A Conversation With: Michael Mohammed of Chronic Tacos and Calvin McNeely of Runningboards Marketing

The coronavirus continues to have dire effects on businesses across the country, and the franchise industry is no exception. Franchisors across segments are strategizing new ways to support their franchisees, keep customers satisfied, help local communities and come out stronger on the other side of this crisis.

To that end, 1851 Franchise publisher Nick Powills and Charles Internicola, founder and partner of the Internicola Law* Firm, are covering the coronavirus and its impact on the franchising industry through our A Conversation With webinar series.

In today’s morning webinar, Powills and Internicola spoke with Chronic Tacos CEO Michael Mohammed and Runningboards Marketing President Calvin McNeely about how the franchising industry is responding to the crisis.

Here are some of the key insights from their discussion.

Adapting Quickly

Fast casual restaurants have been significantly affected by lockdowns and had to adapt quickly to offering only takeout and delivery. 

Using the Opportunity

Now that business has slowed down, this is a great time for brands to hone skill sets. 

Fast casual restaurants might need to reevaluate their models and see what changes they can make that will make operations more efficient. 

Community Involvement

This is an important time for brands to live up to their commitment to local communities. Neighbors, including small businesses, need to support each other, and those who play an active role will have a far better story to tell after this crisis than those who don’t. 

Employee Health 

Brands need to prioritize their employees, franchisees and the employees of their franchisees, and they need to make sure franchisees have the best information to protect themselves. Franchisors can help franchisees communicate with landlords, follow CDC protocols and negotiate with third-party delivery companies. 

A Stress Test

Think of COVID-19 as a stress test for businesses. It may expose some weaknesses and show where things can be improved at a leadership level. 

Brands are dealing with a lot of stress right now and need to zero in on survival. Look at yourself and at your business and see what is critical. Listen to franchisees and what they say about what is working and what is not working. Take advantage of the changes you can make at this time. 

This crisis shows brands where they are wasting their time. 

Focus on Franchisees

Surviving this crisis is ultimately all about franchisees. Make sure franchisees feel supported and focus primarily on their success. Stay creative and be willing to adapt quickly to the changing landscape. Lean in on your brand’s core values and purpose. 

And remember, the talent pool is growing. There are people who are hungry for their next opportunity.