Podcast Summary: "What Makes a Great Franchisor with Jennifer Stripling"

Podcast Information:

• Title: RESTAURANT STRATEGY
• Host: Chip Klose
• Guest: Jennifer Stripling, Chief Development Officer for Walk Ons Sports Bistro, and Brandon Landry
• Release Date: June 23, 2025

1. Introduction of Guests

At the outset [04:04], Chip Klose introduces Jennifer Stripling as the Chief Development Officer for Walk Ons Sports Bistro, a well-established brand with 21 years in the industry and over 70 franchise-owned locations. Alongside Jennifer, Brandon Landry, a key figure in the organization, joins the conversation to provide deeper insights into franchising within the restaurant sector.

2. The Foundations of Walk Ons Sports Bistro

Brandon Landry provides a comprehensive background on Walk Ons Sports Bistro [05:53]. He describes the brand as an elevated sports restaurant focused on making all food from scratch, fostering a family-friendly sports environment. Originating 21 years ago from a chance idea by former LSU basketball players Brandon Landry and Jack Warner, the brand has grown to over 80 locations by maintaining its core values and commitment to quality.

Brandon Landry [05:53]: "Walk Ons Sports Bistro is an elevated sports restaurant. We make all of our food from scratch... To your point, we have 80 plus locations, we are still crafting our menu items from scratch along with a very large bar."

3. Transition to Franchising: Challenges and Strategies

Jennifer delves into the essence of franchising, emphasizing the importance of aligning expectations between franchisors and franchisees to ensure mutual success [19:21]. Brandon echoes this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of a collaborative relationship rather than a top-down approach.

4. What Makes a Great Franchisor

Brandon outlines the critical attributes of an effective franchisor [14:02]:

• Support and Partnership:

  "It's having that partner that... is truly an expert in their field that can help them and create that collaborative experience."

• Continuous Engagement:

  "We don't just hand over a binder or a link. We stay in regular contact, providing ongoing support and guidance."

• Adaptability and Iteration: Brandon emphasizes the need for franchisors to evolve alongside industry changes, ensuring that the brand remains relevant and competitive.

5. What Makes a Great Franchisee

Jennifer poses a pivotal question about identifying successful franchisees [16:26]. Brandon responds by detailing the qualities Walk Ons seeks in franchisees [16:37]:

• Experience in Casual and Fine Dining: Understanding the dynamics of a full-service restaurant is crucial.
• Ability to Manage a Diverse Staff: From hosts and bartenders to kitchen staff, effective management across all roles is essential.
• Thriving in High-Pressure Environments: The ability to handle busy periods without compromising service quality.

Brandon Landry [16:37]: "What we look for at Walk Ons is someone that has casual and fine dining experience and can understand those dynamics."

6. The Role of Data in Franchise Management

Jennifer and Brandon discuss the transformative role of data in managing franchises [24:19]. Brandon highlights how Walk Ons leverages data to inform decisions, from real estate evaluations to operational efficiencies.

Brandon Landry [24:19]: "Our decisions are only as good as the information we use to make those decisions... We use data to educate them on their keys to success."

Jennifer complements this by explaining how identifying opportunities through data analysis can drive performance improvements.

7. Adapting to Post-Pandemic Changes: Footprint and Efficiency

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on how the pandemic has reshaped restaurant operations [32:40]. Brandon explains Walk Ons' strategic shift from 10,000-square-foot buildings to more efficient 5,500-square-foot prototypes, accommodating changing customer behaviors and operational demands.

Brandon Landry [34:27]: "We don't need a 10,000 square foot building to create that experience. We now have a new prototype that is 5,500 square feet."

This change not only reduces overhead costs but also enhances flexibility in operations, allowing for quicker adjustments to market demands.

8. Training and Support Systems for Franchisees

Jennifer inquires about the onboarding and continuous support provided to franchisees [19:47]. Brandon outlines Walk Ons' comprehensive training program, which includes:

• Extensive Training Period: General managers undergo 9 to 12 weeks of training, gaining hands-on experience across multiple certified training restaurants.
• Dedicated Support Teams: Local marketing leads, culinary experts, and franchise business partners work closely with each franchisee to address specific needs and challenges.

Brandon Landry [19:47]: "We stress that level of support. I don't ever want them to feel like they're on an island by themselves."

9. Emphasis on Brand Evolution and Continuous Improvement

Jennifer underscores the importance of continual iteration and adaptation within franchising [41:45]. Brandon shares Walk Ons' commitment to innovation, illustrated by their holistic approach to brand evolution, including menu refinement and aesthetic updates.

Brandon Landry [37:56]: "We have a new prototype... We put them in the bullpen until we can fine-tune them."

This proactive approach ensures that the brand remains dynamic and responsive to both industry trends and consumer preferences.

10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In wrapping up, Brandon invites listeners to engage with Walk Ons through visits, events, and franchising inquiries [41:51]. Jennifer appreciates the insights shared, highlighting the value of evolving and supporting franchisees in a changing landscape.

Brandon Landry [41:51]: "Reach out to us through walkonssportsbistrofranchising.com and or I can be found on LinkedIn. Give me a shout and happy to answer any questions you have."

Notable Quotes:

• Brandon Landry [14:02]: "It's having that partner that... is truly an expert in their field that can help them and create that collaborative experience."
• Brandon Landry [24:19]: "Our decisions are only as good as the information we use to make those decisions."
• Brandon Landry [34:27]: "We don't need a 10,000 square foot building to create that experience."

Key Takeaways:

• Successful franchising hinges on robust support systems and collaborative relationships between franchisors and franchisees.
• Utilizing data effectively can drive informed decision-making and identify growth opportunities.
• Adapting operational footprints and embracing efficiency is crucial in response to post-pandemic market shifts.
• Continuous brand evolution ensures relevance and competitiveness in a dynamic industry.

For more insights and franchising opportunities with Walk Ons Sports Bistro, visit walkonssportsbistrofranchising.com or connect with Brandon Landry on LinkedIn.