2024’s Top Women in Franchising: Samantha Rincione

The Franchise Leader: Samantha Rincione

The Company: Crave Hot Dogs and BBQ

1851 Franchise talked with Samantha Rincione, founder and CEO of Crave Hot Dogs and BBQ, about her journey in franchising, her accomplishments in the industry, and the strategies she suggests for franchisors looking to empower and support female franchisees this year.

1851 Franchise: Can you share your journey to becoming a leader in franchising?

Rincione: When I was 22, I found the franchise Red Mango Yogurt and Smoothies. I enjoyed the product and the brand itself. I purchased my first location and within three years I quickly had 10 locations. I became very interested, not only in the franchisee side of the business, but also the franchisor side, I thought it was very intriguing. I also co-founded a company called Emerging Franchises. We would assist younger brands in their startup procedures, sales, management and design. I enjoyed working with younger brands and not only helping, but watching them grow and thrive. My husband and I had been in the food and franchise industry most of his career and all mine, so we decided to found Crave. The goal was to found a company where it was a family-friendly environment — where there was something for everyone, with delicious food and offerings. Now, at 35 years old, I have accomplished that goal. 

1851 Franchise: What are the unique challenges and opportunities for women in franchising?

Rincione: Being a woman in the franchising world is interesting, to say the least. Personally, I love meeting other women entrepreneurs and business owners. There’s always insight and stories to share. I tend to think women can be more open with each other and genuinely want to see other women grow and succeed. I have noticed at times men may not take women seriously, but they should — we are a force to be reckoned with. Years ago, I found it to be more of a problem to be heard and seen. However, as the years go on, I am finding it easier as more women are starting to be in lead roles, especially in the food and franchising industry.

1851 Franchise: How do you define success in your role?

Rincione: Success, to me, is defined by continuous growth of our company. Signing additional franchisees for brick-and-mortar units as well as food trucks across the country. Also, for existing franchisees to meet their sales goals. Brand awareness is also very big; we put a big emphasis as a younger company to make our name known. We want to be “Craved” across the country. Seeing our franchisees’ growth with the brand growth as we spread across the nation with delicious food, self-pour beer and ax throwing means the world to me.  

1851 Franchise: What advice would you give to franchisors looking to support and empower female franchisees?

Rincione: Do it! Women tend to be very detail oriented. I’m always an advocate to hear franchisees' opinions and ideas, whether male or female. The more ideas and eyes on things, the better, and the better we can grow.

1851 Franchise: What advice do you have for any women aiming to enter the franchise industry?

Rincione: Do your research! Know the brands that you would be working with and meet them beforehand. Make sure they follow the same values as you and are open to ideas and initiatives.  Never stay silent and always be open to others opinions.

1851 Franchise: Is there anything else you think our audience should know?

Rincione: In franchising, it is important to be innovative. With Crave, one of the things I always push for is innovation. The times change and your brand should grow with the times. You don’t want to become stagnant and lose your customer base. We are always innovating at Crave. Also surround yourself with people that will make you better. I believe I am a better leader because of the people I have chosen to lead and help me run this company. We are a Crave Family.