Episode 96: Jackie & Jessica Rodriguez with Grupo Lorena

Sisters Jackie and Jessica Rodriguez started working in the family restaurant business as teenagers. With time and hard work, they have grown into leadership positions in this successful multi-concept hospitality company in El Salvador. What started as a San Salvadorian bakery created by their grandparents, grew into a 20-unit chain under the leadership of their father. 

Sixteen years ago, the family jumped at the opportunity to purchase a small hotel and their concept diversification plan was underway… Today Grupo Lorena consists of Hotel Villa, 16 Lorena bakeries as well as Don Beto Cafe, Fontana Bar and Restaurant, and La Tartaleta. The family decided to become a franchisee of the Japanese seafood concept, Sushi Koi as a way of continuing its multi-concept expansion. 

"We believe it is important to pioneer concepts, becoming the first in the San Salvadorian market helps us create impact, further our growth and increase our brand value" says Jessica, who heads up Marketing and Brand Management.

In this episode, we learn the distinction between a family operating restaurants and a restaurant business that happens to employ family members. Jackie, who leads operations, purchasing and Human Resources explains, "You don’t simply get a position in the company because you are family…you must qualify and get selected based on education and experience."

This is a story of successful concept development, profitable operations and strategic expansion by a family that has created a culture of responsibility, accountability and reward.