Meraki: Ron and April Woodis
Meraki Series: Meraki is a word that is often used to describe what it means to do something with passion, with absolute devotion, and with undivided attention. It’s the feeling when you love doing something, anything, so much that you put something of yourself into it. So, we’ve dedicated this series to those who live out that meaning, and we ask them how.
For this month’s franchise spotlight, we want you to meet Ron & April Woodis from Tuscaloosa, Alabama! Ron & April joined the Taziki’s family in January of 2018 when they franchised in a town known for football championships and the Crimson Tide, Tuscaloosa! Read below to learn more from Ron Woodis about Taziki’s Tuscaloosa location’s scratch-made food, and Southern hospitality.
How long have you been in the hospitality industry?
(Ron) I have been in the restaurant industry for over 25 years, starting out as an hourly employee in a Wendy's fast-food restaurant and becoming an assistant manager at the age of 18.
What is something unique about the Tuscaloosa location?
Tuscaloosa is a college town like no other. It is surrounded by lakes and rivers which create a beautiful backdrop for the campus of the University of Alabama and our Taziki’s location. Roll Tide!
What inspired you about the Taziki’s brand that made you decide to franchise a location?
The Taziki’s Executive Team and their mantra of "fresh is best", along with the market density of our hometown, Birmingham, AL. The idea of creating that kind of fan-ship in the Tuscaloosa market was exciting to us!
What is your favorite item on Taziki's menu?
(Ron) My favorite is our sushi-grade salmon served over delicious grilled veggies. April loves the Beef Feast with Roasted New Potatoes and Greek Salad. Pro tip: Add pecans to your salad!
If you had a piece of advice to offer someone who is interested in franchising, what would you tell them?
You need to be able and willing to live in it and with it for 18 months. By doing this, you allow the precious time to establish a talented team, loyal customers, and standards that will contribute to a positive return on investment for many years to come.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself that people might not know!
(Ron) I am a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and love boating, traveling, and our Beagle named Juno. April adores music, classic literature and uses her organizational talents to manage systems, processes, and compliance for a local insurance broker. Our favorite place to pass time is with our children at Lake Tuscaloosa.
How is your store creatively strategizing amidst the COVID-19 pandemic?
“We have had to get creative! We are focusing on our new Family Feast meals and community meal drops. This year we added a Curbside Pick-up feature and have stayed committed to making the freshest food possible for our community, no matter the volume.”
Thank you Woodis Family for all you do for Taziki’s and the community of Tuscaloosa. If you are near the area, stop by and support Ron & April. Find a location near you here. See you soon!