Food & Beverage

Big Dave’s locks in supply chain partnerships to supercharge expansion

Photos: Jesse Amoroso and Derrick Hayes celebrate their recent partnership.

February 27, 2026

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Big Dave's Cheesesteaks is charging full-speed ahead with its national expansion, cementing its supply chain infrastructure through a double-shot of strategic partnerships that prioritize both authenticity and scale. It's joining forces with Amoroso's Baking Co. and Philly's Best Steak Company, ensuring that as the brand spreads from coast to coast, the "Philly experience" stays perfectly consistent in every location, said founder and CEO Derrick Hayes.

"As we grow, it's critical that our infrastructure grows with us," Hayes said in a company press release. "This partnership allows us to protect the integrity of our product while supporting our franchisees with a dependable, national supply solution."

The partnership with Philly's Best Steak Company establishes it as the brand's official national protein supplier. The deal integrates a Halal-certified protein program into Big Dave's supply chain, a move designed to boost operational efficiency and eliminate menu variability. Philly's Best, which manufactures its products in Philadelphia, was selected specifically for its commitment to transparent sourcing and high-quality standards.

"A true Philly cheesesteak starts with the right ingredients, and Big Dave's doesn't cut corners," Zafeiris Akranis, president of Philly's Best Steak Company, said in a company press release. "We're proud to be part of their tremendous growth."

A homecoming

Complementing the protein program is a collaboration with Amoroso's Baking Co., a fifth-generation, family owned bakery that has been a cornerstone of Philadelphia's food culture since 1904. Amoroso's will produce a custom-cut baguette designed exclusively for Big Dave's signature cheesesteaks.

For Hayes, this isn't just business — it's a homecoming. Growing up in West Philadelphia, the aroma of Amoroso's hearth-baked bread was a daily influence on his culinary journey.

"Jesse Amoroso, his father, and the entire Amoroso family gave us the opportunity to become true partners," Hayes

Hayes and Akranis said the partnership is a symbol of their brands' focus on transparent sourcing and high-quality standards.

said. "We don't take partnerships lightly, especially when it comes to preserving the integrity of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks."

Jesse Amoroso, president and COO of the bakery, echoed that sentiment, noting the pride in expanding the reach of Philadelphia's flavor profile.

"It is an honor to have loyal and wonderful partners who are devoted to the brand and have an interest in reaching beyond Philadelphia," Amoroso said.

The new standardized protein program and signature rolls are already hitting tables at all Big Dave's locations in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Central Florida.

Big Dave's was named no. 6 to the 2025 list of Fast Casual's 2025 Top 100 Movers & Shakers.