Why Multi-Unit Operators Should Invest in Brands with Flexible Real Estate Options

Despite the challenges that have been brought upon the restaurant landscape these past several years, the industry has thrived with innovation across all categories. As a result, the level of competition between foodservice brands looking to expand their footprints has naturally increased. My team quickly learned that diversifying our portfolio with different real estate models was a critical part of adapting to the ever-evolving market. 

The market is rich with everything from traditional dining room formats in varying sizes to walk-up and drive-thru only prototypes and non-traditional spaces that fit within C-Stores, airports and universities. I first entered the foodservice industry in 2013, owning and operating Steak and Shake locations in Auburn, Alabama, before transitioning my business to Captain D’s in 2018. We targeted the Greater Atlanta region because the brand already had a major presence in Georgia, which made me even more comfortable exploring the different prototype…