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First Watch’s Chris Tomasso on breakfast business growth

In this episode of RB's podcast, “A Deeper Dive,” the new CEO of the fast-growing chain talks about its keys to success.
Photograph courtesy of First Watch Restaurants

a deeper dive

One of the more underappreciated stories of the past decade has been the emergence of a new type of family-dining restaurant chain that serves only breakfast and lunch and then closes.

Leading that growth has been First Watch, which was sold to Advent International last year. This week’s edition of Restaurant Business’ podcast, “A Deeper Dive,” features an interview with Chris Tomasso, who was named CEO of the Florida-based chain earlier this year.

First Watch has quietly been one of the fastest-growing chains in the country thanks to organic growth and acquisitions. Tomasso talks about the reasons for that growth—notably its loyal customer base and strong consumer rankings.

Tomasso also talks about the popularity of concepts like First Watch, which are growing thanks to the popularity of breakfast, and despite trends favoring takeout-friendly restaurants.  

Please have a listen.

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