Joel is a business development professional with extensive experience in the Restaurant Industry. He has a track record of establishing and improving processes that has resulted in a tremendous amount of success in sourcing, following-up and negotiating revenue generating new business initiatives. His demonstrated ability to think on his feet, utilizes sound business instincts to make good decisions and complete successful negotiations, is only part of his success.
Joel has been a great team member at Shamrock Burgers. He is extremely resourceful, manages by empowerment and strives to set and meet individual and team goals. His strong leadership skills cultivate internal and external relationships through integrity, open and honest communication and a long-term focus on business results was really shined with his time at Shamrock Burgers.
BeTheBoss: Tell us about the Shamrock Burgers Concept?
Joel Friedman: Shamrock Burgers started operations more than 43 years ago. It was started by the founders Danny and Nick Maleganeas finding a niche in the quick service restaurant market, which was not so prevalent back then. Their motto is “Good fresh food, served fast”. Shamrock Burgers signature has always been quality homemade food. This is found in our home burgers, fresh cut fries, onion rings, ice cream milkshakes and all that we do.
Shamrock Burgers offers convenient, homemade, freshly prepared foods in a retro rock and roll edgy sustainable environment. We continue to feature a wide selection of foods including our signature burgers, poutine, steak, chicken souvlaki and salads. Our menu has evolved with the times, but we have never wavered from our over-riding motto of “Good fresh food, served fast.”
We are now moving to the next steps with introducing Executive Burgers which will be our feature and signature burgers.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with Shamrock Burgers?
JF: I knew the minute I met Anne and Greg that I wanted to be a part of Shamrock Burgers. They were down to earth people that only want the best for their franchisees. I said to Greg - how do I join? It’s been two years and I never have seen better honest and good-hearted people that believe in their brand.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining Shamrock Burgers?
JF: My previous experience was in Franchise Sales, Operations, Networking, new business, non-Traditional development and resale. I have helped many companies achieve and exceed their goals. My strength is both in the Franchise sales and Relationships.
BTB: Who is your ideal franchisee?
JF: The ideal franchisee is someone that has business accruements and a passion for both customers and staff. If they were able to enhance the customer experience, mingle, and sell the product with passion then they would be a good fit at Shamrock Burgers.
BTB: Tell us a little about the Burger Market?
JF: The Burger business is booming -there are many franchises out there trying to grow but most of the gourmet burger business come and go. Only a few of us have been around for more then 30 years, and a few for 43 years. There is two segments to the burger business- one be the gourmet burger and the other is the fast food segment like McDonald each serving their loyal customers.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in growing this franchise?
JF: You need to do the right deal every time. If it’s not the right fit, then don’t do the deal. The right franchisees, with the right experience, the right location and having the right financing in place are all major factors in a franchises success.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Shamrock franchisee?
JF: We believe in quality of life and with our concept you can have the best of both world - we want our franchises to have a 40 hour week, not 80 hours week that some business require. We want them to enjoy family and work hard - Our concept allows it.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
JF: Make sure you know what you want to do, and only look at the businesses that interest you. Understand what the word equity means, understand how much money you really have. Mortgaging a house is not equity. Be honest to the sales people at each concept you look at. They will call you again and again once you apply. If you are no longer interested or do not have enough money, let them know. Understand what you expect to earn and can live on- too many times I see people want to invest $50,000 and expect a high level return. You may but understand that it will take time to earn back your equity.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that Shamrock would be a great opportunity for someone?
JF:
- Live the dream of being your own boss and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit.
- Align with a proven brand with over 40 years in the industry.
- Owning a franchised business typically has been noted to yield a higher (ROI) than other independent investments, however, the return is greatly affected and sensitive to economic changes, competition and trends in consumer preferences. Despite these changes, Sharmrock has established and maintained its status as the franchise leader in the fast food industry.
- Our comprehensive systems and procedures take the guess work out of starting a business.
- With Shamrock as your partner you will feel secure and confident in your business future.
