In the latest episode of the Emerging Franchise Brands podcast, host Frank Fiume sits down with David Colebrook, Division President of New York Fries, to discuss the remarkable journey of this beloved brand and its ambitious plans to expand into the United States.
A Journey from New York to Canada and Back Again
New York Fries has a unique origin story that began in 1983 at a small kiosk on South Street Seaport in Manhattan. Entrepreneur Jay Gould saw potential in the concept and brought it to Canada, where it rapidly grew into a popular brand known for its fresh cut, loaded fries, and hot dogs. Despite its name, New York Fries flourished in Canada and other international markets, including the UAE, before making its way back to its roots in the U.S.
Franchising Success and Expansion Plans
New York Fries boasts 115 locations across Canada, with a blend of franchised and corporate-owned stores. The brand is now setting its sights on the U.S. market, starting with new locations in Long Island, New Jersey, and beyond. Colebrook emphasizes the importance of partnering with experienced multi-unit operators who understand high-traffic venues like malls and amusement parks.
Operational Excellence and Quality
A cornerstone of New York Fries’ success is its unwavering commitment to quality and operational excellence. The brand prides itself on its proprietary process for making fresh cut fries, ensuring they are served hot and crispy within 30 seconds. Colebrook highlights their use of high oleic sunflower oil and strict operational standards, which contribute to their five-star reviews and loyal customer base.
Adapting to Regional Tastes
While maintaining its core offerings, New York Fries adapts to regional tastes by varying its toppings and hot dog recipes. In Canada, the traditional poutine with cheese curds and gravy is a favorite, while in the U.S., spicy combinations like cheese, bacon, and jalapenos are gaining popularity.
Looking Ahead
As New York Fries re-enters the U.S. market, the brand aims to grow judiciously, focusing on the East Coast from New York to Florida and potentially expanding to the Midwest. Colebrook stresses the importance of finding the right partners and maintaining the brand’s high standards to ensure sustainable growth.
For aspiring franchisees, Colebrook offers valuable advice: listen to existing franchisees, understand the brand’s operational focus, and prioritize customer experience and quality. This approach, he believes, is key to long-term success in the competitive franchising landscape.
To learn more about New York Fries and explore franchising opportunities, visit their website at NewYorkFries.com or reach out directly to their team.
September 4, 2024
