PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Former United States Army Sgt. Bill Palaich signed the first discounted franchise-fee agreement with Bruster’s Real Ice Cream. The half-price fee offer is available through the VetFran program, which helps match veterans with franchise opportunities.
Palaich and wife Marcia will open their Bruster’s Real Ice Cream shop in Clermont, Florida, next year. Currently, the nearest Bruster’s Ice Cream shop is 30 miles away in Altamonte Springs, Florida.
Click to tweet: Florida army vet first to buy Bruster’s Real Ice Cream franchise under new veterans’ discount plan.
“More than 12 percent of current Bruster’s franchisees were in the military,” said Jim Sahene, CEO. “We’re pleased to offer this incentive to former military members who want to serve their local communities in a new way.”
After Bill’s 30-year telecommunications career ended with the merger of two cellular phone providers, he and Marcia decided this was their carpe diem moment. They often wanted a more active role in their community, but work demands prevented it.
Marcia had hospitality and special events experience, and the couple was familiar with Bruster’s Ice Cream from growing up in Western Pennsylvania, where the treat shop originated.
“We were attracted to the Bruster’s brand,” said Bill Palaich. “It will allow us to give something back to the community, something we’ve been wanting to do.”
Bruster’s currently is experiencing its best performance in 12 years. It has completed six consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth, with some markets up as much as 13.1 percent over 2013.
The company credits new product introductions, improved operations and an integrated marketing plan, which includes regular limited-time offers, an aggressive social-media and public-relations strategy, formation of advertising co-ops and a refreshed focus on local community marketing.
“Mentoring Tomorrow's Leaders Today” serves as Bruster's foundation and business platform. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Bruster’s features 150 flavors of handcrafted ice cream, yogurt, Italian ice and sorbet, with at least 25 made fresh in each shop daily. There are nearly 200 independently owned locations in 18 states and the nation of Guyana. With an all-new, four-seasons prototype and expanded menu, Bruster’s is expanding in selected areas of the U.S. It is based in suburban Pittsburgh. Click here for franchise information.
Connect with Bruster’s Real Ice Cream online at www.brusters.com, www.facebook.com/BrustersRealIceCream, and @BrustersFresh.
Editor’s Note: Photo available upon request
