Franchising

Killer Burger adding to Pacific Northwest

Provided

December 4, 2020

Killer Burger, a Portland-based fast casual brand with a rock 'n' roll vibe, has inked two franchise agreements with existing multi-unit operators to open additional locations in the Pacific Northwest. One of the locations will be in Southwest Portland and the other in Vancouver, Washington, according to a company press release.

Former University of Oregon football star LaMichael James will open the Southwest Portland restaurant. James started with Killer Burger in 2019 when he opened the first location in Beaverton, Oregon.

"Even during my playing career, I knew I had to start planning for life after football. I wanted to make sure I was smart with my money and made an investment with the right business venture," James said in the release. "Killer Burger immediately put itself ahead of the others with its great food, vibes and corporate team support. After the success of my first restaurant, opening a second location was always in the cards for me."

Nate Barile, a former general manager for Killer until he took ownership earlier this year of the Hazel Dell location, will lead the Vancouver restaurant.

"It's been a long-term goal of mine to get into multi-unit ownership with a second location, and it's exciting to see that come to fruition," Barile. said. "I've been very pleased with the returns from the investment in my first store and look forward to what a second location will bring. My future with Killer Burger looks bright."

Adding these locations is part of Killer Burger's franchising initiative to expand its presence. The 11-unit brand is focused on growing in the Pacific Northwest as well as regionally adjacent markets such as Denver, Boise and Reno.

"Despite the challenges faced by many in the past several months, we've been fortunate enough to expand our footprint with the help of our existing franchise owners," COO and Founder TJ Southard said in the release. "It's a testament to the strong relationships we've been able to grow with these individuals that make it all possible. I have the utmost faith in LaMike and Nate as they build upon our strong foundation."