The Burger King on West LaSalle Avenue in downtown South Bend is one of the Burger Kings owned by Quality Dining. Dan Fitzpatrick, CEO of Quality Dining, says franchisees have a road map to success based on the parent companies’ formulas for a good experience. Tribune Photo/MICHAEL CATERINA
National and regional restaurant chains put a lot of thought into where to open new locations and where to look for new franchise owners. Many factors contribute to an area’s ability to sustain a new restaurant and make it a success, and all play roles in the decision.
For all of us driving around the South Bend region, it’s apparent we have no lack of these chains. But what about the area adds up to success for these businesses?
It will come as no surprise that the University of Notre Dame plays a large role.
“College towns are typically a good opportunity for franchises,” says John McLellan, a consultant with FranNet.
The global company, with offices in Chicago, works to match prospective business owners with franchise opportunities.
A college town is usually a sign of disposable income, according to McLellan. Obviously the more money people have to spend on things like dining out, the better the restaurants are going to do.
Businesses also look at something not as obvious, McLellan says: the culture of the area. College towns usually are more “forward thinking,” meaning the people are open to new and different restaurant concepts, he says.
Copyright © 2024, South Bend Tribune