December isn't the 'quiet' month in the food game....here's why.

Many businesses and industries commence a 'wind down' during the mid point in December, and here in Sth Africa this is the norm and started yesterday. Everything is about to cease as of the 15th December, as people start Xmas vacations and the entire building sector mostly comes to a standstill for a month....the total opposite is the case in our business - the business of serving people great pizzas and growing our assets to become #mlfg (most loved, fastest growing).

Most franchise businesses have development agreements, where there is a contractual obligation to open x stores / units each year, and as the cycle general goes, there is a mad rush to meet these numbers before the year end. We are currently going through such a 'run home' to get as many new builds up and running by year end, a challenge only made more challenging by the industry 'shut down'. With less than 10 days before Xmas we still have 2 units to open to meet obligations, and it's all hands on deck and all functions solidly working towards this goal.

In the last week we have opened 2 new locations, and to add complexity our remaining 2 are in a different country, adding some interesting timing and logistical challenges given the time of year. We will get there, but the most amazing and important aspect is that none of this happens unless the total organisation is aligned around the goal and the bigger picture, and that is where I am fortunate, as we have an amazing focussed team all working towards the one goal no matter what. This makes one totally proud as a leader, knowing all are committed to the same outcome no matter what. Yes we have challenges, and I'm sure more will come but the outcome will be the same...these locations will open. They wouldn't open without vendors and suppliers going the 'extra mile' to support us, only due to the relationships our team has built...

It is then, once open with this teamwork, that the true push occurs, and December and January is where the income will flow...Whilst others are on holidays, we will be making our awesome product and delivering to new customers to bring our great tasting products to a totally new set of people..very exciting...

So, as you enjoy your well deserved holidays, spare some time and maybe give some thanks to the people who are working flat out to serve your meals, your coffee, petrol, beer etc....they too have families, but are working at the busiest time of the year, and providing service with a smile to make your holiday enjoyable...

Merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday.....