News

McAlister's franchisee adds 30 units to portfolio

Photo provided by McAlister's

September 5, 2019

McAlister's Deli is adding 30 locations to its roster as a result of a deal signed with Franchisee David Blackburn, the CEO of Southern Rock Restaurants LLC. His franchise group, which owns 70 units, will expand McAlister's Deli presence in Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee and Georgia and will be the chain's first franchisee to surpass 100 units.

"I acquired my first McAlister's Deli restaurant more than eight years ago and knew instantly that my company would establish a terrific opportunity with the brand," Blackburn said in a company press release. "At McAlister's Deli, we have the unique opportunity to engage with our guest multiple times – something you don't usually see at a fast casual restaurant. Our guest engagement and service set us apart from the rest. I'm excited to continue to grow with McAlister's Deli and look forward to opening our new restaurants." 

As part of the agreement, Southern Rock Restaurants has committed to opening 21 restaurants in Ohio (14 in Cleveland and seven in Columbus), seven in Indiana, one in Tennessee and one in Georgia with several slated to open later this year.  

McAlister's, owned by Focus Group, has more than 450 restaurants in 27 states.