Unexpected Approach Leads to Long-Term Partnership with Leading Atlanta Restaurant Chain

A respected Atlanta-based restaurant chain with over 1,500 locations across the United States, known for its commitment to quality dining experiences and its widespread community presence.

Challenge:

Barranco, a provider of construction and safety services, was seeking to expand its business and secure larger projects, but faced the challenge of getting an appointment with decision-makers at the highly sought-after restaurant chain's corporate headquarters. With no formal introduction or appointment, Barranco needed a creative approach to capture the attention of the right people and prove the value of his services.

Solution:

Rather than following the typical cold-call or email approach, Barranco decided to show up at the corporate office unannounced, with a story that was personal, memorable, and relevant. As he walked into the lobby, he struck up a conversation with the receptionist and shared a heartfelt story about how he and his wife had met at one of the chain’s diners many years ago. The story was warm and genuine, and it resonated deeply with the receptionist, who appreciated the connection.

His sincerity and personal story left a lasting impression, and the receptionist—moved by the authenticity of his approach—was eager to help. She arranged for Barranco to meet with a senior executive that same day, bypassing the usual layers of corporate gatekeeping. Once inside the meeting, Barranco presented his company’s capabilities, emphasizing Barranco’s expertise in safety solutions, including the installation of concrete bollards—vital for protecting businesses, customers, and employees from potential threats.

His ability to quickly establish rapport and his clear communication about the value his services could bring to the restaurant chain’s thousands of locations set the stage for a successful partnership.

Results:

Months after that first meeting, Barranco secured a multi-site construction project to install concrete bollards at various restaurant locations. These bollards were critical in providing a physical layer of protection for the chain’s restaurants, safeguarding the stores from vehicle impact and helping ensure the safety of employees and customers. Barranco's performance throughout the project exceeded expectations.

The team completed the installations on time, under budget, and with exceptional attention to detail. The restaurant chain was thrilled with the results and the professionalism Barranco displayed throughout the process. The success of the project led to additional opportunities, and over the following years, Barranco continued to work with the restaurant chain on several more projects, each one further cementing Barranco’s reputation as a reliable partner that could be trusted to handle important construction and safety projects with precision and care.

Conclusion:

Barranco’s unique approach to securing the initial appointment with the Atlanta-based restaurant chain turned into a long-term partnership based on trust, reliability, and exceptional service. Barranco’s ability to go above and beyond—delivering on time, within budget, and exceeding client expectations—has earned him the continued business of this respected brand. Today, Barranco remains a trusted partner, working to remove headaches and ensure the safety and success of the restaurant chain’s locations across the country.