Lessons From Franchise Executives: Lauren Coulter of Biscuit Belly

Pharmacist-turned-restaurateur-turned franchising expert Lauren Coulter brings a range of experience to her current role as director of franchise development for Biscuit Belly, an emerging “better brunch” franchise with a fast-casual approach and menu stacked with chef-driven creations.

Coulter, who is currently seeking qualified multi-unit franchisees who care about their community, quality food, and good old-fashioned hospitality, said the franchisor/franchisee relationship is “a marriage, not a dating relationship. This is something that you hope will last for many years.”

According to Coulter, an ideal franchisee stands out in their industry as an accomplished restaurateur and a genuine member of the neighborhood, “someone you want to invite over for sweet tea,” she said.

While COVID hit in the midst of Biscuit Belly going down the franchising path, it was also an opportunity for the new brand to get their ducks in a row. “As tough as it was and as hard as it was on our numbers, it gave us the bandwidth to really focus and do things the right way,” Coulter said. “It’s what has allowed us to level up our franchising process.”