Fast Casual Nation

Smashburger's comeback: A conversation with Tom Ryan and Jim Sullivan

December 15, 2025

Smashburger founder Tom Ryan and CEO Jim Sullivan join Fast Casual Nation to reveal their bold strategy to reclaim the brand's position in the better burger category. Discover how their new "Belief is in the bite" philosophy, innovative $4.99 value platform and Big Dog, a newly launched menu category, are driving a comeback story.

Plus, learn about their aggressive five-year plan to grow from 200 to over 1,000 locations through strategic franchising and non-traditional venues.

This conversation explores menu innovation, operational excellence and why they believe the QSR guys can't compete on quality and fast casual brands can't compete on their price.

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