Why Starting a Restaurant Franchise Still Makes Sense

Restaurants were hit hard by COVID-19, but people still need to eat. Now, with the rollout of various vaccines and relaxing regulations on in-person gatherings making dining out a real option again, folks are looking forward to visiting their neighborhood eateries again. Learn why opening a restaurant franchise still makes sense in a post-COVID world.

Bouncing Back / The Road Ahead

There is no doubt that 2020 was a challenging year for the restaurant industry. But fast casual restaurants, and franchises in particular, were able to weather the storm better than others. Data from Yelp suggests that fast casual restaurant openings during the third quarter of 2020 were only ten percent less than the same period during the previous year. Certain counter-service franchises even reported positive year-over-year sales during the pandemic, according to QSR magazine.

There is good reason to be excited about the future with a restaurant franchise. The massive changes brought about by COVID-19 forced restaurants to adapt and develop new systems that will continue serving them moving forward. For those looking for a new career or investment opportunity, the right franchise provides the backing of a proven concept and a network of experts and fellow franchise owners to bring you into the fray. Additionally, the right restaurant franchise is prepared to fill the void left by so many unfortunate independent restaurant closures.

The Road Ahead

The International Franchise Association estimates that more than 26,000 restaurant franchise locations could be added this year, offsetting the declines seen in 2020. There are many reasons why franchises are still a vital investment opportunity. Franchisors have the built-in support systems and ability to develop various business channels on an expedited basis, even as dine-in capabilities have been limited.
So if you are interested in opening a franchise restaurant, you should identify a concept that not only aligns with your values and goals, but was able to handle the challenges of last year and is positioned to emerge stronger and better than ever.

Your Pie managed to continue prioritizing the guest experience over the past year through increasing digital marketing efforts, enhancing curbside pickup and delivery service, and offering limited-time deals, family meal specials, and take-and-bake options. As dining rooms now reopen, Your Pie is able to seamlessly shift their priorities to safely accommodate the return of in-store customers.

A Concept For The Ages

Of all the food categories that managed to gain popularity during the pandemic, pizza was at the top of the list. As the world reopens, delivery is still likely to remain a vital option, but more and more customers will seek out restaurants that provide them a fun, delicious reprieve from over a year spent with more limited options.

Your Pie founder Drew French knew the importance of enjoying a well-made meal with family and friends when he opened the first location in 2008. Your Pie gives customers the dining experience that hits all five senses, something we have all been craving. At each of our locations, diners are able to customize their pizzas with fresh, authentic ingredients, watch them topped on hand-tossed dough, then emerge hot and baked to perfection from our wood-fire ovens to be shared tableside.

As the nation’s first fast-casual pizza franchise and the fastest growing, Your Pie is now poised for further growth with like-minded prospective restauranteurs. Your Pie was recognized as one of QSR magazine’s “10 Best Franchise Deals of 2020” thanks to our low start-up costs, unique concept, loyal customer base, and dedication to franchisees.

With open territories in all 48 lower United States, now is the perfect time to make your restaurant dreams a reality with Your Pie. Visit us to learn more about franchising opportunities near you.