The Counter: Revolutionizing the Burger Experience with Endless Customization

The Counter, established in 2003, revolutionized the burger industry with its premium offerings and unique approach to the traditional burger restaurant. The inaugural location in Santa Monica set the stage for the brand's expansion to multiple locations.

What sets The Counter apart is its highly customizable menu, offering guests the choice of a wide array of proteins, cheeses, toppings, sauces, and buns, resulting in over a million possible burger combinations. This innovative concept is delivered in a full-service, casual dining atmosphere, characterized by industrial décor and lively music.

In 2005, just two years after its founding, The Counter began franchising, introducing its distinctive dining experience to new markets. This strategic expansion underscores The Counter's dedication to reinventing the classic American burger, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to craft unique, flavorful options within a hospitality-focused environment. The Counter's Headquartered is in Culver City, California.

Training 

The franchisor provides an extensive training program tailored for up to three participants, covering the essentials of running the Franchised Business. The training is segmented into three key modules:

1. In-Store Training: Hands-on training conducted within the restaurant.
2. KTEC Classroom Training: Classroom instruction focused on kitchen operations and overall business management.
3. New Store Opening: Training dedicated to the specifics of launching a new restaurant.

Additional Programs and Ongoing Support

Franchisees may be required to attend refresher courses or additional training sessions. The franchisor also organizes an annual conference to introduce new products, sales strategies, marketing techniques, staff training methods, advertising initiatives, and merchandising practices.

Training Store Certification

Franchisees can apply for Training Store Certification, signifying that their business meets the franchisor's performance standards and that both the General Manager and Kitchen Manager possess the required experience and training credentials set by the franchisor.

Continuous Training and Support

The franchisor offers ongoing support through evaluations, inspections, and additional training opportunities. These sessions may be mandatory and can take place at various locations determined by the franchisor.

Territory Protection

The franchisor has the discretion to assign a "Protected Area" for The Counter restaurant, defined by specific geographic or political boundaries such as roads or distance radii. Despite this, franchisees will not be granted exclusive territorial rights. Competition could come from other franchisees, franchisor-owned outlets, or other distribution channels or brands managed by the franchisor.

Certain locations are excluded from the Protected Area. These include airport properties, mass transit stations, professional sports stadiums, hotels, military bases, entertainment parks, casinos, and educational institutions. In these areas, the franchisor or its affiliates may open The Counter restaurants in any format.

Franchisees should be aware of limitations regarding their territorial rights. The franchisor retains the right to sell products and services within the franchisee's territory through various means, such as online platforms and retail stores not branded as The Counter.