#SAFranchiseFriday featuring Zebro's

BACKGROUND
The Zebro's story begins in the early 1990s in small town of Caledon in the Western Cape, where customers could be found queuing for a very unique meal. This unique meal consisted of chicken portions, prepared in the traditional South African braai method using wood coals. The chicken was enhanced with a secret family basting and marinade sauce. Preparing chicken in this traditional way and adding the unique basting sauce was clearly a winning combination.

Local businessman, John Hickman, decided that more people needed to enjoy this unique product and the first franchise concept outlet was opened in November 2001. During 2014, after substantial negotiations, Taste Holdings Limited acquired the Zebro’s franchise business, system and brand. Zebro’s is a member of the Taste Holdings Group and forms part of the Taste Food Division along with The Fish & Chip Co, Maxi’s, Domino’s Pizza and Starbucks. The Taste Holdings Group is a South African-based management group with a portfolio of mostly franchised, category specialist and formula-driven, quick-service restaurants and retail brands.

THE CONCEPT
Nothing brings families together like a good old South African braai. What sets Zebro’s chicken apart from the rest lies in the preparation; chicken pieces are basted with their famous Zebro’s sauce and then braaied to perfection over hot coals, thereby providing a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. The chicken is served with a generous portion of chips, topped with a serving of Zebro’s sauce. Customers can also look forward to an expansive menu including chicken burgers, Russians, fresh-cut chips, and assorted salads. Zebro’s meals can be enjoyed either as a takeaway or eat-in meal.

The simplicity of the product range has resulted in the lowest new store establishment cost in its category, as well as uncomplicated in-store operations.

FRANCHISOR SUPPORT
The value for money product, combined with the backup and support provided by the franchisor, is undoubtedly the brand’s competitive advantage. The fact that many Zebro’s franchisees own more than one store is proof of their positive sentiment at being part of such an exciting and dynamic franchise. The franchisor provides assistance with finance applications, identifying suitable sites, and initial and ongoing training and support.

Franchisees are supported by an experienced team, including a dedicated franchise manager who facilitates communication and operational requirements between the franchisee and franchisor. Their business philosophy is to provide franchisees with guidance in building and operating a successful enterprise.

FRANCHISEE PROFILE
A successful business is driven by a hands-on individual who understands the importance of superior service delivery, is passionate about people and willing to commit to a long-term plan that will yield results.

SNAPSHOT
HISTORY
Founder: John Hickman
Year founded: Early 1990s
Area of origin: Caledon, Western Cape
CEO: Carlo Gonzaga

NETWORK
1st SA franchise opened: 2001

FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
Management fee: 4% of turnover
Marketing fee: 2% of turnover
Agreement term: 5 Years
Renewal term: 5 Years

FINANCIALS
* Amounts quoted are VAT exclusive
Establishment cost: R833 245
Franchise joining fee: R190 000 (included in establishment cost)
Working capital required: Available on request
Total average set-up cost: From R833 245
Average monthly turnover: Available on request
Achievable gross margins: Available on request

WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Contact Dewald van Deventer on +27 11 608 1999 or visit www.zebros.co.za