The 8 | March 16, 2018

1. Frantastic: We’re kicking off this week with some Frantastic news for fans of Coca-Cola and booze. The soft drink giant just announced that it’s rolling out its first ever alcoholic beverage in an effort to tap into the climbing sales that the alcohol industry is seeing. Coca-Cola will be making its own Chu-Hi—a canned spirit—in Japan. Right now, it’s unclear whether or not alcoholic Coca-Cola products will make their way to the U.S. or what this could mean for Coca-Cola partners and providers going forward, but it could be a major innovative step for the legacy brand.

2. Franlebrity: Our Franlebrities this week are making a name for themselves in the franchising industry by tapping into the growing pet care industry. Michele Hobbs and Scott Hoots, Pet Wants’ founder and president, respectively, spoke with 1851 as a part of our emerging franchise issue to explain how the two-year-old concept is on the verge of crossing the 100-unit milestone. Both Hobbs and Hoots credit their pet food delivery as a point of differentiation that’s helping them expand and compete with big box brands like Amazon.

3. Frash Money: For restaurant brands looking to make Frash Money in 2018, there are five trends they can’t afford to ignore. One of the biggest trends that consumers are looking for this year is the “create your own” concept, which allows customers to have control over their entire order. Convenience is another big factor for consumers when deciding where to dine out, which is why it’s important for brands to consider pickup and delivery options. Service, quality and acquisitions are other trends that shouldn’t be overlooked.

4. Frant of the Week: There’s no shortage of franchisors that measure their franchise sales through franchise fees. However, as No Limit Agency* CEO Nick Powills points out in his latest Frant, smart brands know that the deals being made now are actually going to make an impact in 2020. Between the six months that it takes to generate leads, the three months needed to close and then another year to get a unit up and running, the cash flow from deals being made this year won’t activate for a while. That’s why it’s important for brands to think about a 36-month strategy to prepare for the future.

5. Franch Forward: When brands first break into the franchising industry, they’re faced with a series of challenges that can prevent them from Franching Forward. That’s why 1851 rounded up five reasons that emerging franchises fail, as well as ways that these mistakes can be avoided. From ensuring that brands have access to capital to selecting the right franchisees, proactively taking these steps will help emerging brands find their footing.

6. Fran Funny: It’s inappropriate to make a “dad joke” if you’re not a dad. It’s a faux pa.

7. Franspiration: “I wouldn’t have found the success I have today if I wasn’t resilient and followed the money. Partnering with investors, being active in the business community and focusing on how you can evolve and better your brand are all key players to growing.” – Jennifer Beall Saxton, Founder and CEO of Tot Squad

8. Franemies vs. Frands: LTOs are proving to be a Frand for Taco Bell. In just five weeks, the brand sold 53 million orders of its new Nacho Fries. That level of popularity tops Taco Bell’s previous fan favorite, Doritos Locos Tacos. Because of the success of its Nacho Fries, Taco Bell is keeping the LTO on its menu through April. If this ordering momentum keeps up, Taco Bell is on pace to surpass its record of 100 million orders sold within 10 weeks of launching.