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Unveiling the Secrets of Restaurant Franchising with Lynette McKee from Potbelly Sandwich Works

Discover insights from Lynette McKee, senior vice president of franchising at Potbelly Sandwich Works, as she shares her thoughts on the state of restaurant franchising and the opportunities within the industry.

Updated On Aug. 10, 2024 Published Aug. 10, 2024

Anastasia Ivers

Anastasia Ivers

woman in black sleeveless shirt holding white ceramic plate

Photo by Hillshire Farm on Unsplash

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1628191078380-40ee187b92fb?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxQb3RiZWxseSUyMFNhbmR3aWNoJTIwV29ya3N8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTcyMzIxOTQ1MXww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Hillshire Farm on Unsplash

The State of Restaurant Franchising

Restaurant franchising has been a key driver of growth and expansion within the foodservice industry. It offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to run their own businesses under an established brand with proven systems and support. Lynette McKee's extensive experience in the franchising world provides valuable insights into the current landscape.

Opportunities in Legacy Brands like Potbelly Sandwich Works

Legacy brands, like Potbelly Sandwich Works, present unique opportunities for franchising due to their established customer base and brand recognition. Lynette McKee recognized the potential in Potbelly and its legacy as a beloved sandwich chain, making it an attractive option for franchisees looking to align with a well-known brand.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1628191079308-6183b016b3df?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8UG90YmVsbHklMjBTYW5kd2ljaCUyMFdvcmtzfGVufDB8MHx8fDE3MjMyMTk0NTF8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Hillshire Farm on Unsplash

Challenges and Advantages of Franchising

While franchising offers many benefits, such as established brand awareness and support from the franchisor, it also comes with challenges. Franchisees need to adhere to strict operational guidelines set by the brand, maintaining consistency across locations. However, this structure provides a framework for success and can lead to higher success rates compared to independent startups.

Lynette McKee's Insights on Restaurant Innovations

In her interview, Lynette McKee shared thoughts on restaurant innovations, emphasizing the importance of leadership, keeping up with food trends, and leveraging technology. These aspects play a crucial role in the success of franchise operations, ensuring that businesses remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.