It has been a week of excitement for the award-winning
fast-casual chain Burger 21, which just announced the signing of
its first New Mexico franchise agreement and opened its first
freestanding location with a full bar in Florida.
In New Mexico, the franchise business plans to open a location
in Albuquerque, with site selection currently underway. This marks
the 12th state for the chain, which now has 22 open restaurants and
20 locations in development across the US. President and Founder
Mark Johnston says the company is thrilled to bring Burger 21 into
Albuquerque, one of the biggest cities in the state.
The new location is set to open in late 2017 and is owned by
Chris Zalesiak, a local entrepreneur. Zalesiak brings more than a
decade of food-service experience with her, and she's also an
active member of the community. It was the burger chain's menu
variety, unique brand culture and commitment to local charities
that sealed the deal for the new franchisee. According to Zalesiak,
the fast-casual brand donates 10 percent of its sales on the 21st
of every month to a local charity.
On the other side of the country in Ocala, Florida, Burger 21
just opened a freestanding location with an outdoor patio and full
service bar - the first of its kind for the chain. Johnston spoke
about the achievement, saying the chain is excited to unveil the
new restaurant and launch the brand's specialty shaketails and
cocktails in the Ocala market. This new Florida location has
already exceeded expectations, bringing in more than $15,000 in
sales on its grand opening day and breaking all previous opening
day records.
The 4,300-square-foot Ocala location has the brand's signature
interior design with several upgrades, including a full-service bar
with craft beer on tap and chef-inspired drinks, such as the Black
& Bleu Martini and the Sunshine State. It is nearly twice the size
of the burger chain's standard locations and has seating for 160
guests, with 90 team members on staff.
Currently, the rapidly growing "beyond the better burger”
brand is offering franchise opportunities throughout the country.
To qualify for one of these franchise opportunities, applicants
should have a net worth of at least $600,000, with $250,000 in
liquid assets available per unit. The franchise fee is $40,000,
with discounts available for qualified veterans, minorities and
those who agree to open at least four units, and the total
investment ranges from $422,083 to $974,395.
