Summary

In this conversation, Peter Yang, co-founder of Pokeworks, shares his journey from growing up in a family restaurant to establishing a successful poke restaurant chain. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned in the hospitality industry, the importance of customer service, and the strategic decisions that led to the birth and growth of Pokeworks. The conversation also delves into the franchising model and the criteria for selecting franchise partners, emphasizing the need for alignment in values and vision. Yang discusses the essential elements of running a successful restaurant business, emphasizing the importance of hard work, core values, and the Aloha spirit. He addresses challenges in labor and training, outlines growth strategies focused on real estate selection, and highlights the significance of understanding customer demographics. He also shares insights on operational excellence, the role of customer reviews, and the support provided to franchisees, all while maintaining a focus on the active lifestyle market fit for his brand.

Takeaways