The Stanwood Group’s veteran franchise developer Robert Katz charges forward with developing and launching hundreds of franchise brands nationwide. Robert Katz, managing director and senior franchise advisor for The Stanwood Group, is widely regarded as one of the leading franchise experts in the U.S. By Shelby Green
The Stanwood Group’s veteran franchise developer Robert Katz charges forward with developing and launching hundreds of franchise brands nationwide.
Robert Katz, managing director and senior franchise advisor for The Stanwood Group, is widely regarded as one of the leading franchise experts in the U.S. He has dedicated the last 25 years to making franchising a realistic path for small businesses. Over the course of his career as a nationally recognized franchise developer and brand builder, Katz has helped hundreds of successful small brands launch and expand through franchising.
“One of the greatest aspects about my job is getting to work with amazing people,” Katz explained. “I have access to some of the nation’s greatest entrepreneurs, people who could be tomorrow’s success stories. It’s rewarding to be able to help them achieve their goals.”
As individuals continue to leave corporate America in search of greater opportunities, franchising continues to be an attractive option to aspiring entrepreneurs. While success in franchising takes a great deal of tenacity and patience, Katz has had a front-row seat to seeing the hard work pay off. Over the years, Katz has worked with numerous well-known brands throughout the U.S., most recently including John’s Water Ice, Santucci’s Original Square Pizza, Moustaki Authentic Gyros, Pete’s Famous Pizza, Original Ricci’s Hoagies, BAO Nine, Baja Smoothies, The Tomato Shack and Gouldsburger’s, among others.
“Robert and everyone I’ve met at The Stanwood Group have been great to work with,” said Anthony Cardullo, owner of John’s Water Ice. “I came in with no knowledge of franchising, and Robert has helped me through every step of the way. They’re a great team to work with.”
Katz’s signature approach and innate passion for the industry have helped make franchising a reality for small businesses. Many of his clients have experienced tremendous success with his support. For example, Original Ricci’s Hoagies already has established impressive franchise sales in just the first three months of issuing its FDD.
“Since joining The Stanwood Group a few years back, it’s exciting to see all of the outstanding brands we have brought on! I see big things for the future growth of these emerging brands in 2024,” said Chad Bickle, who heads franchise sales at The Stanwood Group. “Looking at a brand like Santucci’s Original Square Pizza and how we have supported their expansion as the Delaware Valley’s fastest-growing pizza franchise chain with upward of 20 locations by year-end, The Stanwood Group not only excels at franchise development but also provides franchise training and operational support.”
While Katz’s success in the industry is undeniable, what drives him is his desire to make a real impact in the community. Katz does extensive pro bono work for Baby Otter Swim School, one of the fastest-growing swim schools in the country that’s committed to ending accidental drownings.
“The past 25 years have been incredibly rewarding. Witnessing the transformation of a beloved local business into a growing regional franchise, like Original Ricci’s Hoagies, is what keeps me motivated,” said Katz. “Franchising allows passionate business owners to expand while creating job opportunities and impacting communities across the country. I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds, and I’m confident that The Stanwood Group will continue to be at the forefront of making franchising affordable, accessible and empowering for businesses of all sizes.”
Shelby Green