The Ask

Helping a startup set a path for long term success. 

We know executive chef Adam Lathan through the International Culinary Center. Adam had recently completed the Culinary Entrepreneurship program (where Douglas led the branding and positioning segment) and had just opened the first Gumbo Bros. location in downtown Brooklyn. 

While completely happy at having met their goal of opening in NYC, Adam and his partner Clay realized that the corners they cut along the way were getting in the way of telling their authentic story and garnering the loyal following they deserved.

The Work

Our work with The Gumbo Bros. has required an equal mix of advisory/strategic services and design development. 

It has also been completely focused on opportunities with the highest potential ROI. 

The first stage of work involved positioning and storytelling. A new brand narrative brought the owners’ southern roots to the forefront, embracing their irreverent “All Fun All the Time” New Orleans vibe and showcasing the provenance of their suppliers. 

We helped them elevate the ordering experience for guests  — favoring hand-held menus over hanging menu boards and heavily promoting specials at the counter. Catering is the latest focus for Gumbo Bros. as it provides a vast opportunity for growth.

Our strategy: spread the word about the unique and delicious product offering, make ordering as simple as possible for customers, and provide consistent and engaging reminders across a variety of channels from digital, social, and face-to-face meetings.

The Results

Through focused storytelling, coordinated design interventions, and a constant attention to long-term goals, Gumbo Bros. is now poised for growth. 

Sales (dine-in and catering) are steadily increasing, partnerships and special event opportunities are on the rise, and plans are being laid for additional locations, retail distribution, and brand partnerships.

More results include:

• 113% growth on catering orders since working with Memo to structure package

• 19% increase for overall sales across in one year

• 72% increase for delivery orders since rebrand