McAlister’s Deli, a leading fast casual restaurant, announces it has been recognized by FastCasual.com as No. 2 on the Top 100 “Movers and Shakers” list of 2013. In the 8th annual listing, McAlister’s Deli was honored for increased sales, menu innovation and national expansion. In addition, CEO Frank Paci , was recognized as one of the “Top 20 People” in the industry for his role in expanding the chain’s appeal to more consumers.
The 2013 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers list was released in conjunction with the National Restaurant Association tradeshow. Judges determined the top 50 brands based on industry nominations and subsequent debate on the significance of the nominees to the segment. Criteria included innovation, growth, social responsibility and overall contribution. In addition, the judges acknowledged the 20 industry executives who have most contributed to the evolution and health of fast casual, the most influential menu innovations, and the most impactful food and technology trends.
“It’s always difficult to select the Top 50 fast casual brands, but this year was exceptionally hard, considering the growth of the industry,” said Cherryh Butler, senior editor of FastCasual.com. “New fast casuals are opening all over the world, and well-established brands are innovating and getting creative with their menus. It’s exciting to watch the industry grow.”
“We are honored to have received recognition for the commitment our operators and franchisees make to deliver McAlister’s genuine hospitality and great food,” said Frank Paci, McAlister’s Deli president and CEO. “Our operators continue to focus on providing an experience that delights our guests.”
Over the past two years, McAlister’s has undertaken initiatives to strengthen its brand, including upgrading menu offerings and improving speed of service. Technomic recently recognized McAlister’s as the top chain in the fast casual industry for food and beverage and as one of consumers’ Top 5 Favorite Chains in the country.
To learn more about franchising opportunities with McAlister’s Deli, please visit www.mcalistersdelifranchise.com.
Founded in 1989, McAlister’s is a fast casual restaurant chain known for its sandwiches, spuds, soups, salads, desserts and McAlister’s Famous Sweet Tea. In addition to dine-in and take-out service, McAlister’s also offers catering with a selection of sandwich trays, box lunches, desserts, a hot spud bar and more. With numerous industry accolades, McAlister’s has more than 315 restaurants in 23 states. The company has corporate offices in both Ridgeland, Miss., and Alpharetta, Ga. For more information, visit www.mcalistersdeli.com.
