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Sourdough & Co.: A Fresh Take on Fast-Casual Dining

Sourdough & Co. is a rapidly growing fast-casual restaurant franchise that specializes in premium sandwiches, fresh soups, and vibrant salads, all served on their signature San Francisco-style sourdough bread.

Founded in 2015 by Steve Presson in El Dorado Hills, California, the brand has quickly cultivated a dedicated following. The company is now headquartered in Granite Bay, California, and began franchising in 2021 to meet the growing demand for its delicious offerings.

The brand’s menu is distinguished by its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and artisan preparation. Customers can choose from a diverse selection of specialty sandwiches, gourmet salads, and comforting soups served in warm sourdough bread bowls, making it a go-to choice for those looking for both flavor and nutritional value.

What sets Sourdough & Co. apart from other fast-casual franchises is its efficient operations and robust franchise support system, helping franchisees thrive in a competitive market.

Training

The franchise, World of Sourdough, provides a structured and multi-stage training program to ensure the franchisee is well-prepared to operate a franchised restaurant. The Franchisor offers several key training initiatives:

1. Initial On-the-Job Training Program
   Franchisees or their designees must complete an initial on-the-job training program to the satisfaction of the Franchisor. This includes instruction by Franchisor-provided trainers and training materials. If not completed satisfactorily, the Franchisor can terminate the agreement. This training must also be completed by a designated operator responsible for daily restaurant operations.
2. Pre-Opening and Opening Assistance
   A designated trainer or consultant is sent for up to 10 days during the week before and two weeks after opening. This support includes hands-on training and procedural standardization for general managers, owners, and staff.
3. Corporate Training Program
   Held at corporate offices, this includes an Operating Manual, hands-on sessions, videos, and demos. All sessions are taught by trained staff and serve as a detailed operational reference.
4. Refresher and Additional Training
   Franchisees may be required to participate in further training programs to enhance operations, provided via telephone, webinars, or in-person events. Some formats may involve fees and travel expenses.

Territory Protection

World of Sourdough offers a form of territory protection to its franchisees by granting a defined "Protected Territory" within which no other standard WOSD Franchised Restaurant will be placed.

This protection typically spans a two-mile radius from the approved location, although it may be adjusted depending on local population density. The franchisee is allowed to market and provide services within this designated area and is restricted from relocating without written consent.

However, this protection has limits. The Franchisor retains the right to operate or authorize others to operate similar businesses at non-traditional sites, such as airports, malls, or campuses, even within the franchisee’s territory.