STRATEGIC PARTNERS
August 12, 2013
Burger 21 announced today the signing of its first franchise agreement in Arizona. The deal will bring the first Burger 21 restaurant in the western U.S. to Chandler, Ariz., further expanding the brand's footprint to a total of nine states and positioning it for further westward growth. Burger 21 has nine open locations and 17 franchised restaurants in development across the country.
"This is a significant achievement in our company's history as Burger 21 expands westward for the first time," said Mark Johnston, Burger 21 president and chief concept officer of Front Burner Brands, the management company for Burger 21. "Our first Arizona franchisee, Dan Lenhauser, has a wealth of franchising experience that will ensure the brand's success in the state. We look forward to introducing Chandler residents to our innovative 21 crafted burgers and hand-dipped shakes."
Lenhauser, a seasoned multi-unit Subway franchisee with more than 15 years of experience in the Phoenix market, will open the first Burger 21 restaurant in Chandler in 2014. He then plans to pursue a second unit in the Phoenix market over the next several years.
"It's exciting to be the first franchisee to bring Burger 21 out West, and I know that Chandler residents will appreciate the brand's diverse menu and 'beyond the better burger' experience that is truly unlike any other in town," said Lenhauser. "The extensive training and support that I'll receive from Front Burner Brands, coupled with my foodservice and franchising experience, will allow me to further establish Burger 21's presence in Arizona."
Burger 21 recently was named one of Fast Casual's Top 100 "Movers and Shakers" of 2013. The concept ranked No. 22 based on its variety of innovative recipes and recent expansion. In addition, the franchise's gluten-free menu received the No. 1 ranking in the "Top 10 Menu Innovations" category, and Mark Johnston was recognized as one of the "Top 20 People" for his strategic leadership in the growth and development of the brand.
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