A View From The Top

Angry Chickz VP reveals 4 steps to running a successful franchise

Mike LaRue, VP of Franchise Development at Angry Chickz, discusses the importance of developing a clear mission and a 100-year plan.

July 17, 2024

In the ever-evolving world of franchising, success isn't just about flipping a switch — it's about meticulous planning, strategic vision and fostering meaningful partnerships. When creating a thriving franchise network, here are four essential steps to steer you toward success:

1. Develope a clear mission

Picture this: You step into a restaurant and immediately sense a palpable energy — a shared purpose that radiates from every corner. That's the power of a clear mission and vision. At Angry Chickz, we believe in the importance of aligning every team member from the CEO to the line cook with a crystal-clear understanding of our purpose. This isn't just about words on a wall; it's about creating an environment where our mission permeates every interaction, making guests feel it with every visit. The key to executing this vision is our exceptional operations team, bridging the gap between our corporate office and the frontline staff. When our team members embody our mission and vision, guests can't help but notice, ensuring an unbeatable experience that keeps them coming back for more.

2. Create a 100-year plan

Success isn't a sprint; it's a marathon. That's why we advocate for making decisions with the long haul in mind. Whether it's mapping out supply chain strategies or selecting franchise partners, a long-term perspective is essential. Short-term fixes may offer quick wins, but they rarely withstand the test of time. At Angry Chickz, our commitment to longevity has enabled us to be discerning in our growth, patiently waiting for the right franchise partners who share our dedication to lasting success.

3. Form a partnership, not a dictatorship

Gone are the days of the franchisor-versus-franchisee mentality. Today, successful franchising hinges on collaboration and mutual benefit. That's why we've adopted a three-question strategy for every decision involving our franchisees: Is it good for the brand? Is it good for the franchisee partner? Is it good for the market? When the answer is yes to all three, everyone wins. By fostering a culture of partnership, we empower our franchisees to thrive, driving collective success for the brand and the communities we serve.

4. Strong unit economics

In the world of franchising, profitability is paramount. That's why we emphasize the importance of strong unit economics — a healthy sales-to-investment ratio is the lifeblood of any successful franchise. At Angry Chickz, we aim for a minimum of 3:1, with our top-performing locations exceeding expectations at 6:1. By ensuring our franchisees achieve a suitable return on investment, we not only secure their success but also lay the groundwork for future growth and expansion.

In conclusion, building a successful franchise isn't a one-size-fits-all endeavor. It requires careful planning, unwavering dedication, and a commitment to excellence at every level. By embracing these four steps — clear mission, a 100-year plan, partnership-driven approach and strong unit economics — franchisees can chart a course toward enduring success in an ever-changing market landscape. At Angry Chickz, we're not just building franchises — we're cultivating legacies.

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