Many HoneyBaked franchisees choose to be owner-operators, taking a hands-on role in their businesses. One duty that franchisees often choose to take on is community outreach. Discover the importance of connecting with your community as a franchisee and the different ways HoneyBaked franchisees make a mark in their cities or towns.
The Importance of Community Connection
Now more than ever, it is vital for communities to come together. And our HoneyBaked franchisees understand how to do just that. In our decades of experience, we’ve seen that HoneyBaked franchisees that have strong roots in their communities often have more success in their business. When you take care of the people in your city or town, they will remember you and your business.
The people in your community are the ones who will be your customers. And if they are connected to you and your business, they will think of you when it’s time to take their coworkers out to lunch or order catering for their next office party. Some HoneyBaked franchisees choose to work with the community in a hands-on way, while others hire a community liaison, but either way, they make a point to make their store part of their community
Helping Out During Tough Times
In the midst of COVID-19 (coronavirus), many HoneyBaked franchisees around the country are doing their part to support those serving on the frontlines of this pandemic. Our franchisee in Dalton, GA donated hams and cakes to staff members at Hamilton Medical Center, their local hospital. A franchisee in Chicago donated box lunches to the emergency department at Weiss Hospital. In addition to individual franchisees doing their part to support their local medical professionals, all HoneyBaked stores are following protocols that protect customers and employees. For example, franchisees have set up their sales floors to comply with social distancing practices, with stations at least six feet apart, removing dining tables and chairs and designating the first hours of operation for the elderly and other vulnerable groups. Some HoneyBaked franchisees have also expanded their business to include curbside services meaning customers don’t even have to exit their vehicles to get the tasty products they know and love.
Networking with Other Business Leaders
One way HoneyBaked franchisees make connections in their community is by getting to know other business leaders. Whether you make organic connections, meet at networking events or join your local chamber of commerce, networking with business decision-makers can help grow your business.
You can discuss the local market, growth strategies and the lessons you’ve learned as an owner. Plus, these leaders also have the power to make food decisions for their office and they won’t hesitate to support you. And, of course, it never hurts to learn from other business owners in your community and apply that knowledge to building your HoneyBaked franchise.
Sponsoring Local Teams and Events
Another way to make a footprint in your community is by having a presence at local events. Whether it’s sponsoring a local Little League team or being a community sponsor for a 5K, you can put the HoneyBaked name in a place people will see it. People want to support a business that puts time, money and energy into supporting their community. Having a strong local presence can encourage new customers to visit their new favorite community partner, The Honey Baked Ham Company®.
Partnering with Charitable Organizations
Word-of-mouth recommendations are one of the most powerful marketing tools. So the impact of a good community reputation is crucial. Your HoneyBaked business can earn a positive standing as a generous, charitable partner and, aside from how good it can feel on a personal level to give back, that reputation can have an important impact on business, too.
You have plenty of options for charitable involvement. Of course, you can donate money. You can also donate time as a volunteer; you can even bring along your staff and make it a day of cleaning up a park or passing out bananas during a marathon.
As a restaurant franchise, you can also support local charities with food. Maybe your HoneyBaked can donate boxed lunches for a school field trip. Or maybe your staff can make a habit of donating end-of-day leftovers to a local food bank. There are so many ways you can make a difference in your community while securing a positive reputation for your HoneyBaked franchise.
Are you excited by the thought of connecting with your community as a HoneyBaked franchisee? You can start your HoneyBaked franchise journey today by reaching out to our team for more information.
