Optimizing Restaurant Operations for Efficiency and Growth

Explore how Smalls Sliders is enhancing its operations through efficiency, culture, and training processes to meet the demands of rapid growth.

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Photo by Coppa Cover on Unsplash

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Photo by Coppa Cover on Unsplash

The Role of Julie Hauser-Blanner in Transforming Smalls Sliders

Julie Hauser-Blanner, the Chief Operations Officer at Smalls Sliders, has brought a wealth of experience from her tenure at prominent brands like European Wax Center, Front Burner Restaurants, Bonefish Grill, and Outback Steakhouse. Her transition to Smalls Sliders marked a shift as she ventured into the quick-service restaurant industry, driven by the brand's unique vision and disruptive approach.

Focus on Operational Efficiency

With over 300 units in development, the pressure on restaurant operations at Smalls Sliders is immense. Hauser-Blanner emphasizes the importance of efficiency in the compact kitchen spaces, where every square foot counts. The small footprint of the 'cans,' as the company refers to its modular restaurants, necessitates a meticulous focus on streamlining processes and optimizing space utilization.

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Photo by Coppa Cover on Unsplash

Cultivating a Strong Operational Culture

Hauser-Blanner recognizes the critical role of culture in maintaining operational coherence within the restaurants. Despite the limited menu offerings comprising cheeseburger sliders, fries, shakes, and drinks, the expectations for consistency and speed are exceptionally high. The Chief Operations Officer prioritizes fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork within the compact restaurant setups.

Training Processes and Continuous Improvement

To meet the demands of speed and consistency, Smalls Sliders is investing in robust training processes. The establishment of a new training center near headquarters indicates a commitment to enhancing employee skills, testing new products, and refining operational procedures. By engaging in proactive training initiatives, the brand aims to ensure readiness for rapid expansion while upholding quality standards.

Strategic Growth through Franchise Advisory Council

The recent launch of the Franchise Advisory Council signifies a strategic milestone for Smalls Sliders. This collaborative platform with franchisees allows for informed decision-making, accelerating the pace of new store openings. The shared enthusiasm surrounding the brand and its operational systems is propelling the company towards systematic and sustainable growth.

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