How to Succeed as a Multi-Unit Franchisee: Steve Isom, Jiffy Lube

Isom is the operator of 34 Jiffy Lube locations. Here’s how he grew a successful franchise portfolio.

By Luca Piacentini1851 Franchise Managing Editor

Updated 9:09AM • 06/14/21

Steve Isom is the executive vice president for Stonebriar Auto Services, LLC and a multi-unit Jiffy Lube franchisee focused on building Jiffy Lube Multicare locations across the country from the ground up.

Isom came to franchising with a background in the automotive industry, where he worked as the division vice president for Take 5 Oil Change, overseeing store operations and profitability in the company's southern division. Isom had always wanted to become a business owner himself and when he found the opportunity to invest in Jiffy Lube, he knew it was the perfect fit. Now, overseeing 34 Jiffy Lube Multicare locations across the country, Isom is a true multi-unit expert.

When it comes to what makes him a successful multi-unit operator, Isom says it is all about bringing on the right team members. “You need to be sure that you are hiring leadership and employees who reflect your values so that when you grow to more locations, your mission statement doesn’t get diluted,” he said.

Isom says franchisees looking to expand their portfolio need to hire that leadership sooner rather than later to ensure everyone is on the same page from day one. “My advice is to bring in the necessary leadership a little on the early side so that they can fully understand what is important to you,” he said. “This will ensure you can open multiple locations successfully.”

If a franchisor is looking to grow by signing multi-unit franchisees, he says they need to offer support and be diligent about who they let into the system.

“In addition to making sure prospects are financially qualified, franchisors should also be sure they will represent the brand the right way,” Isom said. “Financials are important, but there is just so much more that will determine how a prospect will represent your brand moving forward. For example, franchisees need to be able to adapt to the challenges that will inevitably come up. While it is impossible to have a crystal ball, it is still important to do your best in the due diligence of learning about the incoming prospect and how they've led other businesses to determine whether or not they are the right fit.”

Watch the full interview above, or click here to watch it on YouTube.

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