Hampton Roads - 7-Eleven Inc. announced a new military veterans franchise program, offering a 10 percent discount on the initial franchise fee for the first 7-Eleven store veterans franchise.

The program is open to retired or separated veterans who have been honorably discharged. The discount ranges from about $1,000 to about $35,000, depending on the store.

A franchise seminar will be held from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. today at the 7-Eleven office at 1408D Stephanie Way in Chesapeake. Register by e-mailing ronnie.bernal @7-11.com.

Additional seminars will be held at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Oct. 14; 10 a.m. Oct. 24; and 4:30 p.m. Oct. 29.

It's the first time the chain has offered a reduction like this, said President and Chief Executive Joe DePinto.