WACO, Texas - The Dwyer Group, a holding company for seven residential and commercial franchise service brands, has awarded more than $1 million in discounts to military veterans who own a franchise through the VetFran program.

Established after the Gulf War by the late Don Dwyer Sr., founder of The Dwyer Group, the VetFran Program gives U.S. military veterans a discount toward the purchase of a franchise. The Dwyer Group reintroduced the program after 9/11 and has since helped 186 men and women own their own business across its franchise brands, which include Aire Serv, Glass Doctor, Mr. Appliance, Mr. Electric, Mr. Rooter, and Rainbow International.

Captain Jay B. Davis of the U.S. Army is the newest VetFran recipient to put The Dwyer Group past the $1 million milestone. Davis, who is on active duty, has partnered with his brother, Todd Davis, and sister-in-law, Bianca Davis, to open a Rainbow International franchise in Ogden, Utah.

“Don Dwyer truly had a million-dollar idea,” said Dina Dwyer-Owens, chairwoman and CEO of The Dwyer Group. “Providing careers for veterans has been the best way to honor the men and women of our U.S. Armed Forces for the service they have given to our country. And my father would be very proud of the opportunities that have been created in our franchise family to help them transition to civilian life as business owners.”

Understanding veterans’ abilities and training to follow a system, The Dwyer Group recognized traits that could adapt to following a franchise system as well. More than 1,500 veterans now own a franchise through the VetFran program.

Publication date: 05/31/2010