Chestnut Hero of Central

Chestnut Hero of Central Park

Bob used a book called, The InsiderÁs Guide to Franchising Webster, B. 1986 Amacom, New York to help him review his offer. Carl was mentored by a successful friend in the restaurant business who helped him think things through. They developed their business plans and opened their doors. The first year was tough for both businesses. Miscalculations and errors sent both owners reeling. At first Carl knew nothing about preparing and serving food. ÁThe restaurant was overstaffed and overpaid. I felt held hostage by the people who worked for me. Things were pretty shaky there for awhile. Some days I wondered if we could open the doors. Á Bob got overwhelmed with paperwork and screwed up his accounting records. ÁPlus I went crazy at Vendormart. I bought four times as much inventory as I should have. Nowadays the franchise pairs successful stores and newbies so that doesnÁt happen, but those safeguards werenÁt in place back then. Á In September BobÁs store will celebrate its tenth anniversary. It has been recognized three times among the Top 30 Most-Improved stores. In February and June of this year his store was number 2 out of 320 in overall sales. Carl was advised that heÁd know if the restaurant would make it within four years. It was clear after three that theyÁd be fine. Today after seven years theyÁre looking to expand. ÁWeÁre not getting rich but weÁre self-supporting, and the relationships are priceless. Á What advice do they have in hindsight for Dean and others like him? Bob says, ÁFind what you love and create your opportunity. Be willing to changeÁbe retooled. DonÁt get stuck in a rut.