In the latest episode of Hospitality Hangout, Michael Schatzberg “The Restaurant Guy” and guest host David "Rev" Ciancio chat with Betsy Hamm, CEO of Duck Donuts, Charles Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie, and Gregg Majewski, CEO of Craveworthy Brands while on the road at RFIS, Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit.

Hamm, chief executive officer of Duck Donuts, a made-to-order donut concept says that what makes them different is when you walk into a Duck Donuts there aren't any donuts already sitting there made. The customer customizes their donut order and gets to watch their donuts get made. Hamm shares franchising insights and says, “ you know life as a franchisor is very difficult and life as a franchisee is very difficult and I think everything has been tested the last few years and continues. We think every month maybe it'll be calmer.” She adds, “we want to be known for having a superior product with an exceptional customer experience.”

Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie Cafe a brand that offers fresh, made-to-order smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, and flatbreads stops by to talk with the guys. Watson says they have crossed the 1200 mark on cafe locations, opened 158 new stores last year, and will open 170 new locations in 2023. Watson attributes the success to their franchisees. He says, “we have some dedicated and passionate franchisees and combine that with a brand that is simple, that provides a healthier option for everybody that's on the go. We focus a lot on convenience and speed at Tropical Smoothie Cafe.”

Craveworthy Brands' chief executive officer Majewski stops to talk about the brands and RFIS show. Majewski has been working in the Food and Beverage industry for over 23 years. He worked for Jimmy John’s before putting together Craveworthy Brands. Majewskis says, “I was going to put together a group to do platforms properly and when I talk about platforms I talk about it being a group of restaurants that can work together and have shared services that the emerging brands can never achieve on their own.”

To hear more details and insights into franchising from Hamm, Watson, and Majewski, plus the Branded Quickfire Florida addition questions check out this episode of Hospitality Hangout.