SA Franchise Brands welcomes Mark and Melissa van Hoogstraten, Franchisors of Melissa’s The Food Shop.

What has been paramount to Melissa’s The Food Shop’s success?

Our offering is unique and cutting edge, from the products to the packaging. We are a strong lifestyle brand, confident in our offering and understanding completely who we are.

What challenges do you face at present?

Finding suitable premises to open more Melissa’s stores and teaching all managers and owners on financial management in the stores.

With a network of 10 outlets and growing, how has your franchise model worked in favour of the group?

We offer strong support to each store, taking into consideration their area and target market.

What are some of the attributes required from franchisees?

They must have business management experience and preferably an understanding of the service industry with a passion for service. A passion for the Melissa’s brand and financial stability.

How would you describe the overall relationship between the group and its franchisees?

We have an open door policy, between all Company Owned stores as well as franchise stores. We offer support wherever we can and we will always go the extra mile to accommodate the franchisee’s request. We are open to new ideas.

What kind of training and support can franchisees expect?

We provide full training and support from the word go to the opening of the store. After opening we have trained managers assisting the franchisee in the day-to-day running of the store. Each store also has an area manager, doing store visits on a monthly basis, providing training and support. We also have regular workshops at Head Office that provides extra training and gives extra support. We are available all day every day for any questions or queries.

Which factors are paramount for sustained future growth within the group with specific reference to its present and future franchisees?

Understanding and adhering to our basic systems and procedures in the day-to-day running of a Melissa’s store.

Finding the right premises at the right rental cost.

Always being 100% focused on the customer and making their dining and shopping experience top priority in your store.

Where to from here and into the future?

We want to grow the brand by opening more Melissa’s franchise stores across South Africa.