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 to our communities.”
The Power of Purpose in Entrepreneurship
For Dr. Ron Urton (pictured on the left at the top of the page), 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. Hand & Stone is a proud member of VetFran and offers a 20% discount on initial franchise fees.
Fill out our inquiry form to learn more about Hand & Stone’s veteran franchise opportunities and bring wellness to your community!
