Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Thomas Belongia, also known as Tommy B. Tommy B, an area developer and Franchise Owner for Biggby Coffee, who shares his intriguing journey from France to Wisconsin and offers deep insights into the world of franchise operations.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Tommy B:

• Tommy B's unique name story and why he goes by Tommy B.
• His family's adventurous history.

Tommy B's Professional Journey:

• Transitioning from a self-employed entrepreneur to opening his first Biggby Coffee shop in Wisconsin.
• The role and responsibilities of an area developer for Biggby Coffee.

Importance of Finding the Right Franchisee:

• Tommy B emphasizes the critical nature of identifying franchisees who align with Biggby's culture and values.
• The process of onboarding a new franchisee, from finding real estate to training staff.

Creating a Positive Work Environment:

• The impact of a happy and engaged staff on customer experience.
• Strategies for franchise owners to build community relationships and generate loyal customers.

Why Biggby Coffee?

• Tommy B and his wife's decision-making process in choosing Biggby Coffee after extensive research.
• The personal touch and alignment with values that drew them to the brand.

Marketing Strategies:

• Differentiating between paid and guerrilla marketing.
• Effective guerrilla marketing techniques like "drink drops" and engaging local businesses.

Community Engagement:

• The importance of building relationships within the local community.
• Examples of community involvement, such as supporting local causes and creative marketing initiatives.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Brand Awareness:

• Strategies for introducing a coffee brand to new markets.
• The significance of having a strong, supportive team and robust systems in place.

Personal Story of Resilience:

• Tommy B's experience overcoming a severe brain injury and the importance of well-established business systems.
• Advocating for owners to focus on strategic planning and growth, ensuring long-term business success.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Tommy B conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community engagement, and strategic marketing. Tommy B's story highlights the dedication required to succeed in the competitive world of franchise operations. Whether you're interested in the coffee industry or entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on franchise development, creating positive work environments, and achieving business success with Tommy B.

Links And Resources:

• BIGGBY COFFEE
• Thomas Belongia (Tommy B) on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

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Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Orhan Veli, a franchisee of SaladWorks, a quick-service restaurant specializing in healthy eating, primarily salads. Orhan shares his journey from finance to managing multiple SaladWorks locations, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of the food industry.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Orhan Veli:

• Orhan's background as an immigrant from Azerbaijan and his journey to the United States.
• Transition from a finance career at Morgan Stanley to joining the family business in the restaurant industry.
• The successful management of eleven SaladWorks locations and supplying salads to 28 Giant supermarket locations.

Challenges in the Food Industry:

• Logistical challenges of maintaining freshness and managing labor in a restaurant.
• The importance of efficient operations and adaptability in the food industry.
• Comparisons between running a restaurant with perishable products and other food operations.

Orhan's Entrepreneurial Journey:

• Starting with a Charlie's Subs franchise in Philadelphia, a competitive market.
• Observing the operational ease of SaladWorks compared to the labor-intensive sub shop.
• Transitioning to SaladWorks in 2011, guided by the largest franchisee at the time.

Managing a Restaurant with Perishable Products:

• The importance of having a skilled team and efficient processes to handle unpredictability.
• Customer service and employee retention as critical factors for success.
• The need for passion and enjoyment in the business to achieve long-term success.

Impact of Third-Party Delivery Services:

• The profound effect of delivery services on profitability.
• Strategies to balance the shift in customer behavior, including menu pricing and unique in-store experiences.
• Exploring automation and tech partnerships to streamline processes while maintaining quality.

Navigating Rising Labor Costs:

• Challenges in hiring qualified individuals for prep work.
• Potential automation options to manage labor costs and improve efficiency.

Commitment to Customers:

• Decision not to raise prices in 2023 out of concern for loyal customers.
• Plans for navigating the fine line between profitability and customer satisfaction.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Orhan conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of passion, efficient operations, and customer service in the food industry. Orhan's story highlights the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in a competitive market. Whether you're interested in the food industry or entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on overcoming challenges, managing a restaurant with perishable products, and achieving success in the food industry with Orhan Veli.

Links And Resources:

• Saladworks
• Orhan Veli on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

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Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Mark Schnurman, the "Franchise Career Coach & President" of The Perfect Franchise. Mark shares his journey from franchise consultant to establishing a successful business helping individuals determine if owning a franchise is right for them.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Mark Schnurman:

• Mark's role as the founder of The Perfect Franchise.
• Growth of his team to over 50 contractors.
• The Perfect Franchise helps individuals determine if owning a franchise is right for them by generating leads, training consultants, and building strong relationships with franchise brands.

Critical Need for Personal Responsibility Among Franchisees:

• Franchisees must not solely rely on franchisors but take ownership of their businesses, including marketing efforts and financial management.
• Success in franchising requires significant commitment, a willingness to adapt, and an ability to pivot based on market feedback.
• Importance of flexibility and readiness to adjust plans as needed.

Insights on Risk Management in Franchising:

• Many clients initially seek franchises out of necessity, such as job loss, but motivation often evolves into building large-scale enterprises.
• Guiding clients through the process, helping them understand the nuances and risks of franchising to make informed decisions.

Importance of Self-Awareness in Business:

• Many people lack self-awareness, especially regarding their level of commitment.
• Discrepancy between perceived and actual commitment is a common challenge in franchising.
• Importance of honest self-assessment before diving into franchise ownership.

Approach to Building a Franchise Empire:

• Start small and gradually expand, ensuring manageability and success at each stage.
• Importance of not overextending oneself and maintaining sufficient cash flow.
• Avoid tying up too much capital in initial investments.

Support from Franchisors for Franchisees' Success:

• Lead generation, supply chain management, and staffing assistance are crucial for franchisee success.
• Franchisors should provide robust lead generation through digital marketing and other means.
• Effective support structures enable franchisees to focus on running their businesses efficiently.

Utilizing Franchisor Resources and Connecting with Fellow Franchisees:

• Franchisees often pay significant fees for ongoing support and expertise, which they should fully leverage.
• Seeking advice from the franchisor and experienced franchisees within the system.
• Active engagement with the franchise network provides valuable insights and solutions.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Mark conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility, flexibility, and utilizing available resources. Whether you're contemplating franchising or interested in entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating the complexities of franchising, achieving success, and the entrepreneurial spirit with Mark Schnurman.

Links And Resources:

• The Perfect Franchise
• P3 Cost Analysts
• Mark Schnurman on

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Matt Wood, an entrepreneur with a dynamic background. Matt shares his journey from military service to franchising with 30 Minute Hit, a women-only kickboxing and boxing HIIT circuit.

Key Points Discussed:

• Involvement in two businesses: Suiting Green Consulting and 30 Minute Hit.
• 30 Minute Hit: A franchise offering a 30-minute HIIT workout specifically for women.
• Recent focus on expanding 30 Minute Hit locations in Central Florida.

• Retirement from the military in 2017 and subsequent role at the Walt Disney Company.
• Challenges and layoff experience during the 2020 Disney layoffs.
• Motivation for entrepreneurship: Finding purpose and solving problems.

• Discovery of 30 Minute Hit through LinkedIn and engagement with franchise owners.
• Challenges faced during the setup, including real estate issues and lengthy processes.
• Perseverance in overcoming obstacles such as ineffective realtors and financing difficulties.

• Issues with the initial realtor and switching to a local agent.
• Securing a supportive landlord and lender despite numerous rejections.
• Construction delays and the need for multiple rounds of financing.

• Importance of proactive communication, clear documentation, and persistence.
• Advice for potential franchisees: Monitor business dealings closely and address ineffective partners early.
• Inspirational story of resilience and determination.

• The significance of creating a great customer experience and the impact on client retention.
• Training staff to excel in sales conversations and the excitement of seeing financial benefits from successful sales.

• Confidence in the efficiency of opening future locations based on lessons learned.
• Reflection on the transition from a 21-year military career to civilian life and entrepreneurship.
• Positive outlook on the journey and future opportunities in franchising.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Matt conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, clear communication, and ongoing learning. Whether you're contemplating franchising or interested in entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on overcoming challenges, achieving success, and the entrepreneurial spirit with Matt Wood.

Links And Resources:

• 30 Minute Hit
• Matt Wood on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire Builders? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on Spotify or Captivate.fm and leave us a...

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is excited to welcome Marc Millet, the owner of Millet Desserts Inc., a Baskin Robbins franchisee. Marc shares insights from his journey in the dessert franchise industry, from joining the family business to expanding to multiple locations.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Marc Millet:

• Owner of Millet Desserts Inc.., a Baskin Robbins franchisee
• Transitioned from a decade in law enforcement to entrepreneurship.
• Grew the business from one location to nine as of last month.

Challenges and Strategies in Franchise Operations:

• Discusses the financial and personal adjustments required to succeed.
• Highlights the grind of working long hours and gradual financial improvement.
• Emphasizes the independence and growth opportunities franchising offers.

Managing Multiple Locations:

• Importance of delegation and efficient solutions like smart safes for cash management.
• Benefits of franchising, particularly the simplicity of managing Baskin Robbins.
• Critical inflection points in business growth and establishment of efficient systems.

Acquisition Strategy:

• Focus on purchasing existing stores rather than building new ones.
• Evaluating store value and negotiating with owners, often utilizing owner-carry loans.
• Balancing acquisitions with occasional new builds to diversify and grow the portfolio.

Future Plans:

• Potential expansion into other brands within the Inspire Brands portfolio.
• Ambition to grow the Baskin-Robbins network and explore opportunities in other franchises like Jimmy John's and Buffalo Wild Wings.
• Insights on strategic growth, efficient management, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to scale successfully.

Marc also discusses current business challenges and solutions:

• Financing: Difficulty in obtaining loans due to banks not understanding franchising.
• Hiring: The need for digital solutions for the current generation of applicants.
• Inflation: Significant cost increases post-COVID and the struggle to balance menu prices.

Local Store Marketing:

• Despite the digital age, traditional methods like coupon packs still yield good returns.
• Effectiveness of "buy one, get one" offers.

Story Time:

• A difficult winter faced with severe financial challenges due to inflation and bad weather.
• High-interest loans and tough decisions were made to recover.
• Emphasizes the importance of dedication and treating the business like a child.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Marc wrap up the discussion with reflections on the franchise industry, the importance of strategic investments, and the continuous need for operational excellence. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a franchisee, or simply interested in the dynamics of the franchise business, this episode offers valuable insights into running successful multi-unit operations.

Tune in to this episode for an in-depth conversation on scaling success, operational strategies, and navigating challenges in the franchise industry with Marc Millet.

Links And Resources:

• Millet Desserts Inc.
• Marc Millet on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin

Welcome to another episode of "Empire Builders: Scaling Success One Location at a Time," where host Tommy Yionoulis interviews Eric Johnson, a seasoned entrepreneur and business broker with a remarkable portfolio spanning 54 companies across 23 industries. Eric shares insights from his strategy of acquiring and merging businesses within similar sectors, transitioning to become a franchisee of First Choice Business Brokers. He has successfully established six profitable offices in Northern California, leveraging the power of franchising.

Key Points Discussed:

Benefits of Franchising:

• Eric explains the advantages of franchising, highlighting its robust support systems and comprehensive training that accelerate business growth.
• He emphasizes how franchising minimizes operational risks, enabling entrepreneurs to focus on scaling their business and profitability.

Navigating Business Brokerage:

• Eric delves into the critical role of business brokerage, detailing the process of matching buyers with sellers while providing crucial emotional support during transactions.
• Drawing parallels to significant life transitions, he underscores the importance of sellers envisioning their post-sale future to ease transitions and emotional impacts.

Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges:

• Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Eric shares insights into navigating financial crises, including significant debt challenges during the 2008 financial crisis.
• Tommy and Eric discuss the unpredictable nature of business risks and the resilience required to overcome adversity, emphasizing the invaluable lessons learned along the way.

Insights into Business Brokerage:

• Eric discusses the intricacies of starting a business brokerage in a regulated industry, navigating legal interpretations, and compliance with regulatory agencies.
• He shares their recruitment strategy, leveraging referrals, online job platforms, and strategic partnerships to build a qualified team compliant with real estate licensing laws in California.

Personal Anecdotes:

• Eric recounts pivotal moments from his entrepreneurial journey, including challenges faced in biofuel distribution during the 2008 financial crisis.
• The conversation shifts to the physical toll of entrepreneurship, with both hosts sharing personal anecdotes about managing stress and its physical manifestations.

Promotion and Closing:

• Eric highlights the services of his brokerage firm, San Francisco and Monterey Bay Area First Choice Business Brokers, specializing in facilitating business sales and acquisitions.
• He underscores their commitment to professionalism and cultural sensitivity in client interactions, aiming to foster long-term relationships with entrepreneurial clients navigating various projects.

Conclusion: Tommy and Eric wrap up the episode with reflections on the multifaceted challenges and personal sacrifices of entrepreneurship. They emphasize strategic support systems, navigating regulatory landscapes, and maintaining operational stability in specialized industries like business brokerage. Whether you're an entrepreneur, franchisee, or simply intrigued by the dynamics of business, this episode offers valuable insights into running successful multi-unit operations.

Join us next time for more in-depth discussions on scaling success, operational strategies, and navigating challenges in the franchise industry. Stay tuned to "Empire Builders" as we continue to explore the stories of leaders shaping the business landscape.

Links And Resources:

Welcome to the first episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is excited to welcome Abtin Hashemian, an experienced leader in multi-unit franchise operations. Abtin shares insights from his extensive experience in the franchise industry, managing operations for Subway and a local poke concept in Southern California.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Abtin Hashemian:

• Leading operations and overseeing two different concepts.
• Multi-unit Subway franchisee since 1989.
• Brand owner of a local poke concept founded in 2016.

Challenges and Strategies in Franchise Operations:

• Scaling from 16 to 11 Subway locations and managing real estate challenges.
• Experiences with Subway in the LA market and the impact of lease negotiations on operations.
• Successful expansion and exit in the poke restaurant industry.

Subway's Marketing and Operational Strategies:

• Insights into Subway's marketing strategies, including the recent footlong cookie promotion.
• Discussion on supply chain issues and marketing tactics.
• Reflections on Subway's remodel initiatives and their impact on franchisees.

Personal Experiences in the Franchise Industry:

• Tommy shares his background at Quiznos during the 2008 downturn.
• Comparative insights between Quiznos and Subway's operational strategies.

The Importance of Hospitality and Customer Experience:

• Emphasis on focusing on hospitality and training to drive traffic and sales.
• The significance of maintaining clean, well-staffed restaurants with fresh ingredients.

Navigating Brand Refresh and Remodels:

• Abtin's perspective on the necessity and benefits of store remodels.
• The balance between franchisee investment and profitability.

Strategic Thinking and Long-term Planning:

• How strategic remodels can help maintain customer traffic despite lease uncertainties.
• The role of corporate alignment and strategic investments in franchise success.

Conclusion: Tommy and Abtin wrap up the discussion with reflections on the evolution of the franchise industry, the importance of strategic investments, and the continuous need for operational excellence. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a franchisee, or simply interested in the dynamics of the franchise business, this episode offers valuable insights into running successful multi-unit operations.

Tune in to this episode for an in-depth conversation on scaling success, operational strategies, and navigating challenges in the franchise industry with Abtin Hashemian.

Links And Resources:

• Subway
• Poke Me
• Abtin Hashemian on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire Builders? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on Spotify or Captivate.fm and leave us a review.