Shuckin’ Shack’s Matt Piccinin and Jonathan Weathington on Franchise Marketing Radio

Matt Piccinin, co-founder and Jonathan Weathington, CEO of Shuckin’ Shack sat down with Franchise Marketing Radio to discuss the seafood and oyster restaurant franchise, and what’s in store as the brand continues to grow throughout the southeast.  Founded in 2007, originally in a 950 sq. ft. restaurant, the brand has continued to stay true to its home-town roots, providing the highest quality seafood and drinks in a no-frills atmosphere as it has grown to 16 locations across five states, with several more locations slated to open in 2020. 

“Our mission from day one has remained the same. Our mind set has never changed” said Matt Piccinin, co-founder of Shuckin’ Shack. “We’re determined to think about the long term happiness and success of franchisees, customers, and our guests.” 

Starting to franchise in 2014, Matt and Jonathan created a list of top ten areas they wanted to target next units for growth in. But before anything, they’re very intent on finding the right franchisees. 

“It’s one thing to say you want to be in that market, but until you find that person, it doesn’t really mean a whole lot,” Matt says. 

They’ve learned to focus on high residential population suburban areas close to main cities where people are spending outside of their 9-5 jobs. The smaller footprint of the restaurant establishments creates a more cozy, neighborly feel. 

Jonathan says, “A big part of what we’re doing is bringing the coast to a community. We want people who are the social mayors of their community, who are very integrated in the day to day life in the area with a large social circle or local business connections. That happens in smaller suburban areas, which is a huge appeal to us. You don’t have to be in a little beach town to enjoy the menu we’ve created”. 

 

To listen to the full segment, click here.