In this episode:

In this episode of the Small Business Lab podcast, host Bennett West talks with Peter Labib, a Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers franchisee, about the complete franchising journey — from an unexpected layoff after 25 years at UPS to researching franchise concepts, navigating the FDD and discovery day process, negotiating territory rights, securing SBA financing for a $1.5–2.5 million build-out, and managing the chaotic final weeks before opening day. Peter shares practical advice and hard-won lessons for any entrepreneur considering the franchise path.

About our Guest:

Peter Labib is a multi-unit franchisee of Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, based in New Jersey.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

01:25 – About our guest, Peter Labib

03:47 – The Discovery Process: Why Franchising?

08:27 – Choosing Freddy’s: Vetting & First Contact

10:33 – Territories, FDD & Discovery Day

17:07 – Franchise Commitments & Development Plans

20:28 – Real Estate & Financing the Build

25:00 – Build-Out to Opening Day

27:07 – Pre-Opening: Hiring & Operations

30:23 – Lessons Learned & Keys to Success

Links:

Upcoming UGA SBDC class on franchising: https://ugasbdc.training/uwg/0874-001

This is an in-person class held in Carrollton, GA.

Connect With Us:

Follow the UGA SBDC on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Learn More About the UGA SBDC:

The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides tools, training and resources to help small businesses grow and succeed. Designated as one of Georgia’s top providers of small business assistance, the UGA SBDC has 17 offices ranging from Rome to Valdosta to serve the needs of Georgia’s business community. Learn more at https://georgiasbdc.org, or request assistance at https://georgiasbdc.org/request-for-assistance/.

About the Host:

Bennett West brings decades of experience in sales, operations and supply chain leadership across consulting, private equity and manufacturing. He has held leadership roles at Deloitte and EY, where he specialized in manufacturing, operational improvement and supply chain strategy, ultimately leading EY's Midwest Supply Chain practice with responsibility for business development and client delivery. In private equity, Bennett served as an operating partner, helping portfolio companies improve performance and drive growth. Now, Bennett is a Business Consultant at the UGA SBDC in Savannah, consulting with small business owners and teaching continuing education programs.

This podcast is presented for educational purposes only. The UGA SBDC does not endorse specific products or services mentioned in the episode.