In this exclusive Q&A, we learn more about The Melting Pot franchise from Dan Stone, Chief Business & People Development Officer at Front Burner.
Franchise Chatter (FC): What is The Melting Pot?
Dan Stone (DS): Founded in 1975, The Melting Pot has offered a unique fondue dining experience for more than 40 years. The concept is known for offering an assortment of flavorful fondue cooking styles and a variety of unique entrées served with signature dipping sauces. The menu features a variety of à la carte selections, highlighting customizable options that invite guests to enjoy one, two, three or more courses as they select any combination of individually-priced cheese fondues, salads, entrées and chocolate fondues.
FC: How many locations does The Melting Pot have?
DS: As the premier fondue restaurant franchise, The Melting Pot Restaurants, Inc. has more than 120 restaurants in 35 U.S. states, Canada, Mexico, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
FC: The company recently announced the largest development agreement in the brand’s history to open 17 additional restaurants in Mexico. Can you explain why The Melting Pot concept is so well received abroad?
DS: We’re extremely thrilled about our partnership with the GINgroup to expand our international presence across Mexico. Currently, there are three Melting Pot locations in Interlomas, Satélite and Pedregal. The success of these locations comes from the tremendous guest loyalty and support of The Melting Pot brand in the country.
Our interactive and one-of-a-kind dining experience has been well received abroad, as our concept is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a gourmet adventure tableside with family and friends. The excitement of crafting fondue and creating an indulgent meal encourages our guests from across the world to experiment and explore food like never before, and ultimately it’s the reason why they keep coming back for more.
FC: Will the Mexico locations differ from those in the U.S.? If so, how?
DS: While each restaurant will be similar to U.S. locations and offer the brand’s core menu items, all of our international locations are intentionally designed to enhance and complement the geographic location and integrate familiar regional flavors that guests already know and love.
Our culinary and beverage teams work hand-in-hand with distributors to develop unique dishes that utilize local ingredients, but also stay true to The Melting Pot’s signature fondue cooking style. For example, our new restaurants in Mexico will feature recipes infused with Manchego cheese from Queretaro and chocolate from Puebla.
FC: What are the brand’s international expansion plans for the near future?
DS: The Melting Pot franchise opportunity is poised for tremendous growth internationally, and we’re currently seeking to expand in the United Kingdom, India and Brazil.
FC: How can potential entrepreneurs learn about franchise opportunities with The Melting Pot?
DS: To learn more about ownership opportunities with The Melting Pot, contact Christina Hobbs, director of franchise development for The Melting Pot, at chobbs@meltingpot.com, or call 800-783- 0867 ext. 109.
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