Franchising

Mooyah lands 15-unit deal

Provided

November 19, 2021

Marc Verderame, Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes' newest franchise owner, has signed the brand's largest development deal to date.

Originally from New York, the restaurant industry veteran is bringing his expertise to the better-burger franchise, opening 15 locations in Palm Beach County over the next 10 years, according to a company press release. The chain is on track to add 45 locations by the end of 2023 to its 90-unit franchise system.

"The construction industry was changing, and we always had little restaurants up in New York, but we were looking to relocate to Florida," said the son of the owner of multiple New York City pizzerias.

After working in construction, he branched out into franchising, eventually becoming a multi-unit franchisee for Golden Corral in Palm Beach County.

"We were already in the restaurant business, so we wanted to pursue it more," Verderame said in the release. "In 2012, we were the first franchisees to open a store for another big burger chain in South Florida. Wanting to expand our portfolio in the area, we were looking at another brand when we found MOOYAH, and it was perfect."

Mooyah grew by 10% during the pandemic, while also finalizing a drive-thru concept, said Mike Sebazco, Mooyah VP Operations and Development.

"With two drive-thrus projected to open this year, MOOYAH continues to offer more convenience to its loyal and enthusiastic guests," he said in the release.

With locations in 22 states, the brand has opportunities for exclusivity in some major markets for qualified franchise owners. Target markets include Columbus, Houston, Las Vegas, Tampa, Orlando, Phoenix, Raleigh/Durham, Nashville, Atlanta and Richmond.

"The first time I visited a MOOYAH, everything looked and tasted so fresh," Verderame said. "It felt like a fun, family environment, and the burgers were really good. The whole crew was great through all our meetings. They have a great training system to get all the coworkers and managers to buy into the brand and do it the right way."