The Success Story of Old School Bagel: From New York Style to Franchising
Explore how Old School Bagel transformed from a local favorite to a successful franchise, revolutionizing the bagel industry.
Crafting a Unique Bagel Experience
Old School Bagel's success story begins with Danny Cowan's innovative approach to bagel-making, introducing the New York-style boiling method to Middle America. By boiling the bagels for 60 seconds before baking, Cowan achieved a perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a soft interior, setting the brand apart from traditional bagel-making techniques in the region.
Cultivating a Community-Centric Culture
One of the key factors that propelled Old School Bagel to fame was its dedication to building strong relationships with its customers. The founders prioritized creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests felt like part of a family. They personalized service by memorizing customer names and preferences, fostering a 'Cheers' atmosphere where everyone felt at home.
Innovating Menu Offerings for All Dayparts
Old School Bagel's menu innovation didn't stop at traditional bagel options. By offering a diverse range of breakfast and lunch items, the brand captured a wide audience throughout the day. From classic breakfast sandwiches to unique lunch creations like the Old Smokey, Cuban, or Turkey Avocado, Old School Bagel catered to different tastes, enticing customers to return for more.
Strategic Growth and Brand Evolution
After years of steady growth, Old School Bagel underwent a significant transformation, doubling in unit size and implementing a new loyalty program to enhance customer engagement. The brand's emphasis on consistency and technology upgrades further solidified its position in the market, allowing for a seamless experience across all locations.
The Journey to Franchising Excellence
Recognizing the potential for expansion beyond Oklahoma City, Joey Conerly spearheaded the franchise program for Old School Bagel. By leveraging his franchising expertise, Conerly meticulously designed a scalable model, catering to single and multi-unit franchisees who shared the brand's passion for community and service. This strategic move paved the way for Old School Bagel to introduce its concept to a wider audience.
Focused Expansion Strategy
Despite widespread interest, Old School Bagel prioritized a measured approach to expansion, concentrating on neighboring states to ensure operational efficiency and support for franchisees. By awarding franchises in strategic locations and refining its corporate operations, the brand aimed to maintain quality and profitability as it embarked on its franchising journey.