Sizzler, one of America’s first fast casual dining chains, is being purchased from the Australian based Pacific Equity Partners by Sizzler USA. This will bring all of the Sizzler locations in the United States under control of a U.S. based company. Pacific Equity Partners will retain the rights to all international locations.
Five Guys Burgers and Fries was only founded in 1986, but despite little effort through advertising to attract customers, they’ve developed a nearly cult following. Franchising began in 2002 and since then the chain has grown to over 800 stores. 300 new locations are planned to open by the end of this year, and another 1200 are currently in development in the U.S. or Canada.
The CEO of the Texas Roadhouse chain, GJ Hart, has announced that the chain has noted an expanding demographic in their customers and plans to target guests with higher income levels. He made this statement at the InvestKentucky Equity Conference. The chain used to appeal primarily to middle class workers, especially those in blue collar industries.
A steady push for new growth and careful menu pricing kept chains like Buffalo Wild Wings and Panera Bread booming through the recent recession problems. However, success in the restaurant industry is going to continue to be more challenging as gas prices rise higher and unemployment does as well. Many young adults, the primary diners at fast food chains, have seen a dip in income recently.
Smashburger, the chain famous for fresh beef hamburgers smashed on the grill, is coming to Charlotte, North Carolina. The first Smashburger location for the city will open on June 20th. Four more locations are currently in development. The location will feature unique North Carolina inspired items like Brunswick Stew and a Banana Pudding Milkshake.
Freebirds World Burrito is opening its 50th location on June 15th in Ventura, California. Freebirds began in nearby Santa Barbara, but quickly spread through the state. The chain specializes in custom burritos and salads made with a variety of international flavors. The new restaurant will team up with local charities to raise money and promote awareness.
Nathan’s Famous may have begun as a humble hot dog stand in Coney Island, but the Long Island based company is now making plans for international expansion. The company began development in China earlier this year and is working on new agreements in Canada. Nathan’s is already available in 5 other countries and 26 states.
The expansion plans of the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit brand has paid off and the company is celebrating the grand opening of three new locations in Missouri. Ballwin, Valley Park and Olivette are all home to new Dickey’s restaurants. All three restaurants opened on June 10th with raffles, giveaways and $1 barbeque sandwiches.
Benihana first developed their “Be the Chef” program to help guests learn the intricacies of fine Japanese cooking. However, the package was only available at limited times. Now the chain has announced that they will offer the program year round for anyone who is interested in learning from a real hibachi chef. The guest will receive private training, then will cook their own teppanyaki meal for friends or family.
To embrace the push for healthier dining options for children, Jack in the Box has added Chiquita Apple Bites as a side option. This side is available with all children’s combos for no extra cost. The bites are accompanied by a caramel dipping sauce. The fresh fruit and dip has only 70 calories and provides children with a full serving of fruit.