News

BurgerFi joining US Air Force

Images courtesy of BurgerFi.

November 1, 2019

BurgerFi is joining a global initiative to enhance food quality on Air Force bases throughout the U.S. and abroad. Air Force Services, charged with delivering programs and activities to build ready and resilient airmen and families, chose the fast casual burger concept after discovering that it was one of only two brands to receive an "A" rating in the fourth annual Chain Reaction report for serving quality beef raised without the routine use of hormones or antibiotics.

"Our focus is on the changing lifestyles, needs and expectations of airmen," Mike Baker, chief of strategy and innovation at the Air Force Services Center, said in a company press release. "By adding recognizable, popular brands like BurgerFi to Air Force installations, we begin to redefine the food experience for our airmen and their families." 

BurgerFi joins a list of high-growth brands in the Air Force Services portfolio, according to the release, whose restaurants will be customized to fit the unique needs of each Air Force installation. Some will be full-scale, fast casual venues, and others will be added to complement existing programs. There is also discussion of adding BurgerFi food trucks at more sprawling base locations.

"When our 100% American black Angus beef was recognized by the fourth annual Chain Reaction antibiotic scorecard with an 'A' rating — one of only two brands serving passing grade beef — we moved to the top of the list of brands under consideration for this initiative," said Charlie Guzzetta, chief brand development officer for BurgerFi. "We are excited to have been chosen and to be in the company of other super-successful brands known for transparent, high-quality ingredients and experiences."

In addition to expanding its domestic and international presence through the Air Force Services partnership, BurgerFi is also opening more franchise locations around the globe. It opened its third Mexico City location in September and is exploring other development opportunities in Mexico. Its newest location, located in the historic district of La Condesa, is the first BurgerFi to feature a dedicated milkshake station that serves street-side and in-restaurant. 

All three Mexico City BurgerFi locations feature chef-inspired menu items including craft burgers, fries and onion rings, a quinoa-based veggie burger, all-natural, humanely-raised chicken and a selection of craft beers. They've also embraced BurgerFi's technological innovation and are committed to the brand's green leadership, according to the release.

BurgerFi, which has 25 restaurants in development, has grown its international footprint considerably this year with locations and agreements in Kuwait and Puerto Rico. Additional international development in South America, the Caribbean and the Middle East is also being pursued.

Domestically, BurgerFi opened restaurants in Florida, Texas, North Carolina and Pennsylvania during the month of September.

Established in 2011, BurgerFi has more than 110 restaurants domestically and internationally.