Long John Silver’s, America’s largest quick-service seafood restaurant, is the latest chain to outsource its complete supply chain operation to SpenDifference. The 1,100-unit brand’s franchise and corporate leadership hired SpenDifference to manage all aspects of its supply chain for its restaurants in the U.S. and Asia, including purchasing all food and nonfood items, as well as distribution.

With the addition of Long John Silver’s, SpenDifference will buy well over $1 billion worth of commodities and supplies for almost 7,000 restaurants. It currently services more than 20 other brands, including Carvel, Cinnabon, Schlotzsky’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Auntie Anne’s, McAlister’s Deli, Sizzler, Shoney’s, and HuHot Mongolian Grill.

Long John Silver’s management and franchise leadership reviewed competitive proposals before selecting SpenDifference. “In today’s ultra-challenging market, supply chain management is absolutely critical,” says Brian Unger, Long John Silver’s chief operating officer. “Long John Silver’s business model is built on providing franchisees with outstanding business support, and SpenDifference has the full array of integrated services our operators need to succeed.”

 “The SpenDifference team demonstrated the best combination of capabilities, prior experience and overall approach,” says Jay Shoffner, president of Long John Silver’s co-op. “We were very impressed with their ability to manage costs and ensure a consistent supply of products, as well as the way they communicate with franchisees.”

Long John Silver’s is utilizing SpenDifference’s full outsource model, which includes placing on-site personnel at the brand’s Louisville, Kentucky, headquarters.

“Long John Silver’s has further validated our concept and approach,” says Maryanne Rose, SpenDifference president and CEO. “It’s very exciting to partner with such an iconic American brand, and we look forward to helping Long John Silver’s leadership and franchisees grow their system.”