The Melting Pot – Franchise Review
The Melting Pot was founded in 1975 in Maitland, Florida. At first it had a very modest menu, consisting of only Swiss cheese fondue, beef fondue, and a chocolate fondue dessert. As the restaurant gained popularity, its menu grew to accommodate its growing number of customers and other customers coming from different places. The second location in Tallahassee, started with permission by brothers Mark, Mike, and Bob Johnson, grew incredibly popular, paving the way for the growth of the franchise. In June of 2008, the original location in Maitland went out of business. Today there are more than one hundred forty locations in thirty six states and in Washington, D.C. There are also locations in Canada. This makes it the most widespread and popular fondue restaurant in North America.
“At The Melting Pot, fondue truly becomes a memorable four-course dining experience where patrons can dip into something different – and discover all the ingredients for a unique dining experience including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines and signature fondue dinners.” The menu includes many items, including a variety of cheese and dessert fondues, salads and entrees like filet mignon, lobster tail, sirloin, and chicken breasts, all prepared in different fondue styles.
This is a very popular upscale restaurant, and the potential for growth here is enormous. The complete meal features a cheese fondue, salad, a main course, and a chocolate fondue for dessert. The prices are considered to be in the high range, yet the franchise continues to draw in new customers. This success is mostly because of the unique dining experience the company provides to its customers. No restaurant experience is required to become a franchisee. Running a Melting Pot franchise is very profitable and tempting for potential franchisees because of the great growth and profit opportunities.
The initial cost to start a Melting Pot franchise is $35,000 it’s a little cheaper than the other franchise. Total estimated costs are between $876,695 and $1,544,695. The ongoing royalty fee is 4.5%. To qualify to start a franchise, applicants must have a net worth of at least $700,000 and at least $325,000 in liquid assets. Besides that, only general business experience is needed to become a franchisee.
There is a very extensive seven week training program at headquarters, and ongoing training at the franchise location. Excellent service must be provided, so only top employees are hired and maintained. Managers will be trained to recognize and hire only the most experienced and qualified individuals who will provide excellent and attentive service to every customer to walk through the door. Advertising and marketing support is also provided, as each franchise needs to do its own advertising, and participate in co-op advertising with other Melting Pot franchises.
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