Curious about the challenges and rewards of leaving a corporate career for the restaurant industry and becoming a multi-unit franchisee?

In this episode of The Pineapple Perspective, host Troy Hooper interviews Lauren Fernandez, CEO of Full Course, a company that invests in and supports early-stage food and restaurant brands. Here are the key points discussed in the interview:

- Lauren shares her deep connection to the hospitality industry.

- She discusses how her upbringing and cultural background have shaped her to make a positive impact.

- Lauren’s journey from lawyer to multi-unit franchisee and starting Full Course.

- Challenges faced by the industry, like lack of available debt and scarcity of affordable real estate.

- Creative solutions to challenges including private credit and crowdsourcing.

You can learn more about Lauren Fernandez on LinkedIn.

This show is sponsored by Pepper Lunch. Find a location near you!

Production and Administration work completed by Smart Podcast Solutions and Elevate Virtual Business Solutions.

Episode author:

Troy Hooper, Lauren Fernandez

Curious about the challenges of franchising and the communication expectations across multiple generations, from baby boomers to Gen Z, that create a unified and hospitable environment?

In this conversation, Troy discusses with Josh Halpern, CEO of Big Chicken, the need for businesses to adapt to the evolving hospitality expectations of different generations, such as Gen Z's desire for collaboration and customization.

Other topics covered in this episode include:

- Hospitality is crucial in the restaurant industry and applies to all levels of business.

- Franchising presents both challenges and opportunities.

- Finding franchisees who align with company values is important.

- Effective communication and collaboration are key in the franchising relationship.

- Listening to stakeholders is vital for long-term sustainability.

You can learn more about Josh Halpern on LinkedIn and follow him on Instagram and Big Chicken on their website.

This show is sponsored by Pepper Lunch. Find a location near you!

Production and Administration work completed by Smart Podcast Solutions and Elevate Virtual Business Solutions.

How can packaging enhance the customer experience and drive growth in the fast-casual industry?

In today’s episode, Troy meets with Zachary Stein, the Co Founder and CEO of SupplyCaddy, a leading global manufacturer of custom packaging and disposables for the food service industry with clients such as Burger King Popeyes, Dave's Hot Chicken, Huey Magoo's, Krispy Krunchy Chicken, Levain Bakery and more.

Zach and Troy cover topics like:

• The importance of the customer experience in at home dining

• The need for customized packaging solutions that cater to the specific needs of each brand and their food offerings

• The role of technology in forecasting and managing supply chain logistics for packaging materials

• The impact of off-premise dining on the packaging requirements for QSR and fast casual brands

• The significance of sustainability and regenerative practices in packaging design and materials

You can learn more about Zachary Stein and SupplyCaddy on his website.

This show is sponsored by Pepper Lunch. Find a location near you!

Production and Administration work completed by Smart Podcast Solutions and Elevate Virtual Business Solutions.