Breaking Bread ft. Bill DiPaola, COO of Ballard Brands
OpenCity’s CEO, Nick Belsito “Breaks Bread” with Bill DiPaola, COO of Ballard Brands, as they discuss the interconnectedness of Ballard’s different brands, how their business has expanded over the years, and the role of technology in restaurants today. Currently, Ballard Brands owns, operates, and manages restaurants in 28 states and 3 countries, with five different brands: Wow Cafe, PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans, The Original City Diner, Boardhouse Serious Sandwiches, and New Orleans Roast Coffee & Tea.
When asked about their growth strategy, Bill talked about the importance of the network that they have created and leveraged over the years. Without that network, they would never be able to grow as a company. Bill stated that technology is the single most important thing because it allows their franchisees to scale much faster than before.
Bill’s mindset as a franchisor — “We are going to be the strength to your weakness.” If they don’t provide any benefit to the company they are working with, “what’s the point?” Bill believes it is crucial that people he works with walk away gaining something positive from engaging with him and his team. With this mindset, Ballard Brands will be successful for a very long time!
For more info about Ballard Brands, visit: http://www.ballardbrands.com
For more info about OpenCity, visit: OpenCity.co
