The 8 | June 23, 2017

1. Frantastic: There’s a Frantastic new marketing campaign out there from Skull Mapping. It’s called “Le Petit Chef,” and it shows the world’s smallest chef turning a dinner plate into a projected grill. This campaign is a perfect example of how technology and restaurants collide, which is something that we talk about often here on “The 8.” Check out this week’s episode to see what the hype is all about.

2. Franlebrity: Our latest Franlebrity is also one of our franchising Frands. We had the chance to sit down with Steve Beagelman from SMB Franchise Advisors* this past week while we were at IFE for 1851’s Guide to Buy a Franchise series. He explained what franchisees should know about the Franchise Disclosure Document before investing in a specific brand. One of his best tips? Look into the regulations associated with your state, because they can vary depending on location.

3. Frash Money: When it comes to finding the right franchise concept for you, it’s important to know how much Frash Money it’ll cost. That means understanding Items 5-7 of a brand’s FDD, which detail initial fees, other fees—including royalty fees and national ad fund fees—and the overall estimated initial investment required for a concept. By taking a close look at Items 5-7, future owners will have a better idea of what their first bill will look like from a brand.

4. Frant of the Week: In his newest Frant, No Limit Agency* CEO Nick Powills explains that 99 percent of brands are missing a vital growth ingredient. At the end of the day, a brand’s secret sauce comes down to its positioning. Franchisors need to know what they’re truly selling beyond their product and sales process—expanding requires selling an entire opportunity. That’s why brands need to have a true definition of their overarching concept and vision if they want to be successful.

5. Franch Forward: There’s no doubt that Famous Toastery is Franching Forward in 2017—the better breakfast brand is on pace to triple its size by the end of the year. Famous Toastery is planning to open up 10 more stores this year, with the goal of having 30 locations up and running before 2017 comes to a close. Famous Toastery also has its sights set on signing 15 deals for a total of 75 restaurants.

6. Fran Funny: We might be living in 2017, but there are some people out there who are already living in 3017. Check out “The 8” for a few of our favorite memes highlighting these innovators who are changing the game.

7. Franspiration: “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” – Scott Oaks featuring FranElmo

8. Franemies vs. Frands: Depending on your tastes, you might want to call this a Franemie or a Frand. But here at “The 8,” we’re going with Frand. Burger King is teaming up with General Mills to introduce a Lucky Charms shake. The LTO will be available in the U.S. this summer.