Navigating the Complexities of a Franchise Acquisition

About the Episode

Mina Haque, CEO of Tony Roma’s, spent almost nine months on legal due diligence, learning the ins and outs of the corporation, and building strong relationships with franchise owners. This led to her being named CEO of the company, focused on continuing the stabilization and growth of this global brand. She highlights the challenges of maintaining brand consistency and shares her insights through the acquisition, emphasizing the importance of staffing, integration, and franchisee relationships.

“Franchisees want a franchise to stand the test of time, so support is everything.”

Mina Haque

What You’ll Learn

• Critical need for insight: The importance of going beyond legal due diligence and deeply understanding the business rationale and franchisee relationships when acquiring a franchise business.
• Importance of the human element: The challenges of managing the human element and cultural integration during a business transition and the need to actively engage and communicate with employees and franchisees.
• Hands-on management approach: The value of a CEO having hands-on involvement in areas like staffing, operations, and franchisee support rather than just relying on the legal and financial aspects.
• Growth potential in a global brand: The need for flexibility and adaptability when leading the turnaround of an established brand, balancing brand consistency with local market needs.

Topics Covered

Want More? Related Resources: 

• The Role of a Franchisor When Selling a Franchise
• M&A Due Diligence | Checklist & Overview

Meet Our Guest

Mina Haque

CEO, Tony Roma’s | Washington, DC

Mina Haque is the CEO of Tony Roma’s, a global casual dining restaurant chain with over 150 locations in 32 countries. She is also an attorney and founder of the Law Office of Mohaimina Haque, PLLC, a general practice firm that specializes in business, immigration, franchise, and trademark law.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minahaque/