Phase One: Concept Development

Crafting the Profit Model

Your exciting journey begins with a well-defined financial model. Our first step is to create a detailed financial projection that outlines the costs involved in bringing your restaurant concept to life and projects how it will perform once operational. This profit model is crucial—it serves not just as a financial roadmap but as a dynamic tool that helps balance all elements of your restaurant concept.

For instance, opening a full-service burger restaurant in Texas may initially seem viable. However, if you decide to move to Montana where labor costs are higher due to no tip credit, your profit model will need adjustments. This might mean shifting to a fast-casual model, which will impact everything from your menu and management to the hours of operation and location requirements.

Building a Comprehensive Business Plan

Once your concept is defined by a robust profit model, the next step is to articulate it thoroughly in a business plan. This includes:

• Concept Brand Narratives: Telling the story of your concept
• Market Research: Understanding the target market and competition
• Competitive Analysis: Identifying your competitive edge
• Brand Filter and Operating Practices: Establishing brand standards and operational guidelines

Our philosophy is simple: invest only in what will yield returns. A well-crafted business plan ensures that potential investors and stakeholders clearly understand your vision and its financial viability.

Creating a Compelling Concept Book

When pitching your project to potential stakeholders, a Concept Book can make all the difference. Our Concept Books are large-format, glossy bound booklets that vividly showcase the vibe and feel of your concept through imagery and narrative. We handle:

• Preliminary Layouts
• Graphic Treatment of Financials
• Sample Menu Layouts
• Aspirational Imagery

This visually engaging document can be the key to turning a "maybe" into a resounding "yes."

Phase Two: Build & Organize

With the conceptual groundwork laid, Phase Two is about moving your project towards execution. This phase involves critical aspects such as site selection, timelines, menu development, and design, all the way to hiring your management team.

Strategic Site Selection

Choosing the right location is paramount. We act as your agents, confidants, allies, and protectors, ensuring no conflict of interest. We help you navigate through listings, identify potential pitfalls, and recommend hiring an attorney before signing any lease. Our focus is solely on your success.

Timelines & Critical Task Management

Once funding is secured, maintaining a timeline is crucial. Our “warboard” organizes tasks throughout the project, mapping resources and establishing milestones. As opening day approaches, we provide a Critical Task List to ensure efficiency and prevent idle time or double work.

Menu Structure

Designing your menu early is essential as it drives the kitchen layout and equipment selections. We help create high-level menus that align with your concept, ensuring you have the appropriate kitchen design to support your offerings.

Design Oversight

While interior designers focus on aesthetics and kitchen designers on functionality, our role is to ensure that the design process balances creativity with operational efficiency. We manage the design to ensure your project remains profitable and delivers on your brand promises.

Concept Decisions

With financials, site selection, menu structure, and design in place, construction can commence. During this phase, numerous decisions need to be made regarding how you will execute your brand. We ensure that all guest experience decisions align with your brand standards, maintaining consistency and integrity.

Your Path to Success

In conclusion, opening a new restaurant or franchise is a thrilling yet complex venture. With our comprehensive consulting solutions, you can confidently navigate this journey, knowing you have expert guidance at every step. From financial modeling and business planning to site selection and design execution, we are here to ensure your concept comes to life successfully and profitably.

Ready to embark on your next big adventure? Reach out to us today and let's get started on turning your dream into reality.