A decade of growth for Angry Crab Shack calls for reflection on the brand’s remarkable journey. As Angry Crab Shack marks its 10th anniversary, Ron Lou, the Founder of Angry Crab Shack, explores the evolution of this beloved seafood dining franchise and the milestones that have defined its dynamic legacy so far.
Evolution Over a Decade
Angry Crab Shack has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a single-unit operation. The brand has seen many changes and has adapted and grown over the last 10 years. “Going from a single restaurant to a multi-unit operation has been the biggest change, leading to several changes as our business expanded. With growth comes the need for menu innovation and a solid operation to match the expansion.” Ron states.
During its 10-year run, Angry Crab Shack has expanded its seafood options, introduced a wider range of sauces and spice levels, and expanded its menu to include offerings like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and specialty items like jambalaya and shrimp & grits. A guest favorite is their ability to create personalized seafood boil bags for a unique dining experience.
As the brand has grown, so has the need to expand operational support and technology, making operations more organized and efficient. Angry Crab Shack built a corporate support team to include trainers, regional managers and various administrative positions. As a result of these changes, Angry Crab Shack has evolved to help its Franchise Partners efficiently deliver the best possible dining experience and flavorful, unique seafood options to guests, ensuring they keep coming back for more.
Lessons Learned
Reflecting on the journey, Ron emphasizes, “Transitioning from a single unit operation with less than 50 employees to a multi-unit operation employing over 1,000 people has required a change in my involvement in the day-to-day operations.
Throughout the journey, Ron has also learned how to delegate responsibility, and to trust in the systems and employees to support its Franchise Partners and corporate restaurants. “Even something as simple as adding a menu item involves the marketing department, training department and operations department, all of whom need to be on the same page and communicating effectively.”
Changing Tides in the Restaurant Industry
The restaurant industry has witnessed significant changes over the past decade too, and Angry Crab Shack has adapted along with them. Ron notes that while the core principles of serving quality food and offering outstanding customer service remain unchanged, several trends have reshaped the industry:
- The rise of third-party delivery services and online ordering has increased over the years, especially since the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Increased use of technology in both front-of-house and back-of-house operations.
- Social media has amplified the influence of foodies and ignited new culinary and ambience trends.
- The industry has also seen a surge in ethnic foods, spicy dishes, and a shift towards health-conscious, plant-based options.
Looking back on the journey from day one to today, there is immense pride in the accomplishments that Angry Crab Shack has achieved during its 10-year run. “I am most proud of how we have set a standard and become a trendsetter in not only the product and service we provide but how we provide it,” Ron states. “We consider operating a chain of restaurants in the United States and internationally a privilege and one that comes with responsibility.”
Milestones and Growth
Significant milestones and growth have also been achieved throughout the Angry Crab Shack journey. Ron highlights the first location that opened in Mesa, AZ, followed by the opening and celebration of the first franchised location in Tucson, as key milestones early on. Another milestone that reflected the brand’s growth was the first out-of-state location in Orange Beach, Alabama. Angry Crab Shack has also ventured internationally by opening its first international location in London, England.
Ron also reflects on the milestones and growth Angry Crab Shack has made in people’s lives. The “You Dine, We Donate” campaign in collaboration with the Arizona Housing Coalition and a partnership with Phoenix Children’s Hospital both strengthened ties to the community. Through these relationships and other local charitable organizations, Angry Crab Shack has made over $1 million in charitable donations and has been recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal with the ACE Community Impact Award. These partnerships exemplify Angry Crab Shack’s core principles and values and makes franchising with Angry Crab Shack a rewarding business opportunity that allows its Franchise Partners to make a positive impact in their communities.
As Angry Crab Shack celebrates a decade of delighting taste buds and making a positive impact, the brand remains excited about the future, committed to providing quality seafood, fostering a sense of community and providing a rewarding opportunity for potential Franchise Partners.
Want to join a rewarding franchise opportunity to deliver exceptional dining experiences and make a difference? Contact Angry Crab Shack to learn more about joining a 10-year legacy today.
