This is a head gum podcast.

Fransmart.

It sounds like a generic stand-in for the name of a big-box store used to clear legal on

a TV show.

But Fransmart is actually among the most influential forces in the American food service industry

of the 21st century.

A company built on the model of evolving beloved local eateries into international chains, often

after convincing reluctant owners of the lucrative financial possibilities.

Founded in 2000 by Ben Rowe, a former bagel shop dishwasher who descended over sea hundreds

of the store's locations, Fransmart seeks to expand an array of dining brands and concert,

giving it logistical and structural advantages over the traditional model of one restaurant

growing on its own.

And while you may not recognize its name, you certainly are familiar with its portfolio.

Five guys, Cudoba, Wolfgang Puck Express, and the Hullal Guys are among the brands it's

spread across the country, like a Johnny Chain Seed.

In 2015, this sort of fund of fund of franchises added a new investment, a Los Angeles bakery

that had been drawing big crowds eager to sample its sweet and savory pastries.

Open in 2011 by Becky Grassley and her son Maddie, the business quickly became a beloved

local favorite, both because of its traditional faves from Mama Grassley's home cookbook,

as well as its more daring contemporary recipes like their signature Earl Grey cream

variant.

By the time of its partnership with Fransmart, this LA bake shop had locations across

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