Emilee Wentland’s Post

Graze Craze, the leading charcuterie franchise, experienced remarkable growth in 2023, nearly doubling its footprint with 35 new locations across the United States and internationally in Australia and France. The brand signed 51 franchise agreements, setting the stage for further expansion in key markets like Quebec, Southern California, and New England. Cory Hibbard, President of Graze Craze, hailed 2023 as 'a landmark year that set the stage for our future growth and success.' The brand's curated convenience approach, offering charcuterie boards and picnic boxes for various occasions, has resonated with customers and franchise owners alike. Graze Craze's sales performance has been equally impressive, with Q4 marking its 10th consecutive quarter of positive growth. The brand has already seen a 38% increase in comparable sales for existing stores in the first two months of 2024, driven by menu innovations like the Brunch Board and limited-time offerings. Looking ahead, Graze Craze plans to open 60 new locations in 2024, with 15-20 projected to open in the first quarter alone. The brand aims to surpass 100 locations and establish a presence in five countries by year-end, with 175 total locations in its development pipeline. 'Graze Craze is aptly named because there is a definite craze around this concept, and our growth is a testament to that,' said Ray Titus, CEO of United Franchise Group, Graze Craze's parent company. 'With a record-breaking year behind us, we're looking forward to 2024 being another year of explosive growth.' #charcuterie #franchising #foodtrends @GrazeCraze @UnitedFranchiseGroup

Franchise finances can be surprisingly opaque. For Jemima McEvoy and I, it took dozens of sources to get a sense of how to best evaluate them. We've spared you the effort. Forbes examined four high-growth restaurant brands and estimated which ones give franchisees the most bang for their buck. Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/eb2nBB85

Happy National Fast Food Day! As the first franchise restaurant, we’ve been serving up memorable meals and experiences for generations, offering entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to join a brand with deep roots and a bright future. Here are 3 reasons to invest in an A&W franchise: 🍔 Over a century of consistent demand: For over 100 years, guests have returned to A&W for our signature Root Beer in frosty mugs and freshly made meals. With the root beer market projected to grow to $1.25 billion by 2028, now is the perfect time to partner with a brand that’s stood the test of time. 🍔 Legendary brand recognition: A&W has been a part of special moments and memories for generations. As a franchisee, our partners capitalize on nostalgia, warmth, and authenticity, and serve customers who feel connected to the A&W experience. 🍔 Unmatched support and resources: At A&W, we’re committed to franchisee success. We’re not in the business of opening restaurants just to open them. We want to open profitable locations. Our National A&W Franchisee Association board ensures that our franchisees’ voices are heard and included in business decisions. By franchising with A&W, you’re serving up happiness, tradition, and the comfort of familiar flavors. Learn more about why now is the right time to invest in an A&W Restaurants, Inc. franchise: https://lnkd.in/gbMGTtH4 Celebrate National Fast Food Day by learning more about franchise opportunities with A&W here: https://lnkd.in/ga_ART3g #NationalFastFoodDay #FranchiseDevelopment #FastFoodFranchise

If last months bankruptcy filing by Red Lobster has you thinking more about an emerging #restaurantfranchise vs. more mature #franchise brands - you're not alone! This week's article from Franchise Update Media, called "How To Assess Restaurant Franchise Risks in the Current Market" goes into depth about what to consider if you're serious about the #restaurantindustry. And, as always, we suggest you start your #FranchiseOpportunity discovery process with a visit to FranchiseMatch.com! https://lnkd.in/g4gtXTAv

Exciting Franchise Opportunity: Jefferson Fry Co Revolutionizing Fast Casual Dining We recently came across an insightful interview with Emmet Moore, Founder and CEO of Jefferson Fry Co Franchise, and we’re excited to share some key takeaways with our network. You can read the interview here: https://lnkd.in/e-KcBAJG About Jefferson Fry Co: * Founded by Emmet Moore, who was born into the food industry (his parents owned a food truck!) * Innovating the fast casual space by reimagining how Americans enjoy French fries * Combining global flavors with quality burgers, hot chicken, and more What sets their franchise model apart: 1. Comprehensive training: 2 weeks of in-store training for franchisees and managers 2. Ongoing support: Including marketing, supply chain, and operational assistance 3. Hands-on guidance: Direct involvement from the founder himself Jefferson Fry Co is actively seeking dedicated leaders who are passionate about delivering excellent food and customer experiences. Their ideal franchisee embodies their culture of fun, high-energy, and guest-centric service. For those interested in the fast casual restaurant space or looking for a unique franchise opportunity, I highly recommend checking out Jefferson Fry Co's website: https://lnkd.in/e2xRT4tS As the food service industry continues to evolve, it's exciting to see innovative concepts like Jefferson Fry Co emerge. I'd love to hear your thoughts: * Have you experienced a Jefferson Fry Co restaurant? What was your impression? * What trends do you see shaping the future of fast casual dining? * For our connections in the franchise world, what factors do you consider most important when evaluating a franchise opportunity? Let's discuss in the comments below! #FranchiseOpportunity #FastCasualDining #RestaurantIndustry #Entrepreneurship #FoodInnovation

Can You Finally Open a Panda Express Franchise? (Cost + Analysis) Fast-casual restaurants are sprouting up all over the United States and they’re expected to continue growing at a rate of 10.6% until 2032 in spite of challenges to the industry as a whole. These types of restaurants are known to serve high-quality food in a casual setting. Many also deem them to be healthier compared to fast-food. Whatever the case, fast-casual restaurants are on the rise and one of the top players is Panda Express. https://lnkd.in/gHJaRHAX

Day 2 of the FAT Brands Franchise Summit underway, with chairman Andy Wiederhorn addressing the crowd (1,600 people here, which is pretty crazy). Some stats: FAT Brands now the 25th largest restaurant group (adding nine brands to the portfolio in two years will do that). 18 brands. $2B in systemwide sales. $650M in revenue. 2,300 locations, 185 of which are corporate. 800 franchisees, about half of which are single-unit operators. A pipeline of 1,100 stores. Growth cadence of 125 openings per year or so. 267 over the last two. $750M in purchasing power. Twin Peaks working toward going public. Another acquisition likely coming in the next few months. And maybe most importantly for the world, the cookie brands, which recently went into FAT Brands’ burger chains as an offering, are being added to the remaining concepts, from Twin Peaks to Smokey Bones, etc.

Buca di Beppo Files for Chapter 11 As a franchise attorney focused on the restaurant industry, Buca di Beppo's move to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy comes as no shock. This is the latest in a troubling series of bankruptcies that signal deeper issues within the restaurant franchise sector. Key Facts: - Closed Locations: 13 out of 57 locations shut down, leaving just 44. - Financial Strain: Assets and liabilities between $10M and $50M. - Sales Dip: A 5% drop in sales this year alone. But Buca di Beppo is not alone. The entire sector is grappling with: - Post-COVID Recovery: Many are still reeling from the pandemic. - Rising Costs: Labor and supply costs are squeezing margins. - Consumer Shifts: A move towards takeout, delivery, and healthier options. Historical Context Founded in 1993, Buca di Beppo quickly became a beloved brand but faced a downfall with an SEC scandal in 2005. Acquired by Planet Hollywood International in 2008, it has since struggled to adapt to modern market demands. CEO Rich Saultz calls the Chapter 11 filing a strategic step towards a strong future, with plans to reorganize finances, streamline operations, and possibly find a buyer within 75 days. Industry Trends Our firm has seen a significant drop in Restaurant Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) reviews this year, indicating: 1. Investor Skepticism: A growing reluctance to invest in the unstable restaurant space. 2. Consumer Hesitancy: Declining confidence in traditional dine-in restaurants. The Road Ahead The next 75 days are critical for Buca di Beppo. Goals include: - Finding buyers or strategic partners. - Restructuring financial obligations. - Implementing changes to boost profitability. While leadership remains hopeful, the industry’s challenges call for serious contemplation. Key Takeaway for Franchisees and Investors Now more than ever, due diligence is crucial. Potential investments in the restaurant industry must be evaluated with a sharp focus on both current realities and long-term prospects. Our firm remains dedicated to offering up-to-date information and expert guidance during these turbulent times. #franchise #franchisee

Discover the secrets behind the success of large franchise chains. 🌐 Learn how transparency and careful documentation can lead to limitless growth in the catering industry. 🍔🍟

Discover the secrets behind the success of large franchise chains. 🌐 Learn how transparency and careful documentation can lead to limitless growth in the catering industry. 🍔🍟