Emerging franchises might not have the deep pockets or all the resources of big brands, but by emphasizing communication and staying focused on growth, they're managing the pandemic with an eye toward the future.
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Mitch Cohen's lengthy career as a franchisee includes operating top-performing Baskin-Robbins stores, successfully adding Dunkin' units and later getting into Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs. He now has five Jersey Mike's shops throughout Long Island, New York, but his newest brand is seemingly a total departure from the restaurant industry. “Seemingly” because, as Cohen explained, his experience from 35-plus years running restaurants will translate to a unique take on customer service as he steps outside foodservice to develop locations of Sola Salon Studios.
February 14, 2020, dubbed the Valentine's Day disaster in a lawsuit, was the last straw for a group of Edible Arrangements franchisees.
While COVID-19 approaches its peak in the U.S., business leaders, economists and extroverts alike are struggling to get a clear view of what the recovery looks like and when it might happen.
Who would play you in the biopic about your life? Oh, that actor who played Rocky Balboa's son, he was also in ‘Heroes' (looks it up on IMBD) … Milo Ventimiglia. Just from watching his personality, he'd be a goofy, funny guy. Or Sean Connery, but he's a little old for me.
Global health crises of the magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic have far-reaching implications for international economics and commerce, and franchise systems must navigate the resulting storm. There have been catastrophes and casualties. That said, franchises have demonstrated a remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in weathering the conditions—providing valuable lessons and insights for the franchise community going forward.
I'm talking by phone to Bojangles franchisee Baryalay Razi (he said just call him “Razi”) on March 24. A week earlier, officials in Maryland, where he operates five of the chicken-and-biscuit outlets, ordered all restaurants to stop serving customers inside their establishments to help control the spread of the novel coronavirus. As of now, they are only permitted to sell food through drive-thru windows.
I often hear, usually from franchise recruiters, that recessions are “positive” for new franchisee recruitment because new entrepreneurs enter the market. Mid-career executives find themselves downsized and use retirement funds, severance or credit to launch a business. The new business creates income and the opportunity for personal reinvention. Younger candidates may eschew corporate life altogether and bet on themselves via franchising.
Danielle Scott is the new president of Jabz Boxing, a full-body circuit workout that uses boxing-inspired exercises designed for women. Scott, who worked at HES Holdings, Zippy Shell and Patrice & Associates Franchise, will lead development and management of franchise operations, corporate growth, marketing and profitability at Jabz.