Every year, an American military experienced gets more than thanks – they get a shot on generational money. New Orleans’ PJ Coffee, a fast growing franchise with over 190 places (2025 franchise 500 rank), has made a tradition to waive its $ 40,000 franchise license fee for one of its giants. Experienced franchise license cheaperNow in its ninth year, the program reflects the long-running effort of the brand to support former service members in its transition to civil life-especially ready to challenge entrepreneurship.
“We realized that the veterans need franchiseing,” says David Messa, the Chief Development Officer of PJ’s coffee and veteran of eight -year -old US Marine Corps. “They are disciplined, they follow the plan, and they lead the teams. It is exactly that this business is required.”
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Southern roots, local mission
Established in 1978, PJ’s coffee is known for its small batch roasting, southern hospitality and community-first franchise models. Although it now operates places across the country, the brand emphasizes being connected to the local community – some Mesa believes that the veterans are strongly echoed. “The military service is about missions and connections,” they say. “Franchise ownership, especially in our system, can offer the same sense of purpose.”
The franchise is encouraged to immerse themselves in their local markets: sponsoring Little League teams, collaborating with churches, working with schools and contributing to community programs. This active engagement provides a familiar sense of teamwork and service for former military members looking for re -establishing and rebuilding after active active duty.
In addition to the annual cheap route, PJ coffee provides 20% franchise fee discount to all qualified giants and participates in the year. International franchise The Wetfran program, a nationwide initiative that supports veterans through franchise education and access.
Experienced license cheaper
Experienced franchise license cheaper There is no sweepstake; It is a hands-on, multi-step process that reflects the early stages of the ownership of the franchise. Interested veterans should submit individual and professional background information, a business plan and participate in a video interview with PJ’s executive leadership. “We are looking for giants who are serious about entrepreneurship and want to join their communities,” Messa says. “This is a real opportunity to evaluate their readiness and help them succeed.”
The finalists present their commercial plans directly to the leadership. The team especially consider the alignment of each applicant with the values of the brand, around local participation and team management. And even those who do not win, the process often becomes a significant twist: many giants go to open the locations of PJ, even if 20% discount and supported by forged relationships during the procedure.
“It offers them a plan, speed and access to our system,” says Mesa. “They know us, and we know them.”
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A head start for weights
Bobby Maunds was the recipient of the award in 2019. Former Marines were working as a police officer in Infantmen Louisiana, but for a long time, low salary, stress and missed holidays were wearing on him. When he came to PJ while researching the franchise, a conversation with Messa assured him. “He said, ,Hey, I know you are already going to do this, but why not try to save yourself and enter something? ‘That’s why I did, and it extended my timeline, as it was about half a year salary for me as a law enforcement officer. ,
Today, the mounds are about to open their third PJ location. He was firm to open a franchise, but by winning the award he was given a head start, especially because he is suffering from touching many entrepreneurs. “Patience,” says Maund, this is something that I don’t have. I immediately push for the results, and this is something you can’t do when you are working with construction and other people. So I had to constantly remind me of constantly slowing down, that when they were going to happen, things would happen. “
After opening its third place in late July, mounds plan to strengthen their operation have advice for other veterans who are considering franchiseing as a possible opportunity. “There are lots of resources for giants, but it is difficult to track them because they are not centralized,” says mound. “You have to find and find opportunities, but there is someone who is ready to help you as an experienced, of course. Keep digging, reach those resources, talk to every person you can do and learn ropes.”
The 2025 veteran franchise license cheap winner will be announced on 4 July, a symbolic date that outlines the mission of the brand: creates opportunities for those serving their country. And although each year only one person receives free license, Messa believes that the actual effect of the program is how many giants it introduces to the brand – and normally entrepreneurship.
“Is about the franchising system and support,” Messa says. “The legends thrive in the environment. If we can be a bridge that helps them reach there, it is worth doing something every year.”
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Every year, an American military experienced gets more than thanks – they get a shot on generational money. New Orleans’ PJ Coffee, a fast growing franchise with over 190 places (2025 franchise 500 rank), has made a tradition to waive its $ 40,000 franchise license fee for one of its giants. Experienced franchise license cheaperNow in its ninth year, the program reflects the long-running effort of the brand to support former service members in its transition to civil life-especially ready to challenge entrepreneurship.
“We realized that the veterans need franchiseing,” says David Messa, the Chief Development Officer of PJ’s coffee and veteran of eight -year -old US Marine Corps. “They are disciplined, they follow the plan, and they lead the teams. It is exactly that this business is required.”
Connected: Keeping in mind the franchise ownership? Start now to find your personal list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.
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