Episode 15

full
Published on:

27th Oct 2025

Episode 15 -Scaling Smart: Protect Your Concept

Summary

In this episode, Shaun shares insights on scaling a business smartly, focusing on maintaining the magic of the original venue while expanding.

He discusses the importance of systems, tech, and trust, and offers practical advice for operators looking to expand without losing their brand identity.

Takeaways

  • Scaling smart means protecting your concept before multiplying it.
  • Running a second site doubles the complexity, not the business.
  • Expansion brings freedom only if foundations are solid.
  • Check your tech stack before expanding to ensure systems communicate.
  • The best groups scale by protecting what made them great.
  • Systemise service rituals, brand details, and standards before expanding.
  • Non-negotiables must stay the same no matter how big you get.
  • Scaling smart is about keeping your identity intact as you grow.
  • Start with systems first, not site selection, when expanding.

Find out more about Sip Ventures $150K Partners Program: Link Here


Links to brands we talked about in this show:

Restoke: Link

Loaded: Link

CTB AND CO: Link

Tanda: Link

Deputy: Link

Employment Hero: Link

Xero: Link


How to connect with Open Pantry Co.

Open Pantry Co. email: connect@openpantryco.com

Subscribe to the 🥪Sandwich Press Newsletter: Link

Open Pantry Co. Website: Link

Open Pantry Co. Instagram: Link

Open Pantry Co. YouTube: Link

Open Pantry Co. LinkedIn: Link

Open Pantry Co. Linktree: Link

Listen for free

Show artwork for The Prep List

About the Podcast

The Prep List
Short, sharp, ready for service
Start your week with a sharper mindset and a better plan.

Hosted by Shaun de Vries from Open Pantry Co., The Prep List is your under 10-minute Monday hit of hospitality insights, made for venue owners, operators, and team leaders who don’t have time to scroll or sit through an hour-long podcast.

Each week, you’ll get:
– One trend to watch
– One tool to test
– One real-world operator move
– One smart question for your team

If you run a venue, manage a crew, or just want your week to feel a little less chaotic, this is your mise en place for the mind.

About your host

Profile picture for Shaun de Vries

Shaun de Vries