Branded Vs. Proprietary Foodservice

 The debate has gone on for many years-should you implement an existing branded foodservice program or are you better off developing your unique proprietary brand? The answer to both is YES! There is no right or wrong answer as both have their pros and cons. Branded food service offers the quickest path to implementation since production processes and consumer recognition have already been established. Proprietary brands, on the other hand, usually take longer to implement but can be more profitable and almost impossible for your competition to mimic.

Since branded and proprietary foodservice each presents their opportunities as well as challenges, below is a helpful overview to help you determine which type of food service program is best for you and your store operation.

Branded Foodservice

Proprietary Foodservice

AdvantagesProduct Recognition. A ramp-up of consumer awareness of the brand is minimal.

Confidence. Trust is already established for the brand in the minds of the consumer.

Consistency/Quality. Time and investment have been established in the brand already.

Brand Support. Most branded foodservice companies provide you with training & marketing.

You're in Control. As the owner of the brand, you determine your brand's path.

Competitive Differentiation. It is your brand and your competition cannot use it.

Product Cost Savings. In some cases, you can save substantial product costs by having your proprietary brand.

More Mystique. Your brand can achieve a higher acceptance level when executed well.

Disadvantages

One-Size-Fits-All. Branded companies are interested in their brand first, your store second.

Higher Costs. Cost of goods; marketing promotions, licensing, or franchise fees all erode your profit margins.

Lack of Control. You are buying a branded concept - the branded company sets the rules on how to use its brand.

Geography. Branded concepts like market share and error are on the side of overdevelopment.

More Time-Consuming. You must manage every aspect of your brand, from procurement to retail sales.

Organization Challenges. Training, supply chain, operations, and marketing all have to be in perfect sync.

You're Second Fiddle. The big foodservice brands command the attention of suppliers and consumers.

More Money. It is your nickel: every idea, every product, every marketing piece is paid for by you.

Building a successful foodservice business within your store can enhance your bottom line like no other initiative can. High-margin foodservice items can help offset loss-leading products and categories that are on the down cycle of their life. The choice between branded or proprietary food service is largely dependent upon how your organization is structured from an infrastructure standpoint as well as your comfort level. If you have the wherewithal and people-power to launch and manage a proprietary foodservice operation, your gross profit margin potential is much larger. On the other hand, implementing a branded foodservice program at your store allows you to capitalize on years of brand-building and operational know-how - and still turn a handsome profit.

The blurring of lines from drug stores carrying convenience store category products, to quick-service restaurants offering "grab-and-go" packages, to branded foodservice operations in alternative locations such as kiosks, has forced many store operators to expand their foodservice offerings to meet the demands of their customers. Convenience will always be paramount for stores, but adding a branded or proprietary foodservice operation allows you to expand your customer base and still deliver your core products. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to branded and proprietary food service- the important choice is selecting the best program for you.