Famous Toastery launched its concept in North Carolina a little over a decade ago and already has opened 25 locations across the Carolinas with plans to add 16 new locations over the next 12 months. The better-breakfast franchise’s CEO Robert Maynard chose the Carolinas to expand in because it’s where they first launched the concept, built brand familiarity and has the prime customer demographics. With the population steadily increasing, there is a continued demand for quality breakfast and lunch options in the states.
“Too often, franchise systems find success early and decide to expand too quickly out of their primary market. We noticed quickly that we had a formula that works in the Carolinas, right in our own backyard. We’ve been excited to grow the brand with more and more customers requesting additional locations, and more and more franchise partners who want to join our lifestyle brand,” Maynard said.
Originally opening in Huntersville, the brand built a strong reputation across the Charlotte area, consistently awarded the top breakfast and brunch spot for the three corporate owned locations. Famous Toastery knew they had something special. From it’s one of a kind “every server is your server” mentality to its scratch kitchen, the better-breakfast franchise is focused on healthier menu trends and listening to consumers with the recent launch of its online ordering platform. The brand is undoubtedly leading the better-breakfast sector, perfecting the formula for franchise success by bringing in franchisees that are excited about the brand, understand how to run restaurants efficiently, and how to execute top notch service at their location.
“I spent several years in finance and accounting in both CFO and COO positions, but recently I began searching for a change. I knew I wanted to own my own business and work with a franchise that allowed the perfect work—life balance. Famous Toastery’s hours and family atmosphere let me spend time with my family and even have them involved in my business. I think that’s why the brand is growing so rapidly. Franchisees are seeing the daytime hours and ample opportunity for growth,” said Famous Toastery franchisee Jim Buchanon.
There are six operating Famous Toastery’s in the South Carolina market, and Buchanon has a multi-unit deal to open restaurants in Morrisville, Garner and Holly Springs. His two sons and daughter are working alongside him in all of the locations. The family looks forward to closing their restaurant at 3 p.m. and spending the rest of their day together. Maynard commented that it’s that balance that has helped the business grow into new markets with much of the Carolinas sold out.
“Our brand’s system sets franchisees up for success. Just as families like the Buchanons help us saturate the Carolinas, we have their backs, too, and return the favor by providing them with support and helping them if they have questions. That is one of the biggest advantages of being a part of a growing franchise system like ours,” Maynard said.
The better-breakfast concept is planning to add several locations in the Carolinas across Greater Charlotte, Winston-Salem and Asheville. Development throughout the Carolinas has been ideal for local franchisees because of the close proximity to the corporate team headquartered in Davidson, offering hands on training and support.
As the company looks to close out North and South Carolina, it’s setting its sights on markets in surrounding states including Kentucky, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia. The brand is actively scouting out franchisees as it continues to expand outwards. Startup costs begin at $601,500 and cap at $1,044,000 with a franchisee fee of $40,000.