From the World’s Biggest Pumpkin to creative celebrity collaborations, Raising Cane’s is more than just a restaurant brand that sells the best chicken fingers. For Todd Graves, his willingness to incorporate a dream big mindset into every endeavor is key to his success.
When Todd Graves had the idea of Raising Cane’s, some people, including a LSU business professor, scoffed at the concept. Anyone who has tried to find success in the restaurant world appreciates that its takes more than a viable business plan to turn a profit. Drive, determination, and a commitment to hospitality are key characteristics to long-term success.
For Graves, one sentiment seems to drive almost everything that he does. The willingness to dream big, or in some cases dream even bigger, allows him to embrace all the possibilities, even the outrageous ones.
During the World's Biggest Pumpkin event Los Angeles, my conservation with Graves touched on many topics. While restaurant brands often talk about the “surprise and delight” impact on guests, Graves seems to want to have that experience himself. It sounds cliché, but the idea of “if you can dream it, we can do it,” appears to influence much of his drive.
Not only does that willingness to spark the dream happen within his business entity; also it impacts the guest at the table. Graves believes that sentiment should influence the guest experience at every turn.
He said, “every single one of those restaurants are personalized with items from the community. I go through all those ideas and approve them because I want every restaurant to be special.” Anyone who has enjoyed the food and hospitality at a Raising Cane's has experienced that uniqueness. It might be well-showcased in the Nashville flagship store, but it is as equally as clear in the West Palm Beach Florida location.
With the best crews in the restaurant industry, Graves knows that people will have an amazing overall experience. By combining great hospitality and community integration, Graves’ goal is achieved. As he said, “I want people to come in, see that it is special, and enjoy the experience.”
Although every Raising Cane’s location is unique, the corporate owned entities is vital to ensuring that overall vision is well implemented. As seen in his first appearance on Shark Tank, he was very adamant about professing his preference for corporate owned restaurants.
When asked why he avoids franchising, Graves explained “first, I’m not anti-franchising. Some business owners and entrepreneurs think about franchising and they believe that you are going to blow up. That idea that your really passionate about is your baby. If you franchise, other people might not share your same passion or values. Over time, they might get tired and not care as much as they should about people.”
“Every day, I work hard because I care about the people that are serving on the front lines. They know that I am doing my best to make their job better. We keep setting higher goals and achieve them year after year.”
“Sometimes with franchisee, a private equity firm’s goal is the financial returns. I’ve partnered with my people in the restaurant.” That decision to put people, not profits, first can be seen in his decision to avoid raising prices.
In some ways, Graves appreciates that he not only fulfilled his dream but also created a legacy that he can pass onto his children. He might have created some of the best chicken fingers on the planet, but it is more than delicious food served with a side of hospitality.
Graves wanted to create a legacy that can be passed down to the next generation. As Graves explained, “I have realized my purpose. God might have made me good at making chicken fingers but I also good at helping people. I will do this business till I die. But, it is more than just a restaurant and food. It is a community.”
“My kids were constantly around this community. I hope that I have instilled those values in my kids. They have my values.” While his children my continue his successful concept far into the future, it is more than restaurant expansion and profits. It is fostering a community that extends beyond the restaurant doors and instills the values of hard work, connection, and dreaming big into the next generation.
What is next for Todd Graves? As the Super Bowl heads to New Orleans, the Louisiana native is set have a large role. More will be revealed at a future date.
For now, a plate of chicken fingers might not necessarily be the most bougie food on the table but it is one that satisfies beyond curbing a hunger. Inspiring others to dream big is woven into every plate, every location, and the future of the company. That deal is a winner beyond any profit margin.