APRIL 2024 ISSUE

In the fast-paced world of professional basketball, success on the court is often measured by points scored and championships won. But for NBA star Kyle Kuzma, success extends far beyond the hardwood. As an entrepreneur and investor, Kuzma is making waves in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry with his investment in Mahana Fresh, a fast-casual dining concept that is redefining the way we think about healthy, flavorful food on the go. From the Court to the Kitchen: Kyle Kuzma's Entrepreneurial Journey Kyle Kuzma's rise to stardom in the NBA is well-documented. From his standout college career at the University of Utah Utes and was named first-team all-conference in the Pac-12 as a junior in 2016–17. Kuzma was selected in the first round of the 2017 NBA draft with the 27th overall pick, and he was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018. He won an NBA championship with the Lakers in 2020 before being traded to the Wizards in 2021. Kuzma has captivated fans with his dynamic playing style and relentless work ethic. But off the court, Kuzma is equally driven by his passion for entrepreneurship and business. In 2023, Kuzma made headlines when he announced his investment in Mahana Fresh, a burgeoning QSR concept that caught his attention with its focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients and customizable bowls. For Kuzma, the decision to invest in Mahana Fresh was a natural fit, aligning with his personal commitment to health and wellness and his desire to make a positive impact in the communities he serves. In addition the growth that Mahana has experienced has been phenomenal. Over 65 units were placed since Kuzma came on board. “We were fortunate to meet Kyle through our relationship with Global Influencers Group, an organization that connects outstanding talent with meaningful franchise opportunities” said Wood “They are an outstanding group that is the only organization of their kind in the franchise world” Meet Mahana Fresh: A QSR Concept with a Difference Mahana Fresh is not your typical fast-food joint. Founded in 2019 by entrepreneur Dave Wood, Mahana Fresh is on a mission to revolutionize the QSR industry by offering a fresh, healthy alternative to traditional fast food. At Mahana Fresh, customers can build their own bowls, starting with a base of rice, noodles, or greens, and adding a variety of proteins, vegetables, and flavorful sauces to create a customized meal that suits their tastes and dietary preferences. But what sets Mahana Fresh apart from other QSR concepts is its commitment to quality and transparency. Every ingredient is carefully sourced from local farmers and suppliers, ensuring freshness and flavor in every bite. And with a focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship, Mahana Fresh is dedicated to minimizing its impact on the planet, from using eco-friendly packaging to implementing energy-efficient practices in its restaurants. Kyle Kuzma's Impact on Mahana Fresh: A Slam Dunk for Success Since joining forces with Mahana Fresh, Kyle Kuzma has been instrumental in driving the company's growth and success. With his star power and business acumen, Kuzma has helped raise awareness of the Mahana Fresh brand and expand its reach to new markets across the country. But Kuzma's involvement with Mahana Fresh goes beyond just financial investment. As a hands-on partner, Kuzma has been actively involved in shaping the company's vision and strategy, lending his expertise and insights to help guide its growth and development. From collaborating on menu innovations to participating in marketing campaigns and community outreach initiatives, Kuzma is fully committed to helping Mahana Fresh achieve its goals and objectives. As part of this commitment, Kuzma will be a franchisee opening four restaurants in 2024. The first of those will open in Gainesville VA in April. He has already signed leases for three more and will open restaurant number two in June. The Future of Mahana Fresh: Expansion and Growth With Kyle Kuzma's support and guidance, Mahana Fresh is poised for continued success and expansion in the years to come. The company recently announced plans to open new locations in key markets across the country, including Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City, as well as international markets in Dubai, Asia and Europe. But beyond just growing its footprint, Mahana Fresh remains committed to its core values of quality, sustainability, and community engagement. Whether it's partnering with local farmers and suppliers to source the freshest ingredients or supporting charitable organizations and community initiatives, Mahana Fresh is dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities it serves. A Recipe for Success with Mahana Fresh As Kyle Kuzma continues to make a name for himself in the NBA, his success off the court with Mahana Fresh serves as a shining example of the power of entrepreneurship and investment in the QSR industry. With its focus on fresh, healthy ingredients and customizable menu options, Mahana Fresh is redefining the fast-casual dining experience and setting a new standard for excellence in the QSR industry. As Mahana Fresh continues to grow and expand its reach, Kyle Kuzma and Dave Wood’s partnership with the company is sure to be a slam dunk for success, both on and off the court.

Seema Govil, a prominent figure in the realms of media and franchising, has been honored as one of the Top 20 Global Women of Excellence during the 12th Congressional International Women's Day celebration at Capitol Hill, Washington D.C. Presented by United States Congressman Danny K. Davis, alongside Representatives Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Delia Ramirez, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Representative Shri Thanedar, and American Multiethnic Coalition's President Dr. Vijay G. Prabhakar, this esteemed award acknowledges Seema's remarkable contributions.  Hailing from New Delhi, India, Seema proudly stands as the sole recipient of this prestigious award, representing not only women globally but also the Indian community and the state of Texas. The ceremony, held on March 6th, 2024, spotlighted Seema's inspiring leadership and notable achievements. Seema expressed her joy and Gratitude and the honor of meeting some phenomenal women. Adding to the moment's significance, Seema was presented with a medal signed by Representative Danny K. Davis. Reflecting on this additional honor, she remarked, "I was deeply touched by the additional honor bestowed upon me by Representative Danny K. Davis. It further affirms the significance of this incredible achievement." Dedicating the award to her mother, Mrs Pushpa Madan, on Women's Day, Seema emphasized her mother's profound influence and unwavering inspiration throughout her journey. She attributed her success to her mother's legacy of core values—Education, Giving, and Gratitude. Seema Govil is renowned for her dynamic presence in business and media. Since 2013, she has been co-president of the India Franchise Council and the founder and CEO of Cosmo City Media, a full-service PR and media agency in Austin. Seema specializes in targeting the South Asian demographic. Her expertise in franchising extends to seminars, trade shows, and panel moderation. She guides individuals interested in franchising through discerning and choosing the perfect franchise, facilitating their journey to becoming part of a franchise organization. As a TV Asia anchor with an eleven-year tenure, Seema has covered diverse topics ranging from South Asian success stories to spirituality, arts, lifestyle, healthcare, politics, and business. Additionally, she hosts the Fablife360 podcast, showcasing uplifting stories from celebrities and ordinary individuals striving to achieve their dreams. Seema's philanthropic endeavors include active participation in nonprofit boards and film festivals. Her impactful documentary, "Let's Rewrite Their Story," produced for Akshaya Patra kitchens in India, is a powerful tool for raising awareness and supporting the cause. Seema's commitment is further evident through her advisory role at Akshaya Patra Austin. As an alumna of the Leadership Austin program and a dedicated franchise coach, Seema remains steadfast in mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, leveraging her experiences to contribute positively to the community. For reaching out to Seema directly, please email her at 512 762 7387 or email at Seema@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Have you ever dreamed of owning your own business? If so, Greco Fresh Grille is the perfect franchise opportunity for you. Offering franchise opportunities throughout the United States, Greco Fresh Grille is an established restaurant chain with a proven track record of success. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and delicious food, this franchise offers an unbeatable combination of value and quality. Why Choose Greco Fresh Grille? Greco Fresh Grille has been around since 2003 and has been steadily growing ever since. The company strives to provide customers with delicious food made from the freshest ingredients available. All meals are made to order and come in the form of sandwiches, salads, wraps, flatbreads, platters, burgers and more. The menu also features many healthy options such as low-carb meals and gluten-free dishes. Plus unit-economics the will check even the most savvy investors boxes. With a low cost of entry and a documented eye-popping earnings claim you will want to learn more about Greco Fresh Franchises! In addition to providing great food at reasonable prices, Greco Fresh Grille also offers excellent franchising opportunities for those interested in owning their own business. By joining a Greco Fresh Grille franchise, you will be part of a larger organization that provides access to resources such as marketing support, training programs and operational assistance that can help maximize profits while minimizing risk. Furthermore, each location is tailored to its local market in order to ensure maximum success within that particular community. What Does it Take to Become a Franchisee? The process for becoming a Greco Fresh Grille franchisee is straightforward and designed to help you succeed from day one. First off, all potential franchisees must attend an informational seminar where they can learn about the company’s history as well as its current operations. Following this seminar there is an application process during which all documents must be filled out accurately and submitted for review by the franchising team at Greco Fresh Grille headquarters in Charlotte, N.C. Once approved for franchising candidates will then be required to complete certain training courses before officially opening their store locations. If you have been searching for the perfect business opportunity then look no further than Greco Fresh Grille! With its established reputation among customers and its extensive support system for franchises this company has everything you need to succeed as a business owner. So why wait? Invest in a Greco Fresh Grille today! For more information on a Greco Fresh Grille Franchise please contact Michael Stavrinakis at mstav@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Every city and town across America needs to have quality Italian food in their community. Families love “Italian Night”. Well, let me introduce you to Graffiti Pasta. Graffiti Pasta is self-described as a fast casual/dining pasta restaurant and cocktail bar concept specializing in Italian street food and craft cocktails. You can build your own pasta bowl or choose from their house favorites like Pasquini Linguine, Rasta Pasta followed by a slice of Ma’s New York Style Cheesecake. The menu is classic and creative at the same time. And now Graffiti Pasta is preparing to launch its franchise program starting in 2024 and seeking candidates in Texas and surrounding states. But the real story is in how Graffiti Pasta came to be. Founder and professional restauranteur Anthony Morel comes from true Italian roots. Anthony’s father is from Torino, Italy and his mother is from Sicily. They were all taught to cook by his maternal grandmother who left the family with a receipt book. From marinara and pesto sauces to cheesecakes and Italian wedding cookies, Nona’s recipes live on. As for Anthony, he has over 26 years of restaurant experience. Like many restauranteurs, he started washing dishes and worked his way up to GM. He later helped create, operate and sell a handful of other concepts. After exiting these partnerships he acquired a neighborhood restaurant in Celina, TX only to be punched by a global pandemic. Working against the greatest of odds, and with the support of his lovely bride Sara, he successfully opened theNookCKMC in March of 2020 and never looked back. This Italian-themed restaurant was always a passion project and an idea to create a menu that used fresh, old-world family recipes with an artistic flair, and to blend that rich, Italian family history with modern pop culture. The result was Graffiti Pasta. Graffiti Pasta opened April 2022 and been a huge success. The first space served up to 39 guests and lines were forming nightly. It was decorated by local artists who “tagged” the walls to create a street atmosphere. The team expanded seating into the basement, a former live music venue, to serve an additional 40 guests at a time. Today, with the addition of catering, take-out and 3rd party delivery, the City of Denton, TX is treated nightly by a friendly staff serving great food in an eclectic environment like no other. Further, he’s created a model ready for growth and expansion. In 2024 Graffiti Pasta will be expanding its footprint following a traditional franchise approach and a splash of new thinking. The world is evolving and demand for new concepts and new flavors is in demand. Graffiti Pasta stands at the forefront of splash and stepping up to bring that flair to a town near you. For more information, visit www.graffitipasta.com or follow them on Facebook and Instragram. The journey is just beginning. About the Author Rudy Frederico is a 30-year veteran of franchising with over 800 units to his credit. He is uniquely qualified to help his clients identify and secure their best-fit franchise. Contact Rudy at rudy@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Recently, I reconnected with a Naval Academy classmate and one of the most wildly successful motivational speakers in the world for business leadership and growth strategies, Mary Kelly. We had a wonderful time comparing stories about our respective ‘journeys’ in and out of the Navy and our experience working in, with and for various franchisors. What follows’ is an edited transcript (reach out to me directly if you’d like the full version of the article) of our discussion that will resonate both with veterans AND non-veterans considering the purchase of a franchise as the next step in their professional careers: Steve:  Mary, so much seems to be changing in the business environment. How do you see these impacting franchised businesses? Mary: The landscape of franchising is evolving, and as we move into 2024, franchise owners face new challenges and opportunities. To thrive in this dynamic environment, its essential to adopt strategies. Steve: Mary, can you get more specific? What “deliverables” should franchise owners focus on to set themselves up for success? Mary: 1. Develop a Current and Relevant Strategic Plan: The cornerstone of any successful franchise is a robust plan. This plan should not only reflect the current market trends but also anticipate future shifts. It’s vital to regularly update your . . . 2. Know Your Numbers: Financial literacy is crucial in the franchise business. Understanding your numbers goes beyond knowing your profits and losses. .. 3. Make Tough Decisions Sooner Rather Than Later: In the world of franchising, procrastination can be costly. . . The key is to assess situations quickly and act decisively. 4. Lead by Example in Time Management: Your team looks to you for guidance. Show them the importance of time management by being an example. . . 5. Be Clear on Your Core Values, Especially When Hiring: Your franchises core values are its heartbeat. They influence your brand’s identity, customer service, and internal culture. Clearly define and communicate these values to ensure that every team member understands and aligns with them. Hire people who share these values. . .. 6. Review Your Vision and Mission with Your Team: Regularly revisiting your vision and mission with your team keeps everyone aligned and motivated. It helps in reinforcing the franchises goals . . . 7. Prioritize Customer and Client Care: Does everyone on your team know what great customer service looks like? As the owner, you need to ensure that everyone in your organization understands the importance of customer and client care. . . 8. Communicate More Often Than You Think Necessary: The past few years have meant increased, stress, and uncertainty for most people. That means they are not as focused on work. Effective leaders know that communication is the lifeline of a successful franchise. Its better to over-communicate than under-communicate. . . 9. Set Top Five Monthly Goals: Each month, identify and communicate the top five goals for your franchise. If you cannot cross them off a list, they are not goals, they are ideas. . . . Every month review and adjust these goals to ensure continued relevance and challenge. Steve: Mary, that sounds like a lot. As a new business owner, I found my “time horizon” was much shorter than I would like. What is the secret for addressing these priorities and not get consumed by the daily minutia the consumes the typical business owner? Mary: That’s where franchising comes in, right? A great franchisor should be doing all these things . . .providing tools . . . coaching you. At a minimum, they should be modeling these behaviors and helping to identify resources. Steve: Very true. I haven’t found any “perfect” franchisors yet, but there are certainly those much further along the learning curve than others. Thank you very much . . . any final words? Mary: The success of a franchise in 2024 hinges on proactive strategies that adapt to changing circumstances. By developing a relevant strategic plan, understanding financials, making timely decisions, leading by example, adhering to core values, revisiting your vision and mission, emphasizing customer care, communicating effectively, and setting clear monthly goals, franchise owners can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that the new year brings. Remember, the key to a wildly successful franchise lies in the details of its management and the commitment to continuous improvement. A bit more about Mary: Recognized as one of the Top 50 Motivational Speakers in the world for business leadership and growth strategies, as one of the top 50 Global Sales Speakers, and again in the 2024, in the Top 30 Global Gurus for Organizational Culture, Commander Mary Kelly, US Navy (ret) is a Hall of Fame Speaker who delivers motivational messages, successful strategies, and actionable tactics. About the Author Steve Taylor - After graduating from the US Naval Academy and serving in the US Navy, Steve transitioned to the High-Tech industry where he pursued a successful career as a supply chain and sales professional, purchasing his first franchise 15 years ago and building it into one of the top units in a large system. Steve currently resides in Pleasanton, California with his wife, three children, a dog and two cats where he helps veterans and others leverage their personal goals & strengths to identify and acquire relevant and profitable businesses. Contact Steve at SteveTaylor@TheFranchiseConsultingCompany.com .

Bubble tea, affectionately known as boba tea, has become a sensation in the United States, captivating the palates of Americans from coast to coast. This flavorful concoction of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls has seen a surge in popularity, and thanks to franchising, it is on the verge of exploding in the United States. These franchises are preparing to expand rapidly in all U.S. markets, and will be introducing millions of Americans to the joy of sipping on this beloved Asian beverage.  Originating in Taiwan in the 1980s, bubble tea made its way to the United States through cities with large Asian populations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. However, in recent years, the landscape has shifted dramatically, with boba tea locations are popping up in towns and cities of all sizes, signaling its mainstream appeal. The influx of boba tea into the USA can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the increasing diversity of the American population has fostered a greater appreciation for global cuisine, including bubble tea. As people from different cultural backgrounds bring their culinary traditions to the forefront, there's a growing curiosity and demand for unique and exotic beverages like boba tea. Social media has played a significant role in popularizing bubble tea among younger generations. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become breeding grounds for food trends, and boba tea's visually appealing nature makes it a natural fit for sharing on these platforms. Influencers and content creators regularly showcase their favorite boba tea drinks, generating buzz and driving foot traffic to local boba tea businesses across the country. This is about to change as bubble tea franchises bring this amazing beverage to a thirsty American public. The adaptability of boba tea franchises has contributed to their widespread appeal. Many boba tea shops offer customizable options, allowing customers to tailor their drinks to their preferences by choosing from a variety of teas, flavors, sweetness levels, and toppings. This flexibility appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy. As boba tea franchises continue to expand, they are not only introducing Americans to a new beverage but also creating vibrant community spaces. Boba shops often serve as gathering spots where friends can socialize, students can study, and families can relax. The welcoming atmosphere of these establishments fosters a sense of belonging, further fueling their popularity. In addition to offering traditional boba tea drinks, franchises are also innovating and diversifying their menus to cater to evolving consumer preferences. From fruit-infused teas to dairy-free alternatives, boba tea franchises are constantly experimenting with new flavors and ingredients to keep their offerings fresh and exciting. The arrival of boba tea franchises in the United States will fuel the boba boom, making this beloved Asian beverage more accessible than ever before. With its wide-ranging appeal, customizable options, and vibrant community spaces, boba tea franchises are poised to drive new business in the American beverage market. As more Americans embrace the joy of sipping on bubble tea, one thing is certain – the boba boom is here to stay. If you would like to investigate owning a bubble tea franchise and be on the front of this amazing boba boom wave, reach out and let’s talk! About the Author Chuck Barson is a Franchise Consultant in South Florida. Chuck has been involved with numerous food franchises, including Wendys and Dunkin Donuts, and is prepared to assist you in looking at up-coming boba tea franchises before they sell out in your market. Contact Chuck at cbarson@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Surf’s Up Restaurants, a beacon of delectable seafood delights that have graced the culinary scene for the past twelve years. This venture sprang to life from a fusion of inspiration and a culinary journey that unfolded in Tallahassee, Florida. The genesis of the Surf's Up concept and menu was cultivated during my training while working at the Florida Department of Revenue. While immersed in the vibrant Tallahassee culture, I explored numerous seafood establishments, drawn to the unique southern-inspired dishes that spoke volumes through their flavors. The harmonious blend of fresh seafood, bold spices, and a laid-back coastal vibe left an indelible mark on my culinary aspirations. It was this experience that ignited the idea of transplanting a similar concept to the bustling city of Chicago. Surf’s Up is more than a restaurant; it's a celebration of coastal culinary traditions, meticulously curated to tantalize taste buds and evoke the spirit of seaside dining. Our menu boasts a symphony of flavors, from succulent shrimp po'boys to zesty Cajun-spiced catfish. Each dish is a homage to the southern seafood culture that left an indelible mark during my time in Tallahassee. But the heart of Surf’s Up isn't just in the recipes; it's in the smiles of our satisfied customers. Their feedback is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Reviews consistently highlight the freshness of our ingredients, the boldness of our flavors, and the welcoming ambiance that transports diners to a coastal retreat. Currently, Surf’s Up Restaurants have flourished into a network of seven locations, each contributing to the brand's growing success. Our expansion continues, and we're actively seeking passionate individuals to join our family as franchisees. The ideal Surf’s Up franchisee is someone who shares our commitment to quality, embraces the spirit of hospitality, and has a genuine passion for bringing people together through exceptional culinary experiences. Our vision for Surf’s Up Franchising extends beyond merely expanding our footprint. We aim to create a network of thriving, community-centric establishments, each contributing to the unique tapestry of its locale while maintaining the core values that define Surf’s Up. We envision our franchisees not just as business partners, but as stewards of the Surf’s Up legacy, bringing a slice of coastal joy to communities around the nation. When you visit Surf's Up Chicago, I suggest you try our Triple Play, which is a shrimp, chicken wing and fish combo that can be fried or grilled and comes with our signature sauces. I would also suggest you try our famous Fried Biscuits, which are like Beignets, our Fried Green Tomatoes and our Bomb Sandwich (lobster and Shrimp sandwich with mayo, lettuce, tomato and served on a butter garlic toasted brioche bun).  In conclusion, Surf’s Up Restaurants have been serving up culinary excellence for twelve years, inspired by the southern seafood traditions encountered in Tallahassee, Florida. Our customers rave about the freshness and bold flavors of our dishes, and we currently operate in seven thriving locations. As we embark on the journey of franchising, our ideal franchisee is someone who shares our passion for quality and community. Our vision is to extend the Surf’s Up experience nationwide, creating a network of beloved seafood havens that resonate with local communities. About our Consultant Rick Morgin, The Franchise Consulting Company Rick Morgin is a Consultant with The Franchise Consulting Company and alumnus of Santa Clara University. He assists clients with the educational process of researching and selecting available franchise businesses that best suit desired lifestyles and financial goals. Contact Rick at rick@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey like no other with Pasta di Guy, the newest sensation in the world of fast casual dining. Launching franchises in just a few short months, Pasta di Guy promises to revolutionize your pasta experience with its delectable made-from-scratch dishes, crafted with the finest and freshest ingredients. At Pasta di Guy, every dish is a masterpiece, meticulously prepared and customized to your liking. From sumptuous pasta bowls to tantalizing salads, sandwiches, and desserts, their menu is a celebration of Italian flavors and culinary artistry. But what truly sets them apart is their unique "create your own" pasta bowl option, offering a myriad of sauces and toppings to satisfy every palate. Their journey began in 2019 as a humble food truck roaming the vibrant streets of the Tampa Bay area, delighting patrons at events, corporate gatherings, and community festivals. Chef Guy Carmeli, the visionary behind Pasta di Guy, had a dream to bring the same freshness and innovation of his food truck to a brick-and-mortar establishment. And in August 2020, that dream became a reality with their first location in Wesley Chapel, Florida. Following a year of unparalleled success, they expanded their footprint to Trinity, Florida, in July 2022. And now, they have just launched their third location in Fort Wayne, Indiana, bringing the Pasta di Guy experience to even more discerning food lovers. Behind every dish at Pasta di Guy stands Chef Guy Carmeli, a Le Cordon Bleu Culinary school graduate whose passion for cooking knows no bounds. Despite starting his career in a vastly different field, Chef Guy followed his heart and embarked on a culinary journey that led him to some of the most esteemed kitchens in the UK, including a Michelin Star restaurant. For Chef Guy, Pasta di Guy is more than just a restaurant—it's a labor of love, a culmination of years of dedication to the craft of Italian cuisine. So keep your eyes open for new locations opening near you! Welcome to Pasta di Guy—where pastabilities are endless! About you, what is your background? How did you get to where you are today? Although the path to becoming a restaurant owner was not clear from the start, I have learned so much along the way. I have a background in Computer Science and management. I originally started college and was working in an office setting. One day I just woke up and decided to make a change. I realized that It wasn’t for me, and I wanted to work hard every day doing something I really loved. Growing up, I have always had a passion for food and been an entrepreneur at heart. From a very young age, I can remember sneaking into kitchens to watch the chefs cooking. I also spent a lot of time with my grandmother, who was an amazing cook. She was always cooking for everyone with so much love, joy and passion. When I finally made the change, I started working in an Italian restaurant. It was challenging yet fulfilling at the same time. I worked extremely hard to prove my skills in the kitchen, and eventually became sous chef after a very short time. I was always determined to reach my goals and didn’t stop there. I knew one day that I would want to own a restaurant of my own. I continued my journey studying culinary arts at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in Europe both in culinary cooking and baking (Pâtisserie). I received the highest level of academic excellence and worked in Michelin star restaurants in the UK. How was Pasta di Guy founded? In 2018, I took a trip with my family to the United States and was shocked to see there wasn’t many options for made from scratch pasta at affordable prices. The idea came to me almost immediately. I was on the path to find my American Dream. Pasta di Guy was founded in June 2019. I started the concept in a food truck in Tampa Bay, FL. After a successful venture on the road, I was ready to open the first Brick and mortar store a year later in 2020. We have since opened two additional locations in two states and are eager to grow into more territories across the United States. In what ways did your background lead you to franchising? My determination and ambitions have helped me grow to where I am now. I have always strived to create a successful career as a Chef. I also believe that families all over the USA need to be able to enjoy gourmet Italian food at affordable prices. I think franchising is probably the best and fastest way to bring our concept to families everywhere and become a leading brand in the industry. What do you love most about your role? I love to see happy customers enjoying the food and their experience at Pasta di Guy. It’s an honor to hear their positive feedback and their excitement to tell all their family and friends. What is your vision long term? Our Vision is to become the Italian eatery of choice for all American Families. We want to be a nationwide brand with high quality gourmet food at affordable prices. We will be able to do it by sticking to our values: - Quality - Food, Service, People - Freshness - Fresh Ingredients, Food Prepared Daily, Made to Order - Family - Customers and Employees feel at Home - Community - Be part of the community and contribute to it Do you support any charitable causes? We believe that a family restaurant like ours needs to be part of the community and contribute to it. We do it mainly by hosting and operating donation events for local schools, where a nice part of the income goes to the school. We also support the cause of enriching lives of individuals with disabilities by participating in the “Hands on” program, in which we employ young individuals with disabilities so they can get hands on experience in kitchens. What are you excited about in the coming year? I think 2024 is really a turning point year for us. We opened our Indiana location this January. We are now working on our Franchisor license and our goal is to have a few franchisees join our family before the end of this year. All of this is very exciting, and we will work hard to achieve it. Who do you consider your role models? My grandmother is my biggest role model. She taught me to never give up and to work hard towards my passions. How do you look to inspire others? My passion and dedication have led to the growth of Pasta di Guy. I hope to inspire other entrepreneurs to follow their dreams and work hard to achieve their goals of owning a restaurant. What advice would you give other entrepreneurs looking to start their own business? Be in it 100%. The journey is long but can be very rewarding with discipline and determination. For more information, email at franchise@pastadiguy.com You can also visit the website at https://www.pastadiguy.com/ About the Author Greg Tuthill is a Franchise Consultant with The Franchise Consulting Company and serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in owning and developing multiple successful businesses. Contact Greg at GTuthill@TheFranchiseConsultingCompany.com .