Bennigan's Launches New Veterans Incentive Program

DALLAS, June 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Bennigan's Franchising Company announced today it has created a new incentive program that supports U.S. military veterans seeking to own a Bennigan's franchise and will waive its franchise fee for all qualified and honorably discharged veterans. The total savings is estimated at approximately $35,000, and will be offered through the end of the year.

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Last month, "Bennigan's Wall of Heroes" launched, which can be viewed on the company's Facebook page to honor military members who make sacrifices for our country. For every photo posted commemorating a soldier, Bennigan's has pledged to donate $1 to Operation Homefront, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our service members and wounded warriors. 

"After an overwhelming, national response to our Wall of Heroes social media campaign, we're excited to provide a path to business ownership for veterans interested in franchising, especially those that are passionate about bringing memorable dining experiences to every guest, every day," said Paul Mangiamele, Bennigan's President & CEO. "With our new veterans initiative, it is our goal to give back to these honorable men and women who served our country by offering entrepreneurial opportunities for them as they transition back to civilian life."

Bennigan's offering is a part of "Operation Enduring Opportunity," a program developed by the International Franchise Association (IFA) with a goal "to hire as team members and recruit as franchise business owners 75,000 veterans and military spouses and 5,000 wounded warriors by 2014."

Additionally, the company is continuing to grow both domestically and internationally, and will be opening a new restaurant in Saddle Brook, New Jersey this fall.  To commemorate this announcement, Bennigan's CEO and new franchisees, Kedar and Suketu Shah, will execute the franchise development agreement at the International Franchise Expo this Saturday, June 16th in New York City at booth #635.

"We are excited to become part of the Bennigan's family," said Kedar Shah. "Bennigan's is an iconic brand with nostalgic guests, and we look forward to opening our doors to the Saddle Brook community later this year and creating new, lifelong memories in our restaurant."

As part of the company's aggressive growth plans, Bennigan's has returned to its roots established 35 years ago, "bleeding green" with a determination to provide a Legendary experience to every guest, every meal, every day.  This remarkable resurgence began over the past year with a brand refresh at the company's two corporate locations and a plan to bring the same menu optimization and service enhancements to all 78 current and future franchise locations.

About Bennigan's
Bennigan's is a high-energy neighborhood restaurant and pub committed to creating a Legendary brand experience for every guest, every meal, every day and to be known for our remarkable people, our chef-driven food, innovative drinks and warm, friendly hospitality. For more information visit www.bennigans.com.

Media Contact:
Jenna Kantrowitz
Fish Consulting
646.454.9708
[email protected]

SOURCE Bennigan's