Fresh Approach

Katsubi’s experience makes it easy to serve fresh and healthy food at the busiest times

When you’ve got a hugely popular brand like Katsubi, you have to live up to it every day – and that means having great training and systems in place.

‘People love the fresh taste of our Red Bowls, which combine freshlycooked meat and healthy vegetables flavoured with our unique Katsubi Sauce,’ explains Zoe Park of Katsubi HQ. ‘This enables people to select their own mix of rice, salads and sauces, then add freshly-cooked hot meats or plant-based options to create the perfect combination for them.

‘We’re also famous for our Chicken DAK, crunchy fried New Zealand chicken marinated in a special sauce which gives it a delicious tangy, spicy flavour, and we have Katsubi’s own unique udon and ramen noodle options, as well as a variety of tasty snacks to suit any taste, any time.

’ It’s this combination of exciting flavours that has made the home-grown Katsubi one of the fastest-growing food franchises in New Zealand, with over 20 stores in malls and high streets around the country, and 10 more opening soon.

Easy to follow

In any food business, delivering high standards during busy periods such as weekends and public holidays is a challenge, but Katsubi has developed clever systems based on 20 years of experience which make it possible for franchisees to maintain smooth workflows at all times.

Natisha Pualilo, manager of the Ormiston store in South Auckland, is a good judge of the efficiency of Katsubi’s operation. She had an impressive background across the hospitality sector prior to joining the company. ‘I studied hospitality and management at a tertiary institution, covering all areas from food and beverage to reception duties in highlyrated hotels,’ she says.

Natisha started at Katsubi working as front of house, and was pleased to find the step up to a manager’s position quite easy. ‘The training that I had gone through at Katsubi was precise, quick and always to a high standard,’ she recalls. ‘That’s typical of the brand – the systems are very well worked-out and easy to follow, and the support is incredible.

‘That’s what makes Katsubi so special, for franchisees and staff alike,’ believes Natisha. ‘It’s a 100 percent Kiwi-owned family business and the franchise team are always encouraging and accessible to address any questions – they are completely understanding of our needs.’

Turning customers into fans

A typical workday for Natisha covers a variety of roles. ‘All Katsubi managers are very much hands-on and must be knowledgeable in all areas of the restaurant,’ she explains, ‘from setting up the restaurant for opening and prepping fresh salads in the morning to helping cook fresh, hot meals and snacks during the day, serving customers, and closing out the till. I also manage tasks such as staff rosters and stock ordering.

‘There are systems for all these things and the chicken comes ready prepared from Katsubi’s own kitchens so we just have to cook it in the store. Because of the fast-paced service, you’re only with a customer for about a minute, but you have little conversations with people and see them more and more as they become regulars, which I really enjoy.’

And it’s that growing band of loyal fans who have helped turn Katsubi into such a strong franchise brand that it can stand proudly alongside any of the global franchises operating here.

All the help you need

Katsubi is looking for franchisees for new locations all over the country. Total investment levels vary according to location and size, ranging between $350,000 and $500,000. Katsubi’s track record over 20 years means that banks are supportive when it comes to finding finance for the right people.

‘It means the opportunity is open to anyone interested in the hospitality industry with a passion for business and a desire to succeed,’ says Zoe. ‘You don’t need a food background or a specific skill set as long as you have lots of energy and are willing to learn.

‘Initial training is held in Auckland or Christchurch, with on-the-job training to help you gain experience and independence as your business grows. There are regular visits from support staff, and contact with highlyexperienced specialists in operations, marketing and planning. These ensure that you are comfortable with every part of the business and able to make the most of the opportunities the franchise offers to achieve high levels of profitability and sustainable returns.

‘If you haven’t already enjoyed the fresh, healthy taste of Katsubi, visit one of our stores and try it for yourself. And if you’re already a fan, contact me – we’d love to talk to you about joining our franchisee family.’

KATSUBI STORES

AUCKLAND: Albany, Browns Bay, DressSmart Onehunga, Glenfield, Greenlane, Manukau, NorthWest, Orewa, Ormiston, Rosedale, Silverdale, St Lukes, Sylvia Park, Takapuna, WestCity.

TUARANGA: Bayfair

HAMILTON: Dinsdale, The Base

CHRISTCHURCH: Airport (Spitfire). Northlands. Riccarton

Places of Interest

Auckland City, Birkenhead, Christchurch City, Dunedin, Hornby, Napier, Nelson, Newmarket, Tauranga, Taupō, Queenstown, Whangarei. Contact Katsubi for more options

Advertiser Info

Katsubi

www.katsubi.co.nz

www.katsubi.com

Contact Zoe Park

M 021 880 278

franchise@katsubi.co.nz