Why is Tom and Chee closing?
Tom & Chee fell into a dangerous trap of opening larger and larger stores, Roger David, Gold Star's CEO, told RB, with units climbing to 2,500 square feet or more. “Pre-acquisition, what happened to the brand is that they had tremendous growth and didn't have the infrastructure to support it,” David said.
Is Tom and Chee successful?
As a result of GSR's involvement, Tom & Chee is back to being a rising star amidst the $23 billion sandwich industry. Tom & Chee is committed to providing customers with an authentic, nostalgic dining experience, while offering franchise owners the opportunity to partner with a brand dedicated to their success.
Who bought out Tom and Chee?
But sales tanked and units of the largely franchised concept started closing, shrinking the chain to about 23 locations. The franchisor was unable to repay a loan and had its assets seized by the lender. Gold Star Chili stepped up to buy the assets on Sept. 20.
How did Tom and Chee start?
Our first location was a pop-up tent on Fountain Square in Cincinnati. We served our amazing grilled cheese to the cold and hungry crowds visiting the annual outdoor holiday market. We melted hearts, and cheese, and the word quickly spread about the toasty little tent near the ice skating rink.
How is Tom and Chee doing after Shark Tank?
In June, 2021, the company opened new franchised stores in Cincinnati, Oklahoma City and Pittsburgh. In January, 2022, an Atlanta franchise store closed. By June, 2022, the company, under GSR's guidance, is back offering franchises and plans on expansion with a “leaner” business model.
Who invented Gold Star Chili?
Frank Daoud founded Gold Star in 1963 when he and three of his brothers, Fahhad, Basheer and Bishara, purchased the Hamburger Heaven restaurant in Mount Washington, which included a recipe for Cincinnati Chili.
How many locations does Gold Star Chili have?
Gold Star Chili restaurants, both company-owned and franchised, are located in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana—a total of 85 as of October 2016.
What is Tom and Chee known for?
They serve cuisine that American kids grew up eating. They are known for their classic dishes with a modern twist. People like to eat here because it takes them back to the classic dishes they loved growing up. It has a relaxed environment where people can come and grab some food without ...
Does Blue Cheese Chili have a wait?
Their blue cheese chili is one of their most popular dishes. They also offer a large variety of different grill cheese sandwiches recipes. They typically do not have a wait, but it may vary slightly by location.
GRILLED CHEESE IN A SHARK TANK
Following its 2013 appearance on the nationally televised show “Shark Tank,” Tom & Chee found itself one of the top up-and-coming restaurant chains in the nation, recognized for its original concept and salability.
A NEW DIRECTION
In the fall of 2017, Tom & Chee was officially acquired by GSR Brands, a family-owned franchise business with over 50 years of brand experience growing franchise concepts and helping franchisees thrive in the restaurant business. At this point, Tom & Chee was down to 23 locations, but a bright future was on the horizon.
THE NOW AND FUTURE TOM & CHEE
Tom & Chee is a shining example of the fact that people crave delicious simplicity. Our menu appeals to every taste and preference, whether it’s a savory melt, a warming soup, or our famous Grilled Cheese Donut. Every customer can find something to fill their bellies and put a smile on their face.
