When Poonam Sharma first visited Paris Baguette on Lexington Avenue in Midtown almost a decade ago, she says it was love at first sight. She is now set to become its franchise owner this summer.
“I fell in love with it,” she tells What Now New York. “I never thought I’d buy it 10 years later.”
The change in ownership came to light as part of a larger announcement about the cafe chain’s plans to add four new New York City locations this summer. Sharma says she is not involved in that expansion plan, however she hopes to operate more Paris Baguette outposts in the city in the future. Sharma works full-time in the fashion industry as a buyer for French luxury brands including Chanel and Hermès. The Long Island-based franchisee works out of an office near the outpost, and also makes frequent trips to Paris for her job. She says she was looking for an investment opportunity, and given her career path it felt like the perfect fit.
“I just love cafes and croissants,” she says. “The smell of a croissant and coffee just makes me feel good.”
She says her family has experience owning franchises, including 7/11’s, however this is her first solo franchise venture.
She says she particularly appreciates how all the cafe’s items are freshly baked daily, with items arriving at 12 a.m. and then baked at 4 a.m. just prior to the morning rush. Under her leadership, she says the focus will be on improving the customer service experience.
“I believe customer service is the only thing to set yourself apart from others,” she says.
