U.S. Military Veteran Opens Pizza Franchise Under Little Caesars Veterans Program

Little Caesar Enterprises, Inc. today celebrates another store grand opening under the Little Caesars Veterans Program as former United States Army Helicopter Pilot Warrant Officer Tony Ceppaluni opens his doors for business at 1073 North Toledo Blade Blvd. in North Port, Fla.

"I am honored to be part of a program that recognizes U.S. military veterans and the sacrifices put forth to protect and serve our nation," said Ceppaluni. "The Little Caesars Veterans Program gives me the opportunity to start my own business and provide families in the area who are looking to stretch their dollar with a high quality product at a great value."

Entering the United States Army in 1975, Ceppaluni's fascination with military aircraft led him to join the Army flight program where he served for nearly 10 years as a helicopter pilot warrant officer. In 1985, Ceppaluni was honorably discharged and transitioned to civilian life and became a full-time real estate broker in Florida while continuing to fly small planes as a hobby. During this time, Ceppaluni spoke with Marty Lorenz, a U.S. military veteran and Little Caesars franchise owner, who introduced him to the idea of owning a Little Caesars pizza restaurant. Ceppaluni researched the brand and was impressed with the brand's positive image, proven business model and the innovative Little Caesars Veterans Program. Within six months, Ceppaluni was ready to begin a new phase of his professional career as a Little Caesars franchise owner.

"Little Caesars is a natural fit for my military background," said Ceppaluni. "I look forward building my Little Caesars business and giving back to my community and creating a positive team environment with my crew."

The Little Caesars Veterans Program was created to thank veterans for their service and provide them with career opportunities when they transition to civilian life or seek a career change. Honorably discharged service-disabled veterans who qualify are eligible for a benefit of up to approximately $68,000. It grants honorably discharged, non-service-disabled veterans who qualify as Little Caesars franchisees, such as Ceppaluni, a benefit of $10,000.

"With talented veterans like Tony joining the Little Caesars team, the Little Caesars Veterans Program continues to grow and give veterans business ownership opportunities," said David Scrivano, president, Little Caesar Enterprises, Inc. "The skills Tony developed in the military such as teamwork, dedication and a familiarity with processes will enable him to become a strong Little Caesars franchisee."

Some of the menu items Ceppaluni will feature in his store include HOT-N-READY(R) Pizza, Crazy Bread(R), Caesar Wings(R) and Caesar Dips(R).

In one of the largest U.S. quick serve restaurant research studies in 2007, Little Caesars was named the best value for the money of all quick serve restaurant chains.* Sandelman & Associates' Quick-Track(R) research study tracks key consumer behavioral and attitudinal measures for all major fast-food chains. Surveys were conducted among more than 84,000 quick service restaurant customers in 70 major markets across the U.S. Little Caesars was also named highest rated pizza chain for "Convenience of Locations" and "Speed of Service."

Little Caesars was recently listed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as one of the best loan performers among franchises with more than 60 SBA-guaranteed loans.** Little Caesars also works with preferred lenders who understand the business, which becomes increasingly important as it gets more difficult for entrepreneurs to secure financing in today's economy.

Since launching on Veterans Day 2006, interest has remained high for the Little Caesars Veterans Program. Currently, more than 30 veterans have been approved to become Little Caesars franchisees and more than 2,000 inquiries have been made about the program. Several more U.S. military veterans are expected to open stores in the coming months under the program.

The Center for Veterans Enterprise (part of the Department of Veterans Affairs), Marine For Life (an organization that helps Marines and Sailors transition to civilian life), and the International Franchise Association (through its VetFran program) are points of contact for the Little Caesars Veterans Program. They can provide information about the requirements and qualifications of becoming a Little Caesars franchisee.

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