franchise because of its simplicity. "From managing time and personnel to waking up and getting to work on time, having experience in the military has really benefited me in this business," said Turner.
For more information about Annex Brands, please visit www.AnnexBrands.com.
Source: PostalAnnex+, www.PostalAnnex.com
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