Brahms
Brahms is a fast food restaurant and grocery store based in Oklahoma, known for its ice cream and dairy products.
Why It Works
Brahms operates with vertical integration, owning its own farms and dairy, which allows it to control costs and provide high-quality products at lower prices compared to competitors.
Revenue & Traction
Brahms offers cheeseburgers at competitive prices, such as 10 cheeseburgers for $20. Ice cream cones start at $1.39, and a fancy bowl with four scoops can be purchased for about $3.50.
Founding Story
Not mentioned in the transcript.
Business Playbook
Their model includes owning the entire supply chain, which helps resist inflation and keeps prices low for consumers.
Why this works now
Most fast food chains overlook the benefits of vertical integration. Brahms controls its supply chain by owning farms and dairy operations, which enables it to maintain quality and reduce costs. The restaurant attracts customers by promoting its cheeseburgers, such as offering ten for $20, through local community events like fairs and festivals, where it can directly engage with potential buyers. A significant risk for Brahms is the high labor intensity associated with operating both a restaurant and a grocery store, which can strain resources and impact service quality during peak hours.
Additional Information
Brahms is compared favorably against franchise models like Coldstone, showing a significant price difference due to its operational model.
Source
Podcast: Koerner Office
Episode: The Smart Way to Start Small and Still Win Big ⏐ Ep. #195
Creation Date: July 14, 2025
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