Local Lee’s owners Scott and Kim Griffith, Lee’s corporate brand manager Chris Rak and 14 of their top managers gathered for the 29th annual spring inspection banquet. “This is a milestone for us, 40 years ago my father began our franchise with Lee’s, fast forward to today and our company is as strong as ever” stated Scott Griffith to the group.
The Griffiths operate three stores in Springfield, Ohio, one in New Carlisle, Ohio, and three others in surrounding counties. Spring inspection is a healthy competition between the seven stores in which each store is awarded points; it also enables the franchisee to know how they stack up against other Lee’s owners.
Over 120 people are employed by this family operated company and they all say they are treated like family. The success of this company is evident in not only growing sales but a flourishing catering line. “The secret to our success is so simple; give our guests great food at a great price with a smile every time”- said Kim Griffith.
As for smiles - Marcina Brooks, who operates the drive thru at the downtown West Columbia Store in Springfield, won the 2012 Hospitality Award for going above and beyond for her customers. West Columbia also took store of the year with the most points awarded; placing second was Piqua, Ohio and third was New Carlisle, Ohio. As a whole the company’s average score was above 90, most restaurants average in the 70’s.
“We continue to strive to be better every day in the communities we call home, Lee’s Chicken is a place our customers can count on”- said Scott Griffith.