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Maui Wowi Hawaiian continues to honor veterans during the months of November and December with extra thanks by increasing the Military Giveback Program to a 20 percent double discount off the franchise fee for those who have served in the armed forces.
“Veteran’s Day is just around the corner, and to show our appreciation of the U.S. military, we wanted to make the dream of business ownership more attainable by doubling our veteran’s discount,” says Justin Livingston, director of global franchise development.
Maui Wowi has made it a high priority to recruit franchisees that have served in the military. The company, which has been in business for 30 years serving fresh fruit smoothies and premium coffees, was recognized by G.I. Jobs Magazine three years in a row as a Military Friendly Franchise. The company was ranked in the top 10 percent of all franchises nationwide.
Two of Maui Wowi’s newest recruits are Matt Lawrence and Eric Lutz, who recently became franchisees after serving together in the U.S. Marine Corps.
“We wanted a low-cost startup, something scalable, veteran friendly, and mobile so we didn’t need to have any sort of brick and mortar established to get it started,” Lawrence says. “When we narrowed it down, Maui Wowi was the last concept standing.”
Maui Wowi’s flexible business models allow franchisees to choose from a mobile unit, known as a Ka’anapali Cart, which can be operated at events and venues throughout the country.
There are also fixed kiosks and fixed retail stores, all built on the idea of growing a business to fit franchisees’ lifestyles.
Maui Wowi offers a fun and flexible opportunity for veterans by providing the support of a 30-year, proven, and structured process that is typically embraced by those with a military service background.
Lawrence and Lutz agreed on the Hawaiian-themed concept and felt pride in the quality products they would be serving.
Combining Maui Wowi’s proven franchise system with the skills they learned in the military, Lawrence and Lutz believe they have the right tools for growing a successful business.
“You learn so many different lessons in the Marines and develop certain skills that help you succeed in life, like leadership, working with different kinds of people, and working in intense environments,” Lutz says. “It’s a valuable experience that you can really apply in the business world.”
Maui Wowi Hawaiian continues to focus more efforts in creating opportunities for veterans, while showing their support year round at events like air shows and U.S. Coast Guard festivals.
Franchisees also maintain a strong presence on military bases throughout the country like the Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base near San Diego.
“The dedication, commitment, and work ethic of those who have served their country are the same traits that will lead to success as a franchise business owner,” Livingston says. “We are proud to have so many veteran-owned Maui Wowi franchises and will continue our efforts to offer them affordable opportunities, unparalleled support, and do our best to say ‘Mahalo’ (‘thank you’) for their service.”
Maui Wowi is a member of the IFA Vet Fran Program and SBA’s Small Business Development Program, and has already granted franchise agreements to five veterans this year.
The 20 percent discount off the franchise fee is available to those who are granted an agreement during the months of November or December and have served in any branch of the U.S. military.
