Latest news with #GreggMajewski
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Taim launches franchising in challenge to Cava
This story was originally published on Restaurant Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Restaurant Dive newsletter. Taim Mediterranean Kitchen, a 14-unit fast casual concept owned by Craveworthy Brands, is launching a franchising program in a bid to capitalize on the explosive growth of the Mediterranean fast casual sector, according to a Wednesday press release. While Taim is a relatively small competitor in the sector, franchising could speed up its geographical expansion by allowing it to tap into operator sources of capital. The brand's initial franchising focus will be on markets in Washington, D.C., Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. These are all places where Cava has a significant brand presence, making this push a direct confrontation with the market leader. While franchising is the dominant business strategy in QSR, the fast casual sector is typically led by company-operated models, with Chipotle and Cava being the most notable success. Given Cava's dominance and the significant growth potential in Mediterranean cuisine — Craveworthy cited Technomic data showing a 10.2% year-over-year increase in consumer demand as of Q1 2025 — Taim could ultimately see strong franchisee interest. 'There's clear untapped franchise potential in this space,' Gregg Majewski, Craveworthy's founder and CEO, said in the press release. 'There's still massive opportunity for a concept like Taim.' Taim says its menu, which offers a wide-range of options including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal dishes, is the key to its brand potential. The company highlighted recent menu additions like Beef and Lamb Shawarma, Baharat-Spiced Pita Chips and Roasted Mushrooms as examples of ongoing menu innovation. But Taim is not the first chain to use franchising in the segment: Taziki's Mediterranean Kitchen, the second-largest brand in Mediterranean fast casual, has offered franchising since 2013, according to its website. Taziki's franchisee base actually peaked in 2019/2020, at 75 stores, shrinking to 59 in 2022 and rebounding to more than 61 since then. But Craveworthy's multi-brand platform could be an asset both in recruiting franchisees and in helping them succeed. In the Mexican fast casual segment, franchising has proven the weapon of choice for brands chasing company-owned Chipotle. But while Qdoba has managed to set up a 500-unit development pipeline, and Cilantro Taco Grill has set up a 100-store growth plan, Chipotle remains far and away the segment leader with 3,697 domestic locations, according to its latest 10-Q. And merely being in a popular segment is not enough to guarantee success, as Roti found out last year when the Mediterranean fast casual chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protections after rent deferral agreements expired. None of this precludes Taim from establishing a successful franchising program, or growing significantly. But its choice of early growth markets are nearly all Cava strongholds — Cava has more stores in Maryland than Taim has in its whole system — which means the brand will face significant competition from one of the fastest growing fast casual chains in the whole restaurant industry. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
09-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Now Franchising: Taim Mediterranean Kitchen Offers an Authentic Take on The $33B Culinary Segment
Craveworthy Brands Launches Franchise Program in Key U.S. Markets for Award-Winning Mediterranean Concept as Demand Surges NEW YORK, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Craveworthy Brands ("Craveworthy,") the innovative, multi-brand restaurant platform, has launched the highly-anticipated franchise program for award-winning concept, Taim Mediterranean Kitchen ("Taim,") in the $33 billion culinary segment (IBISWorld.) Known for its authentic Mediterranean flavors, better-for-you ingredients and customizable menu, Taim is opening the door to owner-operators ready to bring one of the most in-demand global cuisines to their communities across the U.S. Taim was founded in New York City's West Village in 2005 by a two-time Food Network champion and has since grown to 14 locations across major markets including New York, Chicago and Washington D.C. As one of the only Mediterranean brands of its size and caliber offering franchise opportunities, Taim stands out as a fresh option in a thriving category. "There's clear untapped franchise potential in this space, and we're moving fast to meet it," said CEO and Founder of Craveworthy, Gregg Majewski. "The Mediterranean segment continues to grow, but there's still massive opportunity for a concept like Taim – one that's rooted in culture, delivers operational finesse and has broad appeal. We've built a platform that lets partners grow with confidence, and Taim is the kind of brand that will win." Mediterranean cuisine continues to gain traction as one of the fastest-growing segments in fast casual, with a 10.2 percent increase in consumer demand year-over-year as of the first quarter in 2025, according to recent Technomic data. Taim is well-positioned to meet this demand, offering an authentic menu that caters to a range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal, while maintaining a vibrant and craveable flavor profile that appeals to a wide guest base. The brand's most recent menu additions, including Beef and Lamb Shawarma, Baharat-Spiced Pita Chips, Roasted Mushrooms and a rotating lineup of craft beverages, reflect its commitment to culinary authenticity, innovation and inclusivity. Each item is thoughtfully developed to celebrate Mediterranean tradition while giving guests even more flavor-forward options to personalize their dishes. Taim's initial franchise growth is focused on key East Coast and Midwest regions such as D.C., Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The program is open to experienced restaurant entrepreneurs, multi-unit franchise partners and qualified, dedicated owner-operators who want to be part of a value-driven brand that connects with today's consumer. Through the franchise program, Taim partners gain access to Craveworthy's end-to-end support infrastructure, including streamlined supply chain solutions, in-depth training processes, creative marketing strategies, full-stack tech integration and expert operational guidance, all designed to enable scalability and long-term success. "When people think of Mediterranean fast casual, they think of real flavor, variety and quality," added Chief Business Officer of Craveworthy, Josh Halpern. "Taim brings all that to the table, plus a strong brand story, authentic culinary edge and a path for entrepreneurs to tap into one of the most up-and-coming segments in food." To learn more about Taim, please visit To learn more about Craveworthy Brands, please visit To learn more about franchise opportunities, please visit ABOUT TAIM MEDITTERANEAN KITCHENFounded in 2005, Taim Mediterranean Kitchen delivers the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. Taim's menu includes freshly made hummus, falafel, shawarma and customizable bowls and pitas, catering to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free preferences. From market-fresh produce to authentic herbs and spices, every dish is crafted with care to provide a craveable dining experience. The Brand has grown from its New York City roots to become a nationally loved brand, bringing vibrant Mediterranean cuisine to communities across the country. Learn more about Taim Mediterranean Kitchen at ABOUT CRAVEWORTHY BRANDSCraveworthy Brands, the parent company of Shaquille O'Neal-founded Big Chicken, Bd's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Flat Top Grill, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Genghis Grill, Hot Chicken Takeover, Krafted Burger Bar + Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Nomad Dawgs, Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Sigri Indian BBQ, Taffer's Tavern by Bar Rescue's Jon Taffer, taim Mediterranean Kitchen, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On!, is dedicated to invigorating and supercharging legacy brands while nurturing and growing emerging brands. The company brings together diverse, yet complementary brands and an accomplished, veteran leadership team in the growing culinary space. In addition to building and operating leading restaurant brands, Craveworthy Brands is active in the communities it serves and creates exciting career opportunities for its team members. Bridging the distinctive individuality of its concepts with a shared culture and spirit of collaboration, the Company's goal is to create truly unique and craveworthy experiences every day, every shift and at every turn. Learn more about Craveworthy and its brands at View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Craveworthy Brands
Entrepreneur
08-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
How Jon Taffer's Growing His Franchise Business
Taffer, known for his role in 'Bar Rescue,' teamed up with Craveworthy Brands to expand his concept, Taffer's Tavern. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Jon Taffer isn't just a TV personality. He's a walking, talking, table-flipping force in hospitality. For more than a decade, he's been shouting people into shape on Bar Rescue, building brands and turning dysfunction into multimillion-dollar operations. So when it came time to grow his own concept, Taffer's Tavern, he didn't just make a move. He made a statement. That statement? Team up with Gregg Majewski and Craveworthy Brands. In just a few years, Majewski has grown Craveworthy Brands from concept to industry powerhouse. The company now has more than 300 restaurants, 19 brands and more than $300 million in system-wide sales — and it's still growing. Taffer took notice. Related: Jon Taffer's 10% Rule Is the Productivity Hack That Could Change Your Life "I did my homework," Taffer said on the Restaurant Influencers podcast, seated with Majewski and host Shawn Walchef of Cali BBQ Media. "I looked at the company, I looked at the culture, and I saw the way Gregg leads. He knows every employee's name. He's the real deal." This wasn't just a handshake and a headline. Taffer owned 100% of his brand. No investors. No committee. Just instinct — and his instinct told him Craveworthy was different. So they teamed up on the joint venture. It helped that Taffer wasn't the first big name to buy into Majewski's company. Before Taffer's Tavern, Craveworthy struck a deal with Shaquille O'Neal to bring his Big Chicken restaurants into the fold. That move made Taffer pay closer attention. "Gregg is quality oriented, top of game," Taffer says. "He took the time to understand my brand. I don't worry with him." Majewski is clear about the mission. "The goal has never changed," he says. "We want to build the best fricking restaurant company in the world. And we do that by building the best team in the world." He's not chasing hype. He's building infrastructure. Taffer's Tavern and Big Chicken aren't trophies. They're strategic plays in a much bigger game. To understand what makes this partnership powerful, you have to go back to where their values formed. Related: Gregg Majewski of Craveworthy Brands on the Advantages of Being #2 The people business Before Craveworthy Brands ever existed, Majewski made a promise to Dave Thomas. Yes, that Dave Thomas — the founder of Wendy's and one of Majewski's earliest mentors. The deal was simple: if Thomas poured into Majewski, Majewski would pour back into the industry when it was his turn. Now that Craveworthy is thriving, Majewski is keeping that promise. He tells stories not for the spotlight but to elevate the people who make restaurants run. His podcast, Room for Seconds, is dedicated to exactly that: sharing lessons in leadership and shining a light on the dishwashers, line cooks and unsung workers chasing the American dream. "It's not about me," he says. "They're why we do this." Taffer would agree. His most powerful moment in hospitality didn't happen on television or during a big deal. It happened in a hotel meeting room with a former dishwasher named Theo. Theo had just been promoted to prep cook. Taffer asked him to help open a new restaurant. At the team meeting, Theo stood in front of 80 employees. "I was a dishwasher six months ago," he said. "Look at me now." Taffer cried. "We're in the people business," he says. "When our employees feel that proud, everything else falls into place." That belief shows up in everything Taffer does — from the way he builds teams to how he thinks about hospitality itself. Bar Rescue made him famous for tough love. But underneath the yelling is a core value he never strays from: authenticity. "You don't fool the audience," he says. "You serve them. You connect with them. You create reactions. That's the business we're in." Now entering its tenth season, Bar Rescue is still going strong. Taffer is also reviving his podcast, this time with a sharper focus on the real issues facing the industry — and the people trying to fix them. Because for both Taffer and Majewski, legacy isn't something you inherit. It's something you build. And you build it by showing up for the people who matter most. Related: A Conversation About AI With Sam Altman Blew Their Minds — So They Wrote the Playbook for Businesses That Want to Use the Tech About Restaurant Influencers Restaurant Influencers is brought to you by Toast, the powerful restaurant point-of-sale and management system that helps restaurants improve operations, increase sales and create a better guest experience. Toast — Powering Successful Restaurants. Learn more about Toast. Restaurant Influencers is also supported by NEXT INSURANCE. See why 600,000+ U.S. businesses trust NEXT for insurance. Related: How This Massive Food Company Turned Its Fleet of Trucks into Rolling Billboards — And the Lesson It Teaches About Brand-Building
Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Taim Mediterranean Kitchen Debuts First Location in Windy City Chicago
Craveworthy Kitchen Introduces Mediterranean Concept Founded by Food Network Champ to Midwest CHICAGO, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Craveworthy Brands, the multi-brand restaurant platform company, has debuted its first-ever location of taim Mediterranean Kitchen ("taim"), in Chicago and the Midwest region, located at Craveworthy Kitchen in Hayden Hall on the second floor of 333 South Wabash Avenue. Founded in 2005 by a two-time Food Network champion in New York City's West Village, taim is celebrated for its market-fresh produce, authentic herbs and spices and time-honored cooking techniques. With 13 locations across New York and Washington D.C., taim is known for delivering bold, made-from-scratch Mediterranean cuisine that has won multiple awards, including "Best Falafel" by The New Yorker. "Introducing taim to the Windy City is a significant step in the Craveworthy journey to bring unique, global flavors to communities around the U.S. through innovative dining experiences," said Gregg Majewski, CEO and Founder of Craveworthy Brands. Guests can now order from the Concept's menu featuring freshly made hummus, falafel, shawarma, mezze and an array of plates and pitas. Taim's offerings cater to a wide range of dietary preferences and needs, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring there is something for everyone. It also offers catering with customizable packages for groups of all sizes. "A key part of taim's mission is to slow down, nourish the body with healthy options and gather around the table to organically connect with one another. We're excited to finally be able to share this opportunity in our very own backyard," Majewski added. Craveworthy Kitchen at Hayden Hall is a 25,000-square foot space with modern furnishings, comfortable seating areas and food court-style bays featuring a selection of Craveworthy's culinary concepts, including Krafted Smashburgers, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Pastizza Pizza + Pasta, Scramblin' Eds and The Budlong Southern Chicken. The innovative dining hall is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Nestled right in the heart of the vibrant South Loop neighborhood in the iconic "Big Red" skyscraper, this location offers convenience for students, professionals and tourists alike. Easily accessible by Chicago Transit Authority trains, it is surrounded by top-tier universities like DePaul and Roosevelt, bustling corporate offices and the City's renowned cultural landmarks, including the Art Institute, Grant Park and the Symphony Orchestra. Whether guests are grabbing a quick lunch between classes, taking a break from the office or exploring Chicago's entertainment district, each guest will find a variety of dining options to suit every taste. For more information about taim, please visit For more information about Craveworthy Brands and its concepts, please visit ABOUT TAIM MEDITTERANEAN KITCHEN Founded in 2005, taim Mediterranean Kitchen delivers the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. Taim's menu includes freshly made hummus, falafel, shawarma and customizable bowls and pitas, catering to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free preferences. From market-fresh produce to authentic herbs and spices, every dish is crafted with care to provide a craveable dining experience. The Brand has grown from its New York City roots to become a nationally loved brand, bringing vibrant Mediterranean cuisine to communities across the country. Learn more about taim Mediterranean Kitchen at ABOUT CRAVEWORTHY BRANDSCraveworthy Brands, the parent company of Bd's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Flat Top Grill, Genghis Grill, Krafted Burger Bar + Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Nomad Dawgs, Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Sigri Indian BBQ, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On!, is dedicated to invigorating and supercharging legacy brands while nurturing and growing emerging brands. The company brings together diverse, yet complementary brands and an accomplished, veteran leadership team in the growing culinary space. In addition to building and operating leading restaurant brands, Craveworthy Brands is active in the communities it serves and creates exciting career opportunities for its team members. Bridging the distinctive individuality of its concepts with a shared culture and spirit of collaboration, the Company's goal is to create truly unique and craveworthy experiences every day, every shift and at every turn. Learn more about Craveworthy and its brands at View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Craveworthy Brands Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
27-01-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Wing It On! Brings Winning Streak to Illinois with Two New Franchise Agreements
Craveworthy Brands to Introduce Ultimate Buffalo Wing Experience to Springfield and Carol Stream, Expected to Open in 2025 CHICAGO, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wing It On!, the wing concept from innovative multi-brand restaurant company Craveworthy Brands ('Craveworthy'), announced two newly signed franchise agreements that will bring additional locations to Illinois. Driven by two experienced franchise groups, the new locations will be introduced in Springfield and Carol Stream, both expected to open in the first half of the year. New Champions Join Wing It On! In Springfield, a local entrepreneur and military veteran is leveraging their business expertise to introduce Wing It On! to the State's Capital. With a successful background in sports and wellness franchising as well as real estate, this marks the franchise partner's first venture into the food and beverage space. They are actively scouting prime locations in the Springfield area. Wing It On! has also partnered with a seasoned group of quick-service franchise partners. The entrepreneurial group, that boasts a strong track record in the restaurant industry, plans to open their first location in the Northwest suburbs. Slated to open in Q1 of 2025, the new location will cater to the local demand for a wing joint. 'We're proud to team up with these champion entrepreneurs to introduce Wing It On! in more Illinois communities, delivering a knockout Buffalo wing experience to local wingnuts,' added Matt Ensero, Co-Founder and Brand President of Wing It On! As Wing It On! continues to grow across the U.S., Illinois is a key market for the Brand's franchise expansion. It opened its first corporate-owned location in the Midwest in Lombard this past July. 'Illinois has quickly become a contender in our growth strategy as we expand across the Midwest,' said Gregg Majewski, Founder and CEO of Craveworthy Brands. 'With wing demand soaring, these new agreements are a testament to the strength of Wing It On!'s franchise business model.' A Winning Franchise Opportunity Recently named one of Franchise Dictionary Magazine's 'Top 100 Game Changers' of 2024, Wing It On! has garnered attention as a high-growth franchise opportunity for those ready to dominate in the booming wing segment. Wing It On!'s turnkey footprint and streamlined operations empower entrepreneurs to deliver award-winning wings with ease. The franchise model is optimized for off-premises dining, featuring a seamless menu compatible with virtual kitchens to unlock additional revenue streams. Tech-forward innovations such as mobile ordering and digital loyalty programs enhance guest engagement, drive repeat business and position franchise partners for long-term success. Backed by Craveworthy Brands' national awareness and proven operational systems, Wing It On! is actively searching for qualified, prospective franchise partners looking to become a part of a champion team and deliver a craveworthy dining experience in their local communities. For more information about Craveworthy Brands, please visit For more information about Wing It On!, please visit For more about the franchise opportunities, please visit About Wing It On! Founded in 2011, Wing It On! is redefining the buffalo wing experience with its dedication to quality, flavor and the perfect wing trifecta: crispy wings, bold sauces and house-made dips. Backed by Craveworthy Brands, Wing It On! is a three-time champion at the National Buffalo Wing Festival, recognized as 'America's Best Sauce' with award-winning flavors that set the bar for excellence in the wing game. With locations from Dallas-Fort Worth to Chicago and beyond, Wing It On! offers an extensive lineup of over 20 unique sauces and rubs, from its award-winning Medium Buffalo to the intense Wings of Prey. Beyond wings, the menu features hand-crafted chicken sandwiches, loaded fries and craveable sides, inviting guests coast-to-coast to indulge in the ultimate wing experience. For more information, visit ABOUT CRAVEWORTHY BRANDS Craveworthy Brands, the parent company of Bd's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Flat Top Grill, Genghis Grill, Krafted Burger Bar + Tap, Lucky Cat Poke Co., Nomad Dawgs, Pastizza Pizza & Pasta, Scramblin' Ed's, Sigri Indian BBQ, The Budlong Southern Chicken and Wing It On!, is dedicated to invigorating and supercharging legacy brands while nurturing and growing emerging brands. The company brings together diverse, yet complementary brands and an accomplished, veteran leadership team in the growing culinary space. In addition to building and operating leading restaurant brands, Craveworthy Brands is active in the communities it serves and creates exciting career opportunities for its team members. Bridging the distinctive individuality of its concepts with a shared culture and spirit of collaboration, the Company's goal is to create truly unique and craveworthy experiences every day, every shift and at every turn. Learn more about Craveworthy and its brands at
