News

Burger 21 gears up for Orlando, Fla., expansion

November 6, 2011

Burger 21, a new fast casual concept founded by the owners of The Melting Pot Restaurants Inc., has announced that Orlando, Fla., is the first priority growth market targeted for franchise expansion.

To fuel its expansion in Orlando, Burger 21 will host an Executive Roundtable on Nov. 15 from noon to 2 p.m. outlining the franchise opportunity. The event will be held at Pointe Orlando Maggiano’s. To register, contact Dan Stone at dstone@burger21.com.

Chief concept officer Mark Johnston, his wife and concept development director Arlene Johnston, and his brothers, CEO Bob Johnston and vice president Mike Johnston, founded Burger 21 in November 2009. The first corporate-owned Burger 21 restaurant opened in Tampa, Fla., in November 2010, and the second opened last month.

To fuel Burger 21’s growth, the company is seeking single and multi-unit operators with restaurant experience. Franchise candidates should have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and liquid assets of at least $200,000 per unit. Burger 21 will be developed through single-unit agreements and Area Development Agreements that require a minimum of three to five units in primary and secondary markets.

“Our first Burger 21 location in Tampa has experienced impressive sales that are exceeding the company’s expectations, proving that this is a unique concept well-positioned to grow in Orlando and across the country,” said Bob Johnston, CEO of Front Burner Brands. “We are currently seeking qualified franchise candidates who want to be part of a fresh, contemporary dining experience and launch the brand in their communities.”