The Journey of Fig & Olive Proves Restaurant Expansion is Possible in 2023

Restaurant expansion in 2023? While that may sound hard to
believe, the restaurant industry has seen a 4.9% increase in
sales in 2023. While increased prices due to inflation may be
driving some of those increases, indicators show now is the best
time since the pandemic’s beginning to consider a restaurant
expansion. But what does it take to expand a restaurant chain
successfully, and how does a brand maintain its unique identity?


On the latest episode of The Main Course, hosted by Barbara
Castiglia of Modern Restaurant Management, Alexis Blair, CEO of
Fig & Olive, shares insights into her restaurant's expansion
journey. Their conversation covers the challenges and triumphs of
taking a brand global, maintaining the essence of the brand while
adapting to new markets, and the impact of the pandemic on the
restaurant industry.


Castiglia and Blair’s discussion includes:


• The concept and experience of Fig & Olive, which is more
than just great food and cocktails; it’s a lifestyle inspired by
the French Riviera


• The process of adapting the menu to fit cultural differences in
new markets, such as Qatar


• The lessons learned from the pandemic and how it has reshaped
the restaurant industry


“We are a team of problem solvers, and we really emphasize being
strategic at all times,” Blair said. “And as we face some of
these different things, it’s always taken this head-on approach.
If it’s the supply chain issues, what can we do, what can we get,
how do we work with our vendors, and stay on top of this
reengineering? We’re still ensuring we’re providing that
ingredient-driven cuisine that will speak to the DNA of Fig &
Olive.”


Alexis Blair, a former professional ballet dancer, found her
passion in the restaurant industry. She worked her way up through
various roles in the industry, including operational and finance
roles, before becoming the CEO of Fig & Olive in 2019. Her
journey and insights offer a unique perspective on the restaurant
industry and the expansion process.