Hand & Stone’s franchise opportunities for Veterans offer purpose, structure, and the chance to lead again in a meaningful way. Known for its strong operational systems, proven business model, and people-first culture, Hand & Stone franchise ownership has become a natural next step for veterans transitioning from military life to entrepreneurship.
This Veterans Day, we’re spotlighting two franchisees — Greg Billy and Dr. Ron Urton — whose stories show why so many veterans choose Hand & Stone, one of the best spa franchises to own for those driven by service and community impact.
Structure, Support, and a Mission That Matters
For many veterans, franchising provides a similar sense of structure, teamwork, and purpose that is ingrained in the military. Greg Billy, a retired U.S. Navy submarine officer, found that Hand & Stone franchise ownership mirrored the discipline and leadership principles he learned in the military.
“The advantage of Hand & Stone is that it’s a known business model — there’s a playbook,” Greg said. “It’s easy to apply the principles you learn in the military on how to follow a procedure, but also how to adapt it for your local conditions.”
After 30 years of active duty, including serving as a commanding officer and commodore of a submarine squadron in Italy, Greg opened two spa franchise locations in the Pittsburgh area. His leadership experience translated naturally to building a culture of accountability, care, and growth.
“The most rewarding part of owning a Hand & Stone franchise has been watching people grow — personally and professionally,” he said. “Between our two spas, we provide great wellness services
The Power of Purpose in Entrepreneurship
For Dr. Ron Urton (pictured on the left below), a retired Air Force anesthesiologist and flight surgeon, spa franchise opportunities with Hand & Stone offered the perfect blend of business and purpose.
“I realized that while I loved leading teams and solving problems, I wanted to do something that genuinely helped people,” said Ron. “Hand & Stone gives me the opportunity to promote health, healing, and self-care —things that align perfectly with what I valued most during my medical and military career.”
After his wife became a loyal Hand & Stone guest, Ron saw firsthand the brand’s commitment to quality and wellness. Today, he and his wife own four spas across Florida. What impressed him most was how the Hand & Stone franchise structure felt familiar: disciplined yet flexible, mission-oriented yet people-driven.
“In the military, there are guidelines — but within those, you have flexibility for leadership and growth,” he explained. “I see franchising with Hand & Stone the same way. There’s a framework for success, but also freedom to build your team and shape your business.”
Built for Leaders Who Serve
The traits that define great service members — leadership, adaptability, and teamwork — are the same qualities that make veterans successful Hand & Stone franchise owners. With comprehensive training, operational systems, and ongoing franchise support, veterans find the same camaraderie and shared mission that guided them in uniform.
Greg describes it as a “leadership challenge that’s incredibly rewarding.” From empowering his team to serving their members monthly, he’s found fulfillment in seeing his business directly improve people’s lives.
“The corporate team is phenomenal — they’ve been doing this a long time,” he said. “And the owners group is just as supportive. Everyone helps each other succeed.”
Franchise Opportunities for Veterans Offer A Path to Meaningful Ownership
For those seeking a new mission after service, Hand & Stone’s franchise opportunities for veterans provide a proven business model, a supportive community, and a chance to make a lasting difference. With its accessible investment, scalable systems, and growing national recognition, Hand & Stone stands out as one of the best spa franchises to own and a trusted name in wellness entrepreneurship.
Ready to Start Your Next Mission?
If you’re a military veteran ready to start a new chapter in business ownership, discover how Hand & Stone franchise ownership combines purpose with your professional goals.
Fill out our inquiry form to learn more about Hand & Stone’s veteran franchise opportunities and bring wellness to your community!
