Cody McPherson is a self-proclaimed cookie fanatic. Throughout his service in the military, he would try cookies at local shops and stumbled across Crumbl.
Impressed by Crumbl’s business model and technology, Cody decided to bring the franchise to Jonesboro.
Cody reached out to the Arkansas State University ASBTDC to help bring his idea to life. Laura Miller, director at the A-State regional office, walked Cody through how to launch his business.
Traffic counts and proximity to competitors are crucial when opening a brick-and-mortar location. Market research from the center helped him decide on the best site for his store.
Cody was also assisted with a business plan, financial projections, and a loan proposal, enabling him to secure financing for the business.
“The assistance and help I was provided was greatly appreciated. Laura Miller went above and beyond to help with my business plans for Crumbl Jonesboro as well as my cost projections. If it wasn’t for the help of ASBTDC, it would have been a lot more difficult getting approved by banks to open my first store,” he said. “I’m thankful and very blessed to have had y’all’s assistance and help.”
Starting a business also comes with challenges. Cody says that “due diligence is vital when construction is involved.” McPherson persevered through the obstacles and opened on May 26, 2022.
The business has already created 80 jobs. In fact, the store has been so successful that it was in the franchisor’s top 20 (out of 500 franchise locations) within its first month of operation.
Cody isn’t stopping at just Jonesboro. He already has plans for additional locations.
The ASBTDC is proud to continue doing what we do best – start and grow businesses. It’s also a bonus to enjoy good cookies along the way!
Find details about the store’s products and hours at crumblcookies.com/arjonesboro.