Of all possibilities for vets to earn a living after the military, Jeff Rozycki have discovered the most fun opportunity yet – he gets paid to play video games.
Rozycki, a former Naval Cryptologic Maintenance Technician, became a franchisee with Gamin’ Ride Franchise Systems, Inc. in September 2010. The Jackson, N.J.-based company with 11 nationwide locations offers mobile video game theaters, outdoor laser tag, sumo wrestling, bumper balls and more. And like the heroes in the games they offer, they go where they’re needed.
“The concept is so fresh and unique,” Rozycki said. “I get paid to play… business is fun for me. How many people can say that?”
Time Is Money
Rozycki realized right off the bat that not everything was as simple as expected, specifically attaining the finances needed to start the franchise. Being a veteran, he knew that there were additional options – what he didn’t know was how long the process could take.
“This is no disrespect to them, but for whatever reason, I thought the VA options would be a little more transparent,” he said. “Also, it seems banks were shying away since I was a new business owner. Between these two factors, I wish I would have gotten started sooner getting lenders and whatnot.”
The Hard Way
For 10 years after leaving the Navy, Rozycki worked as an electronic technician and engineer while trying to carve out his path. Franchising was in the back of his mind, but the traditional sandwich and coffee shop avenues weren’t for him. Then he stumbled upon Gamin’ Ride.
After applying for and acquiring the financing and getting everything in order, he was ready to launch his franchise. But a smooth start wasn’t in the cards for Rozycki, who would suffer serious injuries following a freak accident in 2009.
While he was driving his car on the highway, a piece of a tractor trailer brake drum crashed through his windshield and shattered the left side of his face.
“I have had seven surgeries to reconstruct and repair my orbit and sinus cavity and have had ongoing issues due to the injuries.”
Despite the physical setbacks, Rozycki booked several Gamin’ Ride customers in his first month of existence, and has continued to build a following in his home base of Birmingham, Ala.
Other than “start sooner,” Rozycki advised veterans interested in opening a franchise to do “tons of research” and find an industry that fits their personality. And for those who haven’t considered the idea, don’t rule out the possibility – especially if steady work has been sparse.
“It’s a shame to see veterans out of work when many don’t know opportunities like this exist,” he said. “Franchising lets you own your own company, but the support structure and proven success of the franchise makes it a little easier.”
Who should not apply?
“Prospects who do not qualify financially should not apply since it is very difficult to get them financing in these times,” Michael Falgares, Gamin’ Ride CEO said. “Additionally, prospects who are not ready to have fun and be successful should not apply. Gamin’ Ride is a fast-paced concept which is a lot of fun and franchisees with upbeat personalities tend to do very well in motivating their team and providing the Ultimate Interactive Experience to our clients and their guests.”
SIDEBARS
Franchisee
Name: Jeff Rozycki
Military Service:U.S. Navy, 1988-1993, Petty Officer Second Class (E-5)
Franchisor
Start-up Costs
$30,000 Franchise Fee
Gamin’ Ride has three different types of theaters and options ranging from $66,000 - $145,000, depending on franchisee’s needs.
Options include:
30’ Tag Along Unit
38’ 5th Wheel Trailer “Our Ultimate Experience”
28’ Self Contained Unit (like an RV body).
Franchisee fee + Equipment and Working Capital = $99,000 - $200,000
Available financing:
Gamin’ Ride assists with connecting prospects with third-party lenders. It is also a pre-approved SBA Lender and listed on the SBA Franchise Registry, meaning the SBA has preapproved the concept – making it much easier for prospects to get financed.
Veterans incentive:
Gamin’ Ride’s 2011 incentive is a $5,000 upgrade package on equipment.
Corporate support:
- Two weeks of training - one at the corporate headquarters and one on location in franchisee’s town.
- Online training videos, live video help, phone and e-mail support, weekly conference calls and annual retreats.
An ideal franchisee candidate has:
$50,000 liquid and a net worth of more than $400,000.
- Good communication skills with parents and children (80 percent of the business is children)
- Credit score between 750 – 800
- $75,000 in cash to help start the process and obtain additional financing.