A Taste of Innovation: Famous Dave’s and Papa Murphy’s Join Forces to Meet Growing Consumer Demand
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and injecting vitality into an evolving food service landscape, the well-established barbecue chain, Famous Dave’s, has embarked on an innovative journey by co-branding with the take-and-bake pizza outlet, Papa Murphy’s. This partnership marks the first of its kind within the realm of Famous Dave’s operations, reflecting a response to the sustained upsurge in consumer preference for off-premise dining options, such as takeout and catering services.
The new co-branded establishment, located at 1930 West Seventh Street in Highland Park, Minnesota, is set to open its doors on Thursday, with an official grand opening planned for the following week. This venture is not merely a response to market demands but also a shrewd utilization of real estate space. Al Hank, the Chief Operating Officer of Famous Dave’s, indicated that this new format arose from observing a substantial shift in revenue generation paradigms, particularly with the surge in off-premise sales, which have now climbed to approximately 50% from a pre-pandemic figure of around 30%.
Such a stark increase in off-premise sales, Hank noted, has necessitated a reevaluation of how restaurant spaces are utilized. “When we’re doing half of our revenue out the side door, that leaves white space in the dining room,” he elaborated. To capitalize on this shift, the Highland Park location has allocated approximately 1,000 square feet of its dining area to house the Papa Murphy’s operations. This dual-concept strategy emerges as a creative solution to the challenges posed by fluctuating dining trends and consumer preferences post-COVID-19.
This collaboration can be seen as a part of a larger strategic initiative rolled out by BBQ Holdings, the parent company of Famous Dave’s, which recently underwent a significant transformation with the acquisition of Papa Murphy’s by MTY Food Group for an estimated 0 million in 2022. The co-branding effort suggests an earnest commitment to diversifying service offerings while simultaneously attracting a wider customer base.
Hank emphasized the potential financial benefits of this partnership, noting that as many as 20% of Famous Dave’s locations may embrace co-branding strategies similar to that of the Highland Park venue. “This provides an opportunity for our franchisees to increase revenue at the store and bring in additional customers,” he stated, encapsulating the broader economic implications of this pioneering concept.
Looking ahead, BBQ Holdings has plans to replicate similar setups in other locations, including a new Famous Dave’s in Tennessee that will soon introduce offerings from Cold Stone Creamery, thereby broadening its appeal to families and diverse consumer segments. Future collaborations may also include other brands under the MTY umbrella, such as Wetzel’s Pretzels and Planet Smoothie, potentially revolutionizing the customer experience across multiple dining formats.
Founded in 1994 in Hayward, Wisconsin, by Hall of Fame Pitmaster Dave Anderson, Famous Dave’s has expanded significantly, now boasting 107 locations across 30 states as well as international reach in Canada and the United Arab Emirates. Its rich heritage and commitment to quality barbecue make it a staple in the American dining scene.
Meanwhile, Papa Murphy’s has established a noteworthy presence since its inception in 1995 in Vancouver, Washington, with over 1,000 locations spread across 35 states and beyond, including Canada and the UAE. Minnesota, in particular, is home to a sizable number of Papa Murphy’s outlets, indicating strong regional support.
In conclusion, the co-branding of Famous Dave’s and Papa Murphy’s at the Highland Park location stands as a bold stride into the future of the food service industry, showcasing adaptability in the face of changing consumer demands. This synergy not only promises enhanced convenience for customers seeking diverse culinary options but also serves as a blueprint for other restaurants navigating the complexities of a post-pandemic market.