How did you get into the meal preparation industry?
We started doing meal prep for the members of our small gym as a way to help them eat better and to earn some extra income. My wife and our Co-founder, Teresa has always loved to cook and to meal prep. We love the market space, love helping people eat and live better and just always felt that this market segment had so much potential so we jumped in with Empower Meal Prep and the rest is history!
What’s New in the Business or in the Empower Meal Prep Franchise Model?
While meal prep and delivery is nothing new the industry is dominated by big companies that ship food. We are a local company whose primary mission is to provide a high quality product and amazing customer service. There is a very big need in the industry for this model and we feel that the way we approach the market is unique and offers a lot of competitive advantages when compared to the rest of the market.
Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?
The bigger big companies get the bigger the NEED for smaller companies becomes. As the Hello Freshes and Blue Aprons of the world get bigger so does the need to for a similar service that is local.
The biggest challenge (which I would argue is also the biggest opportunity) for this model is that it is untested and unproven.
What is your Goal for the Business Moving Forward?
The obvious goal is to expand our business model all across the country via franchisees. It is our personal goal to bring on board 1 new franchise per month for the next 5 years. We see such a great market on the consumer side of the meal preparation industry and the franchise model was the best way for us to scale the brand and get market coverage in more areas.
Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver?
We plan on supporting the franchises from the beginning. Each new location will have it’s own unique challenges and opportunities and I plan on walking beside all locations to get them not just up and running, but also thriving for years and years.
I will visit each location to get them stared then continue to support locations via weekly Zoom calls and communication as needed.
Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?
The most difficult moment so far has been pulling the trigger and taking the gamble to get started. Like most new adventures, there’s always some hesitation, but we are so confident in our decision to scale. We love the market and really feel that we can help others be successful as new business owners using our brand and system.
Define your Franchise Model:
A. Training and Support Model?
We will provide in person support both at the franchisees location and at our home location in Eustis, FL. We also plan on providing ongoing support via Zoom and phone / text.
B. What is the Fee Structure?
$35,000 franchise fee. 5% royalty.
C. Territory Definition?
Franchisees have a territory in an approximately 25 miles radius of their location.
D. Day in the life of a Franchisee?
Cook days are 6-8 hours of preparing and packaging meals. Non-cook days will be 1-3 hours or marking and or planning.
What does Your Franchisee Do in the Business Every Day?
Marketing, Networking, Promoting and Managing the Operating Systems. It’s a fun business, but requires focus, a dedicated effort and a core belief in what we do for people.
Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?
A hard working and driving individual or couple who have a heart for helping others. Experience in the food service industry is recommended but not required. We feel that small gym owners, caterers, former restaurant owners, cooks, and chefs are a great fit.
Success Stories and Failures with Franchisees?
This is my first franchise. Failure is NOT an option for US or for our Franchise Partners.
What Goals Do You Have for the Franchise Model in the Future?
Help 1 new franchisee per month for 5 years.
For more information on the Empower Meal Prep franchise model, visit the corporate site:
https://empowermealprepfranchise.com/