Emphasis on Memorable Moments Helped This Family Business Grow with Melting Pot Franchise

With a portfolio of 10 restaurant brands and three generations of history in hospitality, the Collier family, which operates multiple businesses under Collier Restaurant Group, has built a strong understanding of the industry and how to best apply their expertise. While the restaurant group does own some independent restaurants, it owns multiple franchise brands, as well, and the team speaks highly of how the Melting Pot culture and model fits well with their own priorities. Since investing in the now-94-unit fondue franchise, the family has poured into its local Gatlinburg location, and it has become a key part of the portfolio.

“Elise Massey and Lori Collier have been in restaurants their entire lives,” said Gina McReynolds, chief operations officer at Collier Restaurant Group. “They have such servant hearts and a great sense of family. Employees are always put first, and that shows through in the guest experience, too.”

Shortly after its 2011 opening, the Collier family and their team noted increasing demand, likely thanks to the “eatertainment” aspect of The Melting Pot combined with the positive experience cultivated by a team who really cares. 

A few years ago, the team in Gatlinburg explored opening for lunch hours — a venture outside of traditional Melting Pot guidelines — to better serve their guests. This effort was ultimately a great success, and the Gatlinburg location set the example for other restaurants in the system. McReynolds noted that it is this type of franchisee-franchisor collaboration that the Collier Restaurant Group team appreciates. 

Working with the Melting Pot leadership team, they have been able to continue growing their own business while making valuable contributions to the system.

“Obviously, with a non-franchise brand, we have more freedom to make decisions about menus and promotions, but some franchisors allow for more flexibility than others, and Melting Pot is certainly one of our favorites,” said McReynolds. “The Collier family isn’t a family of micromanagers, and we have to mention the management team that we have at the Gatlinburg Melting Pot. They run the restaurant like it’s their own.”

This is very well in line with how The Melting Pot network as a whole builds franchise growth and a great guest experience. By working to develop unit-level employees and recognizing the value of creating ownership from inside the restaurant, the team has done a phenomenal job of retaining employees, franchisees and loyal fans. The Collier family has done the same.

“Our staff members feel very connected with each other and the guests. Some have to leave for school or to pursue other opportunities, but they often come back,” added McReynolds. “Whether it’s full-time, part-time or just to work a special event, many staff members come back to help out because they just feel so connected to the leadership team. They’re like family.”

As the restaurant continues to be a staple in the community, McReynolds noted that the team is less focused on expanding to additional units. Rather, it is dedicated to continuing to provide the great Melting Pot experience regulars love and visitors expect.

“As far as Melting Pot goes, we just hope to continue to grow sales, take care of our people and have memorable moments with our guests and our staff,” she said.

For more information on costs to buy this franchise, visit https://www.meltingpotfranchise.com/.