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McAlister's Deli, Genghis Grill ink deal with SpenDifference

August 31, 2012

With commodity prices expected to present even greater challenges to restaurant operators, three more national and regional chains are turning to SpenDifference for help in navigating today's volatile economic environment, said Maryanne Rose, SpenDifference president and CEO. McAlister's Deli, Genghis Grill and Margaritas join a client roster that includes Smashburger, Sizzler, Taco John's, Pizza Ranch, Big Boy, HuHot Mongolian Grill and others.

"A sluggish economy, price-driven consumers and unpredictable commodity prices are putting more pressure on operators than ever before," Rose said. "SpenDifference exists to help purchasing and supply chain managers at small and mid-size chains like McAlister's, Genghis Grill and Margaritas save money and operate more efficiently. We help them 'level the playing field' against larger competitors."

Working hand-in-hand with its clients' internal purchasing departments, SpenDifference provides purchasing and distribution support. It also has a strategic partnership with entegra Procurement Services to offer clients greater cost savings on a broader array of contracted products. Entegra is a $5.8 billion subsidiary of Sodexho that serves multi-unit clients in the hospitality and non-commercial industries.

"I was impressed with SpenDifference's level of expertise and its strategic partnerships, both which would be very difficult to replicate in-house," said Frank Paci, McAlister's Deli president and CEO. "And with such volatile commodities markets, I like having an independent, third-party to give us advice, rather than only relying on suppliers."

McAlister's Deli, with more than 300 units in 22 states, is the largest of the new clients. Build-your-own-bowl Asian stir fry concept Genghis Grill operates more than restaurants in 21 states, while casual dining Margaritas, with more than 20 locations, is New England's largest privately-owned Mexican restaurant chain.

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