Franchising offers entrepreneurs a rewarding opportunity to bring diversity to their current business interests or expand their current concepts, all while being part of a trusted brand. With its vibrant culture and commitment to community engagement, Angry Crab Shack stands out as a franchise opportunity that provides business owners a proven business model and trusted brand that also allows Franchise Partners to make a positive impact in their communities. Matt Prentice, an Angry Crab Shack multi-unit Franchise Partner, exemplifies this blend of entrepreneurial success and community enrichment.
From Server to Multi-Unit Franchise Partner
Matt was initially hired as a server at the Peoria, Arizona location in 2015. Matt’s passion for creating a vibrant atmosphere and connecting with people propelled him through various roles, where he worked his way up from a server to bartender, to ultimately becoming a manager at the Angry Crab Shack location in Goodyear, Arizona.
During this period, Matt met Josh Arnold who was initially hired as a server and who also worked his way up to manager. Through their time working together, Matt and Josh realized their common interests including a passion for creating a vibrant atmosphere and connecting with others. Though Matt transferred to another location, they kept in touch and developed a friendship outside of Angry Crab Shack.
“We eventually both came back to the Peoria location after a while and found each other working well together again, and that’s when we thought we would jump into ownership with Ron and Andy,” Matt states. “It’s been fantastic. We built our Surprise Angry Crab Shack and opened it four years ago. Ron and Andy have supported us, and we just made it happen.
A little over halfway through that build, Ron and Andy presented Matt and Josh with an opportunity to take over operations at a location in Tucson, Arizona and they jumped at the chance. Matt fell in love with the Tucson location and volunteered to move there, while Josh stayed at the Surprise, Arizona location. Based on the success of the location in Tucson, Matt and Josh decided to open a second Tucson location. Together, the two multi-unit Franchise Partners have divided and conquered both areas in the Arizona community.
“The restaurant business, specifically Angry Crab Shack, always drew me back. It’s where I found my passion for creating something and connecting with people,” Matt explains.
The Angry Crab Shack Difference
Angry Crab Shack is known for its family-like atmosphere. Matt, who is dedicated to the brand, was attracted to the restaurant because it allowed him to be himself and create a culture within a culture. “To be a server is like running a booth at a hair stylist; you can create your own business within a business,” Matt says.
Angry Crab Shack’s culture of empowerment and celebration inspired Matt to pursue franchise ownership and expand his footprint in the restaurant industry. “As a Franchise Partner, I want to create a space where everyone feels like they belong. It’s not just about serving food; it’s about creating memorable experiences and celebrating life’s moments together,” Matt emphasizes.
Managing multiple locations comes with its challenges, but Matt and Josh’s approach is rooted in Angry Crab Shack’s welcoming, family-like culture and leveraging each other’s strengths. “We didn’t just want to open more restaurants; we wanted to impact the communities we serve positively. Each new location is an opportunity to give back and support local causes,” Matt affirms.
Giving Back to Communities Across the World
Beyond his involvement with Angry Crab Shack, Matt is deeply committed to giving back to communities locally and globally. Whether it’s supporting children’s hospitals, veterans’ coalitions, or first responders, Matt ensures that his locations are actively engaged in making a difference in their local communities. Moreover, Matt’s philanthropic efforts extend to Africa, where he has helped build four wells through the Hearts and Hands organization. “Our goal is to be more than just a restaurant; we want to be a cornerstone of support and engagement in our neighborhoods,” stated Matt.
The Best Thing About Franchising with Angry Crab Shack
For Matt, the best thing about franchising with Angry Crab Shack is the sense of community and the opportunity to make a difference. “Our success is rooted in our people. By investing in their growth and well-being, we create a positive ripple effect beyond our restaurants,” Matt says. He advises aspiring Franchise Partners to prioritize community and invest in their people. “Don’t do it for the money; do it for the people, and the money follows. Our team is our internal guests, and if they are happy, it trickles down into everything else and sets a tone of positivity,” Matt advises.
Franchising with Angry Crab Shack offers the perfect opportunity to expand your business career and make a lasting impact in communities. Contact Angry Crab Shack today to learn about franchise opportunities and how you can open one in your area.
