To be truly successful, owners of multi-unit independent restaurant companies must feel free to leave the office and their restaurants — either for a vacation or simply for a day for some creative brainstorming time — without worrying. They need to know that the people surrounding them can be trusted to do what is best … Continued
Not long ago I had lunch with a respected industry leader who is well known in his market for his career-long success in restaurant ownership over two different brands. Over that time, he has experienced more than his share of peaks and valleys. We were in one of his most successful restaurants, talking about my … Continued
Opportunity allows you to have a chance to successfully grow the multi-unit independent restaurant company you own, building your net worth and the quality of your life. When your organization is surrounded by opportunity, an element of excitement about the future permeates your organization. The best operators can see and feel it with senior management, … Continued
Capability is the first key factor to having a business that allows you to maximize its value, your net worth, and the quality, flexibility, and enjoyment of your life. My research shows that when you add capability to the other key factors, opportunity and strategy and surround that with an atmosphere of trust, you can … Continued
People often ask me to explain the many issues that face owners of successful multi-unit growing independent restaurant companies. If I had to distill all the conversations I have had with restaurateurs over the years down to one question, my choice would be obvious: “What is the difference between an independent restaurant company that has … Continued
Now is always the right time to put together and start acting immediately on a great plan to increase revenue, profit, and the overall value of your successful multi-unit independent restaurant company. You know what would make a huge impact in your business, because it has been sloshing around in your head forever. This is … Continued
“Butts in seats”. There are a lot of things we don’t say any more. We don’t say “waitress,” we don’t say “smoking or non-smoking,” and we certainly don’t say “cash register.” Nevertheless there are people out there who still say, “butts in seats,” as in, “All we need is more butts in seats” or, “When … Continued
People always talk about a possible restaurant bubble. It is human nature to worry about things that may impact our livelihoods. Owners of independent restaurant companies wonder, “Does the bubble exist? Is it about to burst? What happens when it does?” A couple of years ago, the question really took on a life of its … Continued
Every night, before my daughter goes to sleep, I tell her, “Always be yourself.” I know that — when she knows who she is — shiny objects will not distract her. I deliver a similar message to independent restaurant company owners. Oprah Winfrey made billions helping people “live their best life.” You can make millions … Continued
My brother from Seattle, visiting me in Dallas, once asked me, “Does anyone in Dallas ever open a restaurant that is not a prototype for expansion?” He was being a little critical, a little incredulous, and also, I think, just really wanted to eat at a restaurant where someone had poured their heart into the … Continued