Melting Pot's "Down to Fondue" Happy Hour Creates New Opportunities for Franchisees

Melting Pot, the national fondue franchise with 92 restaurants nationwide, has recently introduced a new initiative. The “Down to Fondue” Happy Hour is set to revitalize the brand’s bar scene and provide significant benefits for both current and prospective franchisees. The new program — which features half-off cheese and chocolate fondues, along with select cocktail, beer and wine specials — represents a strategic move to enhance the customer experience and boost revenue.

“The ‘Down to Fondue’ Happy Hour is part of our broader strategy to capitalize on our remodeled bar spaces as part of our Melting Pot Evolution remodel program,” said Carmen Murillo, Senior Director of Marketing for Melting Pot. “This initiative is designed to attract both loyal patrons and attract new guests, offering them a unique, low-risk way to experience our brand.”

For franchisees, the happy hour program offers a promising revenue stream. With many locations recently updating their bar areas to be more inviting and vibrant, this program provides an opportunity to maximize the potential of these investments. 

“The launch of this national happy hour program is an excellent way for franchisees to generate additional revenue,” said Murillo. “It leverages our upgraded bar spaces, which were previously underutilized, but have since been made more approachable and modern.”

The “Down to Fondue” Happy Hour is more than just a promotional tactic; it’s rooted in consumer research. Last year, Melting Pot tested the concept with a diverse group of customers and potential guests. 

“We found that half-off cheese and chocolate fondues ranked highly among both our loyal customers and potential new visitors,” Murillo said. “This feedback drove our decision to make the program a permanent offering, available Monday through Thursday at select locations.”

The program offers a range of popular menu items at reduced prices, including fan favorites such as Wisconsin Cheddar and Spinach Artichoke cheese fondues, as well as the famed Flaming Turtle chocolate fondue. Signature cocktails like the Love Martini — which is known for having a cult-like following — and the new Espresso Martini, alongside local beer options, complete the experience. 

“Our aim is to provide a casual, relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy high-quality food and drinks without the commitment of a full four-course meal,” Murillo said.

From a franchise development perspective, the happy hour is expected to enhance the appeal of Melting Pot as a franchise opportunity. This initiative not only helps current franchisees boost their bar revenue but also demonstrates to potential franchisees that Melting Pot is committed to evolving and innovating its business model for sustained success.

Melting Pot’s “Down to Fondue” Happy Hour is a strategic move designed to invigorate the brand’s bar experience while offering tangible benefits to franchisees. By tapping into the potential of remodeled bar spaces and responding to consumer preferences, the program aims to enhance revenue opportunities and solidify Melting Pot’s position as a leading franchise in the niche fondue dining industry.

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/meltingpot.