The International Franchise Expo has kicked off, and that means over 400 exhibitors have an opportunity to pitch their business models to prospective franchisees. And, boy, are the business models of some taking aim at behemoth brands such as McDonald’s (MCD), Dunkin Donuts (DNKN) and Chipotle (CMG). For ice cream chain Carvel, which was founded in 1934 and has over 400 locations, it has spiced up its menu and introduced new looks to its restaurants to remain relevant versus rivals in Dunkin Donuts owned Baskin Robbins and Sonic (SONC). ‘The biggest trend for us is people looking for innovation and excitement,’ pointed out Carvel president Scott Corwell in an interview with TheStreet’s Brian Sozzi at the International Franchise Expo. Earlier in the year, Carvel introduced a Nutella ice cream sundae that, according to Corwell, was ‘extremely well received.’ Early June brought Reese’s sundaes and shakes to Carvel and come the fall, will be the return of pumpkin flavored soft service ice cream. Similar to Carvel, California-based Chronic Tacos is taking aim at larger rivals in Chipotle and Yum! Brands (YUM) owned Taco Bell by offering street-style tacos and funkier-looking restaurants. On the menu for the 30 store chain are things such as hand cut Mahi Mahi or Ono (fish) served grilled or beer battered. The company is also using all-natural ingredients. Brian Sozzi spotlights three franchises spicing things up in their bid to wrestle share from larger competitors.
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