How did you get into the custard industry?
I’ve been in foodservice since I could work at 16 and Eddie’s has been open since 2006. I loved the brand and loved working with my family from the get go, it’s been a passion ever since and we run the brand and business model with the same energy and excitement we did on day one.
What’s New in the Business or in the Franchise Model?
We are creating new seasonal and LTO items almost monthly and welcoming new ideas all the time.
Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?
Opportunities: Frozen custard is still pretty new to the south, bringing awareness to the product produces new and loyal customers. Also, most of the bigger chains focus on the food instead of the frozen custard which is apparent in their quality.
Challenges: Like every other restaurant, the economy and inflation is an issue for all. We serve a premium product which comes with a premium price. Finding new ways to keep costs down and bring in new business is a challenge for most small businesses.
What is your Goal for the Business Moving Forward?
I would like to see a minimum of 5 new franchises in the next 2 to 3 years and possibly have a test location that could offer a full food menu as well, like a Culvers does, as long as the Frozen custard Quality is still upheld.
Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver?
I plan on being available as much as possible for training and support in the first year. If for some reason I am not available, I have a well trained Manager that I have been prepping to assist in Training if need be.
Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?
December and January every year slow down dramatically if you are in a commuter college town, people are spending on gifts, traveling and having Christmas parties/new year events. Proper planning and promoting combat this.
Define the Eddie’s Famous Frozen Custard Franchise Model:
A. Training and Support Model? We are completely focused on high quality training and support, we are big on wanting the customer experience and the product quality to be nothing short of exceptional in every market we open Eddie’s Locations. We train at the corporate location in Louisiana and onsite at the franchisee’s location, then there is ongoing support until the franchisee gets the business fully up, running and rocking and rolling.
B. What is the Fee Structure? Franchisees will pay a upfront franchise fee of $30,000 for the territory and training/support model and 6% of Gross Sales for a Franchise Royalty Fee.
C. Day in the life of a Franchisee? Franchisee will be operating in the services business, which comes with a lot of responsibility, time and energy, but it’s a load of fun. The people who come to Eddie’s come because they want to have a fun and would like a quick escape from the day to day grind and want to have some fun. People come to the stores because they WANT to be there, not because they have to be there!
What does Your Franchisee Do in the Business Every Day?
The franchisee will need to be working or have competent trained staff working daily. Making sure employees have what they need to run a successful shift is priority (ex. Change, product/paper goods, equipment) Making sure the business is serving high quality product, delivering great customer service and remaining profitable is expected.
Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?
The ideal candidate is someone who is self-motivated, organized and personable. Being able to keep good books and records as well as talking to customers and employees in an enthusiastic manner will aid in success.
What Goals Do You Have for the Franchise Model in the Future?
Long term, I would like to see the Eddie’s Famous Frozen Custard family extend across the south. We see so much opportunity for the brand and business model and want everyone who gets involved with us to be successful they way we have with the Eddie’s brand and great Custard Product.
For more information on the Eddie’s Famous Custard Franchise model, visit the franchise site:
https://eddiesfrozencustardfranchise.com/
Also, read more about the Eddie’s Franchise System here:
https://franchiseconsultants.live/tag/eddies-frozen-custard-franchise/