STRATEGIC PARTNERS
June 26, 2012
Zaxby’s has announced that it signed a multi-unit development agreement with Hoozax Foods Inc. to open 32 Zaxby’s restaurants in the Norfolk and Richmond, Va., areas within the next seven years. Based in Suwanee, Ga., Hoozax Foods Inc., is led by Duane Hoover and son Carl Hoover, entrepreneurs with past experience in multi-unit franchises. The partnership will make Hoozax Foods one of Zaxby’s largest franchisees.
Duane Hoover has more than 40 years’ experience in franchising, having been one of the first Wendy’s franchisees in the early 1970s, owning 100 locations at one time.
“I became involved with Wendy’s during the early years of Dave Thomas’ leadership and had the good fortune of experiencing the brand’s growth. I think Zaxby’s is poised for that same explosive growth,” Hoover said. “I’ve been in this business a long time and understand what works for a brand.”
Zaxby’s operates more than 550 locations in 12 states — Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
There are three Zaxby’s locations in Virginia — one each in Roanoke, Salem and Williamsburg. Hoover plans to develop 15 restaurants in the Richmond area and 17 restaurants in the Tidewater region comprised of Norfolk, Portsmouth and Newport News.
“It’s a pivotal time for the brand and we are thrilled to begin this partnership,” Hoover said. “We can’t wait to start selling some chicken.”
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