QDOBA's Unexpected Tool: Boosting Franchisee Success with a Craftsman Drill Press?

Okay, so you’re probably thinking, “QDOBA? The Mexican Eats place? What’s this got to do with drill presses?” Bear with me, it’s actually a pretty smart story about supporting franchisees and building a better experience for everyone. QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC, based in San Diego, California (350 Camino De La Reina Ste 400, 92108-3007 – you can reach them at 781-243-4953), is known for its customizable Mexican-inspired cuisine. They’ve built a solid network of franchise locations across the US, and they’re always looking for ways to help their franchisees thrive. Turns out, that sometimes means thinking way outside the burrito box. For years, QDOBA franchisees have faced a surprisingly common challenge: mounting signage, customizing store fixtures, and generally tackling DIY projects to keep their restaurants looking sharp. Things like hanging new menu boards, installing accent lighting, putting up promotional materials... it adds up. Traditionally, franchisees were either scrambling to find reliable handymen, shelling out money for professional installations for every little thing, or trying to manage with inadequate tools. “We kept hearing from our franchisees that simple tasks were becoming headaches,” explains Sarah Miller, QDOBA’s Director of Franchise Support. “They're running a business, focusing on food quality, customer service, and staff training. They don’t have time to become experts in carpentry or electrical work just to hang a sign! And honestly, repeatedly calling out contractors for small jobs really eats into their profit margins." That's where the seemingly odd addition of the Craftsman Drill Press comes in. QDOBA recently made a bulk purchase of these robust, reliable machines and started offering them to franchisees at cost – or, in many cases, even subsidizing a portion of the price. “It sounds crazy, right? A fast-casual Mexican chain buying drill presses?” laughs John Davis, a QDOBA franchisee in Denver, Colorado. “But it’s been a game-changer. I used to dread even thinking about putting up new seasonal decorations. Now, my team and I can handle most of it ourselves. It's saved us a ton of money and gives us more control over how our restaurant looks." Why a Craftsman Drill Press Specifically? QDOBA didn’t just pick a drill press at random. They did their homework. After talking to franchisees and researching available options, they settled on the Craftsman model for several key reasons: Durability: QDOBA franchisees need tools that can withstand regular use in a busy restaurant environment. Craftsman has a long-standing reputation for building tough, reliable tools. Versatility: The chosen model isn’t just for drilling holes. It can also be used for sanding, light cutting, and other tasks that come up around a restaurant. It's a true multi-tool. Ease of Use: The drill press is designed to be relatively straightforward to operate, even for people without a lot of experience. QDOBA also provides basic training resources for franchisees who need them. Value: While not the cheapest option on the market, the Craftsman drill press offered a good balance between price, quality, and features. Beyond the Drill Press: A Commitment to Franchisee Success The drill press initiative is just one example of QDOBA’s broader commitment to supporting its franchisees. The company offers a range of resources, including: Marketing Support: Help with local marketing campaigns and promotional materials. Training Programs: Comprehensive training for both management and staff. Supply Chain Management: Negotiated pricing on food and supplies. Operational Support: Guidance on everything from menu development to restaurant layout. “We see our franchisees as partners,” says Miller. “Their success is our success. If we can find small ways to make their lives easier and help them run their businesses more efficiently, that’s a win for everyone." And, apparently, sometimes those “small ways” involve a surprisingly practical tool like a Craftsman drill press. “Honestly, I never thought I’d be talking about drill presses in relation to QDOBA,” admits Davis. “But it’s been a fantastic addition. It shows QDOBA is really listening to our needs and willing to go the extra mile to help us succeed. Plus, it makes putting up those Cinco de Mayo decorations way easier." The QDOBA & Craftsman drill press story is a reminder that sometimes the most innovative solutions are the simplest – and that supporting your partners (or franchisees!) can be about more than just the bottom line. It’s about making their lives a little easier, one drilled hole at a time.