Although South Africa’s franchise industry is resilient, there are brands that throw a wobbly from time to time, particularly when operating in a highly competitive market like restaurants.
Back in October 2013, urban African restaurant chain Moyo had succumbed to the pressure and announced it would be going into business rescue in the hopes the brand would survive along with its 600+ employees’ jobs.
Back on track
Fast forward almost two years later, and the brand has made a robust comeback under the direction of franchise holding company Fournews and five Moyo restaurants – Melrose Arch, Zoo Lake, Ushaka Marine World, Kirstenbosch and Blouberg – are experiencing positive revenue growth in the first year out of rescue.
Although 200 jobs were shed in the process, a stellar job was made of saving the brand thanks to Fournews’ nearly 20 years of industry experience. Moyo will also be converted into a franchise model to align with the holding company’s modus operandi with its other brands.