Primarily the information we begin with in our research process is somesort of legal filing. Sources include legal filings, license filings, state incorporation filings, permit filings, newspaper articles, press releases and classified ads. Our first step, beyond establishing the reality that a new filing is, in fact a new foodservice location or a change/transfer of ownership, is to obtain a phone number. We then use extensive databases and directory assistance. If there is no phone number, we then take the next, best steps we can to insure pertinent activity at each location.

We call neighbors in the surrounding businesses (they know what is happening on their block) and see what they may know about activity in their area). Aside from that (unless it's a multi-unit, where there's almost always someone to call to confirm new activity), there are no more steps that we can take. Therefore, we make the assumption that the location is pre-opening to the point where there is no phone connected yet, but will be.

If there is a phone number research will call and attempt to fill the contact record completely. Sometimes no one answers (typical of new business in the pre-opening stage). When research does make contact (66% of the time with an owner or manager, 87% including speaking with a business neighbor), it depends upon the interview with the new owner, manager or best contact. You can see the results in a variety of information within each contact record.

Most clients stop by locations that have no phone number or mail collateral directly to the location.

Research department employees in our office have been with us for five years minimum. You can count on information being accurate and consistent.

When we come across what is obviously a home address or attorney address (and that's all we have) we take certain steps-

When all we have is a home address, you will see a home phone number. Sometimes contact is made with the owner at home we're able to find the address of the location.

Less than 3% of contact locations are home or attorney addresses.

We found clients want us to publish these home phone numbers (or home addresses as long as we have an owners home phone)  for owners versus not at all. If we can't find a phone number for the (home/attorney address) owner we will omit that record. Typically these contact records are very early. A location might not have yet been selected.

In our efforts we try to speak with an owner or manager on each contact record. If we do, "yes" will appear.

"No" will appear in the following cases. If there is no phone number available through directory assistance. Other times there may be a phone number but no one answered at the location, or we received voice mail when called.  Whichever the case, our research department could not confirm information according to our standards. If we are able to speak with a business neighbor only, it is not considered an interview.

Call us, write us. We'll be glad to answer any questions via e-mail or phone.

Phone: 914-591-4297
E-mail: editor@foodservicereport.com