Creams Cafe announces emergency franchise partner support package

Financial incentives such as reduction on royalty fees have also been introduced

Creams Cafe has announced its emergency franchise partner support package to help and guide its partners through inflationary pressures, the cost-of-living crisis and other ongoing economic and societal challenges.

To help safeguard the future of each of the 100-plus Creams Cafe restaurants across the UK, a full support package has been devised, including financial incentives such as a reduction on royalty fees from October 2022 until February 2023.

The package will include general support and advice on managing labour efficiency, information on how to effectively engage with landlords for rent-reduction discussions and tips on how to maximise energy efficiency across the business.

Creams has also appointed a third-party company to advise on business rates revaluation and will host a series of regional forums for partners to have face-to-face time with and support from the senior team.

“Supporting our franchise partners is a key priority for us and we hope this package will help them as they navigate this challenging climate,” said Othman Shoukat, managing director of Creams. “We formalised it prior to any government announcement as our aim is always to proactively support our franchise partners.

“We took a similar proactive approach during CIVID-19 with our dedicated Taskforce and came out the other side significantly stronger than pre-pandemic levels with average store sales in 2021 approximately 20 per cent higher compared to pre-pandemic 2019. I am confident that with this comprehensive support package, we will maintain good momentum and replicate this success despite the difficult environment.”

Creams has an ambitious growth pipeline with 10 new openings planned by the end of the calendar year and new franchisees.

Those looking to open subsequent restaurants will also be supported with a generous financial package. An attractive incentive will also be put in place for those looking to refurbish their restaurants. The refurbishment scheme will ensure restaurants are as energy efficient and sustainable as possible whilst attracting both new and returning customers through a modern and refreshed design.