News

Burger 21 signs 25th restaurant

June 6, 2013

Burger 21 has signed a franchise agreement to open a restaurant in Cranberry Township, Pa., early next year, marking the brand's first location in Pennsylvania and 25th restaurant open or in development.

"We're looking forward to introducing the brand to guests in the Pittsburgh area and have no doubt they will love the crafted burgers, hand-dipped shakes and menu variety that have made Burger 21 so popular," said Mark Johnston, president and chief concept officer of Burger 21 and president of Front Burner Brands, management company for Burger 21.

Franchisee Chad Brooks signed an agreement for one location in Cranberry Township, a suburb north of Pittsburgh. He currently owns and operates eight Qdoba restaurants in the market.

"The success of high-end burger restaurants in Pittsburgh really got me searching for a fast casual option with a broader menu and better environment," Brooks said. "When I found Burger 21, I knew I had found the concept that matched perfectly with what I was looking for. Mark and his team really have done an excellent job developing the concept and have it poised for success and growth."

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 latest gluten-free menu received the No. 1 ranking for the "Top 10 Menu Innovations" 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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