January 29, 2026

Mess Hall Truck Shop Client Spotlight

As we wrapped up the end of 2025, the SMB team enjoyed having Emily Bargeron and Olivia Lake join us the Annual Summit. To help celebrate the year’s accomplishments in franchising, they We had an opportunity to interview Mess Hall’s Founder and CEO, Emily to share more about this unique retail and experiential franchise that is just emerging into the industry. As we start this new year, we are excited to see where this brand will pop up next with new franchise owners and operators.

SMB Franchise Advisors: To help our readers, please describe in a few sentences what your retail brand offers and what your company is all about.

Emily Bargeron, Founder and CEO: Mess Hall Truck Shop, we call Mess Hall is an interactive, build-your-own trucker hat experience with a playful cafeteria theme. We’re all about celebrating individuality and creativity. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, we offer a fun, memorable environment where you can design a custom piece that reflects your personality. 

Mess Hall Franchise Founder and CEO Emily Bargeron

SMB: What makes your retail concept unique in today’s market?

Emily: Our concept goes beyond traditional retail. It’s an immersive experience. Guests don’t just shop, they create. In a world full of mass-produced products, we bring the focus back to personal expression in a fun, out-of-the-box environment that’s creative, engaging, and just a little unexpected.

Mess Hall Truck Shop Olivia and the Team always have fun

SMB: How do you maintain product quality standards across locations?

Emily: We manufacture our own patches, pins, buttons, and hats, which allows us to maintain a high level of control over quality. Our corporate stores serve as “test kitchens,” where we trial materials and products to ensure they meet our standards and align seamlessly with the in-store experience. We’ve carefully vetted manufacturers and suppliers to make sure everything we offer is top-tier.

SMB: What inspired you to franchise your business?

Emily: We were getting asked all the time — “Are you franchising?” Customers would tell us, “This would do so well in [insert city name]!” That enthusiasm made us realize the concept had potential far beyond our original locations. Franchising allows us to bring this experience to different communities and adapt it to reflect the local culture, right down to the details — even our display food reflects the flavor of each city.

SMB: Why did you partner with SMB Franchise Advisors?

Emily: We chose SMB because they understood how to help us scale without losing our identity. Their team brought the experience, structure, and guidance we needed to turn our vision into a franchise system — while staying true to our creative roots. They’ve been a strong and supportive partner through every step.

SMB: How many stores did you have before starting work with SMB Franchise Advisors? How many locations have you grown to since partnering with SMB?

Mess Hall Franchise Storefront in Savannah

Emily: Before partnering with SMB, we had two locations. Since then, we’ve opened a third and built a strong foundation to grow from. Their insight and support have helped us prepare for the next chapter — expanding into franchising with intention and clarity.

SMB: What are your long-term goals for your franchise? How many locations do you hope to grow to?

Emily: Our vision is to grow to 100+ locations nationwide over the next few years. But beyond numbers, our goal is to build a vibrant community of franchisees who are passionate about creativity, customer experience, and bringing people together in a unique and joyful way.

SMB: What qualities do you look for in successful franchisee candidates?

Emily: We look for individuals who are passionate about people, creativity, and community. A background in retail is helpful, but what matters most is energy, drive, and alignment with our mission of delivering memorable experiences. And of course, it helps if they have a love for hats!

SMB: How do you support franchisees in maintaining brand consistency across locations?

Emily: We provide franchisees with thorough training, detailed brand guidelines, marketing support, and ongoing coaching. Our team stays closely connected to ensure every location delivers the same high-quality experience, while still allowing room to reflect the unique character of the local community.

SMB: How do you foster a positive culture across your franchise system?

Emily: Culture is at the heart of everything we do. We stay connected through regular communication, in-person meetings, and a shared commitment to creativity and collaboration. Franchisees are encouraged to be part of the creative process, helping their stores feel like an extension of their own passion – and the broader Mess Hall family.

SMB: What advice do you have for business owners looking to franchise?

Emily: Start with a clear understanding of your brand and what makes it special. Build strong systems, surround yourself with experienced partners, and stay focused on your mission. Franchising is more than growth – it’s about sharing something you believe in, the right way.

SMB: Is there anything else you would like us to share about your brand?

Emily: MESS stands for Memorable Experiences Systematized for Success. That motto drives everything we do. From our internal systems to our guest experience, our goal is to consistently create moments that stick — whether it’s someone’s first hat or their fifteenth visit, we want them to leave with something meaningful.

Visit their fran dev website to learn more about Mess Hall Truck Shop franchise ownership opportunities.

Book an experience at one of the local shops.

Author Kayla Mowery, SMB Franchise Advisors Operations Specialist + Technical Writer

Reviewed by Dawn Abbamondi, Chief Marketing Officer, SMB Franchise Advisors