With their tech savviness, altruistic nature and unbridled optimism, the next generation is already starting to put their unique stamp on the business landscape. As many millennials start to take leadership roles across the country and even more launch their own business ventures, a franchise partnership is a particularly attractive option.
But, what type of franchise opportunity attracts the next generation?
According to FranData
, the median age for franchise owners around the country is between 45 and 54 years old, but the average age of a Coolgreens franchisee is 34-years-old. While there are many factors that may contribute to the appeal, Coolgreens' brand culture and executive leadership, along with the franchise model, has proven to be a highly attractive franchise opportunity to this specific demographic.
Coolgreens - the fast casual restaurant that established itself 10 years ago as a healthy, lifestyle eatery that provides quick, fresh and delicious food - is attracting the millennial demographic of franchisees. With a focus on health, wellness and personal growth, Coolgreens checks all the boxes.
Coolgreens is led by CEO Robert Lee, a fellow millennial. The brand began as an out-of-the-box concept committed to the societal shift toward health and wellness. Lee, too, has an unwavering commitment to Coolgreens' brand and everything it stands for.
"Coolgreens focuses on fueling its communities with healthy, fresh food," said CEO Robert Lee. "Our mission is to inspire healthful lifestyles and it seems to resonate with a new generation of business owner. Coolgreens is a great match for entrepreneurial-minded people looking to make a positive difference in their communities."
The changing face of the American Dream
More than any generation in modern-day history, millennials are searching for ways to be their own boss. The new "American Dream" means finding a career that's flexible, impactful and lucrative. For millennials, that often does not exist in a 9-to-5 job. The conventional franchise model is a good alternative to a traditional job, giving them the opportunity to be their own boss with the flexibility and potential for impact that millennials are actively seeking.
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Our newest franchisee, Cassidi Brown, is a great example of a go-getter who wants to make a difference in her community," Lee said. "She, like many in her generation, want to influence the world around her through her career choice. Lifestyle brands, like Coolgreens, give her the opportunity to own a proven business model that serves fresh, quality foods to her community. It's a win, win proposition."
Building something more than a business
Despite their reported lack of interest in traditional work environments, millennials still desire training and want work where they can be mentored and supported. Like every generation, they are hungry for success. Coolgreens has equipped its franchisees with the necessary tools to achieve it.
"We believe in people at Coolgreens," Lee said. "We're building a company, a culture and a community that attracts people, looking to be part of a bigger story. Our franchise model offers a low-cost entry, that is easily executable even for franchisees without a restaurant background. We also have a very craveable menu!"
The executive leadership team at Coolgreens is comprised of seasoned industry veterans who cover every generation and offer a wealth of knowledge that spurs the success of new franchisees. The team is approachable, accessible and at the disposal of a new franchisee starting from Discovery Day. Their openness and helpful, encouraging attitudes have proven to be a successful recipe.
Making limited experience an asset
Lack of experience can also be an asset. Younger franchisees aren't limited by the baggage from previous ventures. They can offer fresh perspectives and innovative options that push an emerging brand to be better. This has definitely been a winning formula for Coolgreens.
"Our team continues to be very impressed by our new franchisees," Lee said. "They are inquisitive and not afraid to share their thoughts and opinions. We're creating a national brand that will become stronger with each new franchisee. As we combine our experiences and strengths, our brand will continue to gain traction across the country."
