The 8 | May 19, 2017

1. Frantastic: We’ve all been there—you forget your password, type and retype every variation of it imaginable, only to realize that it’s escaped your memory. But then when you go to reset it, your account tells you that your new password can’t match your old one. Watch this week’s edition of “The 8” to see how we feel about this annoying—yet seemingly unavoidable—online security issue.

2. Franlebrity: This week’s Franlebrity and 1851 cover star is Mike Speck, COO of The Halal Guys. After starting out as a New York City food cart, the brand is now expanding through franchising. But even as it grows, it’s committed to retaining its food cart charm. Speck says that in order to remain authentic, The Halal Guys is focused on working with franchisees who are truly members of their local communities. To learn more about how the brand is establishing a strong presence across the country, head to 1851.

3. Frash Money: WORKOUT ANYTIME’s scalable and sustainable business model is helping it stand out from the crowd as the fitness segment of the franchising industry continues to bring in Frash Money. It all comes back to the brand’s mission: “Think big. Keep it simple. Do it with integrity.” By tapping into consumer demand and creating a system that people want to be a part of, WORKOUT ANYTIME is setting itself up for success.

4. Frant of the Week: No Limit Agency* CEO Nick Powills is continuing his series on the truth about franchise development for this week’s Frant. He highlights the fact that 80 percent of franchise deals come from referrals, and that franchisees are the best referral sources out there. Brands need passionate validators and positive experiences in order to move forward. That’s why it’s important to work closely with your local owners.

5. Franch Forward: Not only is Ruby’s Diner Franching Forward by expanding beyond its California roots, the brand is also tapping into the latest in restaurant technology. Ruby’s, which is known for its signature 1940’s style in addition to its burgers, fries and milkshakes, is establishing a nationwide presence by partnering with new franchisees. And to reach more consumers than ever before, it’s teaming up with delivery apps like UberEATS and Amazon Restaurants.

6. Fran Funny: There’s a Kickstarter campaign that’s trying to make RompHims—rompers for bros—the next big thing in men’s fashion. There’s no punchline here…the rompers take care of that all on their own.

7. Franspiration: “The only way that we’re going to be successful in the long run is if we’re building on a solid foundation. And in order to capitalize on that strong momentum, we have to be true partners with our franchisees. Without their feedback and input on the day-to-day operations taking place at MOOYAH restaurants across the country, we would be amiss.” – Jessica Wescott, vice president of development and finance for MOOYAH Burgers, fries & Shakes

8. Frands vs. Franemies: It’s no secret that everyone loves saving a little cash. That’s why brand discounts and special promotions are our Frand this week. However, a new study from RetailMeNot shows that some discounts attract different customers. Gen Xers, for example, prefer to see price cuts on Mexican food, while millennials would rather take advantage of a burger brand’s special offer. But one in three restaurant goers will check potential discounts before deciding where to eat, proving that brand discounts are making a difference.