Article featured in Franchise Wire.
For veterans ready to start a new chapter after service, home services franchising offers the perfect opportunity. Unlike brick-and-mortar businesses that need big buildouts, long leases and high startup costs, home service franchises are often simpler — and quicker — to get off the ground. Many can even be run from home or a small office, allowing veterans to hit the ground running in their new mission of business ownership.
“Home services franchises are built on trust, reliability and delivering a job with excellence — qualities that align perfectly with military training,” says Scott Abbott, CEO and founder of Five Star Franchising. “It’s also a sector where veterans can quickly learn the systems, execute at a high level and scale with confidence.”
The qualities that define successful franchise owners — discipline, structure, leadership and teamwork — are second nature to veterans. “Veterans thrive when there’s a clear mission and a defined playbook,” Abbott says. “Their ability to lead under pressure, adapt quickly and stay disciplined makes them exceptional operators.”
Customers also recognize the professionalism veterans bring to their work. “When veterans show up at a customer’s home, they bring respect and a commitment to doing things right,” Abbott says. “Customers pick up on that immediately. The result is stronger relationships, higher satisfaction and more referrals — qualities that fuel long-term business success.”
Since Abbott founded the company in 2015, Five Star Franchising has grown from one brand (Five Star Bath Solutions) into a portfolio of industry leaders. “We’ve expanded strategically by acquiring and developing brands that fit our vision of elevating the home services experience,” Abbott says.
Five Star’s lineup has a balance of purpose-driven and high-demand businesses. Brands like Five Star Bath Solutions, Gotcha Covered and Mosquito Shield deliver dependable services that homeowners want and need like bathroom remodeling, custom window treatment design and installation, and pest control.
Meanwhile, Bio-One and 1-800-Packouts are complementary businesses that step in when people need help most. Bio-One provides biohazard and trauma cleanup with compassion and professionalism, helping families recover from challenging situations. 1-800-Packouts specializes in contents restoration after fire or water damage, working hand in hand with restoration companies to help homeowners rebuild. “These are purpose-driven businesses that make a difference,” Abbott says. “As natural disasters increase and people face more unexpected crises, these brands are providing hope and practical help when it’s needed most.”
Then there’s Card My Yard, a home-based franchise that offers a unique service and business model. The cheerful, community-centered brand brings joy to neighborhoods with personalized yard greetings for birthdays, holidays and milestones. “It’s a simple idea that spreads happiness,” Abbott says. “Franchisees love being part of celebrations in their communities.”
Most recently, the company announced the acquisition of Five Star Flooring, a mobile floor-covering franchise that brings an in-home showroom experience to customers.
Each brand shares one key ingredient — a commitment to people. “We’re a partner in building meaningful businesses,” Abbott says. “We pride ourselves on strong unit economics, proven systems and a culture of support.”
Abbott’s commitment to veterans runs deep. “I have immense respect for anyone who has served our country,” he says. “Veterans have sacrificed in ways most of us can’t imagine, and I believe it’s our responsibility to create opportunities for them to thrive in civilian life.”
He finds inspiration in watching veterans succeed as franchise owners, building businesses that create jobs and strengthen communities. “Seeing a veteran build a business that supports their family and impacts their community — that’s what motivates me,” Abbott says.
Veterans have also had a powerful influence on Five Star’s internal culture. “Their presence reinforces what we’re all about: serving others and striving for excellence.” The company has been recognized for its support of veterans, with several of its brands named a 2025 top franchise for veterans by Entrepreneur.
Veterans are a natural fit for franchising because they are used to following systems, leading teams and working toward a clear goal. According to the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program, veterans make up about 14% of franchise owners, compared with about 7% of the U.S. population. IFA data also shows that 70% of franchise companies actively hire veterans, and VetFran research found that 97% of franchisors say veterans are a good fit as franchisees. For many veterans, franchising offers a proven path to business ownership and a new way to serve their communities after military service.
Visit the Five Star Franchising website for more information.