The Gray Cat Blog
A comprehensive collection of blogs designed to assist small business owners and multi-unit operators.
Every organization will face change.
Whether it’s implementing new technology, restructuring departments, acquiring another company, introducing a new operating model, or replacing senior leadershi...
Growing a retail chain isn’t just about opening new stores—it’s about knowing when to improve, relocate, or close existing ones.
One of the biggest mistakes multi-unit operators make is falling in ...
“The nice thing about not planning is that failure comes as a complete surprise rather than being preceded by a period of worry and depression.”
— John Harvey-Jones
If you’re driving from Chicago to L...
Business leaders love data, dashboards, and financial reports. Yet one of the most effective strategic planning tools remains surprisingly simple: the SWOT analysis.
SWOT stands for Strengths, Weak...
Few milestones are more exciting for a growing retail chain than breaking ground on a new location.
A new store represents confidence in the future. It signals that the organization believes in its...
Imagine having access to an extended team of experts who understand your industry, bring fresh ideas to the table, and are invested in helping your business grow.
Most companies already do.
They’re ...
Several years ago, a business owner approached me for help selling his company. After describing the business, its history, and its future potential, I asked a simple question:
“What do you think y...
It was one of those phone calls every executive dreads.
“The CEO would like to see you.”
As I walked toward his office, my mind raced through every possible mistake I might have made. Had I oversp...
Almost every month, I receive a call or email from someone leaving the corporate world to start a business. The excitement is contagious. They have industry expertise, a great idea, and the confiden...
One of the most common conversations I have with small business owners begins the same way:
“Our first location is doing well. We think it’s time to franchise.”
While franchising can be an outstan...
      Who knows more about your business than anyone else? You do.
Too many small business owners wait for someone else to notice their success. The reality is that if you don’t tell your st...
As I reflect on my career, I realize how fortunate I’ve been—not simply because of the positions I’ve held, but because of the people I’ve met along the journey.
Over the years, I’ve had the privil...
