Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine Issue III, 2011 | Page 13

And being married nearly 34 years, the energetic couple still jokes about the “sizzling” romance they started in high school. 2011 MVP AWARD WINNER You were recognized for demonstrating outstanding performance and innovation in growing your organization and brands. Tell us what you did. We believe it was because of our commitment to make the Sizzler brand better than it has ever been—to make it the new-generation Sizzler with our remodels and revamped food items over the past four years. Our commitment to brand is illustrated in many ways, including our local store marketing programs, community giving, and student recognition organization. We are also committed to our people—our most important investment. As a multi-unit franchisee, how have you raised the bar within your organization? BMW has set the bar high by going beyond what others will do and spend in their Sizzler concept. Our focus is on character, integrity, and service, building relationships and making a difference when and where it matters. We will never put a lid on our box. We think outside the box and teach and expect our team to grow and keep their lids lifted too. What innovations have you created and used to build your company?There are many innovations related to our new-generation Sizzlers. At the new salad bar, which is stocked with fresh food from the inside, the Greek, Asian, Caesar, and spinach salads will be tossed and made fresh before guests’ eyes and displayed in colorful bowls. The new POS terminal ordering counters are no longer boring straight line countertops but contemporary elliptical pods. Some of our new BMW Sizzler designs incorporate an open kitchen similar to that of Houston’s Restaurant. We want our guests to be engaged in every fresh aspect of our food, service, and facility. Our new look incorporates lifestyle pictures with a positive and active American theme, elliptical booths, and new playfully designed furniture. The outside has also undergone a transformation and we’ve come up with delicious new food products. All this has worked together to attract new guests, improve frequency of visits, drive incremental sales, and improve the Sizzler concept. What core values do you feel led you to win this award? Our core values focus on knowing who we are in Jesus Christ. That means we value people over position and power. We value teaching others best practices and emphasizing honesty, humility, passion, and responsibility as the keys to growth and success. Success to us is investing in the lives of people and watching them grow their gifts and talents and becoming strong contributors to the organization. At the same time, we’re committed to attracting and maintaining loyal guests, being the very best at what we do, offering superior products and services, and improving our brand. Multi-Unit Franchisee Issu e III, 2011  11