News

Villa Restaurant Group buys New York Melt Shop store

March 12, 2019

Villa Italian Kitchen parent, Villa Restaurant Group, has assumed ownership of Melt Shop's location at Woodbury Common in Central Valley, New York.

Villa Restaurant Group operates and franchises a number of brands including Jersey Mike's Subs, Green Leaf's & Bananas, The Office Tavern Grill and Piattino: A Neighborhood Bistro, among others, according to a press release. The New York Melt Shop is the group's first location. 

"Adding Villa Restaurant Group signifies the strength of our business model and franchise opportunity, which we've worked tirelessly to perfect, ensuring our systems, processes, product and experience are best-in-class," Melt Shop Founder and CEO Spencer Rubin said in the release. "Villa's portfolio of brands is impressive and we're excited that our Woodbury Common restaurant is in such experienced, capable hands. We look forward to tapping Villa's restaurant expertise as we continue our domestic expansion."

Melt Shop plans five Northeastern U.S. locations this year with a goal of continuing its New York expansion by seeking franchisees for the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions, along with Florida locations. 

"Throughout our company's 55-year history, we've witnessed countless franchisors claim that they have the best business opportunity, but many fall short," Villa Restaurant Group President Biagio Scotto said in the release. "Melt Shop caught our attention because of the unique brand story and consistent growth, as well as its commitment to innovation and to its guests."

Since launching into franchising in September 2017, Melt Shop has added 20 restaurants and is on track to open 100 locations by 2023.