News

Burger 21 closes 2013 with 19-percent jump in AUVs

January 27, 2014

Burger 21 today announced strong growth in 2013 with eight new franchise agreements signed to develop 14 units as part of its strategy to grow throughout the country. Additionally, according to a news release, the company's average unit volume increased from $1.47 million to $1.75 million, a 19-percent increase over the prior year.

Burger 21 also reported a 2.6-percent same-stores sales increase for its first two company-owned restaurants in Tampa, Fla.

Five new restaurants opened in 2013, most recently in Ashburn, Va., Fort Myers, Fla., Charlotte, N.C., and Atlanta. The brand also signed two agreements to develop its first franchise units in the Phoenix, metro area, marking the company's entry into the West. New agreements were also signed for Albany, N.Y., Cranberry Township, Pa., and Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs and Pembroke Pines, Fla. The first Burger 21 location in South Florida is expected to open in February in Davie, Fla.

"What an incredible year it has been for Burger 21. We've experienced strong growth and continued to receive recognition for being a leader in the fast casual segment," said Mark Johnston, Burger 21 president and chief concept officer and president of parent company Front Burner. "We're pleased to report our first increase in same-store sales and average unit volume, which will further position the brand as an attractive business model for single- and multi-unit operators. To build on last year's momentum, we plan to open 10 new units across five states in 2014 and will continue to focus on creating an exceptional dining experience for our guests."

Burger 21 will be exhibiting at Franchise Expo South Feb. 6-8 at the Reliant Center in Houston. Local entrepreneurs are invited to meet with the brand's franchise development team at Booth #605 to learn more about growth opportunities. The brand is continuing to target additional areas in Atlanta, Miami and Orlando, Fla., Dallas, Houston and Greater Washington, D.C., for future development.

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