Checkers chips in on vet's business effort

In announcing its expansion of four new locations in Brooklyn, N.Y., over the next five years, Tampa-based Checkers Drive-In Restaurants added a garnish that anyone who supports our military can appreciate.

Kalex Partners LLC, the franchisee that will open the new double-drive-through locations in Brooklyn, qualifies under Checkers' VetFran program which offers qualified veterans of the U.S. armed services a 20% discount on franchise fees as a way to help transition from military to civilian life. Sean McDevitt, co-founder of Kalex, is a former Army Rangers captain and West Point graduate.

McDevitt's partners in Kalex are Richard Bowditch, a magazine and advertising photographer, and Mohammed Elsaadiny, who was previously operations director for Papa John's International in Manhattan.

Checkers, known for its quick-and-cheap sandwiches and seasoned fries, has more than 800 locations nationwide. Prospective franchisees are required to bring a minimum net worth of $750,000 and liquid assets of at least $250,000, and be able to develop between three and 10 units.

Financial qualifications may vary based on opportunity available by market, Checkers states. The company is looking to add several new development agreements in key markets such as New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Detroit, Chicago and Atlanta.