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The Gray Cat Blog

A comprehensive collection of blogs designed to assist small business owners and multiunit operators.

The Importance of Business Planning

Jan 15, 2026
 

Recently, I appeared on the Steve Denny podcast where he asked me what were the most important items for a new business to have in place.

In short, it is nailing the basics - not chasing the shiny penny - but mastering the basics.

And that begins with a business plan.

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John Matthews, President & CEO, Gray Cat Enterprises, Inc.

John Matthews is the Founder and President of Gray Cat Enterprises, Inc. a Raleigh, NC-based management consulting company. Gray Cat specializes in strategic project management and consulting for multi-unit operations; interim executive management; and strategic planning. Mr. Matthews has over 30 years of senior-level executive experience in the retail industry, involving three dynamic multi-unit companies. Mr. Matthews experience includes President of Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches; Vice President of Marketing, Merchandising, Corporate Communications, Facilities and Real Estate for Clark Retail Enterprises/White Hen Pantry; and National Marketing Director at Little Caesar's Pizza! Pizza!