Growing Fast-casual Chain Targets Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro as Key Development Focuses
MOOYAH, a fast-casual, “better burger,” fries and shakes chain, announced a focused growth plan targeted on Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro, North Carolina. The quickly expanding burger brand, through the leadership of locally based development agent John Ficara, will add 75 jobs throughout the state as the development plan is met.
“I moved to North Carolina solely to bring the MOOYAH brand here. I think it’s a fantastic brand that poses a great opportunity for entrepreneurs looking for a new venture,” Ficara said, noting that MOOYAH celebrated a banner year in 2012 with double-digit unit growth. “My family and I visited the restaurant in Williamsburg, Va. and we loved its playful and modern energy. The Guest experience, as well as the freshness and quality of the ingredients, are really second to none. Additionally, the brand is so family-oriented; actually, my kids want to work at the restaurant when we open our first one.”
MOOYAH is initially focusing on opening a flagship restaurant in southern Charlotte by the end of 2013, prior to expanding like a bubble throughout surrounding areas. This development strategy was first established in the Dallas DMA, in which MOOYAH boasts 22 restaurants.
“Paired with our strong North American growth, including our recent 50th restaurant opening milestone in the United States, targeted individual market development is increasingly a large part of our strategic expansion plans,” said Michael Mabry, Director of Franchise of MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes. “Through the local developer, we have the ability to penetrate a market with someone embedded in the local business community.”
MOOYAH saw tremendous growth in the last several years, expanding from a Texas brand into an emerging national player and a leader in the growing “better burger” segment of fast-casual dining. The brand is currently in 11 states and has nearly doubled the number of restaurants from 25 to 48 in 2012. In 2013, MOOYAH is continuing its expansion, with plans to grow internationally and total nearly 65 restaurants.
One way MOOYAH is able to differentiate itself is through the flexibility in its menu, including the launch of its better-for-you, Under 600 Calories menu, designed to support the taste desires of females and the more health-conscious consumer.
“MOOYAH began as a simple concept revolving around friendly people serving the freshest, most delicious burgers, fries and shakes available. As our brand continues to evolve, we are committed to keeping it simple, while still relevant to appeal to our Guests’ individual tastes and favorites,” said Bill Spae, MOOYAH’s CEO and President.
Additionally, its family-friendly environment helps MOOYAH stand out above its competition.
“MOOYAH prides itself on being a family-friendly business, from the Guests we serve to the franchisees who open restaurants with the goal of running them with people they consider family. We designed the restaurant concept with family in mind so everyone would feel welcome and comfortable,” said Alexis Barnett Gillette, Director of Marketing, noting that the restaurant chain continues to attract favorable media attention throughout the nation for its commitment to quality products, innovative Social Media tactics, first-to-market products, and strong franchise growth.
For MOOYAH franchise information, please visit http://mooyah.com/franchise-info/.
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes is a fast-casual, “better burger” concept serving mouth-watering made-to-order burgers, hand-cut French fries made from high-quality Idaho potatoes, and handcrafted 100-percent ice cream shakes. Founded in 2007, the Plano, Texas-based company only uses fresh, American lean beef and all-natural Jennie-O turkey burgers, buns baked in house, real cheeses and toppings made from garden-fresh ingredients. It offers online ordering, and a cookout trailer for corporate, social and fundraising events. MOOYAH has been ranked 1st overall in Restaurant Business’s 2013 Future 50 list, listed as No. 8 in Fast Casual Magazine’s annual Top 100 Movers & Shakers in 2013, a list they have been at the top of for several years in a row, and BurgerBusiness included MOOYAH in its list of “11 Burger Chains to Watch in 2011.” The brand was also recognized in USA Today’s Top 50 Franchises for Military Veterans in June of 2013. For more information on MOOYAH, its menu or franchising opportunities, please visit http://www.mooyah.com. Follow MOOYAH on Twitter @MooyahBurger and connect with MOOYAH on Facebook Fan page.
