Columbus, OH November 9, 2017 - William Devoss learned how to become a business owner in a way few MBA students could ever understand.
Devoss spent 11 years serving in the United States Air Force, spending time in Okinawa, Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan. After earning nine military decorations, including a Bronze Star, for his service, Devoss was looking for a new way to support his family.
"When I got out of the Air Force, my first job was in sales selling cleaning supplies," Devoss said from his home near Tucson, AZ. "Eventually, I realized I wanted to own my own business."
Devoss knew about sales and could talk to anyone about cleaning chemicals. While he worked with teams in the military all the time, he had questions about translating that experience into running the day-to-day operations. A call to Sears Home & Business Franchises changed his perspective.
"It's a great name," Devoss said of Sears. "They have great knowledge about what the customer wants and needs."
Devoss is one of several veterans who now owns a Sears Home & Business Franchise. Larsen Sharp, president and CEO of Sears Home & Business Franchises says veterans receive a discount on their franchise fee, along with training, operational support, marketing consulting services, purchasing and IT leadership.
"Many franchisees, especially those who served our country, come to us because they have a passion for helping their neighbors and community," said Sharp. "We provide ongoing support and partner with companies like Profit Mastery who help our franchise owners develop their business skills. The most important thing we can do at Sears Home & Business Franchises is to provide support from day one, that empowers our franchise owners to grow healthy profitable businesses".
"Veterans have the best real-world experience of virtually any franchise applicant," said Sharp. "Anything we can do to help them build their own American Dream is well worth the investment."
Devoss has owned his franchise for 28 years and has no plans to slow down.
"I love the independence and the ability to shape your own future," he said.
About Sears Home & Business Franchises, Inc.
Our franchise opportunities include Sears Handyman Solutions, Sears Maid Services, Sears Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Sears Air Duct Cleaning and Sears Garage Services. We provide entrepreneurs the possibility of owning their own business and leveraging Sears Home Services' strength. For franchise availability or information about joining our national network of 300+ franchise locations, visit our website at ownasearsfranchise.com
About Sears Home Services:
As the nation's No. 1 provider of appliance services, Sears Home Services has more than 6,000 expert technicians who make nearly seven million service calls annually. Sears offers a complete solution for homeowners, helping members purchase, service and replace their appliances, as well as manage and maintain their homes and a variety of products within their homes, from fitness equipment to lawn mowers and snow blowers. Sears has the largest fleet of services technicians in neighborhoods throughout the U.S., and sells the top appliance brands, including Kenmore.