From Zero to 600: How CMG Companies Built a 600-Unit Empire Across 10 Brands

In this episode of Smart Franchising, Dan Rowe sits down with Navin Nagrani and Al Bhakta of CMG Companies to reveal how eight partners built one of the largest independent multi-unit, multi-brand franchisee operations in America—with over 600 locations across KFC, Taco Bell, Sonic, Little Caesars, Ace Hardware, Valvoline, Tide Laundromat, and more. Starting with a single Genghis Grill that had zero customers on opening night, they've mastered the art of acquiring underperforming assets and turning them profitable through relentless execution, smart incentives, and empowering existing talent.

Al and Navin discuss why 80% of turnaround success comes from motivating the people already in place, their "Lindy Effect" strategy of betting on established brands with moats, why they'd rather be top franchisees than franchisors, and the critical importance of unit economics over growth for growth's sake.

This conversation is packed with tactical advice on acquisitions, talent development, equity partnerships, and building generational wealth through franchising—perfect for aspiring and established franchisees alike.