When Scott Crouch opened the doors of his first Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop in Folsom, California, in December 2023, he wasn’t just starting a business, but embarking on a new chapter in his life. Driven by his passion for leadership, service, and the pursuit of excellence, Scott’s journey with Capriotti’s reflects his commitment to creating something greater than himself.
A Veteran’s Perspective on Opportunity
After 23 years in the Navy Reserves, Scott was ready for a new challenge. His military background provided him with a strong foundation for entrepreneurship. The discipline, leadership, and strong work ethic he developed through years of service prepared him for the demands of business ownership. Veterans like Scott are also accustomed to following structured systems and processes, making franchising a natural fit.
Scott explored several business opportunities, even drafting ideas for his own restaurant concept, but nothing felt quite right until he discovered Capriotti’s.
“It wasn’t just about the food—though the food is amazing,” Scott says. “It was the story, the care, and the attention to detail behind the brand. I wanted to be part of something that stood for more than just profits.”
To ensure Capriotti’s was the right fit, Scott made the leap to fully immerse himself in the business. He spent time working at an existing location, observing team dynamics, operational flow, and the brand’s commitment to quality. Behind the counter, he saw a company built on passion and purpose, solidifying his decision to join the Capriotti’s family.
Leading with Integrity
Scott’s leadership style, deeply influenced by his military service, has been the cornerstone of his success. The same principles that guided him in the Navy—integrity, teamwork, and resilience—now set the tone for his franchise operations.
“You can’t ask your team to go the extra mile if you’re not willing to do the same,” Scott explains.
Scott’s hands-on approach fosters a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and motivated. This energy extends to the customer experience, strengthening community ties and building a loyal following. His ability to create a cohesive team culture reflects the teamwork that is second nature to veterans.
A Brand Built for Success
For Scott, Capriotti’s wasn’t just a business opportunity—it was a chance to align with a brand that shares his values. With its dedication to premium ingredients, community engagement, and cutting-edge technology, Capriotti’s provided the foundation he needed to succeed.
“Capriotti’s doesn’t just hand you a playbook and leave you to figure it out,” Scott says. “They’re with you every step, offering guidance on site selection, marketing strategies, and overcoming challenges. They truly set you up for success.”
Scott’s belief in the brand has only grown. Less than a year after opening his first location, he expanded with a second in Rancho Cordova and plans to open two more.
Why Veterans Excel in Franchising
Veterans are natural problem-solvers, trained to adapt to challenges with strategic thinking and resilience. These qualities make them uniquely equipped to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Capriotti’s recognizes this potential and offers comprehensive support to help veterans succeed.
From training and marketing assistance to operational guidance, Capriotti’s provides franchise partners with the tools they need to thrive. The brand’s structured framework aligns perfectly with veterans’ strengths, enabling them to focus on leading their teams and delivering exceptional results.
Building a Legacy
Scott’s story exemplifies why veterans excel in franchising. Their unique skill set, rooted in discipline, leadership, and resilience, equips them to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Capriotti’s recognizes the potential of veterans and provides them with the tools, training, and support to succeed.
“I never expected my path to lead me here,” Scott reflects. “But my experiences in the Navy, technology, finance, and consulting all came together to help me make this dream a reality. And now, I’m building something that’s about more than just me, it’s about my family, my community, and a legacy.”
As Capriotti’s continues to grow, Scott remains an integral part of its journey, proving that with the right support, a dedication to quality, and a commitment to people, anyone can build a thriving business and leave a legacy.
Are you ready to start your journey? Explore franchise opportunities with Capriotti’s and discover how you can build a legacy of your own. Get started today.
