Get All Access for $5/mo

Becoming a Breakfast Chain's First Ever Franchisee Jason and Michele Serkin were fans for Famous Toastery before they became franchisees.

By Kate Taylor

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Famous Toastery
Famous Toastery

Franchise Players is Entrepreneur's Q&A interview column that puts the spotlight on franchisees. If you're a franchisee with advice and tips to share, email ktaylor@entrepreneur.com.

When Jason and Michele Serkin moved to South Carolina for Michele's career as a literacy facilitator, the couple was disappointed to discover the lack of quality breakfast options in the area. So, they decided to be a part of the solution, opening the first ever Famous Toastery franchise. Within six months, the franchisees had made $900,000. Here's how they did it.

Name: Jason and Michele Serkin

Franchise owned: Famous Toastery (formerly Toast Café) in Tega Cay, S.C.

How long have you owned a franchise?

Seventeen months.

Related: You Can't Be Afraid to Make the Jump to Become a Franchisee

Why franchising?

We wanted the support and guidance of a proven business.

What were you doing before you became a franchise owner?

I was a stay at home dad and Michele was a literacy facilitator at an elementary school.

Why did you choose this particular franchise?

Famous Toastery has a great product and we wanted to bring it to our community.

How much would you estimate you spent before you were officially open for business?

Approximately $500,000.

Where did you get most of your advice/do most of your research?

We visited many restaurants and we asked people in the area what was their favorite breakfast and lunch place. We then asked ourselves which one stands out to us and is really successful. To us, there was not even a close second to Famous Toastery (then Toast Café).

Related: Smooth Operators: How These Franchisees Found Success With Smoothie King

What were the most unexpected challenges of opening your franchise?

Hiring employees that are willing and capable of working hard as well as creating an energy to make our service, atmosphere and food stand out.

What advice do you have for individuals who want to own their own franchise?

Make sure you have a plan and don't necessarily take the cheapest or easiest way of doing things. Do your research and make sure you're making the right decision for yourself. You bought a franchise for a reason, so let them guide you and teach you how to be successful.

What's next for you and your business?

To make sure we continue to give our customers a great experience on every visit to Famous Toastery. We never want to just be "good.' We strive to be "GREAT!' We plan on opening more locations as well, to bring Famous Toastery to more families in surrounding communities who will enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable breakfast and lunch restaurant with outstanding food and service.

Related: This 21 Year Old Took Over Her Mother's Franchise to Honor Her Memory

Kate Taylor

Reporter

Kate Taylor is a reporter at Business Insider. She was previously a reporter at Entrepreneur. Get in touch with tips and feedback on Twitter at @Kate_H_Taylor. 

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business News

These Companies Offer the Best Work-Life Balance, According to Employees

The ranking is based on Glassdoor ratings and reviews.

Science & Technology

Use This Framework to Successfully Integrate AI Into Your Business Operations

Here's how to ensure both innovation and compliance when using AI in your organization.

Leadership

Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail Without the Right Talent in Place

Using fractional AI experts through specialized platforms allows companies to access top talent cost-effectively, drive innovation and scale agile strategies for growth.

Growing a Business

Why Business Owners Should Streamline Their Operations Now for Success in 2025

As the holiday season and year-end approach, business owners face heightened operational demands, from inventory management to spend control. By streamlining these processes and partnering with flexible suppliers, businesses can maintain efficiency, meet customer needs and focus on growth while navigating this busy period.