Successful Papa John’s Pizza franchise owners take on new Miami Grill locations in Florida and Ecuador
A large commitment from Miami-based International Food Chains, LLC to the future of Miami Grill will increase market penetration and brand recognition for the fast casual chain over the next several years, adding more locations to Florida and new locations in Ecuador.
Led by Mario Cordovez and Sebastián Espinosa, the team arrives with a proven success record with Papizzec S.A., also known as Papa John’s Pizza. Combined, they’ve opened 18 Papa John’s locations in Ecuador.
Recently, the duo turned their sights on Miami Grill and committed to opening five Orlando locations, one Gainesville location and five locations in Ecuador.
“Mario and Sebastián inspire us with their dedication and enthusiasm,” said Robert Haar, Vice President of Franchise Development at Miami Grill. “Plus, they know how to pick strong locations, which is paramount to the success of the store, and I predict great things for Miami Grill as their plans unfold.”
Originally, Cordovez and Espinosa purchased a Miami Subs location in Kendall, Florida, and, while it is currently being converted to a Miami Grill, it remains one of the top producing stores in the chain, operating in the upper quartile of the highest volume restaurants.
“Believe it or not, we tried Miami Subs for the first time about 20 years ago and loved it. Then, late last year when we saw how the brand was repositioning itself, we knew it was time for us to get involved,” Cordovez said.
In October, 2016, International Food Chains, LLC signed a deal for a 2,500 sq. ft. store located within a new, luxury student apartment building called The Standard, just steps from the University of Florida campus in Gainesville, Florida. This 9-story apartment building, currently under construction, is a lifestyle center with roof top swimming pools, a work out facility and recreational areas with pool tables. The first level of the building features retailers such as Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Pei Wei, Bento Box, Miami Grill and a Target Express. There will also be a hotel developed on the property. The building is slated to open for Fall of 2017.
In the meantime, franchisees Cordovez and Espinosa will continue focusing on site selection in Central and North Florida, including the Orlando and Jacksonville markets.
South-Florida based Miami Grill is the hottest fast casual concept to hit the market, developed by the same owners as Miami Subs, Miami Subs Capital Partners 1, Inc. and key equity partner, Armando Christian “Pitbull” Pérez. Miami Grill and its “Everything Goes” concept embody the taste and sensations of South Beach and provide a diverse menu unlike any other chain in the category. For franchising and other information, visit www.miamigrillfranchise.com.
