Front Porch Café expands beyond Outer Banks with new Raleigh franchise

In North Carolina, the Front Porch Café has been a staple for coffee lovers since its inception over 25 years ago. After the ownership changed hands in 2021, Laura and Phil Wayland took charge and are now gearing up for expansion. Originally, they secured a commercial loan to facilitate their acquisition and to implement changes to improve supplier operations, allowing for direct deliveries to each café location. This shift is part of a broader strategy of building systems for scalability, which is critical as they prepare to franchise, starting with a new location in Raleigh. The Waylands aim to maintain the café's simple yet effective menu, which consists mainly of bagels, muffins, and scones, emphasizing quality and allowing the coffee to shine. This approach not only helps in creating an efficient operation but also aligns with their philosophy of providing community-centric spaces. The success of the café is attributed to its strong customer loyalty and consistent growth over the years, which has motivated many tourists who visit the Outer Banks to suggest expansion into their areas. As they embark on franchising, the Waylands have opted to move forward without a traditional franchising company, deciding to take control of the process to mitigate costs. They acknowledge that franchising comes with its own set of challenges, including legal requirements like hiring specialized attorneys and developing comprehensive legal documents. Their careful considerations reflect their desire not to rush the growth process, ensuring the long-term viability and success of the franchise model. Looking ahead, the Waylands plan to continue seeking additional locations, with potential expansion targets identified in Virginia and along the North Carolina coast. The couple is determined to create a welcoming and positive culture within their cafés, noting that community engagement and employee satisfaction are integral to their ongoing success. Overall, they are excited about this new chapter, confident in their ability to share the Front Porch experience with broader audiences while maintaining the essence of what has made their cafés beloved by locals and visitors alike.