Franchising
Graze Craze going global
December 11, 2023
Graze Craze, a franchise within the graze-style food category, has expanded its brand footprint internationally, planting its first locations in Australia and France. The charcuterie concept, which opened its first franchise location in January 2022, has surpassed 50 locations systemwide with 175 in the pipeline to be developed in the coming years.
"The opening of our first international locations in Australia and France is a testament to the strength of our brand and operations here in the U.S. as well as the viability of our franchise opportunity," President Cory Hibbard said in a company press release. "In a historically fragmented industry with little consistency, Graze Craze is the first to have successfully scaled the art of charcuterie into a proven concept. We are thrilled to ignite our international expansion plans and grow our Master Franchise network worldwide."
In October, Graze Craze established its flagship operation in Australia as a corporate-owned location in Sydney. With the franchising industry flourishing in Australia, the country is an international operations hub for Starpoint Brands, a family of brands that include The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill and Cannoli Kitchen Pizza. Starpoint Brands is a division of United Franchise Group, which owns a variety of businesses, including Signarama, Office Evolution and Network Lead Exchange.
As part of its franchise development strategy, Graze Craze is seeking a franchisee to assume ownership of its existing Sydney location and oversee its growth throughout the region.
Graze Craze also celebrated the grand opening of its first location in France, nestled in the town of Ollioules within the city of Toulon. The opening marked the brand's entry into the French Riviera and a milestone as Graze Craze's 50th location worldwide. Master Franchisees Alexander Springer and Méline Enguent are owners and operators of the Toulon location and will spearhead development throughout the country. Springer and Enguent are both restaurant entrepreneurs and seasoned industry professionals with more than 15 years of combined experience.
"Master Franchisees are integral to any franchise brand's success, and we couldn't have asked for better owners than Alex and Méline," Hibbard said. "Their shared vision, dedication, and passion for our brand has been thrilling to witness and we can't wait to see all they accomplish in France."
Charcuterie and graze-style dining have gained national popularity in recent years. Sales of charcuterie meats and snacks in the U.S. were over $950 million in 2020 and continue to grow at about 10% per year, according to Graze Craze.
