Marine Corps vet acquiring Mighty Auto Parts franchise in Florida

CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, with the help of the International Franchise Association's VetFran program, has acquired the Mighty Auto Parts franchise covering southwest Florida.

Franklin Dixon, who retired from the Marines in 2010 after a 10-year tour of duty, and his wife Betsy recently concluded a deal to buy Mighty of SW Florida from Brad and Karin Helm, who ran the Cape Coral-based business for 22 years, according to Mighty Distributing System of America Inc.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Mighty President and CEO Ken Voelker singled out Mr. Dixon's "distinguished military career" in welcoming the Dixons as Mighty franchise owners.

Mr. Dixon is a New Jersey native who was discharged from the Marine Corps at the rank of Captain. His time with the Marine Corps included numerous tours abroad. He has been working with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security as a Foreign Affairs Officer for the past eight years.

Ms. Dixon is in the real estate business. The couple decided to relocate to Florida and pursue small business ownership, Mighty said.

Mr. Dixon thanked the Helmses for their support and hospitality during the transition and said he's proud to be joining a "well-established, well led, and dedicated organization."

The IFA's VetFran program offers incentives for veterans looking to buy a franchise. Companies that are part of the VetFran program agree to offer veterans a discount of at least 10 percent off initial franchise fees. Discounts can range up to 20 percent, depending on the applicant's qualifications.

VetFran has helped more than 238,000 veterans and military spouses find opportunities in the franchise industry over the past 26-plus years as either employees or franchise owners.

Norcross, Ga.-based Mighty supports 100 franchised distributors in 44 U.S. states and five international markets.