The experiential culinary enterprise continues
to flourish, with new academies on the horizon
WACO,
Texas, June 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Young Chefs®
Academy (YCA™), a Montessori-based culinary education franchise,
announces a new partnership with ABACO, a premier lower-middle
market private equity firm led by well-known franchise investor
Michael Abdy, as well as a
rebranding initiative that has elevated the YCA™ brand identity.
The franchise continues to expand, with 6 new locations opening
this summer and fall and 3 more locations sold, adding to the 27
U.S. locations currently operating.
Additionally, a new buildout design, franchise support staff,
and real estate experts has positioned YCA™ for stable growth at a
forecasted pace of 10-15 new sales year-over-year.
Since opening its doors in 2004, Young Chefs® Academy has
presented a broad culinary curriculum for young people, enabling
each class to meet students at their individual skill levels.
YCA™'s guided activities encourage self-discovery and independence
through cooking. Every child who puts on an apron is positively
impacted in a way that broadens their culinary knowledge, builds
their self-esteem, teaches teamwork, increases worldly knowledge,
and encourages appreciation for cultural diversity. Over the last
six months, YCA™ has been working diligently to build its
capabilities by pursuing initiatives to support its community of
franchisees, their local staff, and the students they instruct.
"The kitchen is the pulse of the home where we learn about life
and each other. I attribute the familial culture of YCA™, strong
dedication to training and supporting our franchisees, and our
successful partnership with ABACO to be the key drivers of our
recent success," said Julie
Burleson, founder and CEO of YCA™. "I established Young
Chefs® Academy two decades ago to cultivate children's strong
interest in the culinary arts. The more we share and grow this
concept, the more children can explore their passion for food and
be inspired by a love of cooking."
Over its 18-year journey, YCA™ has transformed from a single
kitchen-based concept into a dynamic and widely recognized brand.
Today, YCA™ thrives with a cohesive vision and shared values,
driven by a dedicated community of owners and staff aligned with
the Academy's mission. This evolution has been marked by continuous
innovation in curriculum, marketing, and operations, keeping pace
with modern trends and customer expectations. Recognizing the
importance of this progression, YCA™ is excited to announce a major
brand refresh. This rebranding effort introduces a new logo and
brand identity that honors YCA™'s rich history while positioning it
for future growth and continued impact on children's lives.
"I'm thrilled to partner with Julie and the entire team at Young
Chefs® Academy as they experience continued growth and
well-deserved success," said Michael
Abdy, Chairman and Investor at YCA™. "Early on in our
relationship, it was evident that Julie had an exceptional concept,
great culture and training, and an established network of dedicated
franchise partners. I'm excited to be a part of their journey and
look forward to the road ahead."
For more information on how you can join the Young Chefs®
Academy family, please contact at
marketing@youngchefsacademy.com.
About Young Chefs® Academy
Young Chefs® Academy is a
culinary education franchise that introduces students to every
aspect of culinary teaching through STEAM objectives (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math). Programs include weekly
classes, parties, culinary camps, field trips, workshops, and
special seasonal and adult classes, each designed to provide a
unique, educational, and fun experience. Entrepreneurs are offered
an established, straightforward model and the chance to positively
impact youth through culinary programs. YCA™ owners benefit from
ongoing support, a strong culture, the opportunity to make a
difference in their community, and the ability to build lasting
relationships while running a successful business.
Media Contact
Bob
Spoerl
Bear Icebox Communications
379199@email4pr.com
773.453.2444
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SOURCE Young Chefs Academy