Bruster's Real Ice Cream signed its first ever discount plan to former United States Army Sgt. Bill Palaich through the VetFran program.
Bill and his wife Marcia will operate the Bruster's Real Ice Cream shop in Clermont, Fl. Coming 2015.
"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," Sahrene added.
Palaich served in the telecommunications industry for thirty years. He and Marcia saw this an opportunity to venture into business. They often wanted a more active role in their community, but work demands prevented it. Meanwhile, wife Marcia had experience in the hospitality and special events business, 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 Real Ice Cream currently is in its growth climax in 12 years. It has finished six consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth, with some markets up as much as 13.1 percent last year.
The company owes its success to 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.
The company currently owns 200 locations in 18 states, including the nation of Guyana.
Bruster's Real Ice Cream serves 150 flavors of handcrafted ice cream, Italian ice and sorbet, yogurt, and makes 25 flavors every day in each location, and plans to expand its menu and in different areas across the country as well.
