News

Burger 21 entering Arkansas

The Tampa-based company plans to open a single unit in Little Rock, Arkansas, and will also open another unit restaurant in Athens, Georgia.

February 4, 2016

Burger 21 has signed its first franchise agreement in Arkansas. The Tampa-based company plans to open a single unit in Little Rock, and will also open a new unit restaurant in Athens, Georgia, according to a company press release. The latest developments expand the brand's national footprint to 11 states.

"Since we began franchising in fall 2011, Burger 21 has made great strides in expanding to new markets across the country and this is another incredible milestone for the brand," said Mark Johnston, Burger 21 founder and president. "We have a significant opportunity to build a strong brand presence nationwide and look forward to working with our new franchisees to grow their businesses."

Allen Hurst, who has more than 20 years of experience in the residential mortgage sector, plans to open the Little Rock restaurant by the end of 2016. Hurst also plans to develop an additional four units in the area over the next five years.

"When my wife and I first dined at Burger 21 in Tampa, we were amazed by the food and exceptional service, which brings the better burger industry to a whole new level," said Hurst. "Their dedicated team has been instrumental in helping me throughout the planning process and it is great to know they will continue to stand behind me every step of the way as I take on this new business venture. I love the state of Arkansas and can't wait to return and open a successful Burger 21 franchise."

To further expand its brand footprint in Georgia, Paul Kim, who currently owns two dental practices in the Atlanta market, will open a Burger 21 location in Athens, Georgia.

"The major difference between Burger 21 and the other better burger concepts is the wide variety of chef-inspired menu options and high quality ingredients," said Kim. "From the sauce bar to the shake bar, we are confident that local residents will be impressed by the brand’s 'beyond-the-better-burger' experience."