West Coast-based sandwich brand supports the armed services by waiving the initial franchise fees for veterans through Labor Day
In 1971, out of a small sandwich shack in San Jose, Togo’s started with a fairly simple goal: provide made-to-order sandwiches filled with fresh ingredients. Since then, the brand has become a West Coast staple because of its high-quality ingredients and is set apart from the competition with its one-on-one friendly service. That service translates not only to the brand’s customers, but also to its franchisees.
For example, Tony Hardin is a successful Togo’s franchisee and Vietnam war veteran. Hardin purchased his Togo’s restaurant in Hollister, California in 2008. As a veteran, he found that many of the skills he picked up during his time in the army, like leadership and camaraderie, have helped him thrive as the business owner he has become today.
Countless other veterans share stories similar to Hardin’s—and it’s not going unnoticed. That is why Togo’s is proud to announce its support for all branches of the armed services by 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. “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 utilize 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.
“We hope this offer will provide a compelling opportunity for a veteran to become the owner of their very own business,” said Glenn Lunde, President of Togo’s. “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.
“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.”
In 1971, out of a small sandwich shack in San Jose, Togo’s started with a fairly simple goal: provide made-to-order sandwiches filled with fresh ingredients. After opening a second location in 1974, Togo’s began franchising in the late ’70s. The brand has become a West Coast original because of its high quality ingredients and one-on-one friendly service that sets them apart. While most of their franchises are based in California, Togo’s is expanding throughout the West with close to 300 locations open or under development.
